Viktor couldn’t stop smiling as Nadia stuck her head out the window for the twelfth time in two minutes to look at something. I should have known she’d be like this. This was her first time out of the city. He refused to dwell on the fact that it might also be the last time either of them saw Vern.

He had more important things to worry about, like wondering how long Father Lena was going to calmly sit there while Nadia acted like a child. She is a child. A part of him whispered. Just because her head can reach your shoulder doesn’t mean she’s only a couple of months old.

Viktor sighed quietly, earning a chuckle from Father Lena as the older man watched him. “She’s certainly lively. I can’t remember if you were like this when we first met.”

“I wasn’t.” I was still adjusting to being a Death Cleric… But I won’t let that interfere with Nadia’s enjoyment. As if sensing his thoughts, Nadia turned to Viktor with freshly wind-tousled hair and a big grin.

“Viktor! You need to look at this! It’s beautiful! Why would anyone live in a city and deny themselves the chance to see something so amazing?!”

Viktor snorted as Father Lena gently nudged his leg. “Yes, Viktor. Tell us why some people choose to live in a large city. I’m curious to see your teaching methods in action.”

“You can’t be serious.” Why do I get the feeling he’s going to tease me at every opportunity?

Father Lena grinned, placing a hand against his chest as he pretended to be hurt. “But I am, my Son. Nadia is still your charge, despite everything that’s happened. And she asked you a question. It’s your duty to guide her during these… interesting times.”

What does he mean by that? Does Father Lena know more than he lets on? What am I saying? Of course, he does! But he didn’t feel threatened by this. Father Lena and Nadia continued staring at Viktor, waiting for his next move in this strange game they had decided to use against him.

The only thing that would have pushed Viktor over the edge would be Ivan showing up to join in. And then I’ll never hear the end of it… Viktor chuckled and pretended to consider Nadia’s question. “First of all, for safety. You may think it’s pretty out here. But keep in mind we’re riding in a carriage. You might feel differently if you had to walk across these plains every day.”

Nadia nodded as she leaned closer to Viktor. “Are we going to run into any ghouls? They come from outside the city, and now we’re outside, so…”

Viktor nodded, hugging her briefly before continuing. “There’s a chance we’ll see some. Ghouls can appear anywhere, really… We still don’t know enough about them. But we shall work together, Nadia. You don’t have to be afraid, but you must always be cautious on the road. As traveling can be exhilarating, yet also provide others with the chance to attack…”

We’ll have to be more concerned with bandits than ghouls. Although most people will have enough sense to avoid a carriage being pulled by Kelpie… Most of the time. Father Lena nodded. “We will be fine. Forgemaster Ivan was kind enough to send out some patrols ahead of us. We shouldn’t need to worry about being on guard for a few days.”

“Forgemaster Ivan knows where we’re going?” Viktor asked, hoping for a clue, but Father Lena shook his head.

“Nice try, Viktor, but no. I simply told him which direction we were heading and what towns we might rest at. I can’t give all of my secrets away.”

Nadia pouted. “Why not? Why does it matter so much that we don’t know where we’re going? Viktor and I aren’t planning on running away… Are we?!” Nadia turned to Viktor with a mischievous grin as Viktor shrugged.

“I doubt we’d get far, but I do wish to know where we’re going.” It might help make things easier concerning the loop. And I can try to contact Ivan later. There’s nothing wrong with exchanging letters with an old friend. No one should suspect anything from that!... Except for the fact I’m banished, and Ivan was in charge of the investigation…

It wasn’t ideal—nothing had been for some time—yet Viktor wouldn’t trade this for anything. Father Lena leaned back and picked up a book. “I suggest you two practice meditation. You need to remember how crucial patience is. You don’t want to spoil the surprise, do you?”

Viktor wanted to argue. He knew Father Lena had his reasons for helping them, and he was grateful. But we don’t have much time, and I don’t know if Nadia will wait for me to choose her next victims… Do I want to? He didn’t think he did, but he didn’t have any better ideas.

