Viktor could hear an excited murmur through the bells, but it was several days before Father Lena and Nadia came to visit. He stared at the tiny instruments even as Nadia’s arms wrapped around him. “Viktor! I missed you! Did you miss me? Are you eating properly? Should I bring some food with me the next time we visit?”
He blinked, finally focusing on the one person he wanted to see and the one he dreaded as Father Lena chuckled. “It would appear the bells need changing. You shouldn’t be able to hear anything once the door is closed, Viktor.”
He frowned, gently squeezing Nadia’s hand before kissing it. Is that what it is? “I know that the bells are meant as both a security measure and are blocking my mana. But why would their being excited means it’s time for them to be changed?”
Viktor could see Nadia’s pout and quickly smiled at her. “Hello, Nadia. Yes, I missed you, and I’m eating well… I’m not sure you’re allowed to bring me any food. But I appreciate the offer. I miss cooking with you.”
Father Lena chuckled as Nadia grinned, sitting on the cot and waited until Viktor turned to him before speaking. “She isn’t, but that’s beside the point… You’ll forgive me if I don’t answer your question, my Son. We have other things to discuss.”
Viktor nodded. “I’ve never had to work with the bells. That’s always been Forgemaster Ivan’s specialty. What brings you both here? Has something happened?”
Am I putting them in a bad situation? I don’t want to cause them harm, but I can’t stand not knowing things. Father Lena nodded, hid his smile beneath a hand as Nadia crawled into Viktor’s lap and said. “They’re trying to throw away the charges! You’re going to come home soon, and our new cottage has been finished! I can’t wait to explore it with you, Viktor!”
He raised an eyebrow and looked at Father Lena. “Who is trying to drop the charges? I can’t imagine Brother Mikail or his family agreeing to such a thing.”
“They will. Since Forgemaster Ivan is going for the death penalty against Brother Mikail.” Viktor tensed, feeling his heart clench as something that felt like joy but could have been frustration burned in his veins.
“That… is the appropriate sentence for necromancy.” He spat between gritted teeth as he tried to get his feelings under control. “Does this mean we’re not getting a trial?”
The king is allowed to execute people if the evidence is clear. But no one has questioned me since I arrived. If he’s put to death, then… Then Viktor wouldn’t be too far behind him on the executioner’s block. Father Lena rubbed the bridge of his nose and sighed.
“Father Gregor and Brother Mikail’s family are trying to avoid that. They don’t want the shame associated with necromancy anywhere near them. I’m… I would also like to avoid a trial. Brother Dmitri’s name has already been dragged through the mud. I refuse to let anyone speak ill of him based on your actions… Do you understand what I’m saying, Viktor?”
Viktor wanted to say no. I won’t let them do this! “I… agree that Brother Dmitri’s name has suffered enough.”
Father Lena nodded, waiting as Viktor struggled to compose himself. I shouldn’t have to do this! I’m prepared to accept my punishment. Why is that brat being given a chance to escape his? It’s that bastard’s fault this happened. None of them should be… He buried his face in Nadia’s neck and whispered. “I won’t do it.”
Nadia hummed, rubbing his back, but it was Father Lena who responded. “Is your rage so great that you would throw away your life just to spite that boy?”
“My rage isn’t the problem. I broke the law. I will accept my fate. I don’t see why he gets to slip away from his when he also broke the law.”
“What’s his name, Viktor?” This quiet query didn’t make Viktor hesitate.
“Mikail. He’s a Life Cleric. I haven’t forgotten him.”
“Do you remember his brother? The man you killed?” Viktor met his gaze with defiant eyes.
“I’ve never forgotten him! His name, appearance, and everything else, yes. Those things I’ve forgotten because they’re not important. The only thing I need to remember is that he killed Brother Dmitri. I can’t explain why this is so. I’m not using it as an excuse, but Brother Mikail means nothing to me. He should be treated the same way I am and deal with the consequences as I do!”
Father Lena tilted his head, studying Viktor as if he were an errant student caught in a prank instead of the man he became. Viktor wasn’t certain if that was a good thing, but Father Lena didn’t keep him waiting. “I don’t disagree, but I’m not willing to let you throw your life away. I love Dmitri too much to allow that.”
