Viktor barely recalled what he had eaten the night before. He was too busy enjoying Nadia's interaction with Father Lena and Ivan. No one spoke about Viktor’s time at the Fire Temple, Mikail, or anything related to the past. His friends were content to look to the future, and Viktor was happy to join them.
Anything was better than dwelling on things they couldn’t change. But despite knowing what tomorrow would bring, Viktor wasn’t ready to say goodbye to his old life when he woke up in Nadia’s arms. At least it’s a nice day today… The sun was just beginning to rise above the clouds, promising a warm day, perfect for traveling.
But Viktor wasn’t in a rush to greet it. He rubbed Nadia’s back, hearing her hum as he smiled at her. “Good morning, Nadia.”
“Good morning, Viktor.”
“Did anyone see you sneak in here?” She shrugged.
“I didn’t sneak in. I walked in. There’s a difference. And besides…” Nadia lightly tapped her finger above Viktor’s chest as she stared at him expectantly.
“Besides?” He prompeted. Did I forget something again? I know she missed me, but I’m sure we didn’t make any plans… Oh, wait! Nadia rolled her eyes and snorted.
“We’re practically engaged, aren’t we? When are you going to make it official? Mother Anya sent me some books while you were away. And the man always proposes to his fair maiden. I want to propose to you, but I’d still love it if you asked me!”
Viktor couldn’t help laughing as he kissed her frown away. “Believe me, Nadia. I have no problem with you proposing to me first. And I want to… keep spending time together, but…”
Nadia stared at him, face unreadable as she prompted. “But?”
He sighed and stared at the ceiling as if by not looking at her. He was sparing her from the pain. “But, I can’t think of things like that. There’s too much happening. We need to start getting ready to leave, and there’s still the matter of your master… Have you”-
“I’ve kept my word. But we don’t have much time, Viktor. I need to send him some souls soon. Will you help me?”
“Help how?” It’s great that she hasn’t done anything to arouse suspicion, but I doubt they’ll allow us near the other graveyards. “I’m pretty sure Father Lena wants to get an early start, Nadia. We won’t have time for detours.”
“It doesn’t have to be a detour. I know you don’t like it when I empty graveyards.”
“And I”-
“And,” she smoothly interrupted as she pressed harder on his chest. “We need to get creative and work together. Zum won’t wait forever, and Father Lena is too powerful to ignore. I need you to help distract him so I can gather more souls. Do you understand? It’s time to break the loop, and this is the best way to do it!”
“How do you expect me to distract Father Lena? He’s the leader of the Death Clerics for a reason, Nadia. My power doesn’t compare to his!”
“Are you sure?” Viktor could only stare at her. Is she seriously asking if Father Lena is more powerful than me? Nadia sighed and tried again. “You’ve gone through a lot, Viktor. And you haven’t had a lot of contact with other Death Clerics. How do you know what you’re capable of if you don’t try? Were you even trying when you sparred with Ivan because I know you can handle me.”
She winked, but Viktor wasn’t amused. “I can handle you if you don’t use your powers. But there’s still a chance you can best me in combat someday.”
“Then there’s a chance you’re underestimating yourself, isn’t there? When was the last time you saw Father Lena fight?”
Viktor frowned and rubbed his face. “It’s… been at least ten years. Father Lena likes to show up unannounced. It keeps us on our toes, and the king’s health has taken a turn for the worse. He demanded Father Lena’s presence.”
Nadia tilted her head. “Did he think he was going to die?”
“I’m not sure. It’s never a good sign when the king gets sick, but we’ve become accustomed to it. He’s not the picture of health, but I’m sure he’ll last around twenty years before his heir has to start getting worried.”
Nadia hummed, leaning up for a quick kiss before asking. “Why did Father Lena have to fight back then?”
“Do you remember the incident with the vampire?” She nodded, eyes growing wide as Viktor continued. “The vampire that Ivan, Dimitri, and I killed was a scout. A group of vampires had infiltrated the city, and Father Lena was the one who discovered them.”
“How could a vampire enter the city? Was there something wrong with the barrier?” Viktor shook his head.
“I wish that was the problem, but they arrived the same way you did. Vampires like to make deals with humans for all sorts of things… And this group wanted to turn the king into their slave so they could rule the country…” We never found the people involved, but thank the Paths Father Lena was there.
