Viktor heard nothing over the pounding of his heart as it struggled to pump enough blood throughout his body. He didn’t remember leaving the cottage with a frightened Nadia hurrying after him. He didn’t remember if he passed anyone as he slammed the door open to the house the Life Clerics tending to his graveyard resided. But he remembered grabbing Brother Mikail by the front of his robes and slamming him into the wall. Nadia screamed, but he didn’t look at her. He could barely see the man hanging from his fist as he struggled to breathe. “B-brother… what’s g-gotten into you? Stop this at once!” “Which one of you did it?” Someone was trying to pull his arm, another Life Cleric judging by the robe, but Viktor refused to be budged as he demanded. “Which one of you did it?!” “Viktor, please calm down. You’re going to kill him!” He didn’t take his eyes off Mikail’s face, but he felt Nadia grab his other arm, trying to push between them as she pleaded. “Viktor!” He didn’t know what happened next. One moment, he was watching Mikail’s face turn an interesting shade of blue. The next, the arm he was using to hold the Life Cleric against the wall was dangling uselessly at his side while two Life Clerics were carrying Mikail away, and Nadia was standing in his way. It wasn’t the way he wanted to spend his evening, but his arm didn’t feel broken. Viktor prodded it with his good arm while Nadia watched. “Viktor?” “One, if not all, of these people are very foolish, Nadia. They broke the law and are dragging a Water Cleric down with them.” One of the Life Clerics, a stoic-looking woman slapped Viktor across the face as she hissed. “How dare you accuse us of something like that after attacking Brother Mikail! I don’t care if you are the highest-ranking Death Cleric in this city. I will not allow you to slander us in this way!” Viktor continued prodding his arm as he replied. “It’s not slander if we have proof. You idiots left several books referencing necromancy in the cottage. Not to mention the ghost showing up in an area that would have been regularly cleansed…” He met the woman’s gaze and smirked. “The evidence is against you. Do you think Mother Anya and Forgemaster Ivan won’t investigate under the circumstances?” To the woman’s credit, she didn’t flinch. “Do you think you’re above the law, Brother Viktor? Your positon won’t save you this time!” Viktor raised an eyebrow as he clenched the fingers on his numb arm. Someone is good at using their mana to target nerves… I may have to get serious for a change. “This time?” The woman glared while Brother Mikail coughed. “Don’t… act like you don’t know. The law always favors Death Clerics. It’s one of the reasons there are so few of you allowed in the city!” Nadia stepped closer to Viktor’s side and shook her head. “That’s not true. The king doesn’t like being reminded of death. That’s why our numbers are restricted.” Brother Mikail glared at her. “Don’t speak of things you don’t understand, Sister Nadia. You are new here, and know nothing of how this city really works!” Viktor shook his his head as he stared at Brother Mikail. “You know what’s going to happen when I walk out this door. There will be an investigation, and you lot have the most to lose here. Tell me who summoned the spirit and what spell you used. You have no right to make the dead suffer.” Brother Mikail rose, practically spitting as he shouted. “WHAT DO YOU KNOW OF SUFFERING, YOU FILTHY MURDERER?!” Viktor blinked, feeling his anger harden as he watched Brother Mikail fight off the remaining Life Cleric to cross the room. The woman in front of Viktor moved to intercept and barely kept him in place as she tried to calm him down. “Calm down, Brother Mikail. You can’t just say things like that. It doesn’t matter if he goes to Mother Anya or Forgemaster Ivan. I’ll file a complainet to Father Gregor on your behave. We’re not the only ones assigned to care for this graveyard. This is all a horrible misunderstanding!” She turned to Nadia and gestured to the door. “I don’t know anything about the books in the cottage. But nothing excused what Brother Viktor did to Brother Mikail. Please, Sister Nadia. The truth will be discovered soon enough. Take your master and leave us be.” Nadia looked at Viktor, gently touching his still-numb arm as she mimicked the woman’s tone. “You heard her, Viktor. We can submit reports to Mother Anya and Ivan before going back… okay?” Brother Mikail snarled, throwing a ball of light at Viktor’s and Nadia’s feet while the other Life Clerics restrained him. “This isn’t over. Do not think for a second that you’ll be forgiven!” Viktor looked at where the ball left scorch marks near his feet and frowned. What’s the point of throwing something so weak at me? It barely damaged the floor. He met Brother Mikail’s gaze and shrugged. “I don’t need to receive forgivenes from you, Brother Mikail. You forget yourself.” The woman growled, tugging Brother Mikail away as he tried to pass her. “Get out of our house. We’ll let the Fire Clerics handle this!” Nadia tugged Viktor’s arm, and he sighed as he followed her outside. The rage was still there, but Nadia refused to release him, even when they couldn’t see the house. Viktor refused to leave the cottage for three days. He and Nadia had filed official reports, and he wasn’t surprised when Nadia told him about a group of Fire Clerics standing outside the graveyard gate. Nadia stood in the door to his room, wringing her hands as