The Distinguished Mr. Rose Chapter 90: Chapter 89: I Don't Want to Forget

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Chapter 89: I Don't Want to Forget It was on the morning of the next day that the castle practically buzzed with activity as servants and officials rushed about to prepare for Sir Renaud’s resignation ceremony. The event would take place in the central courtroom, where the influential judges of Francia, the Peers, and those from the priestly order would formally watch over the proceedings. Renaud became a sensational topic overnight. There was no end to the gossip whispered amongst the halls; and as Lucius visited the dining room to fix himself a lovely breakfast, he heard many a Frankishman speculate over the reason for the former Peer’s ceding. Some believed he went mad whilst out on the expedition while others said that it must be because he wronged Sir Ganelon somehow. Unbeknownst to them, Renaud’s choices were solely his own. It would be quite intriguing to see how this ripple would affect the nation. Not many would be given such an opportunity to witness the ceremony firsthand, however. It was no surprise given the drastic nature of the affair, and as a result most of the players were denied entry—except for Lucius. A royal herald approached the gentleman while he was sipping on his tea and gave him an ornately decorated letter. Inside was an invitation signed by Sir Renaud. It would allow him inside the courtroom, where he was to gather with the rest of Roland’s faction near the stands. Lucius did not know why his friendly fellow wanted his presence there, but who was he to deny an entertaining show? Besides, Lucius would’ve just found another way to sneak in elsewise. There were still a few hours left before it began, plenty of time to visit a certain friend of his. After meeting up with Marco, Mili, and Harper for a brief get-together and exchanging information, Lucius skulked his way through the castle before eventually ending up at a familiar doorstep. The surroundings were empty as usual, save for a lone Adler Flower perched carefully to the side. Lucius opened the door and was greeted by the smiling face of young Karolus. “You’ve returned!” the boy said, jumping from his seat and guiding Lucius inside. “It’s a shame you always have to leave for so many days, but I’m glad you’re safe. The other servants said that only half of the members survived, so I was… a bit worried.” Lucius chuckled and ruffled Karolus’s hair. “I am ever thankful for your concern, my young friend. It is true that my recent journey was filled with much peril; however, I had many great fellows beside me, and it is because of their aid that I can now stand before you. It is unfortunate that not all of us had the chance to return.” Karolus nodded sadly. “I heard Sir Maugris fell honorably in battle.” “That he did. He was a bright soul, one full of ambition. The people will remember his sacrifice for years to come.” The boy shifted in his chair and wrestled with himself for a moment. He wished to say something, but whatever it was brought him much hesitation. “Is death honorable, Lucius?” he eventually asked. He spoke in a low whisper and, oddly enough, appeared a bit guilty. Karolus didn’t seem like the type to voice his concerns in front of others. It was not a natural inclination, though, but rather one born out of conditioning. It was better for him to stay silent—to remain detached from the world, listless as the tranquil waters. But when it came to Lucius, the boy began to stir. He knew the gentleman was not like the others. Where before he would likely be met with a dismissive wave, here he could speak his mind, and the other would truly listen. “That is an interesting question,” Lucius replied. “I suppose it is not the act of dying itself that stokes praise, but rather the intention behind it.” “The intention?” “Yes, every act has an intention, whether we know it or not. For Maugris, I doubt he truly planned to die that day, but fate is a cruel mistress. It arrives without warning and forces us to make a choice. Maugris’s choice was to fig