Viktor said nothing as he felt Nadia tense. Does she know what he wants? It wouldn’t matter much. Viktor couldn’t even dream of fighting Father Lena when he was a child, and he wasn’t in a position to try now. The two men stared at each other, but Viktor didn’t break the silence.
He was too busy rubbing Nadia’s back as she shifted to look at Father Lena. The older man’s lips twitched, but his voice was devoid of emotion as he stared them down. “You’re being offered the chance of a lifetime, Viktor. Come away with me and Nadia, swear to never set foot in Vern again, and both you and Brother Mikail will get to live in peace. That’s not a hard choice to make, is it?”
“What happens to Mikail? Is he being banished as well?” Father Lena sighed and chose his words carefully.
“He is going to be punished. There are too many who know about what he did, so you can rest easy, Viktor.”
“I could rest easy if I knew justice actually exists in this world.” Viktor stared at Father Lena, uncaring that he was being disrespectful. The Path of Death is all about living without regrets. Will I regret going to trial? “What’s stopping him from tracking me down and trying again? I don’t want to have a repeat of this incident, Father Lena.”
“Nothing beyond his word… The same as yours. The only alternative is an execution of both of you. And then everything ends for you.” Father Lena gestures to Nadia, smiling as she tightens her grip on Viktor and shrugs. “This young lady will have to live her life without you. All of the people you’ve helped will curse you as a murderer. And no matter where she goes, Nadia will have to bear that burden. Just as you bear the burden of Dmitri’s death. I won’t lie, my Son. There’s still a chance Brother Mikail will be spared due to his family connections. But you can’t tell me that you’re willing to risk everything on such a one-sided gamble?”
Viktor didn’t know if he wanted to laugh or scream. “I’ve been gambling ever since I heard Dmitri was dead…”
He looked at Nadia and smiled. Even more so when you came into my life. Viktor kissed Nadia’s cheek and looked at the ceiling. “Won’t leaving still be a gamble? How do you plan on getting me out? I’m sure everyone knows what happened by now.”
Father Lena snorted. “In a normal community, perhaps. But the king has given clerics far too many ways to wield their authority. As far as the public are concerned. You and Brother Mikail are being held due to a dispute about the graveyards… That will change once the trial starts, of course. But we are trying to keep things in perspective for everyone involved.”
“Like the Water Cleric who was in charge of checking the property?”
“Yes, but there’s more to it than that.” Father Lena leaned forward, somehow looking imposing, even though he was outnumbered. Viktor shivered as Father Lena said. “This is an order, Viktor. Accept the deal and come with us. Nothing good will come from you being stubborn, especially if you wish to help Nadia.”
Viktor froze, barely trusting himself to look away as he shook his head. “The king will never agree to all of us leaving. He’ll insist on Nadia staying regardless of what I do. The balance is his only way to avoid being called a heretic.”
That’s why I wasn’t stripped of my duties outright. There has to be a Death Cleric in Vern at all times. The only reason Brother Dmitri left was because the necromancer that killed my family was becoming too large a threat to be ignored. Father Lena shook his head.
“The king doesn’t have the authority to tell me what I can and can’t do with my clerics. I shall send a replacement for you as soon as we reach safety. But unless Nadia committed a worse crime than murder or necromancy. I think we’ll be fine.” Viktor didn’t trust himself to speak as Nadia shook her head.
“I haven’t killed anyone, Father Lena. I have no need to.” Viktor looked at her, but she merely smiled. Does that mean she’s only going to target the dead? That’s one way of getting souls, but… But such an act would eventually draw attention, especially if Viktor agreed.
“You keep saying Nadia is going with you, Father.” The older man nodded.
“I despise the idea of leaving her training up to fate. I know Forgemaster Ivan and Mother Anya would do their best, but I’d rather the next generation of Death Clerics be trained by their own.”
Viktor nodded. “That is the way it should be.” There are some things only another person with similar powers can understand.
