Another story had ended. Any thoughts?
After putting away the spoils, just as Shade was about to touch the statue and head to Randall River Valley, "she" whispered in his ear.
Shade looked at the shelf holding the mementos, shook his head slightly, and stepped into the white mist:
"What thoughts could I have? An old story ends, and a new one always begins."
The Forgotten Church was still as desolate as it had been when Shade first arrived in January.
After leaving the church, he could still feel the city's pain after the earthquake. Though Cherry Leaf Street itself had not suffered much damage, the hurried pedestrians and the gloomy sky, no longer drifting with snow, seemed to cast a somber filter called "pain" over the city.
The sorrow, despondency, and unease permeating the city affected Shade somewhat as well. Though he believed he had found the best ending, nothing could ever be absolutely perfect. He could only find a relatively better outcome.
Rather than going to the Wilde Opera House or Benanice Manor, the disguised Shade quietly hired a carriage and headed for the Bountiful Earth Inn in the city center.
It was nearly four in the afternoon when he arrived at the inn. As soon as he pushed open the door, he saw Doctor Schneider sitting by the wall in the distinctive robes of Randall River Valley, speaking with Ms. Handel, while Joey Barton's soul stood nearby, listening with a furrowed brow.
Shade first ordered a cup of hot tea at the counter before taking a seat at their table.
Ms. Handel remained a woman of few words:
"The matter in Randall River Valley is over. Joey and I will continue our journey."
"Then I wish you both a safe journey. Please allow me to express my