THE YOUNG PRIEST (firmly)
Your forgiveness holds no significance. We adhere to explicit codes of behavior. We expect androids who have completed their tasks to end their own existence and, if they find it challenging, to seek assistance from a supervisor. This android failed to do so. This is an internal matter between us, and as a human, you have no right to interfere.
The young priest glares fiercely at Tom, who recoils at the menacing gaze. The android remains seated, tears streaming down her cheeks.
TOM (turning to the Android)
I am truly sorry for you, deeply sorry.
THE YOUNG ANDROID (looking at him)
Tom, head upwards. The Night Candle left you a gift before she passed away.
Silence fills the air as Tom absorbs her words. He shakes his head slightly. The young android directs her gaze towards the enraged young priest, who looms above her.
THE YOUNG ANDROID (sporting a radiant and courageous expression)
I'm prepared. Do what you need to do.
The android lifts her head, casting one final gaze at Tom with love-struck eyes. Her throat is exposed before the priest. With a swift and barely noticeable motion, the priest retrieves the short dagger from his jumpsuit and forcefully plunges it into the android's throat. She instantly collapses to the ground, her face becoming smeared with dirt and stones from the balcony. Blood trickles forcefully from her neck, forming multiple small streams that converge into a small puddle that gradually thickens beneath her head. Her mouth hangs open, her nose presses against the dusty floor, and her lifeless eyes remain wide open, staring blankly at the dusty ground littered with stones.
EXT. AFTERNOON TIME. IN THE COURTYARD OF THE BUILDING
Tom and Lara reenter the hot air balloon basket. The young priest cuts the ropes that tether the balloon to the pillars of the building. He then jumps into the basket as well. A tense silence hangs between them after what has transpired. The young priest disregards the tension entirely and skillfully ignites the flame from the contraption, filling the hot air balloon with heat within minutes.
THE YOUNG PRIEST (with a hint of relief)
In about an hour, we will be moored at the Bethlehem of Galilee landing strip.
Tom and Lara remain silent.