he carefully placed another book in a pile on his bed. “There. That should do it. It took us long enough to find the troublesome things, didn’t it, Nadia?” “Yes, Viktor. But shouldn’t we let the Fire Clerics in? Ivan is with them, and he said it’s important that he speak with you!” Viktor frowned, watching her out of the corner of his eye before turning to the window. “Do as you wish, Nadia. But tell him I have nothing to add except for these books. I refuse to apologize for what I did. Something is going on here, and I don’t like it.” We found ten books in my room, alone. Even if they punish me for confronting them. They can’t overlook something like this! He didn’t hear Nadia leave the room, but either Ivan had grown tired of waiting, or Viktor was losing track of time. Because the next thing he knew, Ivan was standing behind him wearing a sword at his hip instead of his usual warm smile. And here it comes. Viktor turned around, bowing his head as Nadia peaked in the room. “Greetings, Forgemaster Ivan.” Ivan winced, one hand rising to scratch his cheek as the other rested near his sword. “Greetings, Brother Viktor… Are those the books you were talking about?” Viktor nodded, stepping away from the bed to allow Ivan to reach for one if he wished. But the forgemaster refused to move until Viktor spoke. “There are more books downstairs. I don’t know which ritual was used, but I’ve no doubt we’ll find it eventually. Has anything happened to the noble’s house?” Ivan sighed and turned to Nadia. “Apologies, little one. But would you mind taking these and heading downstairs? I need to speak with Viktor alone.” Nadia stepped into the room, looking between the two men as she reached them. “Is Viktor going to be…” Viktor smiled, wanting to comfort her but not willing to move in case Ivan saw it as a threat. “Everything will be fine, Nadia. Do as he says. If I have to spend a night in a cell, then so be it.” Ivan raised an eyebrow, but said nothing until Nadia closed the door, and they couldn’t hear her footsteps. “Spend a night in a cell? Is that really what you think is going to happen?” “I don’t know what’s going to happen. But I don’t want Nadia to worry.” Viktor glared out the window as Ivan continued watching him. “She did nothing wrong.” “No one is claiming otherwise. Nadia isn’t the one who attacked a Life Cleric without provocation.” Viktor opened his mouth, but Ivan raised his hand in warning. “You know better. You should have reported what you found to the nearest Fire Cleric and let us take it from there. Father Gregor is furious. Not only did you overstep, but”- “DON’T YOU DARE TELL ME I OVERSTEPPED!” Viktor slammed his fist into the wall hard enough to make the window shake. Ivan stared in shock. “By the Paths, Viktor. What has gotten into you? I know how much you hate necromancy, but you can’t go around attacking every fool who tries it!” Viktor chuckled as he watched Ivan’s reflection in the glass. “And why I? You said it yourself, Ivan. I’m practically the same as any Fire Cleric. It’s my job to protect us from the undead. And those fools could have invited something worse than a ghost. They still might have. Do you know what they summoned? Have you seen it?” “No. I’ve been busy looking into other things… Viktor, please, turn around. I want you to sit while we talk… It’s important.” “More important than protecting people?” Viktor would have rolled his eyes if Ivan hadn’t shouted. “I’M TRYING TO PROTECT YOU, YOU FOOL! DO YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU’VE DONE?” Viktor turned, and Ivan grabbed his shoulders. “Do you have any idea who Brother Mikail is?” Viktor raised an eyebrow and shook his head. “One’s family has no meaning in the clergy. You’re the one who taught me that.” Ivan studied Viktor’s face as he growled. “Are you serious? You honestly don’t know who he is?” “Yes, Ivan. I don’t know who Brother Mikail is. I just met him a few days ago. How can I know him?” I barely touched him. Don’t tell me I angered a noble family. It wouldn’t have been the first time he’d done so, but Viktor remained silent while Ivan forced him to sit on the bed. The older man took a deep breath and widened his stance. Viktor stared at him, puzzled to see his normally carefree friend so tense. “Is he related to the royal family?” Ivan almost laughed, a grin appearing before shaking his head. “No, he’s not a member of the royal family… You’d be dead if that was the case.” Viktor shrugged. “It’s too soon to entrust Nadia with a graveyard. She still can’t use her mana.” “Thank you for that progress report. But I don’t care about Nadia’s skills at the moment. I need to figure out if you’re telling the truth. And that this isn’t some misguided form of revenge.” Viktor shook his head. “I just said I’ve never met Brother Mikail before a few days ago. I don’t even know his family name. Why are you being like this, Ivan? I don’t mind going to the Fire District for questioning if that makes things easier.” “There’s nothing easy about this, Viktor!” Ivan grabbed the single chair and sat down as Viktor frowned in confusion. The forgemaster tented his fingers together and asked. “What’s the name of the man who killed Brother Dmitri?” Viktor stiffened. “What?” “What’s the name of the man who took Brother Dmitri away from us?... From you? I told you what it was when he was arrested, remember?” “No.” Ivan raised an eyebrow and leaned forward. “No? You don’t remember the name of the