Father Lena smiled. “I’m pleased to see you still think the same way you did as a child. Now, are you going to see sense, or do I need to pull rank and force you to do the right thing?”
Viktor shook his head, not willing to take the path of least resistance despite everything else pushing him to take it. “Where would we go? I can’t see news of this incident staying contained in Vern. What city or community will have us after this?”
I still need to keep working on finding a way to save Nadia. I can’t rely on Ivan when anyone can intercept our letters! Viktor groaned, feeling the curve of the loop tightening, and tried a different question: “Did you read Brother Dmitri’s Last Wish? It should be in my portable chest if you haven’t.”
Father Lena smiled sadly. “I found it, but the first request was for you to be present when I read the rest.” Viktor felt his throat constrict as Father Lena continued. "You’re not going to make me read it here, are you? Don’t worry about the details, my Son. Simply bow to your elder’s wishes and accept what’s best for you... and everyone else.”
Nadia kissed Viktor’s cheek and whispered. “You know I’ll do whatever you want, Viktor. But I’m not going to let you spend the rest of your life in a cage. Come with us and be safe!”
Viktor could have laughed. He should have screamed. His mind understood what was happening better than his heart. Death told me to live my life to the fullest. I can’t do that in here, and Nadia is more than capable of dragging me out… The thought of letting Mikail get away with performing necromancy left a bad taste in Viktor’s mouth.
But knowing that Nadia would do anything to save him and serve Zum at the same time was both thrilling and terrifying. There was nothing stopping Mikail or anyone else in his family from taking revenge on Viktor. He knew that. But that doesn’t mean I have to take this lying down.
Viktor smiled and looked at Father Lena. “I… dislike this very much. I won’t pretend otherwise, but…”
Father Lena leaned forward, relief in his eyes and voice as he asked, “But?”
“But I want to speak with Mikail before we leave.” Nadia stiffened and Viktor almost missed the relief turn into something that looked like fear as Father Lena shook his head.
“That’s not possible. Interaction between prisoners in different wards is prohibited. I also don’t think it’s a good idea to have you interact with him anymore. The sooner you cut him from your life, the better off you’ll be.”
“Forgive me, Father Lena. But we all know that’s impossible. We owe each other a debt, regardless of what the law or those who are supposed to uphold it think.”
“You are one of those individuals, Viktor. Don’t act like your duties are any less important than a Fire Cleric’s.”
He’s still using the present tense… “I’ve never thought that, but I insist on speaking with him in private. I give you my word that I won’t harm him. Will that suffice?”
Father Lena’s face showed it wasn’t, but Viktor refused to budge. It’ll be a pain if he tries to drag me out, but if I ask Nadia… A quick glance revealed that his love was watching them with an amused smirk. Viktor wasn’t sure if that was a good thing, but he was willing to gamble on it since she’d always sided with him on important matters.
Father Lena must have sensed this. He stared at them for several long moments before finally rising and sighed. “I cannot guarantee you’ll be alone, but I’ll instruct Forgemaster Ivan to keep you both bound. You should know that Father Gregor is currently visiting Brother Mikail. He expressed an interest in visiting you, my Son.”
Viktor helped Nadia stand before he bowed to Father Lena. “I would be honored to speak with Father Gregor. He’s done so much for me since…”
The older man nodded. His face gave nothing away as he gestured to Nadia. “We must leave you for now. I have to fill out the paperwork for your release and remind the king that the placement of Death Clerics is my right… Behave yourself, and perhaps we can share a meal together this evening.”
Viktor raised an eyebrow. “That… sounds like this action has been thought out to some extent. When did you decide to set us free, Father?”
“I wanted to free you from the start. It was Father Gregor and the nobility that kept making a fuss. Forgemaster Ivan was willing to accept lighter punishments, considering what happened with Brother Dmitri’s death. And Mother Anya only saw a profit loss from keeping you in here. You should remember to thank them, Viktor. The balance tipped in your favor this time. There might not be a second.”
