[Bonus chapter for brother Chi Wanzi de Gugu (4/5)]
During the latter half of the journey back to Karabor Temple, Maraad noticed that his battle-brother Nubodon had become very quiet.
He was not usually like this. Nubodon was a cheerful, passionate, and somewhat humorous Vindicator who could always find the right moment to lighten the mood.
His sudden change worried Maraad. Just before they reached Karabor Temple, Maraad found an opportunity to switch shifts with Yrel, then rode his Talbuk closer to Nubodon, who was at the rear of the group escorting the captured Felblood Orcs.
He asked quietly, "Did Uncle Diakum talk to you about something? Did he persuade you to abandon the Holy Light and turn to the elements?"
"No, quite the opposite, Maraad."
Nubodon spoke to his battle-brother with some helplessness. "Not only did the Saint not ask me to walk the path of the elements, he assured me that he would not allow anyone to force me to abandon the path of the Holy Light for any reason. That put me very much at ease."
"Then why are you so downcast?"
Maraad asked in confusion, "Could it be that you yourself are struggling over whether to abandon the Holy Light Doctrine? That can't be possible. You're the child raised under the watchful eyes of Telmor City's most devout veterans."
"I am struggling somewhat, but not because I crave power. The Saint asked me several questions that made me think about what the Holy Light truly is. I have to say, his preaching in the field of priesthood is even more impressive than his glorious feats in battle."
Nubodon recounted Dick's questions to Maraad.
He had hoped Maraad could give him an answer, but the facts proved that Maraad might have been even more of a "qualified