man who took your father from you?” “No, I don’t. I don’t remember anything about him, except that his body was found two days after he was suspended.” Viktor met Ivan’s gaze and shrugged. “A fitting end, don’t you think?” “That he died in an alley alone in the rain?” Viktor shook his head. “No. That this city thinks the life of a low-ranking noble is more important than any either. That it was acceptable for him take a life and get off with a suspension… Why are you looking at me like that?” I’ve said these things before. He’s even agreed with me. Why is he acting like I took a ghoul for a pet? Ivan pulled out a red gem and offered it to Viktor. “Trigger the spell in this, please. It’s an image of the man who did it… I think you’ll be surprised.” Viktor shrugged and took the gem. He didn’t want to see that man’s face. He was happy, not knowing what he looked like. But Ivan folded his arms, unmoving. Stubborn old stag will sit there all day if don’t do what he wants… I guess it’s better than listening to thoses fools trying to justify themselves. The spell wasn’t a complicated one. The gem could store images for years as long as it wasn’t cleansed. Viktor took a deep breath, letting his mana coax the image to life. Ivan’s eyes never left Viktor as he studied it. The soldier was perhaps younger than Viktor. He looked to be in his mid-to-late twenties at least, with black hair and dark eyes. A bump on his nose suggested it had been broken, though Viktor couldn’t understand why it hadn’t been treated, so it looked natural. Perhaps he wanted a scar to show off? Stranger things have happened. The man’s lower face was covered in stubble, which suggested the man was either growing it or was too lazy to shave properly. The image ended at the base of the man’s neck. Viktor stared at it for a moment before looking at Ivan with a shrug. “I’m not surprised, old friend. What am I supposed to get from this?” Ivan stiffened, and he leaned forward, finger hovering over the image. “Are you serious? You don’t see the resemblance? By the Paths, do you even look at people?!” “Of course, I do. But there are thousands of people with black hair and dark eyes. I’m one of them. What do you want from me, Ivan?” “I want you to start making sense! You’ve never been the same since Dmitri’s death. None of us have. But this is going to far, Viktor. Did you ask for a healer to mess with your mind? Is that why you’re acting like this, now?” Viktor sighed, setting the gem aside as he squeezed Ivan’s forearm. “No, I haven’t asked anyone to mess with my head. I wish I had, though. But I choose to honor Dmitri my way… What’s wrong, Ivan?” “Viktor, that man’s name was Vlad of the Rhona family. Mikail is his younger brother. Do you understand yet?” “Someone thinks I have it out for that man’s family?” Ivan groaned but nodded. “They do realize that it would be easy for me to find out more about that man’s family, right?” “Is there a reason you refuse to say his name, Viktor?” “I don’t plan on remembering it. Mikail isn’t his brother. I didn’t go to that house because of his family ties. I went there because I found evidence that someone was studying necromancy, and I believe that’s why we’re stuck with a ghost in…” Viktor sighed, rubbing his eyes as Ivan watched him. “You said you’ve never been to the house, Ivan?” “That’s right… why?” “What’s the family name of the noble?” Ivan’s mouth tightened into a thin line and shook his head. Viktor smiled softly and asked. “Do we know if the ghost has a name?” “I’ve yet to see one recorded, but…” “But I’m betting it looks like the image here… Mikail accused me of being a murderer. Did you know that?” Ivan nodded. The tension in his fingers and shoulders were the only hints of emotion Viktor could detect. “Am I going to be arrested?” “You need to be punished for what happened with Mikail. And before you ask, yes. I know he threw a spell at you. But since it didn’t hurt you or Nadia. I’m willing to pull some strings to help you.” Viktor frowned. “Pull some strings? I don’t need you to do that, Ivan. We need to take care of the ghost before it turns into something worse. It’s been haunting that house for a while now. It’s bound to transform soon.” Ivan sighed and shook his head, holding his hands out to Viktor as he pleaded. “My friend… You… don’t seem to understand… The Rhona family are demanding to reopen the investigation into Vlad’s death. You know better than anyone that the dead can’t lie. If the ghost names you as his killer”- “I’m surprised at you, Ivan. They can’t use a ghost that was summoned using necromancy for a trial. The laws are clear. The ghost could have been manipulated to think it’s Mikail’s brother. Or it could be something else unpleasant. If you don’t want me to get involved, that’s fine. But at least let me prepare some tools to help you return the ghost to where it belongs. I don’t care what happens to me as long as someone is taking care of the dead.” Nadia’s face flashed through Viktor’s mind, and he sighed. No, that’s not true. I can’t risk Nadia doing something foolish when I’m not around. I can’t rely on anyone protecting her should Father Lena choose to act. Viktor clenched his fists, not caring that Ivan was watching as he waited for the older man to decide his fate. It felt like an eternity before Ivan spoke. “What I’m about to say doesn’t leave this room.” Viktor opened his mouth but Ivan shook his head. “I never asked, and you never told. That’s