Viktor nodded, accepting another hug from Nadia as the cell door was opened. Nadia kissed him and squeezed his hands. “I meant what I said in the letter, Viktor. You need to hurry up and ask me to marry you, so we can start living as husband and wife! Everything will be perfect then!”
Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.
“Perfect?” She nodded and hurried to Father Lena’s side before he could say anything else. Nadia stared at Viktor through the bars with a self-satisfied smirk as she waved.
“We’ll see you soon, Viktor. I’m going to make all of your favorites tonight. So, don’t eat too much, ok? I love you!”
“I love you too…” The bell’s gentle buzzing began as soon as the door was closed, drowning out all the other sounds. Viktor considered taking a nap. He didn’t think Father Gregor would come soon, but one never knew what the Leader of the Life Clerics was capable of.
Viktor resumed his place in the middle of the floor and closed his eyes. So, the powers that be prefer dismissing me over an execution. When did money mean more than doing the right thing? Viktor wasn’t sure how long he thought about it. It didn’t feel like much time had passed before the door opened again, revealing Father Gregor sporting a pristine white robe with gold trim on the cuffs, hood, and hem.
Neither said anything for a moment after the door closed. Viktor made no move to rise. Father Gregor pursed his lips and finally broke the silence. “Hello, Brother Viktor.”
“Greetings, Father Gregor. What brings you here?”
Father Gregor’s face changed as he slowly shook his head. “I’m hurt beyond words, Viktor. Is it that surprising that I’ve come to visit you out of the kindness of my heart?”
“Considering what you said the last time we met? Yes.” I’ve been in this cell for who knows how long. Father Gregor could have seen me at any time. Yet here he is on the same day that Father Lena has ordered me to accept a deal that benefits a necromancer.
Viktor chuckled. “You… you’ve never cared for me at all, have you?”
Father Gregor frowned. “What do you mean? I’ve always thought highly of you, Viktor. I always looked out for you, even before Brother Dmitri’s death! I admit my words were spoken in haste, but you must understand”-
“I do.” Father Gregor gaped in shock at Viktor’s flat tone. When was the last time I interrupted him? Viktor finally rose, but only to immediately sit on the bed. His action gave Father Gregor more room, but he could see the older man wasn’t pleased. When was the last time I cared about pleasing him?
Viktor knew he cared about Father Gregor once, and a part of him still did. But he couldn’t deny feeling satisfied watching the king’s favorite cleric struggle to regain control of the situation. “What do you mean you know? I realize you’ve been under a lot of stress, Viktor. But that’s no excuse to forget yourself!”
Viktor shrugged. “I don’t think stress is the problem, Father Gregor. This world, and everything I once believed in without hesitation, has changed… Or maybe I’m the one who’s changed? It doesn’t matter either way, but I do want to know why you’re here.”
Should I bring up the deal? Father Lena said Father Gregor was against it, but what does he gain from visiting me now? The older man took a deep breath and sat beside Viktor on the cot. Viktor stared at him, not bothering to hide his surprise, but Father Gregor only chuckled.
“You’ve… really changed, haven’t you? I meant what I said, Viktor. You’re not the only one who’s still grieving for Brother Dmitri.”
“I know you two were close.”
“We were,” Father Gregor agreed as he looked at Viktor. And I was hoping to be just as close to you—not just for his sake, but for your own… Father Lena said you accepted the deal?”
“I want to speak with Mikail first.”
“Brother Mikail does not wish to speak with you, Viktor. You’re the man who killed his brother, after all.”
“And he killed mine,” Viktor smirked as Father Gregor winced and nodded.
“It’s a good thing we’re separating you two. You may not believe this now, but this whole ordeal will soon seem like a bad dream. I can only hope you’ll visit the local Life Temples and remind yourself of all the good you’ve accomplished.”
“I don’t need help remembering that, Father Gregor. And I don’t know where Father Lena is taking us…” But I don’t doubt there will be other temples there. Father Lena is a stout believer in the Paths. I can’t imagine him living somewhere that didn’t respect them.
But he didn’t know enough about Father Lena to be certain where they would go, especially with Nadia. It’ll be alright. I’ll break the loop and save her! Viktor straightened, clenching his fists in his lap as Father Gregor hummed. “You’ve always been a strong boy, Viktor.”