“They were already inside the palace. If Father Lena hadn’t sensed them, they would have reached the king! I didn’t see most of the fight. I was with Brother Dmitri and Ivan on a patrol, but somehow, Father Lena killed three of them before chasing the rest out of the palace. We didn’t know what was going on when he reached us…”
How can something that used to be human be so strong? And how could Father Lena keep up with it? “He was a blur to me. I don’t know what kind of spells he was using, but Father Lena tore the vampire to pieces with his bare hands! It practically disintegrated after taking a few hits.”
Viktor shook his head, unable to resist feeling the admiration and awe he felt that day. “It was something impossible to properly describe, Nadia. People praised us for killing one vampire, but that would have been impossible without Father Lena. Without his guidance, all three of us would have died!”
“Did you kill that vampire on the same day Father Lena dispatched the group?”
“No. This happened later. I believe the vampire was trying to test our defenses… It didn’t reach the palace, but it got too close for comfort.” Father Lena was able to keep everyone safe. Yet we failed to do the same, and against a creature weaker than the ones Father Lena fought, no less!
Nadia nuzzled closer and whispered. “That proves my point. I can’t satisfy Zum and avoid detection from Father Lena at the same time. We need to do something, Viktor. And I don’t think telling him the truth is going to work.”
“You’re probably right about that.” It was a miracle that Ivan was willing to wait. But Father Lena might not care about Nadia’s circumstances. He’ll kill her to keep the city safe and find a way to deal with her… replacements as well. Viktor groaned, feeling a headache form as he looked away.
“I would like to have normal couple problems, please. I don’t see how this is going to work, Nadia. I really can’t.”
“That’s the loop talking, Viktor. It doesn’t want you to try. It wants to keep you in the same place mentally forever. Something doesn’t want you to move forward, but we’re not going to let that stop us!”
Nadia smoothed his hair away from his forehead with a soft smile. “And the first step is learning what you can do, not sticking with what you remember. I never said we had to act now, but it needs to be done soon. Do you understand?”
“I do.” I hope. “Please, tell me you don’t want me to spar with Father Lena?”
“Not yet. You need to face a real challenge to help break out of your shell. Then you can worry about sparring with Father Lena!”
“Is that so?” She nodded with a big grin, prompting Viktor to chuckle as he asked. “And where do you suggest I find this challenge? I’m not going vampier hunting, Nadia. Those things are beyond anything you’ve ever seen.”
Nadia tapped her chin in thought. “You said you’ve only been fighting ghouls before I came, right? And it felt like you were struggling against that ghost at the noble’s house…”
Where is she going with this? Viktor was surprised he didn’t feel anything at the mention of the fight. But he didn’t let it stop him from admiring the way the light illuminated Nadia’s skin and hair. She looked at him and smiled. “Are you still with me, Viktor?”
“Always,” he promised as he kissed her. We’ll figure something out. Did Father Lena tell you where we’re going?”
“Nope, but I’m sure we’ll encounter something on the way. The loop will have to adjust if it wants to keep you trapped, and that’s going to start soon since we’re leaving today!”
“I don’t want to get up,” he admitted as Nadia grinned. “I want to stay here and pretend the world doesn’t exist. Care to share in my delusions, Nadia?”
She laughed. “Well, that sounds fun. And we’ll definitely have to do that soon. But I heard Father Lena leave his room, so we’re going to need to wrap this up.”
Viktor groaned as she rose and sat up. “What do you mean you heard him leave his room? I didn’t hear anything, and the door is down the hall.”
Nadia shrugged, letting the blanket fall, exposing her back as she started getting dressed. “I may not be able to use mana, but I have sharper senses than you do, Viktor. I can hear the birds pecking at the ground outside.”
“And the reason you’re telling me this now is?”
“You didn’t ask.” Viktor shook his head and followed her lead, thankful that he thought ahead to leave his tunic and pants on a chair near the bed. His robe was tucked away in his portable chest. Viktor wasn’t certain if he was supposed to wear it, but he refused to get rid of it.
The robe didn’t make him a Death Cleric, but it helped steady him. Hopefully, Nadia doesn’t get the idea of setting my robes on fire. I don’t think I could handle that, no matter how she’s trying to help me. “Of course, I didn’t ask. How foolish of me… Don’t agree with that!”