what we’ll say if anyone questions us. But we won’t give them a reason to question us. Because it’s not just your life on the line. You have Nadia to think about, and I’m willing to bet the one who sent her here is a bigger threat than an army of nobles. You’re either going to work with me from now on, or I’ll cut you loose and take Nadia in for questioning. Is that clear?” “I… yes, Forgemaster Ivan. We’re clear.” Ivan waited a few moments before leaning closer to whisper. “Did you kill Vlad of the Rhona family?” “No, I killed the soldier who killed Dmitri. Nothing more than that.” Ivan’s eyes widened. “But that’s his name. Do you realize what you’re doing, Viktor?” Viktor shrugged. “Answering your questions. Isn’t that what you wanted?” Why is he so fixated on how I address that man? I know I broke the law, but if he wants to send me to prison, then why hasn’t he done so? Ivan stared at him for several moments before slowly rising to his feet. “Yes, that is what I wanted. Thank you for being honest with me, Viktor. It means more than you realize.” “Of course, I’m being honest with you, Ivan. You’re the one who helped keep me sane during that time.” Ivan stepped back, allowing Viktor to stand as they faced each other. “Did I help you during that time, Viktor? Are you still in pain?” Viktor frowned, cupping his chin as he looked back at the bed. This is where Dmirti spent his last night. I wonder if Ivan realizes that? “I… don’t know if pain is the right word to describe how I feel. I loved Dmitri like a father, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t hate him. No one joins the Death Clerics willenly… And what’s worse, no one tried to dissuade him from taking me away…” I was just one more child who lost everything. Why would they care what happened to the boy covered in his parents blood? Viktor tried to smile as Ivan stared at him. “My feelings for Dmitri are complicated. But my feelings towards that man and Mikail aren’t. I know I’m not making any sense, and I wish I could tell you that I’m fine…” Was I ever fine? I didn’t enjoy killing that man, but I did feel something… Satisfaction, maybe? Ivan shook his head and hugged Viktor. “You will be alright, my boy. I promise you. I’ll get you the help you need. So don’t do anything to make the situation worse. Do you hear me?” “I don’t understand what you mean by that, Ivan. But, very well. As long as you’ll continue helping me with Nadia, then everything will be fine… Was there anything else?” “Have you killed any other humans?” “Just the ones that served the vampire, but you said that didn’t count since they were going to drain my blood…” Viktor uncounsiouly rubbed his arm, making Ivan smile sadly as he nodded. “I’ll hold you to that. And it doesn’t count when someone is trying to kill you. Everyone has the right to defend themselves. Isn’t that what your Path preaches?” “More or less. And yes, that is what I’ll say if someone questions me about it. I don’t want to waste time dealing with arguments. I know what I did was wrong, but I don’t care. I won’t go around killing everyone who angers me. But I refuse to feel guilty over what I did. Feel free to throw me in prison whenever you wish, Ivan.” Ivan raised an eyebrow and shook his head. “I hope I never have to hold you to that, my friend. I pray this is the last time I hear of you getting out of control.” “Being out of control and murder are two different things, Ivan. But I’ll stop talking about it now… Unless there was something else?” Ivan shook his head and the two went downstairs. Nadia was helping Sister Katya store the books in a trunk. She looked up when they came down and smiled at Viktor. “It’s nice to see you’re not in chains. I was worried that something was going to happen. What are we doing now?” Viktor smiled at Nadia and turned to Ivan. The older cleric scanned the room as he inhaled sharply through his nose before turning to Sister Katya. “Your report.” Sister Katya straightened as she looked at him. “Sir. We have found all of the books that contain even the slightest hint of practing necromancy. Brother Vox and Sister Emmiline are securing the perimeter. No signs of the barriers needing to be recharged, so we can proceed at your leisure.” Ivan smiled and looked at Viktor. “Father Gregor claims to know nothing about these books. But that’s irrelevant. We have a ghost to take care of, and you said Nadia still can’t use her mana.” Viktor nodded, hiding his grin as Nadia winced before replying. “That’s correct. But she’s making admirable progress in everything else.” Nadia brightened, a small grin forming while Sister Katya squeezed her shoulders encouragenly. Ivan nodded and continued. “That means that our best bet at dealing with the ghost in a timely manner is you. Can I count on you to keep the damage to a minimum?” “I can try. I can set up a barrier around the house, but it’ll take longer if I have to block it off room by room. I also recommend doing a cleansing when everything is done.” Ivan stared at Viktor for several minutes before slowly nodding. “Very well. I’ve brought enough people to help with a barrier. So, you can conserve some of your energy. The house has four floors and a garden. Do you need to gather any supplies for this? We don’t want to waste time coming back.” Viktor turned to the kitchen and began going through some herbs. If the ghost hasn’t transformed yet. It will soon. I wish I knew what it will turn into, but I’ll have to grab