“That’s because digging graves and fighting ghouls is hard work, Father Gregor. I hope the city can take care of itself without a Death Cleric present.”
Father Gregor stared at him and said in level tones, “I believe I’ve already proven that Life Clerics perform the same duties as Death Clerics, Viktor.”
“But they won’t want to do it.” And how many of them will be able to sense the dead and protect themselves from the undead? Viktor had never believed himself to be cruel, yet he was also a realist. Despite the Paths overlapping at times, one couldn’t deny that certain skills were utilized within each Path.
And Viktor had already seen what happens when a Life Cleric meddles with things beyond their understanding. Viktor returned his gaze and continued. “I didn’t have any problems with sharing my duties, Father. I know you were just trying to help.”
“I’m glad you understand… Viktor?”
“Yes?”
“Why do you want to speak with him?” Viktor blinked. I didn’t think he’d ask that. Father Gregor looked at the wall and said. “Depending on your answer… I might change my mind and allow you to speak with him.”
“I thought you said he doesn’t want to speak with me?”
“He doesn’t, but the odds of you two running into each other again are rare. So, if there’s a chance you can settle things peacefully…”
Viktor laughed and shook his head. “I doubt that. I’m not interested in his feelings at all. I simply want to explain something to him.”
“And that would be?”
“That I’ll never regret killing his brother.” Father Gregor stiffened, but Viktor gently patted his hand. “I know how that sounds, but it’s the truth. I don’t regret what I did. He’s free to grieve any way he chooses, but so am I. He can’t resurrect his brother again, and I hope he never attempts to perform more necromancy. I miss the days when that was an automatic death sentence, you know? There was a time when I could have attempted something that foolish when I was younger.”
“Shortly after Brother Dmitri brought you to Vern, you mean?” Viktor nodded.
“I hate that I wasn’t given a choice to become a Death Cleric. I wanted to be a farmer or hunter. Like my father and everyone else in my village. I didn’t do anything wrong, yet I felt like I was being punished for being alive. Have you ever felt that way, Father Gregor?”
“I… can’t say that I have. But doesn’t that mean you should be sympathetic with Brother Mikail?”
Viktor stared at him, confused that he was being asked. What an odd question. “Why would I be sympathetic to someone who willingly performed necromancy so they could kill me? I understand that he’s angry, and must share a similar burden as me. But I only used my hands to kill that man. I waited until he was alone, so I wouldn’t kill anyone else. His actions could have cost countless lives, Father. How can I sympathize with someone like that?”
“Very easily, since you’re the one who put him in that position”-
“No, I didn’t. I chose the path that would grant justice to Brother Dmitri. He chose the path that could have gotten out of hand. Our situations aren’t similar, Father Gregor. I’m sorry to keep disappointing you, but we’re never going to agree on this.”
“That’s… unfortunate. I was hoping you’d see reason, but at least you’re honest.”
“Does this mean you won’t change your mind about letting me talk to Mikail?” Father Gregor glared and growled.
“That’s twice you’ve left off his title. Do you see yourself above his station, or do you no longer consider him to be a fellow cleric?”
“Neither. I simply don’t see why I have to respect someone who wants me dead. Am I supposed to be respectful about the man I killed? Or is one’s rank the only thing that determines respect?”
I don’t think I’m better than Mikail. I’m merely… sick of the nonsense that this whole ordeal has caused. Viktor thought about the newly renovated cottage and all the plans he wanted to see come to pass. We should have had a peaceful life… I’m sure I could have made Nadia happy there… Maybe my replacement will do better.
It barely counted as a comforting thought, but it was the best Viktor could do as Father Gregor rose. The older man looked around the cell, but his eyes didn’t linger on anything for too long before focusing on Viktor.
“I… am sorry things turned out like this, Viktor. I hope you believe that and will get the help you need.”
Viktor nodded. “Thank you.”