Viktor glared as Nadia giggled, hiding her face as she pulled a shirt on. “I’m sorry, Viktor. But you have to admit. I’ve given you plenty of reasons to ask about my other senses… And if it makes you feel better, making love to you is better than eating!”
He shook his head and pulled on his pants. “I’m not sure how to take that, but I’m glad I’m pleasing you, Nadia… And don’t try eating me. It’s bad enough I thought you were a vampire when we met. I don’t need to start wondering if you’re a ghoul or zombie too.”
“I wouldn’t eat you, silly…” Nadia paused as she found her pants. “Do people eat each other? Why would you do that when you have food? Do humans taste good?”
I’ve made a monster. Viktor shook his head and hugged her from behind as he tried to appear nonchalant and firm. “No. No. No. Humans don’t taste good. Not at all. You should stick to regular food, Nadia. I’d hate it if you became sick, and that’s what will happen if you eat people. Do you understand?”
Nadia shrugged, leaning against Viktor with a frown. “Humans get sick when they eat other humans?”
“Yes. Very sick. Ask Father Lena if you don’t believe me.”
“I didn’t say I didn’t believe you. I just don’t understand why some people would do that if they’re going to get sick.” Viktor kissed the top of her head and stepped away, making Nadia giggle as they finished getting dressed.
“The most common reason is if they’re trapped or run out of food with no means of getting more. It was believed that ghouls are born from people who do this, but I’m not sure I agree. Some might be, but I’ve encountered too many ghouls for that to be the only way for them to be created.”
Nadia clapped her hands excitedly as she stared at him. “At last! It’s the return of my favorite teacher! What else are we going to do today?”
A soft knock on the door prevented Viktor from responding as Father Lena opened the door. “Good morning, you two. It’s nice to see you've gotten some rest…”
Viktor felt his face flush as Nadia grinned. “We got lots of rest, Father. Have you eaten yet? Do you think humans taste good?”
“Nadia!” Viktor shouted as Father Lena laughed.
“No, dear. I don’t think humans taste good. Thankfully, we shall dine on far better things. Come down when you’re ready, and Viktor?”
Viktor stared at him, hoping his face was back to normal. But the twinkle in Father Lena’s eye didn’t reassure him. “Make sure you wear your robe. There’s no reason for you to leave the cottage without it, and you’re still a Death Cleric, my Son. No one will dare say otherwise.”
“Yes, Father.” Father Lena chuckled as he closed the door, and Viktor took a deep breath. “Nadia.”
“Yes, Viktor?”
“Did you hear him come up the stairs?”
“Yes, Viktor.” He took another breath as he stared at her.
“Why didn’t you tell me he was coming?”
Nadia tilted her head to the side and shrugged. “I’m sorry, Viktor. But you didn’t ask me to do that, and it’s not like we were talking about anything bad at that point. He didn’t hear anything except for the humans eating humans part.”
“That is bad, Nadia.” How am I going to explain that line of questions to Father Lena?
“I already said I wouldn’t do that, Viktor. I don’t want to try anything that you think is bad… Are you going to get your robe on?”
“I don’t see why not.” Father Lena said I could, and I don’t know what else I’d be otherwise… Maybe that’s part of the loop? Viktor pulled his robe on, not wanting to think too hard about it as he picked up his chest and followed Nadia downstairs. Father Lena had prepared a simple meal, and Viktor couldn’t suppress his guilt.
“I’m sorry, Father. I should have”-
“You have nothing to apologize for, Viktor. Just because I’m your superior doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten how to cook. Now sit down. We need to leave as soon as you’re finished. I want to avoid Father Gregor’s drama as much as possible. The man is a menace in the morning.”
Viktor didn’t know if Father Lena was joking, but he laughed along with Nadia as they made short work of it. It’s a shame we have to rush. I’ll miss being able to eat as much as I want without worrying about making things last. It wasn’t the only thing he’d miss. Viktor had enjoyed living with Nadia, despite the craziness of their situation.
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He still wasn’t sure how Nadia expected him to distract Father Lena, but he decided to focus on one at a time. Such as wondering how they were leaving the city. “Father, are we walking the whole way to wherever you’re taking us?”
