Story 101.D - Brother Loran's Coda
The revered mother listens quietly as the young brother pours out his heart. She nods periodically, acknowledging a point here and there, as he tells of his concerns.
"Your nature matches your vocation, Brother Loran," she begins, leaning in as she begins her counsel. "You always seek to comfort and reconcile the heart with the head. It is an admirable trait, one we all should strive to cultivate, and it does you credit.
"Regarding your reward; just because we take vows to eschew the trappings of power and wealth, it doesn't mean we cannot accept accolades when they come, even formal ones," Mother Hanna continues. "You are not the first, and you will not be the last, of our order to receive such a reward. Of course, this new privilege of yours doesn't absolve you of your vows, either; when you take advantage of it, do not do so for personal gain, but always for the glory of Andraste and the Maker. In that way, you honor both the arl and your Maker."
"Now, the girl. First, you must shed your guilt; in no way was your generosity and genuine care for her well-being responsible for her actions, coerced or not," she adds. "Second, we must trust the arl's judgment in the matters of guilt and punishment; he will hear all counsel before making his decision, and she will not be unfairly punished. He is a just man; I believe he will do right by her and the king's law.
"But, yes, you may go to her; I'm sure she could use a friend at this moment. Be the comforter she needs."