The Fool's angels

How nice-I didn't even have to lift a finger! Neph blinked and happily offered a somewhat clumsy curtsy to express her gratitude.

She had learned this courtesy at the Tarot Club. Modern people no longer curtsied, and Neph had only seen it in films and television before. This was her first time trying it herself.

After all, there were few people who could make a Child of God bow-even if she had bestowed that title on herself.

Mr. Azik seemed to have no intention of leaving. Neph did not wait for him, either. She curtsied, straightened, then went to retrieve the spare dinghy from the lower hold and carried it up to the deck.

Only then did she go to find Helene. Everyone aboard was asleep, which emboldened Neph. She opened the unlocked door and woke Helene. When Helene opened her eyes, she saw a young woman holding down her wide-brimmed hat with one hand, smiling brightly at her.

Her eyes immediately lit up. Just as she was about to speak, Neph raised her free hand in a shushing gesture and pointed outside. Helene hurried to her feet and headed straight for the door, without even attempting to pack.

Neph closed the door behind her and followed her out of the cabin. They silently reached the deck of the sleeping Black Death.

Helene seemed unable to see Mr. Azik. Neph watched the Hunter rush joyfully toward the dinghy, then turn back with gratitude written all over her face. She seemed about to offer her thanks, only to discover in bewilderment that the young woman who had brought her out had vanished.

Neph had, of course, not remained standing there.

She watched Helene push the dinghy into the sea in disappointment, climb aboard, and disappear into the boundless blue. Only