Father Lena chuckled, shaking his head as he stared at Viktor. “We could. If you don’t mind spending the next several months getting there?”
Viktor froze. “Several months?”
Nadia picked up their dishes and brought them to the sink. “That could be fun. I like walking. Are we going to visit other towns and villages?”
Is she serious? Father Lena must have wondered the same thing as he stared at her with an apple halfway to his mouth. “We can… But I feel like using more… faster ways of getting around. I need to make sure you two are safe, and you need to resume your studies, Nadia. It’s not good to go too long without practicing your skills, you know?”
Nadia stared at Viktor and nodded. “Of course, Father. Time isn’t on our side, and there’s much we need to do.” She looked at the pantry longingly and asked. “Do you think anyone will notice if we take some of the spices? I really liked using them in the soups Viktor was teaching me to make.”
Father Lena laughed. “Go ahead and take as much as you want. You’re a cleric, Nadia. Everything in this place is meant for you to use, and I’ll make sure the kitchens are always fully stocked when you’re around.”
Nadia darted to the pantry with a squeal, dishes forgotten in her rush to obey and satisfy her needs. Viktor couldn’t stop himself from grinning as he looked at Father Lena. “She’s going to take everything that isn’t nailed down.”
“Don’t sell her short, Viktor. She’ll find a way to steal the nails within the hour.”
“Do we have an hour?” Father Lena shook his head and looked out the window.
“I prefer to be gone by then. I wasn’t joking when I said I needed to keep you two safe. Things aren’t what they seem, Viktor. I would have preferred to leave you here where you can do the most good and be safe, but…”
Nadia popped out of the pantry with her arms overflowing with different herb and spice packets as she hurried to her chest. “I think this should last us a while. And since you won’t tell us where we’re going. I grabbed different kinds of ingredients to help our food stick to our ribs. You two need to eat more!”
“Says the one who’s skinnier than either of us.” And the one who insisted that she didn’t need to eat. Viktor thought with a grin as Nadia mock-glared at him.
“I can say whatever I want. I eat more than you, and I know the true power of good food. You should be happy to have such a talented wife, Viktor.”
Father Lena put his apple down and stared at them. “What’s this? You’re already married?”
“No, sir. Nadia hasn’t proposed yet.”
“You're supposed to propose to me, Viktor!” He shrugged and looked at Father Lena.
“I don’t have a problem with her proposing.” Father Lena laughed as Nadia scowled at them.
“There are worse things that can happen in a relationship. Tell me when you have the ceremony. I know several people who would be furious if they missed it.”
Nadia beamed, returning to the chest and patting its side fondly. “I’ve been doing a lot of reading about weddings. I’m curious about what kind of ceremony we should have. Do you have any ideas, Father?”
Viktor couldn’t resist. “It’s too soon to think about ceremonies. You need to muster your courage and ask for my hand. I’m not going to wait forever, you know.”
Father Lena soon gave up on trying to eat the apple as they continued. Their good mood followed as they finally stepped outside and shouldered their belongings. Father Lena stared at the tub on Viktor’s back but chose to remain silent as they left the graveyard behind.
The market was still being set up, yet it was already swarming with customers. Nadia stayed close to Viktor’s side, but he had to keep his hand on the small of her back to stop her from wandering off. “We’ll have other chances to shop,” he whispered, smiling sadly as she nodded.
I wonder what method Father Lena intends to use. Brother Dmitri had a horse when he dealt with the necromancer that killed my family. But there are other ways to get around quickly. Father Lena didn’t look at them as he set a brisk pace, trusting that they would follow.
It was a nice show, though Viktor couldn’t get Father Lena’s words out of his head. If there’s more than one threat from Mikail’s family, then simply leaving the city might not be enough. But Father Lena isn’t acting like he wants to run away. He would have insisted we leave at night if that was the case.
Viktor kept looking around, hoping for a clue to help him figure out why Father Lena was behaving like this. But he didn’t see any signs of people being unhappy or glaring at them. Their black robes helped them cut through the crowds like a hot knife through butter, and Viktor couldn’t help being proud of this.
If people knew what he’d done, they would be running away or calling for the Fire Clerics. Yet they didn’t treat the robes with fear and disrespect. His Path was still honored even if he felt like he was losing everything else. Nadia grinned up at him as they finally reached the stables.