a bit of everything just to be safe. Nadia stepped up behind him to watch, and he smiled at her. “How are you feeling? This will be your first encounter with a malevolent spirit. Have you read about them?” Nadia nodded but didn’t look away from his preparations. “Ghosts are a step above spirit orbs in that they’re dangerous and can latch onto people and locations.” “That’s right. The one we’re dealing with has been around long enough to become a bigger threat. It might decide to leave the noble’s house and cause havoc across the city. What else do you know about ghosts?” Nadia picked up a small packet of salt and grinned. “That salt is your best friend if you can’t use mana or force the ghost to leave… Are we going to cleanse it?” “If we can. It depends on the ghost. Unlike spirit orbs that are like children. Ghosts can become hostile. They can hunt the living even better than some of the undead.” Viktor turned around to address Ivan. “Has there been any new activity in that house?” “None. But we’ve kept people from entering, so take that as you wish.” Viktor nodded and looked everything over. “Contrary to what the stories say. You don’t need a lot of things to deal with ghosts. But it’s always helpful to bring along salt, purified water, and sage, and I’ve heard using holy symbols can help. But we already have the best tool at our disposal, don’t we, Nadia?” She grinned, and for a moment, Viktor felt like he could forget what happened during his talk with Ivan. He had a duty to perform, and a responsiblity to train Nadia. Nothing else should matter, yet he couldn’t get the way Ivan had looked at him out of his mind. If this ghost is that soldier then I’m basically killing him again… A small grin flickered on his face as he patted Nadia’s head. “I need you to stay behind me at all times. Ghosts won’t be the hardest enemies you’ll face. But I don’t want to risk you getting hurt, Nadia. We’ll practice working with mana again once we’ve taken care of this, alright?” “But what if the ghost turns into a demon? How do we fight that? I don’t want to see you get hurt, Viktor!” Ivan chuckled as he and Sister Katya joined them. “You don’t need to worry about that, my dear. It takes a lot of energy for a ghost to transform. And thanks to our keeping the place under guard. It shouldn’t have enough to reach such a dangerous state. The worst it can do is turn into a wraith or banshee.” Viktor shook his head. “Banshees are always female, Ivan.” Ivan frowned, scratching his beard while Sister Katya tried to stop herself from grinning. “Is that so? I’ll need to look into that. Men can scream just as loudly as women. You know.” “I know, and we’re ready…” He looked at Nadia and felt a twinge of unease. She said she was only trying to protect me. I don’t doubt she’ll continue doing so, but… But the thought of Nadia tainting herself with the soldier’s blood was wrong. Viktor should be the only one to deal with Mikail’s and his family’s vengeance. It was the natural way of things considering his actions. Can I stop her from interfering? And will I have to watch Mikail from now on? The thought didn’t sit well with him. Viktor had enough problems handling his duties and teaching Nadia. He a god trying to eat souls so he could invade his world with Nadia’s help. Viktor didn’t need anything else, yet his Path was leading him further and further into matters far above his head. Viktor sighed softly as he and Nadia followed the Fire Clerics away from the silent graveyard. The house could have fit two cottages stacked on top of each other. Viktor looked around the perimeter, nodding in approval at the safety precautions Ivan had used. There were several Fire Clerics and two Water Clerics waiting for them. Ivan spoke to the Fire Cleric standing at the gate and soon waved for Viktor and Nadia to join him. “This place looks like a nice place to live, Viktor. Do you think a lot of families will come here?” “Hard to say. Remember to stay close to me, Nadia.” She nodded, and Ivan looked at the windows before addressing them. “Everything has been quiet. My underlings tell me that no one has tried to gain entry, and we have enough clerics here to provide backup. When are you going inside?” “In a moment. I want to check the grounds first. It might be a good sign that the ghost hasn’t done anything.” Or it might be a trap, but I’m not telling him that… He knows enough already. Ivan looked like he wanted to argue, but he shook his head and waved them forward. Nadia stayed close to Viktor’s side as they walked toward the backyard. “What are we looking for, Viktor?” “Signs that the ghost has either attempted to leave the house, or if someone is helping it. Remember, this thing was brought here through necromancy. It could be receiving energy from the one who summoned it.” “You mean like symbols and gems?” “Exactly!” He hugged Nadia, making them both laugh. It felt good to laugh. A part of Viktor was hoping to see a sign that the ghost heard them. He wouldn’t let it hurt Nadia. She was an innocent bystander in this scenario. But nothing happened during their walk and Viktor sighed. “What’s the matter, Viktor? Did I miss something?” “No, it appears to be contained… Now we have to figure out which room it’s in.” Nadia frowned as she followed him to the front door. “How are we going to find it if it’s hiding? Is it like sensing mana?” “Not exactly. Some ghosts are better at hiding than others, but there are ways to detect