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It would certainly be impolite to hold a conversation while standing on the street, so, at Wayne's invitation, Paletress accompanied him to a luxurious tavern called the Golden Rose, located in the bustling heart of Stormwind City's trade district.

Having led a modest and frugal life, Paletress rarely visited establishments of such opulence. Her fair complexion flushed slightly as she stepped inside, and her movements betrayed a touch of unease.

In Azeroth, those who adhere to the teachings of the Holy Light are often guided by a strong moral compass. Unlike the often corrupt clergy in the darker corners of other worlds, the priests of Azeroth remain untainted by greed or ambition. This is due to the very nature of the Holy Light, which demands unwavering faith and purity of purpose. Those who waver in their beliefs lose their connection to its divine power, rendering them ineffective in their roles.

Paletress, being a senior priest at such a young age, was undoubtedly a devout and virtuous follower of the Holy Light.

After being seated in the tavern, Wayne gestured for a waitress and addressed Paletress in a gentlemanly manner.

"Miss Paletress, may I offer you a glass of red wine or perhaps some fresh juice?"

The priestess waved her hand gently, a serene smile on her face, and replied, "Thank you, but I abstain from alcohol." At Wayne's insistence, she ordered a glass of Silvermoon Apple Juice, sipping it delicately, her movements graceful and refined.

Once pleasantries were exchanged, Wayne skillfully steered the conversation toward more meaningful topics.

From Paletress, Wayne learned that Archbishop Alonsus Faol, after the Second War, had stepped down from his position as Archbishop of the Cathedral of Light in Stormwind and relocated to Lordaeron. The current Archbishop was Benedictus, a man who, while respected, did not carry the same legacy as Faol. This frustrated Wayne slightly, as he had initially hoped to seek Faol's assistance directly.

Nevertheless, Wayne saw potential in Paletress. As a senior priestess, she was likely well-versed in the nuances of the Holy Light and might be able to address his current predicament. At the very least, gaining her trust and favor would open avenues to greater opportunities within the Church.

After a few moments of lighthearted conversation, Wayne transitioned smoothly to the main topic. Not only did he express readiness to purchase the manuscripts they had discussed earlier, but he also made an unexpected proposal that left Paletress momentarily speechless.

"Miss Paletress," he began, his tone sincere. "Your dedication and noble character are truly inspiring. Though I am not a follower of the Holy Light, I, too, understand the struggles of orphans. I was once a child without means myself, and I know their pain all too well."

He leaned forward slightly, his expression resolute. "I have decided to establish a fund to support and improve the lives of orphans. I am willing to commit 10,000 gold coins toward this cause."

Wayne raised a hand to forestall any protest. "Of course, such a substantial amount of money must be managed responsibly. I would entrust its oversight to someone of impeccable moral character—someone like you. I cannot think of anyone better suited for this responsibility."

Paletress's eyes widened in shock. "T-ten thousand gold coins?" she exclaimed, her voice rising involuntarily. Realizing she had drawn the attention of nearby patrons, she quickly covered her mouth, her face turning a deep shade of crimson.

To someone like Paletress, who lived a life of modesty and dedication, the sheer magnitude of such a sum was staggering. In Azeroth, gold coins held tremendous value. A single coin could sustain a modest household for weeks, and even the monthly stipend of a senior priestess like her rarely exceeded ten gold coins. The idea of managing ten thousand gold coins was almost incomprehensible.

Wayne chuckled softly at her reaction and waved dismissively, his demeanor warm and reassuring.

"Sister Paletress," he said, his tone light, "please don't be overwhelmed. To me, this is but a small gesture, and the cause is more than worth it."

He neglected to mention that this sum was barely a drop in the ocean compared to his vast wealth. If not for the complications such a conspicuous display of money might cause, he could have easily pledged 50,000 or even 100,000 gold coins.

Wayne's tone was calm yet tinged with an understated charisma as he spoke.

"Don't be surprised, Miss Paletress. Perhaps you don't know, but I was once an adventurer who cherished the thrill of exploration. During my long journeys, I discovered countless treasures and vanquished more monsters than I could ever count."

Although his words were straightforward, his confident demeanor and warm smile conveyed an undeniable air of experience and generosity. His mature, self-assured nature immediately captured Paletress's attention. The senior priestess regarded him with a mixture of admiration and curiosity.

Paletress, clearly touched by his benevolence, looked at him with eyes shining with admiration.

"Mr. Wayne," she began, her voice soft yet filled with conviction, "though you are not a follower of the Holy Light, your actions speak of a kind and noble soul."

"May the Holy Light guide and bless you always."

Her words carried a genuine sincerity, and Wayne could sense that she truly believed what she said. Perhaps the purity of her faith and her innocent worldview made her see him as an extraordinary benefactor. Her vow to manage the fund herself was not only a commitment to the cause but also a reflection of her trust in his motives.

This was precisely the outcome Wayne had hoped for. By structuring the fund's donation in stages rather than a single payment, he ensured ongoing contact with the senior priestess. This would allow him to cultivate trust and potentially seek her assistance when needed.

Wayne offered her a warm smile. Their conversation flowed naturally as they discussed the operation of the fund, the plight of orphans, and even broader topics like the administration of the Holy Light Church. Drawing on his experience as the leader of the Witcher Order, Wayne shared insightful thoughts about organizational leadership and charitable outreach. Paletress listened intently, occasionally nodding in agreement, and her admiration for Wayne grew steadily throughout the discussion.

By the time lunch concluded, Paletress seemed almost transformed by the exchange. Her initial perception of Wayne as a wealthy book buyer had evolved into that of a cultured, wise, and genuinely compassionate man. His presence, wealth, and intellect combined into a compelling figure—one that would undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

"Thank you for your hospitality, Mr. Wayne," Paletress said, her tone filled with gratitude. "When I return to the church, I will compile a detailed list of the books copied by the children. I will have it ready for you when we meet tomorrow."

Wayne inclined his head with a smile, then reached into his space bracelet. He retrieved a beautiful golden bracelet adorned with three gemstones—red, blue, and yellow—and placed it delicately into an intricately crafted wooden box. Holding the box, he turned to Paletress with a gentlemanly bow.

"Miss Paletress," he said, his voice rich with charm, "to have shared a meal with someone as noble and graceful as yourself has been a true pleasure."

He presented the wooden box to her with a respectful gesture.

"This bracelet is a treasure I came across during an expedition to an elven palace. I offer it to you as a token of our meeting today. Please accept it as a keepsake to commemorate our encounter. I hope you will not decline."