For the first time since he started living in the city of Vern, Viktor has no idea where he is. I understand why they’d prefer using a teleportation spell instead of relying on a vehicle, but… But Viktor knew what the holding cells in the Fire Temple looked like, and this place wasn’t it.
It was a void. Viktor couldn’t feel the ground, yet something had to be supporting him since he wasn’t falling. Is Mikail in here as well? My arms are still bound, so someone has to come eventually, right? Viktor slowly walked in a circle, trying to find any clues as to where he was supposed to go.
But nothing revealed itself. “Hello?”
Viktor waited, but not even an echo greeted him. He sighed and flexed his hands, but Ivan hadn’t shown him mercy. The bells chimed as the rope refused to give Viktor an inch of extra space. Great, this is perfect. I’m floating in a void with my hands bound and unable to use mana to defend myself… At least I still have my feet.
Viktor looked at his boots and grinned. “Better than nothing.”
He doesn’t know how long he walks. He never gets tired. The void continues to stretch beyond his senses, and Viktor keeps moving because there’s nothing else he can do. I’ll have to compliment Ivan when I see him again. This is an excellent way to break people’s spirits without hurting them… I wonder how Nadia is doing?
Viktor has never considered himself a deep thinker, but without anything else to distract him, he finds himself thinking about the situation. Did Father Lena notice the lack of spirit orbs? Will he question Nadia? How will she answer? Viktor sighed and shook his head.
I should have paid attention when Ivan was speaking. Did he mention anything about Nadia? Surely they would have restrained her if they thought she was a threat… but that means she’s in here?! Viktor stopped moving and called out, “Nadia? Nadia, are you here?”
What if this place does something to sound? There’s no way Nadia wouldn’t call out to me if she’s here. Viktor refused to dwell on why she would be here. He knows Nadia isn’t a saint, but the thought of her in this darkness was terrible. She’s such a child… she didn’t mean to do anything wrong!
Viktor forced himself to move and, before he knew it, started running. His robes tangled around his legs, but he refused to slow down until he had to catch his breath. His heart pounded against his ribs for a few seconds before settling down. It wasn’t an unpleasant feeling.
It helped clear his mind. Walking didn’t tire him, but running did. Should I start shouting until my throat bleeds? What happens if I fall? Will I hit whatever surface is holding me up, or will I fall forever? Viktor would have accepted that outcome before Nadia came into his life.
He would have accepted any punishment before he met her. But the thought of living without her was appalling. I should be grateful for the small mercies I’ve been dealt. That’s what Dmitri taught me… Viktor forced himself to sink to his knees, relieved that he could sit without falling, and said. “I give up. There’s no point in walking without a destination… I give up.”
A voice cold as ice laughed. “I was waiting for that.”
Viktor jumped, looking around but still finding nothing but darkness. “Who said that?”
The voice hummed. “You know who. You’ve known me your whole life… Haven’t you, Viktor? One of my finest clerics.”
Viktor slowly shook his head. “I follow the path of”-
“Death,” the voice smoothly interrupted. “Yes, I know. You’ve done well. I haven’t been this entertained in ages… Are you listening?”
Viktor nods, wishing he could rub his temples as the voice hammered at his brain. I’m talking to a… god?
“You are.” Viktor winced and sighed.
“Would you mind… Not reading my mind?” The voice laughed.
“I can’t do that. Your thoughts are all over the place, Viktor. But I’ll do you the favor of pretending I don’t hear them. Will that satisfy you?”
“Yes… sir?” How does one address a god, and why is this one talking to me? The darkness waited, and Viktor took a deep breath before asking, “Are you… Nadia’s creator?”
I hope not. I have no idea how I’m supposed to deal with Zum! The darkness stilled, and Viktor shivered. “No. I had nothing to do with Nadia’s birth. And since I’ve already done you a favor. I’d appreciate it if you didn’t call me by that fool’s name again.”
Viktor nodded and looked at his feet. “I’m sorry.”
“None of that. I didn’t bring you here for idle talk.” Viktor waits, but several moments pass before he dares to ask.
