k desk, illuminating shelves lined with ancient books. The faint scent of incense lingered in the air, a reminder of the sanc

nce, leaned forward. His sharp eyes studied Victoria carefully as though

replied, her voice steady despit

ve been made aware of your father's plight.

ellency. He... he's in dire straits. He asked for my

ing. I've received correspondence regarding the allegations against your father. Fraud a

cellency. He only mentioned that the busin

'm more concerned about your position in this matter. As a Sister, you've vowed to serve Go

Excellency. My father's plea weighs heavily on

r past lives to pull at us, even as we walk in God's light. But you must remember, Victoria, that your

ead. "Thank you, You

. The afternoon sun blinded her momentarily as she stepped outside, its warmth doing little to ease

-

ening air. She clutched her rosary tightly, her lips moving silently in prayer. Her thoughts drifted to Fedrick's

few feet away, his small frame illuminated by the soft glow of the lanterns lining t

est. "I... I followed you, Vic. I heard Mom and Dad talking abo

placing her hands gently on his shoulders. "You shouldn

ir! They're only thinking about themselves. You

close as the weight of his innocence pressed against her. "Tha

-

the small window, casting a silvery glow across the austere space. She sat at her desk, staring

rtled her. "Come in," she ca

side her expression grave. "Victoria," she began,

ch dropped. "Wha

ut Fedrick. Some claim his wealth didn't come from entirely hono

er, the walls pressing in on her frayed nerves. Could it be tr

der as the weight of this revelation sank in. "Pray for g

er Agnes left, the room fell silent once more. Victoria stared out the win

her voice trembling. "

aze snapped to the window. A figure moved in the shadows below, their presence unmistakab

as... He's w