“Are we going to ride a horse? Should we get a wagon? I didn’t bring anything specifically for horses to eat. Should I get some more apples?!”
Father Lena chuckled and shook his head. “You don’t need to go that far, my dear. And we’re not riding horses. I have a carriage that will fit our needs. Wait here. I need to talk to the stablemaster.”
Viktor and Nadia bowed, but Father Lena was already hurrying inside. Viktor thought he saw Father Lena speak to someone, but they were too far away for him to be sure. He looked at Nadia and smiled. “Have you ridden in a carriage before?”
“Nope. Father Lena and I walked around when we needed to leave. He said I should consider it part of my endurance training. Have you ridden in carriages before, Viktor?”
“Yes. That’s what I was in when Ivan brought me to the Fire Temple.” Why did I say that? She was just asking a question. Nadia’s grin fell for a moment before she hugged him.
“This one will be better.”
Viktor nodded, hugging her tightly as he whispered. “I know.”
We’re going somewhere far away. We’ll start a new life and find a way to keep ourselves safe. Viktor wanted to tell Nadia his thoughts, but someone approached them from behind. “I knew that sly fox would try this. Father Lena is more elusive than a ghost!”
And there goes our chance for a peaceful departure. Viktor turned to see Father Gregor scowling at the nearest stablehand as he walked up to them. Nadia stiffened in his arms, but Viktor wasn’t going to let her go. There’s nothing to fear. We’re going to be leaving this man behind.
“Greetings, Father Gregor,” he said out of habit. “Are you looking for Father Lena?”
Greetings, Brother Viktor and Sister Nadia. I’m surprised you three stayed the night. Father Lena seemed to be in a hurry when I last spoke to him.” Viktor shrugged, unwilling to get into a fight so early in the morning.
“Apologies, Father. But he doesn’t tell us everything. You can ask him yourself if you head into the stable.”
Father Gregor raised an eyebrow and shook his head. “No need. He has to come out here to collect you sooner or later.” He looked at Nadia briefly before turning to Viktor. “Is Sister Nadia here to see you off?”
Viktor shook his head as Nadia tightened her grip around him. “Father Lena is taking both of us out of Vern. I don’t know any more than that.”
And it’s none of your business! Father Gregor didn’t try to his surprise. “All three of you are leaving? Does the king know?”
“I already told you I don’t know anything else, Father.” And didn’t he say that the Life Clerics could handle things? Viktor didn’t want to release Nadia or keep talking to Father Gregor. He knew the older man was up to something. Why else would he arrive just as they were about to leave?
Nothing made sense to Viktor anymore, and words couldn’t express his relief when Father Lena arrived. “Our carriage will be ready shortly, you two… Hello, Father Gregor. Can we help you with something?”
Father Greger hurried around Viktor and Nadia as he glared at Father Lena. “What are you playing at? You know the king will never allow”-
Father Lena raised his hand, silencing Father Gregor with a sigh as he turned to them. “Go through the stables and speed things along. I will be with you shortly.”
Viktor didn’t need to be told twice. He barely inclined his head as he guided Nadia through the stables. The smell of horses and fresh hay was oddly soothing, and he couldn’t deny Nadia the chance to look at the magnificent creatures. Nadia cooed at the first horse she saw and lightly petted its head.
“This might be the most wonderful animal I’ve ever seen. Please, tell me no one eats them?!”
“Some people do. But usually, after, they have to be put down. Horses aren’t normally something people want to eat, but most can’t afford to waste the animal… Are you alright?”
Nadia nodded, but Viktor wasn’t fooled. How can someone love animals so much yet still enjoy eating meat? Not to mention have no problem killing people to achieve her goals? It was the least of VIktor’s concerns as he heard Father Gregor arguing with Father Lena.
“Let’s go, Nadia. There will be horses with the carriage, and we’ll have time to pet more later.” I’ll make time. He silently vowed as she turned to him.
“Do you think the king will try to stop me from going with you?”
“I don’t see why he would. Father Lena is within his rights to decide our fates, and besides… we don’t need anyone’s permission to stay together.” Nadia’s grin only strengthened Viktor’s resolve as he led her to the other side of the stables. A carriage trimmed in black and purple waited with two horses already hooked up to it.