He sighed, nodding to Nadia as he reached to close the window. “That’s enough sightseeing for now. Don’t think you get to ignore your lessons, Nadia.”

Nadia shrugged, but Viktor saw the way she looked at the window. “I never said I don’t enjoy my lessons. Because I do! I love learning about new things, so why don’t you try teaching me in a new way?”

“What?” Viktor didn’t need to see Father Lena to know he was grinning as Nadia leaned forward.

“Teach me. In a different way. A new way! We can’t tend graves, but we can do other things, can’t we?”

“We can… but I don’t understand what you mean.” She already has meditation down. And we can’t fight in the carriage… oh! Viktor pointed at Father Lena’s book and asked. “Did you want to study? See which plants you recognize and what they’re used for?”

“Can I do that on top of the carriage?”

It took several seconds for Viktor to process Nadia’s request. “No,” he said firmly. You may not. That’s dangerous, even with ropes or using mana. You can read until we take a break. That’s it.”

Nadia pouted. “Can I ride one of the Kelpies?”

“No.” Why would she ask to do that? “Weren’t you paying attention to Father Lena’s explanation? Riding a Kelpie is right up there with drinking poison. The odds of it not killing you are non-existent.”

He waited for Nadia’s next ploy, certain there would be one, and knowing that they were amusing Father Lena at Viktor’s expense. But Nadia only sighed. “I want to do something new,” she whined while looking at the window longingly. "Viktor, let me do something new!”

“Isn’t riding a carriage new? We’re leaving the city to head for somewhere Father Lena isn’t willing to share. Everything is new right now.” She wasn’t like this when I first started teaching her. Is she getting bored, or has she entered a teenage phase? Viktor wasn’t certain how to feel about that.

Nadia’s mental development, combined with her appearance, often made Viktor forget that she was less than a year old. But seeing her act like this brought that point home. He looked at Father Lena, but the old man appeared to be absorbed in his book… Viktor wasn’t fooled, and Nadia didn’t give him a chance to ask for advice.

“Riding inside a carriage is new, but it’s like we’re inside a moving building. And I’ve done plenty of studying inside buildings!... Can I walk alongside the carriage? You said I wouldn’t like it, but I want to try.”

“You won’t be able to keep up…” Nadia’s sigh cut him off, and Viktor frowned, racking his brain for something to interest her. Thank the Paths, I only have to deal with one student. I don’t know how other people handle juggling different teaching methods with multiple students… I’ll have to thank Father Lena for teaching Brother Dmitri so well.

But first, he had to deal with an impatient Nadia. He opened the window, smiling slightly as her eyes widened in excitement. “Are you keeping it open this time? I like the breeze!”

“I am,” as long as Father Lena didn’t object. Viktor waited to see if he would, but the older man remained absorbed in his book, only moving to turn a page and hum to himself. It was enough to make Viktor smile as he rose and gestured for Nadia to switch places with him.

She did so with an excited squeal, practically thrusting her head out again into the window instantly. Viktor lightly rested his hand on the small of her back just in case she tried to climb out and said, “You could have just asked me to leave the window open or switch seats, you know? I wouldn’t have denied you.”

Nadia giggled. “But you’ve been saying no a lot lately, Viktor. And I wasn’t sure if you like having a window seat. Do you?”

“I don’t dislike it… I just sat down while Father Lena introduced you to the Kelpies. I thought you’d like to see them. I know I did when I was younger.”

“They’re pretty,” Nadia looked back at Viktor and asked. "Why do people try to tame them if riding them always carries a risk?”

Viktor lightly nudged Father Lena with his foot. “I bow to your superior knowledge, Father. Please, tell us the story of the Kelpie and why you’re one of the best breeders for them.”

