Temple Reunion

Lysandra dismounted from the carriage and looked up at the Acates Temple, nestled within the garden fence. It was more dilapidated than when she had lived there six years ago. The wooden fence was broken in places, unrepaired, and the exterior walls of the building were stained with the patchy remnants of plaster. From its appearance alone, it was far removed from any sense of divinity.

Still, a wave of warmth washed over her. Children still ran around, and laughter echoed through the air.

Her basket was filled with candies and bread. Though her circumstances were not abundant, she always came with her hands full, wanting to see the children eat their fill.

A nun sweeping the courtyard recognized her and waved.

The children, too, ran towards Lysandra. They knew that when she came, they would get to eat their fill.

“Sister! It’s Sister!”

“What did you bring today?”

“Me too, me too!”

Lysandra pulled candies from her pocket and handed one to each child.

“Here, here, just one each. We’ll eat together a little later.”...