It wasn’t his place to dismiss Father Gregor, and Viktor was grateful for everything the older man had tried to do for him since he started living in Vern. Most people believe the Paths of Life and Death are enemies. But I never believed Father Gregor saw me as anything more than another boy trying to find his way…
Father Gregor smiled as he stepped through the door a moment later. Viktor strained to hear his footsteps, but the bells quickly resumed humming. Why do I feel like I just lost something important? Viktor groaned, rubbing his temples before lying down on the cot. It was too early for sleep.
Viktor hadn’t received his second meal and hoped he could join Father Lena and Nadia for dinner. There were many things Viktor needed to do, but his mind and the loop refused to give him rest. He was still lying there when a Fire Cleric shoved a tray through the slot, along with fresh clothes.
That’s new. Normally, my clothes are brought in at breakfast. He looked at the door, and as if sensing his attention, the Fire Cleric spoke. “Pick up the clothes and follow me when you’re done eating. Forgemaster Ivan wants to make sure Father Lena can’t complain about your treatment. So, you’re getting a bath before he returns.”
“I doubt that Father Lena would complain. He was here earlier today.” The Fire Cleric didn’t respond, making Viktor shrug as he dug into the meal. It doesn’t taste any different from usual. Maybe I should stop thinking? There’s no reason to expect them to treat me differently just because I’m about to be released.
But Viktor couldn’t deny his heart ached at what he agreed to. He stared at the clothes, relieved to see they were his, and smiled softly at the thought of Nadia handing them over. She must have been so frightened. I need to make it up to her… But how can I do that without asking to marry her?
Viktor knew Nadia well enough to know that she wouldn’t forget and wouldn’t let conventional norms stand in her way. Her love was like a wildfire, and Viktor didn’t know if he wanted to embrace it or run from it. But he knew he wasn’t ready to part from it, and a deeper part refused to do so.
I wonder if this is the kind of love the bards would sing of? Nadia isn’t a traditional damsel in distress, but I’ll still do whatever it takes to keep her safe. Viktor wiped the last of the gravy with his bread and carefully pushed the empty tray and dirty dishes to the Fire Cleric.
She hummed softly. “Very good. It’s nice to see you still have a healthy appetite. Are you ready?”
“As much as I can be.” Viktor picked up the clothes and stayed in the middle of the room as the door opened. There were no other guards present when the Fire Cleric waved at him.
“Come along now. Foregemaster Ivan said to get you as clean as possible. But you should be aware that we haven’t received notice as to when you’re leaving.”
“I understand.” But the fact that they’re doing this is already a good sign. Viktor wasn’t sure what kind of protocol he was expected to obey, so he chose to walk three steps behind the Fire Cleric. He didn’t look at the other cells. The bells sang in tune with their steps, and Viktor had to resist the urge to groan.
How can anyone stand that noise? It wasn’t this bad when I was brought here, was it? The Fire Cleric glanced at him and sighed. “No need to play the strong silent type, Brother Viktor. It’s normal for you to be… sensitive to the bells for a time. Give yourself a few hours outside, and you’ll be fine.”
“Thank you, but are you sure you should be telling me this?” The Fire Cleric shrugged.
“Forgemaster Ivan said you were already trained with us, so you should already know this. And besides, you’re getting back to your old life. Why should I deny you knowledge when Forgemaster Ivan is convinced you’ll never set foot here again?”
Viktor winced and tried to laugh. “That’s… one way to describe it. I never intended to cause Forgemaster Ivan any problems.”
The Fire Cleric chuckled. “No, I don’t suppose you did. But it’s not my place to judge you. Here we are.”
Viktor frowned, finding them standing in front of a door free of bells… and a knob. How do they keep the door closed? Viktor stared at it for several seconds before looking at the Fire Cleric. “This is… the bathroom?”
She nodded, tucking the tray under her arm as she stood beside the door. “That’s right. You’ll find everything you need inside. The water refreshes itself every ten minutes. So you won’t get an excuse to thoroughly clean yourself… Are you alright?”
He nodded, staring at the door before asking. “How do I open it?”
“Nudge it with your foot. Don’t worry. You won’t be disturbed, and the room is sealed so the heat won’t escape. We’re not barbarians, Brother. We enjoy warm water too much to let it go to waste.”