“What did you bring me here for, then? And where is this place?” Did I get in the carriage? Will Ivan notice something is amiss? The voice chuckled.
“I’ll answer the second question first. You’re in my realm. I brought you here because I have a proposition for you. One that should make your Zum problems disappear. Are you interested?”
“I am, but…” But why do I get the feeling I don’t have a choice? The darkness waited, humming as Viktor sighed. “I’ve heard stories of gods helping humans… They rarely end well. It’s one of the reasons I liked the Paths… No gods to appease or make demands.”
The darkness laughed. “Indeed. And normally, I wouldn’t care to make a deal. Humans seldom interest me, but I can’t turn a blind eye to Zum, not after the way Nadia stole those souls and sent them to him! I can forgive many things, but not when someone interferes in my domain so shamelessly!”
Viktor looked up and tried to find something to focus on. “She didn’t mean any harm! She was trying to protect me”-
“I know.” The voice was firm and cold, yet not cruel as it continued. “I have nothing against the girl. She’s doing what she was created for, but she’s also shown signs of choosing her own path… Thanks to you. But you’re losing yourself, Viktor. You need more than good intentions to succeed… Tell me, were you being serious a moment ago? About not wanting to live without her?”
Viktor nodded. “I love her. Her power is a terrible thing, but she listens to me… I’m certain I can save her if I can find a way to sever her connection to Zum.”
“There is a way to do that.” Viktor drew in a breath as a hiss as he stared ahead.
“Tell me.”
“Was that a demand?” Viktor shook his head.
“I don’t wish to insult you, but I don’t have much time. Nadia said the spirit orbs would keep Zum satisfied for now. I need whatever aid you’re willing to give before he tries to use Nadia again!” He bowed his head, wishing his hands were in front of him so he could make a sign of supplication.
He’s read about such things under Dmirti’s care. Viktor wasn’t willing to convert to another religion, he didn’t deserve to, but for Nadia’s sake, he was willing to ask any deity for help. The darkness chuckled as a small breeze played with Viktor’s hair and clothes.
“Very well then. But this information isn’t for free.”
Viktor nodded. “I understand.”
“No, you don’t. But that’s fine, Viktor. Out of all my followers. I like you the best.” Viktor struggled to swallow. Nothing good comes from having a god’s favor! The breeze returned, bringing an odd scratching sensation across Viktor’s scalp as the voice whispered. “The price for my information is high, but you will have everything you want. A life of bliss with little Nadia, freedom from those who wish to cage you, and guaranteed safety from Zum. Is that acceptable for you?”
“I need more details about the safety part. Are you going to keep Zum away from this world?” The darkness sighed, but Viktor didn’t feel threatened by it. I’m not foolish enough to agree to something without looking for loopholes.
“Unfortunately, Zum has many ways to reach this planet. But I can sever his connection to the girl and allow her to live with you. Her powers might be affected, but you won’t need to worry about that. Any other questions?”
Viktor thought about it but shook his head a moment later. “What do you want in exchange?”
“I want you to live.” Viktor frowned.
“You want me to live?” The darkness laughed.
“I want you to endure and enjoy your life. Live without any regrets. Just like a proper follower should. I won’t tolerate anything less! This business between you and the Life Clerics is annoying, but that is something you will deal with. I’ll help you with Zum when the time is right. But the rest is up to you. Do we have a deal?”
“I…” How am I supposed to answer that? “I’m supposed to be going to prison. I can’t do anything behind bars. And Nadia is with Father Lena right now.”
“I’m aware. But your current situation isn’t important. It’s time to stop holding yourself back, Viktor. You can’t afford to waste time. Nadia is safe enough at the moment. Father Lena isn’t like you, but he is a force to be reckoned with. You have everything you need to handle the mortal side of your problems. Do you have the courage to accept my help with your godly ones?”
“I.” Viktor felt like a child being scolded. His words churned in his throat, but he forced himself to nod. “Yes. I think I understand what you mean… Thank you, my lord.”
