Chapter 60: Chapter 59

Despite Trencavel and Rostanh's reluctance, Nick agreed to accompany the shaman to the remote farm of the Old Believers.

They traveled in the old UAZ jeep, driven by the young man following Bodniev's directions. When they arrived, the young Ivan greeted them with an austere welcome. When they entered the barn where the Old Believers' church used to work, the place struck them because of its spaciousness and sobriety.

Patriarch Ivan Belakurov received them warmly, hugging Aman and shaking hands with Nick. Then he invited them to sit at the large table next to him and the blond boy.

Nick could observe in a corner of the vast room a young woman sitting in an isolated chair about twenty paces away; the girl was dressed as a Russian villager. Despite a light veil that partially covered her head, he could distinguish her features of great beauty. Very white complexion, big blue eyes, blond hair and a contemplative attitude.

Father Igor introduced her briefly.