The carriage interior was sparsely decorated, a stark contrast to its lavish exterior. Inside sat a girl, appearing three or four years older than Rein. Most notably, she wore a black nun's habit—but not an ordinary one. Standard habits were long, covering every inch of the body. Hers had been modified: the skirt ended at her knees, with a slit running up one side to her waist, fastened by buttons to prevent exposure.

Combat Nuns were a peculiar presence within the Holy See. Typically, nuns avoided combat, but exceptionally gifted girls with unwavering devotion to the Holy Light were selected for this role. This existed because many tasks suited neither Vindictive Knights nor Holy Knights. Both were mere fighters, holding little authority in the Holy See. Nuns, however, enjoyed public goodwill and held significant mid-level power—though not matching archbishops.

Relations between Vindictive Knights and Combat Nuns were strained, Rein knew well. The Holy See's internal strife ran deeper than most imagined. During the ride, Sophia maintained only basic politeness toward the Combat Nun. The nun, sensing this, shifted her attention to the small girl trailing Sophia.

This child appeared homeless by her clothes. Yet the Combat Nun sensed potential in her—a possible candidate for the Holy See. She began chatting, seemingly casual.

"Little sister, what's your name?"

"..."

Rein noticed the nun's gaze and understood her intent. Silence felt safest. She glanced at Sophia instead.

Sophia assumed shyness. "She's Rein!" she answered for her.

"Oh? Rein, you can call me Sister Hill!"

"..."

"Not chatty today? Hungry?" Hill pulled a loaf of bread from her luggage and offered it.

Rein took it without a word. She clutched it like a hamster nibbling seeds, munching slowly.

"Rein must have been starving," Hill remarked—not to Rein, but to Sophia.

Sophia shrugged slightly, saying nothing. Vindictive Knights earned fixed wages. Combat Nuns, especially field agents, had richer perks from missions. They could afford three meals daily—but faith couldn't be drained endlessly. Like a crop, it needed time to regrow before the next harvest.

"Rein, what brings you to Nord with this sister?"

So the earlier town was Nord.

"Dunno..." Rein shook her head, still chewing. The bread was stale and hard—almost weapon-worthy if left longer. Yet she savored it, finding a faint, indescribable flavor.

"Why talk now?" Hill pressed.

"You're nice..."

"Weren't I nice before?"

"No."

"..."

Hill was speechless. This guarded girl's heart softened with a single stale loaf. Such purity! Perfect nun material! Had Rein known Hill's thoughts, she'd have bonked her head with the bread. But Rein, focused on eating, ignored Hill's starry-eyed gaze. Sophia grew impatient, her metal boots thudding against the wooden floor—a dull, heavy sound that snapped Hill back to reality.

The carriage jolted to a stop.

"Driver, are we here?" Sophia asked first. She longed for fresh air, untainted by Hill's presence.

"We've arrived. But Sister Hill must step down herself to enter..."

"Why?" Sophia pushed the door open before Hill could rise. Outside stood armed militiamen. They tensed at her sight, then relaxed seeing the cross on her armor. Sophia frowned, puzzled by their behavior.

"Move aside." Hill shoved Sophia lightly. Sophia wasn't heavy, but her gear weighed her down—enough that an adult might struggle. Yet Hill moved her effortlessly. Unprepared, Sophia still realized Hill's strength exceeded expectations.

"Sister Hill! You're here!" The militiamen stepped back respectfully. A sweaty, portly man hurried forward. "We've been desperate for your arrival!"

"Mayor, greetings."

"We had no choice but to summon you from so far!"

"No need to panic. Walk and talk."

"Ah, yes! And this is...? You even brought a coffin! How thoughtful!"

"You—" Sophia nearly drew her sword. A coffin for a Vindictive Knight wasn't a joke. But a small, gentle hand pressed on hers. She looked down: Rein held bread to her mouth, her other hand calming Sophia's rage.

"What's happening?" Rein asked, words muffled by chewing but still clear.