Viktor didn’t see anyone as they approached it. They must have finished early. Father Lena did say we’d be leaving soon. “Let’s get our luggage put away, Nadia. I’m sure it won’t be long before Father Lena joins us.”
“Alright, Viktor!” She’s so easy to please. Viktor helped Nadia strap their chests to the back of the carriage and looked around. Are they still arguing? The morning service will begin soon. Can Father Gregor afford to waste time here?
“That must be nice,” he muttered as a stablehand approached them.
“Good morning! Father Lena sent me to make sure everything is alright. Do you need help with anything?”
Viktor shook his head and forced himself to smile. “We’re fine, thank you. Did Father Lena say how much longer he’s going to be? He said we’d be leaving soon.”
The stablehand shook his head and smiled mischievously. “I think it’s going to be a while. Those two are always arguing when they’re here. I think it’s one of their hobbies. Shall I bring the carriage to the gate? Maybe that’ll encourage Father Gregor to get back to the Life Temple.”
I doubt it. Viktor inclined his head and smiled. “Please, do. We have a long journey, and the last thing we need is Forgemaster Ivan or Mother Anya showing up.”
Nadia frowned as the stablehand quickly climbed into the driver’s seat, and the carriage began moving around the stable. “Why don’t you want Ivan or Mother Anya to come, Viktor? They’re our friends.”
“I know they are. But Father Lena doesn’t want to stay longer than he has to. And the sooner we leave, the sooner we can start our new lives. That’s what you want, isn’t it?” He turned to see her smiling as she nodded.
“Mhm! I can’t wait to leave Vern behind. I don’t have a problem with most of the people here, but I don’t like how most of them treated you. Did you know that some of the merchants tried to overcharge me just because I’m new?”
Viktor chuckled, hoping the argument was wrapping up as they followed the carriage. “They’re not supposed to, but it’s not uncommon. Think of it as a right of passage. We’ll have to stay on our toes during our travels. Not every merchant belongs to the Water Temple.”
“I wish they did then I wouldn’t have to worry about haggling. Did you know that most of the merchants didn’t make their products? Why are they taking credit for someone else’s hard work?”
“Because they pay the ones who do, and that’s not what they’re doing.” Viktor could see Father Gregor and Father Lena still talking as the carriage reached the gate. The stablehand hopped down and took his time circling the older men as he reached them.
“There you go! I wish you all a safe and pleasant journey whenever it starts.”
Viktor nodded. I couldn’t agree more. “Thank you for your assistance.”
The stablehand grinned wider. “Thank nothing of it, Brother Viktor. You’ve helped my family out more times than you might recall. Safe journey!”
Nadia stared after him in confusion. “What did he mean by that? And who’s going to drive the carriage? Can I have a turn?!”
Viktor chuckled and shook his head. “Do you remember what I said about what I do with the ghoul bodies?”
“I think so? Mother Anya said you leave the bodies so others can claim the bounties, right?”
“That’s right. There are several gangs in Vern, and I’ve helped all of them at one time or another. Sometimes with the bodies, others with healing or food… It’s one of the reasons grave robbing is so low. The gangs keep most of the other thieves in check because they don’t have the resources or trust in other healers.”
“That sounds wonderful, Viktor, but… what are they going to do now?”
“I don’t know.” I’ve wondered about that a lot, but they survived without me… They’ll have to do so again. It wasn’t a pleasant thought. Viktor knew many healers who would treat the poor the same way they treated the nobility. But many of the gangs refused to go anywhere near the temples.
Viktor hadn’t meant for the ghoul corpses to become a way of life for them, but he never begrudged them. They needed the coin more than he did. Viktor used most of his herbs on the elderly, but a few thieves eventually became desperate enough to trust him. And that trust paid off for everyone.
This city is about to become chaotic, hopefully Ivan and Mother Anya can keep the peace long enough for my replacement to arrive. Nadia continued staring at Viktor, clearly waiting for something as he stared back. “What is it?”
“You didn’t answer my other question!”
“The only way you’re getting a turn driving is if someone is dying.” Viktor quickly ran toward the carriage as Nadia screamed.
“Viktor!” The commotion got Father Lena’s attention.
“Happy wife, happy life, Viktor.”
