Far Horizons: Tales of Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Horror. Issue #13 April 2015 | Page 163

his or her glasses in the air. They drank the liquid in
one gulp. The firewater burned down her throat. They
threw their glasses down. The ice shattered everywhere on the floor.

mourners are given the necessary comfort. That is why
a Priest is always the last to leave a funeral.”

Some mourners left immediately. Most came up to
her to offer condolences and help if she needed it.
Some said she had done Raoul proud. She knew she
had done all she could for him, but it did not feel like
enough. Finally Vaclav said his goodbye. She glanced
round the empty waiting room. So this was how funerals ended, in a gentle fading to nothing.

“I cannot help but notice you are left without anyone
to comfort you. You are welcome to stay at our Sanctuary, if it would help you come to terms with your
loss.”

Priest Kylone came through from the shuttle holding
his staff.
“I did not realise you were still here.”
He smiled. “As a Priest, I have a duty to ensure all

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“Of course,” she said, trying to smile a little.

“Thank you, but I would rather be on my own.”
“Our door will always be open to you.”
“Thank you, but I feel I ought to make my own way in
the world.”
He bowed his head, saying: “As you wish, Widow
Alva.”