them.” Viktor stopped in front of the door and leaned down to whisper to Nadia. “Whatever happens, don’t use your power. We don’t know if you can handle something that can fight back.” And I don’t want to deal with this thing a third time. Viktor waited until Nadia nodded and opened the door. The hall seemed to stretch into the shadows as Nadia closed the door. “Keep on the alert and trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable, tell me and we’ll set up some wards.” “Alright, but why can’t we block off the rooms as we search them? That sounds like a good idea to me.” Viktor chuckled, hands lightly tucked into his sleeves as he looked around. “For one, neither of us have enough mana to sustain that many barriers and keep them effective. Every spell you use will drain some mana, and if you need to focus to maintain them. You won’t have enough to get the job done.” He paused in front of a trap door set next to some stairs and frowned. There’s a strong smell of death coming from below. Is that where the ghost was summoned? Viktor used the handle of his shovel to open the door, and sighed when nothing attacked them. Nadia covered her nose and backed up. “What is that smell? I thought we were dealing with a ghost?” “We are. But necromancy comes with a price. Usually a living sacrifice…” And sometimes more than one. Nadia looked at the hole for a moment before turning to Viktor. “Are we going down there?” He nodded. “We have to check to make sure the ghost isn’t in there. And if that’s the place it was summoned, then messing around with it. Should get it’s attention.” “But didn’t someone already do that? Like the first Water Cleric who inspected the house?” “You’re asking good questions, Nadia. I believe either someone is lying or the spell was done after the Water Cleric approved the property.” He looked at her and smiled. “Do you want to wait here?” She shook her head, making Viktor chuckle as he walked down the wooden steps. A symbol pulsed under the light and filled the room with enough illumination to dispel most of the shadows. Sadly, Viktor didn’t see anything that suggested a spell had taken place from his position on the stairs. Of course, they wouldn’t want just anyone to see it. Still… this feels off. Nadia gasped, but Viktor smiled when he saw she was staring at the symbol on the wall. “Do you know which one that is?” “No. Is it a special kind of symbol? Like can it be used for more than producing light?” “I’ll you discover that for yourself. Focus, please. If the ghost doesn’t know we’re here. It soon will.” Nadia nodded and Viktor stepped properly into the room. Several barrels were stacked along a wall, but a wall cut off Viktor’s view, forcing him to walk further to investigate. Viktor followed the wall to another “room” and raised an eyebrow as he knelt to examine the floor. If this isn’t the place where the ghost was summoned, then I don’t know what else it could be. Dried pieces of wax covered the floor, as if multiple candles were lit at once. He couldn’t see any signs of symbols, but there was a tang of iron in the air that made Viktor wrinkle his nose. Did they use blood instead of chalk? If Mikail cast the spell, it’s possible that his blood connection might be enough to get his brother’s attention. But where is the focal point? The safety precautions? Anything could have assumed that man’s shape and the fools wouldn’t have known the difference! “Did you find anything, Viktor?” “I think so. Keep your shovel ready, Nadia. Things… might get messy.” Sorry, Ivan. I don’t think this house will be sellable at the end of this. Nadia nodded, shoulders tensed as she helped Viktor stand. “You said the ghost would know if we messed around here, right? Are we still doing that?” “If it was a normal summoning circle, yes. But it looks like the fools were relying on blood instead of symbols. It’s a miracle the ghost hasn’t started attacking everyone nearby.” “What are we going to do, then? How else are we going to lure it?” Viktor frowned as they safely reached the ground floor to find nothing had changed. He almost wished something had. If the ghost is hungry, then it should have tried something by now. If it was summoned to deal with me… Nadia pointed at the stairs leading up and looked at him. Viktor nodded, but still refused to let her go first. He’d seen how crafty ghosts can be, and there was no way to shield Nadia from everything. But he wasn’t going to let her walk headfirst into danger. That was his job. The first floor was set up to be a living area. All of the doors are open, revealing made beds, clean windows, and empty closets. But none of them felt right to Viktor. They didn’t have any taint to them. If the ghost uses this floor. It must do so sparrenly. I thought the reports said something about breaking things? He supposed it was a good thing, but nothing had made sense that day. And the house was too quiet. Nadia quietly gripped the back of Viktor’s robe, causing him to look at her. She tried to smile, but it kept slipping away. “Are you alright, Nadia?” “I don’t like it here. The ghost is up to something.” “It is. But we have to keep going. Can you do that for me?” She nodded, and the two ascended to the second floor in silence. Viktor sniffed the air and lightly touched the nearest wall. “So, that’s it…” “What is it, Viktor?” “The ghost is using the walls to move around. The rooms are untouched because there wasn’t an audience present. Every house