Abstract: This disclosure provides systems and methods for reducing stress in vane shroud assemblies by defining a gap between adjacent portions of the airfoil and the shroud whereby stress from the securing force is relieved in a portion of the shroud. The airfoil has a distal end with a contact surface and a tenon. The shroud has a contact surface with the airfoil and accommodates the tenon. An attachment device provides the securing force between the airfoil and shroud contact surfaces through the shroud and the gap serves to reduce stress on the shroud.