"Are you hiding something from us, Brother Elias?" the leader asked, his gaze sharp and unwavering.
Indeed, Elias was hiding something—but according to the rules of their brotherhood, unless the secret posed a direct threat to the monastery or interfered with their duties, he was under no obligation to speak of it.
With a calm smile, he replied, "What could I possibly be hiding? You have the gift of discernment, don't you? I'm sure you've already scanned me thoroughly. So, there's no need for suspicion."
He gestured casually to the side table. "Would you like some tea?"
The leader gave a dry chuckle. "In this unbearable heat? Don't bother. Just give us cold water."
"Alright then, give me a moment." Brother Elias rose from his chair and made his way to the kitchen.
Once he was out of sight, the five abbots exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions tense.
"He's hiding something!" one of them whispered.