“Oh, don’t thank me just yet. You have a long road ahead of you, Viktor. A long and painful one. There will come a time when you’ll wish we hadn’t had this conversation. But you will endure… as you always do.” A deeper shade of black wrapped around Viktor’s eyes, and something cold sank into his heart. The pain nearly made him pass out, but Viktor heard Death’s words. “You will endure, and you will win. Don’t disappoint me, Child. I won’t be merciful if you fail.”
Viktor didn’t know if he screamed, but he opened his eyes to find the dark confines of a carriage. He was alone with his thoughts, and the sounds of life were filtering through the slots serving as windows. I guess that answers some of my questions… What do I do now? Father Lena and Ivan expected him to do his duty and accept his fate.
Viktor’s hands were still bound behind him, so he didn’t think he could do anything about the ride. If Mikail arrives ahead of me, he should be processed by the time I arrive… Unless Father Gregor or someone else throws some coin at the guards. He growled at the thought and leaned closer to the slots in the wall.
The carriage had been designed to be a merciful prison. The seats were comfortable and soft, but the slots only permitted enough light for Viktor to see his surroundings. He couldn’t tell where they were by looking through them to the outside world. Must be because of a spell. Can’t have prisoners planning their escape… Not that I have anywhere to go…
Viktor leaned his head against the wall and closed his eyes. There was no point in trying to run away. He had no desire to fight the Fire Clerics and make his way to Nadia’s side so they could escape the city. It wouldn’t change anything, and it was impossible. Death told me to live without regrets, so doing anything less than my duty is intolerable. I hope Nadia feels the same way.
He would have to wait and see. The ride was a quick and quiet affair. Viktor only had seconds to register that the carriage had stopped before the door was opened, and Ivan’s face peaked in. “Do you require assistance in climbing out, Brother Viktor?”
Viktor shook his head, but Ivan still helped him down when he reached the door. The Fire Temple loomed above them, and there was no sign of anyone in the area. It was as if the market had been shut down for this moment. Ivan lightly pushed Viktor forward and he obligingly entered the temple.
They didn’t pass the desk or the kitchens. Viktor wasn’t familiar with the halls he was made to travel but said nothing as they walked. It wasn’t time to talk, and he couldn’t think of anything to say. Viktor knew they arrived when he spotted several gems powering a lock on a massive metal door.
Ivan stepped to Viktor’s side and placed a hand on his shoulder. “I never thought I’d have to bring you here.”
Viktor said nothing. Ivan opened his mouth but shook his head and motioned for a Fire Cleric to open the door. Viktor didn’t need to sense mana to know there’d be no way for him to force open that door. If he ever decided to escape. It was going to be using different means.
He remained silent as Ivan and the other clerics guided him deeper into the hall. There were two floors. One that Viktor walked, lined with a row of cells covered with the same kind of bells around Viktor’s wrists. He couldn’t see inside the cells, but he knew he was being watched.
Having the Forgemaster living in this city didn’t deter crime. Some viewed it as a challenge and paid the price. Viktor looked to the second floor and shuddered. He called it a floor due to the stairs that led up to it, but instead of cells, there were cages hanging from the ceiling.
Ivan noticed him staring and patted his shoulder. “A time leftover from the war. You’re not going in one unless you prove too dangerous to be left in a cell.”
He looked at Viktor and raised an eyebrow. “You are going to behave yourself, aren’t you? Father Lena is going to come see you later. Father Gregor is getting the king involved in this mess. He really doesn’t like being told no, does he?”
Viktor slowly shook his head. “Those in power rarely do… Does that mean Mikail isn’t in here?”
“He is.” It was Viktor’s turn to raise an eyebrow.
“You sound very pleased by that, Forgemaster.”
“I don’t know if pleased is the right way to describe how I feel, but it’s close enough… He’s in a different sector, though. I’m not foolish enough to leave you two near each other. And you won’t have to deal with him at all… Your crimes warrant separate locations.”