Viktor chuckled and entered the room. It wasn’t the most luxurious bath he’d seen. The room was clearly intended to be used by many people at once, yet Viktor had it all to himself and a large tub to wash in. I could sit in my bucket and still have enough room to stretch my legs in this!
As promised, the water was warm, and Viktor soon found some soap and a towel. He wasn’t interested in soaking, but he could do so once they reached wherever Father Lena intended to take them. I need to make sure Nadia doesn’t cause any mischief. We won’t have Ivan to help us, and I’m still not sure how much Father Lena knows.
Viktor sighed, leaning back and staring at the ceiling. Is that the loop talking? Breaking it should be my first order of business. Going with Father Lena is the correct choice. A journey with an unknown destination leads to all kinds of situations. There’s no way I can prepare for all of them.
But Viktor wasn’t convinced it would be so simple when he got dressed. She didn’t give me a fresh robe. Have those been confiscated to spite me? He hoped not. If Father Lena intended for Viktor to continue training Nadia and performing his duties, then he would need his robes.
But that is something I can think about later. He still didn’t know how the loop worked, and Viktor wasn’t going to give it more to work with. Viktor stared at a mirror and sighed. Do I look different than what I did before meeting Nadia? So many things have happened. It feels wrong to look the same when I don’t feel the same.
“That’s a problem for future me to solve. I have too much on my plate as it is.” Viktor looked around the room, hoping for a sign that something had heard him. Death should be everywhere. He grabbed me when I entered the carriage. Why wouldn’t he seize this chance to speak with me when I’m alone?
It took several seconds before Viktor gave up and followed the Fire Cleric back to his cell. The room didn’t appear to be disturbed, yet the bells sounded different now. They were softer, quieter, and didn’t make his head hurt. Viktor enjoyed the difference and attempted to meditate.
I’ve been here for at least a week. If Ivan and the others began arguing about mine and Mikail’s fates every day, then… How can they do that when they have other duties? Viktor has never spoken to the king, but he’s been in his presence several times. The most prominent being the time he, Brother Dmitri, and Ivan slew a vampire and saved the city.
Viktor wasn’t one for talking much, and it soon became clear he could get away with nodding his head and muttering thanks. He had thought the king would only focus on Brother Dmitri and Ivan since they were adults and he was a mere fourteen-year-old. There was no need to let the fact that he’d dealt the final blow get to his head.
There was no need to let many things get to his head, yet the loop existed for a reason, and Viktor was still trying to decide how to break it. They won’t let me talk to Mikail. That’s fine. I was only trying to see what I could get away with… Perhaps Father Gregor will let something slip in front of the wrong person. He mentioned I’ve changed several times, but was it for the best?
Viktor was still thinking about it when his door opened again. Ivan grinned in the entrance and shouted. “COME ON OUT, VIKTOR! THERE’S NO ROOM FOR YOU HERE ANYMORE! THE TIME HAS COME FOR YOU TO EARN YOUR KEEP ONCE AGAIN, MY FRIEND!”
Viktor winced, almost missing Nadia’s giggle as he happily accepted Ivan’s embrace. “A simple hello would have been fine, Forgemaster.”
“No one tells me what to do in my temple, and what did I say about titles, Viktor?” Viktor chuckled, allowing the other man to close the door behind him, denying Viktor the chance to escape amongst the bells again as Nadia hugged him.
“I know the answer to this one! You said we should call you Forgemaster forever unless we can come up with a better title! Tell me, how does Baron of Cookery sound?”
“Too long, Nadia. But do keep trying. I like the way your mind works!” Viktor chuckled, letting them lead him away as he looked around.
“Where’s Father Lena? I thought he’d be here so we can eat together?”
Ivan laughed, squeezing Viktor’s shoulder as he pointed down the hall. “Father Lena is taking care of a few things. So relax, Viktor. You and Nadia are all mine until we reach the front desk!”
Viktor shook his head. Father Lena is a smart man. Is it too late for me to run back to my cell?