is built with basic protection spells, so the ghost is using them to it’s advantage.” Nadia frowned as she stared at the wall. “I can see a light stain. Is that from the ghost?” “Yes. It’s been moving through here. This stain has been here for at least a few hours. We’ll need to keep going.” “Should we search the kitchen? We didn’t do that when we came in.” Viktor hummed, eyes searching for another stain as he answered. “I would have felt it if the ghost was in there. You can see spirit orbs. Can you tell where the ghost is?” I should have asked her that sooner. Nadia is inexperienced, but she might be the key to finding this thing. Nadia closed her eyes and hugged herself. “It’s… hard to explain. I know there’s something here, but I can’t get a read on it. It feels different from the spirit orbs. The little ones love being found. They think it’s a game. But this thing doesn’t want to be found… yet.” Viktor nodded, a smirk forming as he considered his options. “It sounds like we walked into a trap. I’m almost tempted to leave and see if it tries to stop us.” Nadia frowned. “That’s risky. It might not care what we do.” “Oh, it cares, Nadia. The ghost is simply bidding its time… But I have a way to speed things along.” Viktor bit his lip to keep himself from laughing as Nadia stared at him. “Is this plan going to put you in danger, Viktor?” “Anything can put me in danger, Nadia. But that’s not the point. The ghost is smart enough to lay a trap, and I don’t feel like walking around until its ready to be sprung.” He headed downstairs, Nadia dutifully following as they found a room big enough for Viktor’s use. This must be intended for family gatherings. It’s cozy without being stifling, and there aren’t too many pieces of furniture to worry about. Viktor sat down, crossing his legs so he could rest his shovel across his knees, and looked at Nadia. “I’m going to do some meditation now. Stay on guard, and tell me if you notice anything.” “Why are you going to meditate now? What if the ghost is transforming, and that’s why it hasn’t attacked?” Viktor chuckled and lightly rubbed the blade of his shovel as Nadia watched him. “If its transforming, we’d feel it. The ghost isn’t hiding because its afraid. It thinks its in control. I’m going to prove it wrong. Watch my back, please. It might try some petty tricks before showing itself.” “I don’t like this plan, Viktor.” “I know. Hopefully, the next time we face a ghost. It’ll be a better experience for you. I’m counting on you, Nadia.” Nadia frowned, earning a light laugh from Viktor as he closed his eyes. Forgive me, Nadia. Despite the chaos of the last few days, Viktor felt his mind clear quickly. He could feel the floorboards shift as the house settled. Nadia’s presence was undetectable, but Viktor trusted that she was there. The two had grown closer over the time they’ve spent together. And although Viktor didn’t like the way her powers worked. He wouldn’t deny that she trusted him enough to answer his questions without trying to trick him. I’m not worthy of that trust. For all my talk of working together. I’m still hiding things from her. I don’t think I’m the right man to help her take over the world, but I’ll do whatever I can to keep her safe. The ghost, on the other hand, felt like a red-hot iron in his brain. He could feel its hatred pouring from wherever it hid, and a part of Viktor understood. He had taken this man’s life after all. But that part was like a needle in a river. Bright enough to warrant attention, but not important enough to pursue. Viktor focused on the ghost’s emotions, opening himself a little at a time until he felt something brush against his mind and recoiled. Viktor would have laughed if he wasn’t certain Nadia would panic. A clear mind shouldn’t be capable of finding amusement, but the sensation persisted. Come on. You’ve been waiting for me, haven’t you? Come take your chance at revenge… It’s more than I ever got. He didn’t know if the ghost could sense his thoughts, but he felt it move seconds before Nadia tapped his shoulder. “Viktor!” “Everything will be alright, Nadia. Keep back, and don’t let it touch you.” She darted to the side as the room filled with a living darkness that blocked the windows and doors. Viktor heard Nadia gasp, but he didn’t try to find her. He placed his left behind him, relieved to feel the table in place. That’s good. It didn’t take us somewhere else… But fighting in the dark was still a problem. Viktor loosely held his shovel in front of him, ready to react to any threat. The effects of the meditation helped keep his breathing under control, allowing him to hear Nadia gasp a second before feeling a cold arm pierce his chest where his heart was. “Viktor!” “I’m fine!” He wasn’t, but it was better than Nadia thought. Viktor struggled to breathe as he encased himself in his mana and grabbed the ghost’s arm. “This thing… isn’t physical… I’ll be fine.” The ghost laughed, sending chills down Viktor’s spine as it attempted to free itself. Viktor dropped his shovel to use both hands to hold the ghost in place as he turned his head to find two pinpricks of red glaring back at him. The ghost hissed, bathing Viktor in its hatred… yet Viktor felt nothing towards it. That’s strange. I thought seeing his face in real life would trigger something. The ghost’s eyes created enough illumination to reveal the same features in the image Ivan had shown him. Yet Viktor felt nothing. The ghost howled, smashing