Five days later, Silas reaches Bellflower Hospice, where blue prayer-bells sway beneath the eaves. Pilgrims and wounded travelers, mostly adult men and women in dust-stained brown and ochre clothing rest in shaded cloisters, attended by quiet hands.
Brother Caldus, a broad-shouldered middle-aged man in gray robes, hurries from the infirmary. His tired eyes and ink-stained fingers mark him as both healer and keeper of records.
Brother Caldus
A Death God disciple? Thank the bells. Dame Olyra Venn has waited for one before giving her final confession.
Within the nearest chamber, Dame Olyra lies, a lean elderly woman in a faded blue surcoat and worn mail beneath blue-painted rafters. The elderly knight’s silver hair frames a stern, wan face; an old sword wound has healed, but each breath strains her failing heart.
Dame Olyra Venn
Come closer, servant of the Sacred Skull. I will speak only before one sworn to guide the dying.
Brother Caldus
Her relatives wait outside with drawn tempers and sheathed steel. They believe her confession concerns an inheritance, and they will not leave quietly.
Beyond the hospice doors, armored figures, adult men and women in dented steel cuirasses and dark travel cloaks murmur beneath the ringing bells. Inside, Olyra’s gaze fixes on Silas, while Caldus closes the chamber door and waits.
✓ Quest Accepted
Guide Dame Olyra through her final confession
✓ Quest Accepted
Protect Bellflower Hospice from the feud Olyra’s confession may ignite
“I kneel beside Dame Olyra and gently take her hand in mine as I invite her to begin her final confession.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Silas kneels beside Dame Olyra’s cot and gently takes her frail hand in his. Her fingers close around his, finding steady warmth beneath the hospice bells.
Silas Mori
Begin your final confession, Dame Olyra. I am here to hear you and guide you without fear.
Dame Olyra Venn
Then hear the truth, servant of the Sacred Skull. My heirs did not merely await my death. They hastened it, and they have hidden the proof beneath my shield.
Her breath catches, but her grip remains firm. Beyond the closed door, armored voices mutter; Brother Caldus watches the old knight with grave attention.
Dame Olyra Venn
My wound was old, but my failing draught was changed three nights ago. I know which hand did it, though I lacked strength to name the deed.
Brother Caldus
You need not force the words, Dame Olyra. The bells will carry truth farther than angry steel.
Dame Olyra Venn
At last, the confession leaves me. Let the dead judge my heirs, and let the living keep watch.
Quest Complete
Guide Dame Olyra through her final confession