Robed One

This is a short story of just 2300 words.

Is the objective of life to survive until death? Is it something more?

Conflicting emotions, despair and isolation have all driven Royle to question such things. In a time where others abandon their duty, will Royle run like the rest of them? If he chooses to act with honour and do his duty he will find knowledge of the world and even his own destiny. Is his place even to ask questions or to seek them head on?
All Royle knows is that while all hope is lost and he will burn, he can still try. A feeble and pathetic attempt but he can try.
He remembers that day 7 years ago. A gracious, revered and legendary Robed One had questioned him. The wise words were still in the back of his mind but was the meaning too?
A spark of hope and honour will drive him to a dance with death.
Will he heed the Robed One's words and learn not only the idea of true hope in abandonment, but learn about himself as well.