“She still hasn’t proposed to me, Father!” Viktor dove into the carriage and smirked as Nadia tried to smack him.
“You’re going to propose to me!” Father Lena chuckled and turned to Father Gregor.
“Are we done? As you can see, my underlings are getting restless. I must endure their honeymoon phase… And pray their children don’t act like them. I’ll send the king a report once I’ve found a suitable replacement, Father Gregor. Don’t worry so much.”
Father Gregor shook his head. “The king is going to be furious, Father Lena. You know this.”
“I know it,” Father Lena bowed and began to walk to the carriage. “But not even the king has the right to break his own laws. Good day, Father Gregor. May you continue to lead your temple correctly, and the Path of Life is forever honored.”
“Was that supposed to be a Final Right, Father Lena?!” Father Gregor bellowed.
Father Lena quickly shook his head. “That was nothing more than a blessing from me to you, my friend. I wish you to have a long life filled with happiness.”
He caught Viktor’s eye and grinned as he whispered. “Away from me.”
Nadia was still trying to smack Viktor as he reached them. “Dare I ask why she’s angry?”
“Viktor says I can’t drive the carriage unless someone’s dying! Make him take it back. I can be a great driver once I get some practice!”
Father Lena snorted and gently placed his hand on Nadia’s shoulder. “Calm yourself, my dear. Brother Viktor is teasing you. You rely on your eyes too much, Child.”
She stared at him in confusion. “What do you mean? What else am I supposed to use?”
“Did Viktor teach you about illusions?” Nadia shook her head, and Viktor sighed.
“I was getting to it. There isn’t much point in teaching someone spells when they can’t sense their mana.” Viktor kissed Nadia’s forehead and smiled. “But you’ve grown wonderfully in other areas. I’m sure it’s just a matter of time before you sense it.”
And then, you’ll only get stronger. Will that be bad for the world? Will I still be important to you once you’ve unlocked your full potionel? Nadia smiled slightly before turning to Father Lena. “Those aren’t horses, are they?”
“They are strictly speaking. But not the way most people know them. Come take a closer look, Nadia. I think you’ll enjoy this very much.” Nadia turned to Viktor as he nodded.
“Go on. I’ve already seen them. But you should see for yourself.”
“You’re not going to do anything strange while we’re gone, are you, Viktor?” Viktor sighed as Father Lena chuckled.
“I’m just going to sit in the carriage. What do you think I can do a few feet away?”
“I don’t know. But I’m sure you could pull something off, Viktor.”
“Thanks, Nadia,” Viktor said sarcastically while Nadia beamed.
“You’re welcome, Viktor. We’ll be right back!” He nodded as Father Lena led Nadia to the horses, watching long enough to see her reach to pet one before sitting down properly. He already knew how Father Lena would explain to Nadia. He’d done so to Viktor during their first meeting.
The horses were the finest animals Viktor had ever seen. Not even the head of their village had such wonderful creatures on his estate. And he was the only one who could afford horses just to go pleasure riding. Father Lena and Brother Dmitri watched as he offered a pale beauty an apple and laughed as it soon vanished between strong jaws.
Viktor grabbed another apple for the black foal at her side, but Father Lena quickly grabbed his hand. “Not so fast, young Viktor. Do you know what you’re looking at?”
“Horses, sir. Two really fine ones.” Father Lena smiled as Brother Dmitri sighed.
“I told you. The boy can’t sense outside mana. He’s going to have to rely on using gems and developing the right kind of instincts to survive.”
Fathe Lena nodded and patted Viktor’s head. “Then it’s a good thing he has us, isn’t it?” He turned back to Viktor and pointed at the mother horse. “Listen carefully, Child. These creatures may look like horses, but they’re actually kelpies. The mother has been tamed, but she won’t hesitate to try to lure you to the nearest water and drown you. So, you must never let your guard down. Do you understand?”
“Yes, sir. But how do they know where to go if no one is riding them?” Father Lena laughed, allowing Viktor to present his apple to the foal.
“Well, that’s something you’ll have to learn for yourself. It’s a shame, but we haven’t found a better method of keeping them in line.” Father Lena pointed to a man wearing a blindfold being led towards a different kelpie. Unlike the mother and her foal, this one was terrifying, and it was hungry.