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Viktor nodded thoughtfully. Ordinarily, necromancers are housed in the lowest levels, only seeing the light of day when it’s their turn to be executed. I wonder if Ivan placed Mikail there, knowing how Father Gregor would react. He didn’t let himself dwell on it for long.
“Does this mean I’m surrounded by other killers?”
Ivan winced and nodded. “This floor is reserved for those who’ve turned themselves in or had… pressing circumstances that need to be investigated.”
“I assure you. My actions weren’t caused by self-defense or a fear for my life.” Ivan nodded and led Viktor to a cell pressed into the corner of the floor, furthest away from the door. He watched as Ivan unlocked it and turned to him.
“If the king gets involved, There’s going to be a trial. I won’t let anyone throw coins to make this disappear. Too many things have gone wrong, and I intend to see them set right!”
Viktor nodded and stepped inside, but Ivan gently held him in place while he freed his wrists. Viktor rubbed them but didn’t feel any different. “I wish you luck, my friend. I’ve only heard a few stories where a king is beaten.”
Ivan barked a laugh and shook his head. “I don’t need to beat the king, Viktor. Father Gregor might be his favorite, but I’m not without resources… I only ask that you trust me and don’t do anything foolish. There are worse things than spending the rest of your life in prison. Don’t you agree?”
He did, but he doubted Death would be satisfied with such an outcome. What kind of face would you make if I told you I met a god, old friend? Would you think I’ve gone mad? Have I gone mad? Viktor nodded and didn’t hesitate to squeeze Ivan’s offered hand.
“I know what my duty is, old friend.” Do I have the courage to see this through? I’ve fought without using my mana before. But the stakes were different, and Ivan nodded.
“I’m glad to hear that. Don’t worry about Nadia. I’ll make sure she stays out of trouble.”
“Thank you.” Ivan patted his shoulder and quickly left the room. The door closed softly, leaving only a faint jingling in the air. The inside of the cell wasn’t that different from the cottage Dmitri raised him in. A bucket for his toilet rested near the cot, and there were narrow slots too far for Viktor to reach, even if he stood on the cot and stretched.
The close quarters suffocated yet reassured him as he sat on the floor. Viktor closed his eyes and waited.
Time is a tricky thing, even with a schedule. Ivan ran the prison the same way he ran a war camp. Everything has its place, and humans are the cogs that keep things the way they should be. Every morning Viktor wakes to see a Fire Cleric pushing a tray with a bowl of porridge and a cup of tea.
Viktor thanked them, but they never responded. He didn’t blame them. A different Fire Cleric would collect the used dishes an hour later, and the process would repeat itself at lunch and dinner. Viktor heard shuffling in the cell to his right, but the prisoners didn’t speak.
I hope Ivan didn’t forget to explain all of the rules. Is there a spell involved, or is everyone afraid to be heard? Father Lena visited him on the fourth day. Viktor was trying to meditate when his cell door was opened, and his leader stepped inside the small room.
They stared at each other for several moments before Father Lena knelt and mirrored Viktor’s pose. “How have you been, my Son?”
“Well enough, Father. How have you been?” Father Lena hummed as Viktor relaxed under his gaze. “How is Nadia?”
“She’s well. She misses you greatly. But I’m pleased to say she’s been trained well.” Viktor sighed in relief and smiled. She’s alright. We still have time to… Viktor shook his head and focused on Father Lena. The older man’s face was blank, yet his eyes weren’t cold.
Viktor chose to believe that was a good sign. Father Lena observed him for several moments before saying. “I’m here to give you a report on the outside world.”
“Please, do.” There’s no way Father Lena hasn’t noticed the lack of spirit orbs. Did he question Nadia, or is he going to ask me about it? Viktor wasn’t sure which outcome he preferred, but he remained silent as Father Lena began.
“Father Gregor has gone to the king to demand a proper trial. Forgemaster Ivan has his best Fire Clerics gathering evidence, including questioning Nadia. I’ve been by her side during each session, and the girl’s story hasn’t changed once. She’s very loyal to you, Brother Viktor. I suggest you marry her when this is over.”