Father Lena raised a finger, turned a page, and used a finger to keep his place as he looked at them. Nadia sat down properly, eyes wide as she leaned forward eagerly. “Yes! Please, tell us! What’s a breeder? How are you the best? And does that mean the Kelpies belong to you?!”

Father Lena shook his head, mock-glaring at Viktor as he quietly spoke. “This is because I wanted to read, isn’t it?”

Viktor was the picture of innocence. “No, Father. I simply think you’re the best one to answer Nadia’s question. I have very little knowledge beyond books, and you own a small farm dedicated to them. Surely you agree that this is the best way to improve our education?”

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It’ll keep Nadia satisfied, at least. And we might gain some hints as to our destination. Father Lena sighed, tucking a bookmark into his book so he could brace his elbows against his legs to support his face. The man’s expression switched between fake boredom and amusement as Nadia copied his pose.

Viktor did so as well a moment later, causing Father Lena to snort as he began. “First things first. A breeder, Nadia, specializes in breeding animals. There are many ways to go about it, but when it comes to Kelpies, I prefer to let them choose their mates… Did you know they mate for life, Viktor?”

“I did not.”

“That,” Father Lena said with a sigh, " is where most people fail. They look at Kelpies and assume they are mindless, bloodthirsty beasts. But I believe they are closer to Nightmares and other magical equines. Did you know they often choose their victims?”

Viktor and Nadia shook their heads. “I’m afraid I’ve always assumed they targeted those who stray too close to the water, especially on foggy nights.”

“Yet another common mistake, my Son.”

“Which means I did the right thing in asking an expert, Father.”

“You did.” Father Lena’s grin was infectious as he continued his explanation. Viktor didn’t know how much Nadia would remember. Viktor had to pull out a notebook and begin taking notes, much to Father Lena’s delight. “I’m surprised you’re taking this so seriously, my Son.”

“I like learning things, too, Father, please continue.” And he did. It was several hours before the carriage stopped for the night, but Father Lena still had more to tell.

“And that’s why you should always carry a bit of sugar on you. Oh, it looks like we need to set up camp. Nadia, get a fire going. Viktor and I will get the bedrolls, and then we shall see about dinner.”

“What about the Kelpies? Shouldn’t we feed them and make them comfortable?” Nadia asked as she hopped out of the carriage, earning a nod from Father Lena.

“You’d make an excellent stable hand, my dear. But you needn’t worry. The spell I used to keep the Kelpies in check has already let them run, see?” He pointed towards a small hill where Viktor could just make out two shapes hurriedly dashing away.

Nadia clapped her hands before frowning. “Does that spell hurt them? How will they know when we need them again?”

“The spell doesn’t harm them.” Father Lena promised as he followed Viktor toward the back of the carriage. “Think of it like an invisible rope that can pass through anything. The Kelpies will return, even if we have to leave sooner than expected. Now, please get a fire going, Nadia. It’s going to be a cold night, and I’d rather spend some of it with as much warmth as possible.”

“Yes, Father.” Viktor waited until Nadia began gathering firewood before pulling out their bedrolls.”

“Father?”

“Yes, Viktor?”

“Are we sleeping out here or in the carriage?”

Father Lena accepted a bedroll and walked a few feet away. “I think we’ll sleep out here. As amusing as it is being so close to you both all day. I think we all need some space, don’t you agree?”

Nadia shouted from across the clearing, arms full of wood as she grinned. “I don’t!”

Viktor chuckled. “There you have it.”

“Indeed.” Father Lena agreed. “I don’t believe we’ll need a tent, but I’ll place a barrier around us. Was there anything else you wished to know?”

“No, Father. I already know you won’t reveal anything until you’re ready.” Father Lena nodded.

“That’s an excellent skill, Viktor. I know you’ve been through a lot. But you are stronger because of those hardships. And sometimes, we must adapt and copy the Path of Water. How do they say it? Go with the flow?”