its other arm against Viktor’s side and head, yet he still felt nothing. Even the pain of having the ghost’s arm in his chest was disappearing… fading away, and being replaced with a numbing cold. If it wasn’t for the fact Viktor could feel the blows happening and hear Nadia crying out to him. Viktor would have thought he was dreaming. I should be… doing something… This thing will hurt Nadia if I don’t. But his body refused to obey. The ghost growls before moving closer, trying to break his barrier and enter Viktor’s body. Viktor groaned at the assault, but his body jerked forward when something heavy slammed into his back. “Get off of my Viktor!” Nadia! Viktor stepped forward, foot knocking into his fallen shovel and grinned at the realization of what she was doing. Dmitri would laugh if he could see this. How many times have I swung my shovel into the night? It’s a shame her blows are hitting me along with the ghost! But he didn’t tell her to stop as he braced himself against the floor. The ghost wailed as the blade connected with its skin and passed through to smack against Viktor’s back. Most phisyacal objects were useless against ghosts. But Ivan had done his job well, and the ghost felt the blows as strongly as Viktor. It howled as it tried to free itself, but neither Viktor nor Nadia gave it a chance. Viktor rolled into a ball with his stomach flat against the floor to offer an easier target for Nadia. She growled as she raised her shovel, hands shaking as she glared at the ghost that was hurting Viktor. Viktor blinked. When did the darkness move away from the windows? Nadia’s next blow made him groan, but it was worth it to feel the ghost go limp along his back. Viktor watched as the last of the shadows shrank away. Nadia slowly lowered her shovel as she collapsed beside him. “Oh, Viktor… your back… I’m so sorry!” He forced himself to smile as he sat up with a wince. “You have… a very good swing, Nadia. I’d say the strength training is going well.” She shook her head, hands shaking as she pointed at the ghost. “Get rid of it. I never want to see this thing again!” “Glady… give me a minute.” Viktor concentrated on his mana, feeling it shift to allow him to push the ghost’s arm from his chest before lowering his head in prayer. “You… who were summoned here… Go back to where you belong!” May it be the darkest pit in whatever underworld you believed in. Nadia threw her arms around Viktor the second the ghost vanished. Viktor groaned, but didn’t protest as she hugged him. “That was… not bad for your first ghost… I’m sorry I wasn’t able to do much…” Why didn’t I do better? I’ve fought ghosts before and sent them away in half the time. Why didn’t I crush it? Why… don’t I feel anything? Nadia shook her head, body shaking as she stared at him. “You did more than enough. I was so scared when the ghost stabbed its arm through you. I thought you were going to die!” “So did I… Ghosts are tricky to fight. They can’t actually hurt you unless they possess you, but they can make you think otherwise.” Viktor pulled Nadia into his lap, bringing her as close to himself as possible as he sighed. “Thank you for saving me, Nadia.” In more ways than one. I still don’t understand what’s going on. And I can’t remain like this. Nadia nodded. Neither moved until the front door opened, and Ivan’s voice filled the air. “Viktor? Nadia? Are you both alright? If your heads spin, I’m setting this house on fire!” Nadia called out. “We’re fine! But the ghost was clinging to Viktor’s back. So I started hitting it, and I hit Viktor!” Viktor gently pushed Nadia away, and was trying to stand when Ivan reached them. “You did what to Viktor? Is the ghost gone? That was… quieter than I remember the last cleansing being.” Viktor winced, back throbbing as the Water Clerics approached him under Ivan’s watchful gaze. “She hit me with her shovel. My compliments to the craftsmanship, my friend.” Ivan chuckled, lightly patting Nadia’s head as he watched the Water Clerics tend to Viktor. “It sounds like someone really wanted her lucky charm. Perhaps I should give it to her since she landed several blows, eh?” Viktor glared, but was distracted when Sister Katya dashed into the room. “Forgemaster Ican! Father Gregor and several Light Clerics are outside. They’re demanding to speak with you, sir.” Ivan raised an eyebrow as Sister Katya nervously looked out the window. Viktor followed her gaze, unsurprised to see Brother Mikail in the group. “I thought he was being held for questioning until everything was settled.” Ivan snorted. “He was. Father Gregor insisted that all accused parties be confined to the Temple of Life… I didn’t realize he considered this house to be part of the temple.” He looked at Viktor and Nadia before turning to Sister Katya. “Stay with them. I don’t care how ugly this gets. You guard these two and let the Water Clerics do their job. I’ll handle our… guests.” Sister Katya nodded, earning a smile from Ivan as he went outside. Nadia shifted closer to Viktor and asked. “We… did what they wanted, right? We took care of the ghost, and everything is better now?” Viktor sighed, flinching as pain flared around his heart as Brother Mikail glared at him from his positon at Father Gregor’s side. “We did our duty, Nadia. That’s all anyone can expect from us.” And if anyone has a problem with that. They can complain to my face. Viktor was happy to leave politics to others, but he was through being stepped on.