Viktor fought the urge to smile and waited for Father Lena to continue. Is he trying to cheer me up, or is he saying I won’t be executed?
“Mother Anya has already presented her evidence to Forgemaster Ivan. Most of it pertains to Brother Mikail’s actions, but everyone is still digging for things to tie you to the murder. Are you certain you want to keep claiming you killed that man?”
“I don’t claim to. I did.” Why would he ask me that? Father Lena waited but sighed when Viktor remained silent.
“Very well then. The trial is scheduled to be held in three weeks. The king doesn’t want to spoil the festival, so I shall escort Sister Nadia during the event… Perhaps I can bring her to visit you.”
“I’d like that.” I want to see her. Father Lena nodded and removed an envelope from his sleeve.
“This is from her. I told Nadia that I’d be visiting you, and she insisted on writing you a letter.”
“I’m surprised she didn’t ask to come with you,” Viktor chuckled as he accepted the letter.
“She wants to see you all the time, but I’ve been firm with her. I know your relationship is different from that of most students and teachers, but I won’t give Father Gregor anything he can use against you for free.”
Viktor nodded and carefully placed the envelope on the cot. “Where is she now?”
Is Ivan still investigating her? Father Lena stretched his arms above his head and grinned. “Currently sampling the food for the festival. I thought she could use a distraction while we talked. She’s been focusing on you every day without fail. It’s a good thing she can’t use her mana. I wouldn’t be surprised if she tried to grow some wings and fly to your side.”
“Don’t let her know that’s possible. Once she gets an idea stuck in her head. It’s almost impossible to talk her out of it!” Not to mention the skill involved in trying such a thing. I’ve heard stories of people trying to fly, but Nadia… Father Lena chuckled.
“That sounds like every young person. But in all fairness, Nadia is obedient. I can’t fault her for asking questions… Although, I am concerned about her sleeping habits. Does she often sleepwalk?”
“Sleepwalk?” Is she roaming the house after she thinks Father Lena is asleep? Viktor shrugged and tried to appear nonchalant. “She’s an energetic person. I don’t know if she sleepwalks, but I’ve often heard her going downstairs to get more books to study. That’s how we discovered some of the evidence against Brother Mikail.”
Father Lena nodded but didn’t seem convinced. “I’ve read the reports about that. But that’s not what I’m talking about. Have you ever seen her sleepwalk or speak so naturally that you’d think she was awake?”
Viktor froze and slowly shook his head. “No. Nothing like that. Is she alright? What does she say?”
“As far as I can tell, nothing.” Viktor frowned.
“Nothing?”
“Nothing. It sounds more like how a baby is learning to make sounds than proper speech. I’ve asked her about it, but she claims she doesn’t know what I’m talking about.”
“Claims?” Nadia knows what lying is, but would she lie to a stranger? What if that’s how she communicates with Zum?
Father Lena shrugged. “Whatever she’s doing, there’s no mana at work. Perhaps she likes talking to herself. There are worse habits she could develop, and I’m not about to punish her over something so trivial. However, I will keep an eye on her to make sure it doesn’t develop into something worse… Do you have any questions, Viktor?”
Thousands. “No, sir. Thank you for the visit. Please tell Nadia to behave and to keep practicing. The sooner we get her in touch with her mana. The better off she’ll be.”
“Indeed, her skills using mana are the only mark against her. I saw her reading about herbs and making bandages the other day. She’s fascinated by the human body. If she can’t feel her mana soon. I think sending her to Mother Anya would be best.”
“But she can see spirit orbs, Father.”
“Can she?”
“What?”
Father Lena stared at him and calmly asked. “Can she see the dead?”
“Of course, she can. Bring her to a graveyard, and you’ll see”-
“I already did, Brother Viktor. I brought her to the graveyard you were tending when I found you. And do you know what I found?” Viktor swallowed reflexively and waited. Father Lena raised an eyebrow. “I found a graveyard devoid of any kind of spirits. It was as if the land hadn’t known death at all. I was quite surprised… And, naturally. I asked Sister Nadia about it. Do you know what she told me?”