“That sounds like something a Water Cleric would say.” Although I can’t recall ever hearing one use that term, it’s not a bad idea. “Does this mean you want me to stop asking questions, Father?”

“Certainly not. I enjoy watching your mind at work, Viktor. You are free to ask me whatever you wish, but I’ll decide what my answers will be. Come help me find a suitable place to sleep. It looks like Nadia has enough wood to last us several nights.”

After three days, Viktor still didn’t have any answers. But he wouldn’t complain about the subtly shifting terrain. The sparse woods eventually gave way to farmlands, and a small village was finally in sight. I know that’s not where we’ll be staying, but I’m surprised Father Lena is taking such a trackable route. We’ve basically stayed in a straight line since leaving Vern.

Viktor tried to remember what the village was called, but it had been years since he left the city. Nadia was her usual warm, energetic self. Eagerly looking out the window as the carriage slowly stopped in front of an inn. A man wearing a bright green vest with fox fur draped over his shoulders and matching pants hurriedly rushed to meet them as Father Lena opened the carriage door.

“Greetings, Father. I’m pleased to see you again. How was the road, if you don’t mind me asking?”

Father Lena stepped out of the carriage and embraced the man like a brother. “The road was uneventful and boring, Innkeeper Travis. But my companions made everything brighter! Are the rooms I requested still available?”

Innkeeper Travis puffed his chest as he nodded. “Of course! I even cleared the rest of the floor to make sure you’re not disturbed. I know how you get when you talk to ghosts, Father.”

“Good man.” Father Lena praised as he turned to Viktor and Nadia. “Allow me to make the introductions. These are Brother Viktor and Sister Nadia. They’ll be coming with me from now on.”

Viktor raised an eyebrow but still smiled at the Innkeeper. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.” What does Father Lena mean? Aren’t we only traveling together until he drops us off? He’s always hated traveling. Why is he acting like he’s constantly on the road? Innkeeper Travis shook his head and squeezed Viktor’s hand in a firm grip as they shook.

“The pleasure is all mine, Brother Viktor. I live to serve, and I’m looking forward to helping you in the future.” He quickly turned to Nadia and gently raised her hand to his lips as he bowed. “And that goes especially true for you, my dear. I’ve heard rumors of a new Death Cleric in Vern, but no one said you were so pretty.”

Nadia smiled, allowing him to keep her hand as she replied. “Thank you very much. It’s nice to be here.” She looked at Viktor and asked. “Am I pretty?”

“You are,” Viktor confirmed, eyeing the Innkeeper’s hand on hers until Father Lena chuckled.

“Don’t overdo it, Travis. These two are going to get married. And I don’t believe your wife would appreciate another complaint about you being too flirty with the pretty guests.”

Innkeeper Travis didn’t drop Nadia’s hand, but he did let it slip away from his as he turned back to Father Lena. “Now, now, there’s no need to bring the missus into this. And congratulations, you two. Perhaps you’ll consider having your ceremony here or your honeymoon?”

Viktor wrapped his arm around Nadia and shrugged. “Perhaps. I’ll have to take a look around first. Nadia and I are still in the planning stages, you see.”

Nadia snuggled closer and giggled. “I’m still waiting for that proposal.” She sang while looking up at him.

“As am I.” Viktor countered with a soft grin. Father Lena chuckled and lightly squeezed Innkeeper Travis’s shoulder.

“They’ve been like this the entire trip.”

Innkeeper Travis nodded sympathetically. “I shall send more of our best wine for you, Father. I know how hard it can be when you’re in the presence of young love.”

“I appreciate it, my friend.”

Viktor mock-whispered to Nadia. “Sounds like they don’t want to be invited to the wedding.”

“It’s their loss!” She giggled as Father Lena glared at them.

“One way. Or another. I shall be at your wedding. And so will Forgemaster, Ivan. He’s going to prepare the food. And Mother Anya shall buy you both fantastic clothes to remind you of your happiness.”

