Prologue: Grand Priestess Death
A sorrowful farewell that sets the orphaned boy on a path to destiny.
The pivotal emotional climax of the Prologue arc, marking the end of Will's childhood under the care of his three undead guardians. While often colloquially titled by fans, this event centers on the passing of Blood, Mary, and Gus. Their departure from life is not purely natural: Blood and Mary succumb to the curse of undeath and their limited time, while Gus dies from a heart attack or natural causes after Will leaves for the city—a quiet end rather than a self-sacrifice against supernatural forces.
Quick Facts
- Subject event
- Death of Will's Guardians
- Key figures
- Blood
- Mary
- Gus
- Affiliation
- Servants of the god of death
- Timeline position
- Prologue; Early Childhood Arc
- Will status
- Orphaned Guardian
- Outcome
- Journey to the Capital Initiated
Lore & Background
Their passing is treated with solemnity in the narrative, emphasizing the weight of loss rather than tragedy. It is revealed that their time was limited from the start, making every lesson precious. This event strips away Will's safety net, compelling him to apply their teachings alone. It establishes the core theme of legacy and memory that drives his character throughout the series. Notably, Gus's death occurs naturally after Will's departure, underscoring the bittersweet reality of aging and separation rather than a heroic last stand.
Reader's Guide
The Prologue begins with three Holy Knights discovering a baby in a dungeon, defying orders to raise her as their own. They spend years educating Alice in magic and swordsmanship while hiding her existence from those who might harm her. Their health gradually declines due to age or past burdens. Eventually, they pass away peacefully, leaving behind instructions for Alice's future path. This loss serves as the catalyst for her departure from the village. Alice inherits their legacy and begins her journey toward the capital city, carrying their hopes and memories with her into a dangerous world.
Did You Know?
- The three guardians are often collectively referred to as 'The Three' by fans due to their inseparable bond.
- Will's early education in magic was directly supervised by these undead servants before he ever met the Church hierarchy.
- Their deaths occur off-screen or implied, focusing the narrative on Will's reaction rather than the moment of passing.
More in Story Arcs & Timeline
Elsewhere in The Faraway Paladin
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