Viktor shook his head. Is it better to tell the truth or a lie in this situation? What did she say?! Father Lena continued. “She said the spirit orbs attacked you, and she tried to defend you. Sister Nadia has a power I’ve never seen if what she said is true. I’ve never heard anything like it. I would like to hear your side of the story now, Brother Viktor. I insist.”
“I… the spirit orbs weren’t attacking me. They were excited to see a Death Cleric… I haven’t been allowed near the wealthy and royal graveyards since Brother Dmitri’s death.”
“Was that because of your role in killing that young man?”
“No. I was told it was to allow me more room to grieve…” Father Lena nodded encouragingly, so Viktor indulged him. “I don’t doubt that was the reason at first. But I’ve learned things since then. This city, or rather, those with too much time and money on their hands, seemed to be displeased with me and Death itself. Many of the duties I should have performed were given to others, and I’ve been facing an uphill battle to be given permission to perform them again… It’s very frustrating.”
“I understand, Viktor. It’s not easy being a Death Cleric”-
“It’s not that! I don’t have anything against the ones who were only trying to help me. But I know that if Nadia hadn’t arrived, nothing would have changed!” I’d still be tending the poor graveyard and trying to ease everyone’s burden…
Father Lena leaned forward, his face becoming something not quite eager but still attentive. “What is it, Viktor? What are you thinking about?”
“I… it’s nothing, sir.”
“No, it isn’t. You may not believe this, but you still have ways to defend yourself. I’m not saying you were justified, but I won’t let you sit here and do nothing. Tell me what you were thinking of!”
Viktor winced at the sudden iron in Father Lena’s tone and nodded. “I… didn’t hear about the situation at the noble’s house until after Nadia and I went to live at the graveyard. But it was common knowledge that I’d been living at the poor graveyard since Brother Dmitri’s death.”
Father Lena’s eyes widened. “You think Brother Mikail might have been planning on turning the ghost loose while you were still there?”
“I don’t know.” But if he was serious about wanting revenge, then only a fool wouldn’t be able to see this. Viktor sighed, rubbing his temples with his knuckles as he muttered. “I miss the days when I was allowed to put my head down and lose myself to work. I don’t think I’ll be much help, Father. I’m sorry.”
“Don’t be. At least not the part where you don’t have much information. And I don’t expect you to apologize for what you did. Our Path doesn’t work that way.”
Viktor chuckled. “No… it doesn’t.”
Father Lena rose as smoothly as a man in his twenties and smiled sadly. “Is there anything else, Viktor? Are you getting enough rest?”
“I’m fine. I…” Viktor paused and stared at Father Lena. “Father?”
“Yes, Viktor?”
“I…” Viktor cleared his throat and looked down. “... have a potionenly blasphemes question to ask.”
Father Lena slowly blinked and chuckled. “Well, I guess it’s a good thing you’re already in prison then. What is it?”
“Have you ever… come across someone referring to the Path of Death as a god? Or any of the Paths?”
“No. The closest has always come from other faiths. Why do you ask? Are you thinking of converting?”
“No, sir… I just… I don’t know what to believe anymore.” Life was so simple before… everything. Do I want to go back to it? Father Lena sighed and patted Viktor’s shoulder.
“There’s nothing wrong with having questions and doubts, Brother. It’s how we learn and how we grow. There’s no shame in wanting to choose a different Path.”
“But that option doesn’t exist for us,” Viktor muttered. Nadia and I are bound to the same rules, though she interprets them differently… Is that why Death chose to speak with me? Is he waiting for me to choose what I want? Father Lena nodded and knocked on the door.
The bells jingled softly, yet the door was opened instantly. Father Lena stopped at the edge and looked back at Viktor. “Is there anything else I should know about, my Son?”
“No, Father. Thank you again for your visit.” I’m going to have nightmares from this, but he did give me some valuable information. Father Lena nodded.
“I shall visit you again. Think well about what we talked about, Brother Viktor. And don’t lose sight of yourself… I’ll pass your love to Sister Nadia.”