“Really?” Nadia asked as several men came out to unload their carriage. “We get free stuff when we’re married?!”

“Of course, Child. It’s not every day two people get married. And weddings are all about happiness, are they not?”

“They are! Thank you, Father Lena! You’ll always be invited to our weddings!” Viktor blinked as she ran forward to hug an equally shocked Father Lena. The older man stared at Viktor and smirked.

“It sounds like you’re going to have a lot of planning to do, my Son.”

“No, I’m not!” Viktor gently tugged Nadia away from Father Lena and hugged her. “What do you mean “weddings?” We’re only getting married once. That’s how it works.”

Nadia’s grin turned into a confused frown. “Does it? But why can’t we have multiple weddings, Viktor? We get free stuff!”

“Not everything will be free, and the only way to have another wedding is to get a divorce, which I don’t want to do. We’ll do other things, Nadia. I promise. But getting a divorce is out of the question.”

“What’s all this talk about divorce? I don’t want my guests to think about such sad things… Unless one of you is a cheater, that is.” Father Lena beamed as a woman wearing a brown apron over a blue dress came out to stand beside Innkeeper Travis.

“Madam Rose, so nice to see you again. You missed the show, I’m afraid. Travis hasn’t learned from the last time you hit him over the head with your favorite spoon.”

“Very funny, Father.” Innkeeper Travis winked at Nadia and Viktor before embracing his wife with a fond smile. “Don’t listen to him, my dear. You know my heart belongs to you.”

“That better not be all that I own, Travis.” Madame Rose grinned back and walked up to Father Lena to hug him. You old rascal! When are you going to settle down and move in? You know this place is your home.”

“I know, Rose. But I’m afraid the king will never allow such a thing.” He patted her shoulder and repeated the introductions. Viktor didn’t get a chance to say anything before he was pulled face-first into her bosom.

“My word, just take a look at you. I know you have to wear those robes all the time. But you look like you haven’t seen the sun in years, my dear.”

Viktor didn’t know if he was supposed to move. I’ve heard of being physically affectionate before, but this feels like… something I should only do with Nadia. Madame Rose eventually released him and immediately turned her attention to Nadia. “And just look at you. I can’t remember seeing such a skinny girl. You’re practically skin and bones. Don’t they feed you?”

She hurriedly grabbed Nadia’s hand and pulled her into the inn, giving Nadia enough time to stare at Viktor with an odd look before the door was closed behind her. Innkeeper Travis chuckled. “Trust my wife to cause a scene and then kidnap a guest… Are you alright, Brother? She was only teasing because of my flitiring, but I assure you she didn’t mean any harm.”

Viktor rubbed his face and slowly shook his head. “I’m fine.” I hope Nadia doesn’t take that the wrong way. I’ve never seen her look like that before. Father Lena chuckled and turned to the wagon. “Come help us unload, Viktor. We need to get the Kelpies fed before they get restless.”

Dinner was wonderful. Viktor thought he understood the difference between food when he and Nadia had access to the nobility’s graveyard. He thought he could appreciate subtle flavors after Ivan brought him food several times. But nothing prepared him for the feat Madame Rose had prepared.

Nothing could prepare the innkeepers for Nadia’s appetite. She wolfed down everything in front of her, and Viktor almost laughed when Madame Rose offered to make more food. But he was too busy laughing at other things. The inn had three floors: the top was reserved for the owners and esteemed guests, the second was where most of the guests slept, and the ground floor had the kitchen, washroom, and a large dining hall.

The tables were set so all of the food was displayed on one, and the rest were for anyone. Viktor found himself sitting with Nadia and another couple while Father Lena sat with the innkeepers. It was a quiet time. A warm time. A peaceful time until Viktor finally decided to retire for the evening.

Nadia followed a few seconds later, and Viktor didn’t need to look to know Father Lena was watching when they went upstairs. He’d already broken several traditions since meeting Nadia. Why should he care if people thought he was breaking another?