In the morning, when they came for the man, the guards froze. He was lying on the floor, breathless, and next to him, with its muzzle pressed against his chest, lay the shepherd. It did not move away and growled at anyone who tried to approach.

Later, people said that his heart had failed. But the whole city remembered something else: the loyal dog, who in his final moment warmed his master and did not allow anyone to disturb their farewell.

The man did not leave this world as a traitor, but as a faithful friend with a kind heart.