“Thank you,” Viktor whispered as the door closed. He didn’t pick up the envelope right away. He didn’t want to be caught reading it when dinner arrived or when the dishes were removed. Father Lena brought it to me, but was he allowed to do that? Viktor couldn’t imagine Father Lena breaking the law, yet the way Father Gregor had treated him was unusual.
One should never fear their allies, yet that was how Father Gregor was acting. I wonder if Nadia noticed and will take advantage of it? In the end, Viktor waited until the floor was lit by a small fireplace before opening the letter. Nadia’s handwriting had improved, but he could see several ink stains on the paper, indicating her frustration or excitement.
“Dear Viktor,
Please, hurry up and come back to me! I love talking with Father Lena, but I love talking with you more! I love you, and I’ll pray every day until you’re back in my arms! Father Lena likes my cooking and promised to come to our wedding! You need to hurry and ask me to marry you so we can get started! You’re not allowed to wear your robes. I don’t care how good you look in them. I refuse to marry you in your robes!
Yours forever,
Nadia!
P. S. I love you!
Viktor chuckled, carefully tucking the letter into his shirt with a sigh. So she wants to get married, eh? That’s definitely motivation for staying alive… However, I am worried about this sleepwalking thing she’s doing. Is she really unaware of what she’s doing, or is she lying to Father Lena?
What exactly is she telling people about what she saw? I know she isn’t foolish enough to reveal what she is, but she’s still a child in so many ways… I’ll have to talk to her when she comes with Father Lena. I need to make sure she doesn’t do anything to make things worse.
Viktor wasn’t sure how he was going to do that, but lying down seemed foolproof. Nadia’s letter felt warm against his skin, and Viktor couldn’t stop himself from laughing softly. I can do this. I’m not sure how yet, but I can keep going. Nadia is waiting, and I can’t afford to lose her!
Meditation came easier to Viktor over the next few days. The Fire Clerics continued to uphold their unspoken no-talking rule, and no one tried to take Nadia’s letter away from him. It could have been a pleasant experience. In some ways, it was. There was no need for Viktor to do anything beyond eat and care for himself.
He was free to sleep as much as he wished, and no one disturbed him. It was as if the dullness of his life between Dmitri’s death and Nadia’s appearance had taken shape in the cell. Viktor had become something between a human and a tool. He didn’t have any duties beyond staying alive and keeping himself sane.
The loop didn’t manifest in any way, and Viktor didn’t feel anything alter his perceptions. He was alone with his thoughts, and he was content. Nadia’s letter reminded him of better things whenever things became too dull. Viktor read it at least once a day and laughed every time.
The bells lining his cell softly chimed, causing Viktor to focus on the present. But no one entered his prison. No one he could see. Viktor frowned and slowly sat up. Don’t tell me someone is trying to kill me. Ivan will go on a rampage if someone dies under his care. The bells to his left began swaying, and Viktor stared at the bars in confusion.
I guess I’m getting a neighbor… or they’re cleaning the cell… He refused to consider anything else. The Fire Temple prides itself on security, and any attempts to escape have always failed. Viktor had heard of fights, but he couldn’t imagine them occurring on his floor, especially with the way he was being treated.
If I stay here for another month. I’ll have closure and a chance at freedom. But what do I do if I’m set free? Nadia will need guidance, and there’s a chance I won’t be allowed to stay in Vern… Would Father Lena assign me to a different place and force me to leave Nadia behind?
He didn’t think that would work. Nadia had already proven she valued Viktor over the city, and there was no reason to think Zum would care where she got the souls from. Viktor and Nadia had been thrown into a game, and he doubted that she knew the rules any better than he did.
Nadia will have to make a sacrifice soon, regardless of if I’m still in prison. Will she limit herself to spirit orbs or go for people? Viktor didn’t want to think about that. He still doesn’t fully understand Nadia’s powers, and fretting about things beyond his control is one of the things that keeps happening because of the loop.
So, he did the one thing he could do. Viktor closed his eyes, ignored the soft jingling of the bells, and eventually fell asleep.