Preparing to leave with Helios, Sterling gazed up at the stunning stained glass windows of the monastery, appreciating the kind-hearted men who had raised him and dedicated themselves to caring for orphaned children.
Upon reaching the gates, he paused and opened the alms box, depositing the gold coins that he had acquired from the deceased men on the road. Knowing that it would be of no use to them now, he felt it was the right thing to do.
As the first snowflakes of early winter descended from the cloud-covered sky, he rode off into the darkness of the Hertesk night.
——
The Duchess woke up with a hazy mind, still trying to recall the events from the previous night. The only memory that came to her was of having a conversation with Friar Tillis while they walked from the chapel.
