The Devils

The group trudges down muddy backroads to avoid detection. Jakob abandons the original plan to sail from Ancona, worried that their route is compromised. Instead, he proposes traveling through Venice. Brother Diaz is scandalized by the idea of going to a city known for sin and an antagonistic relationship with the papacy, but Alex points out it might be the safest place for them. At Spoleto, they join pilgrims heading for Venice on foot and blend in with the crowd.

The devils continue their journey toward Venice with the pilgrims known as the “Blessed Company.” They are joined by Bishop Apollonia of Acci, a high-ranking cleric reputed for her piety and rumors of impending sainthood. She questions Jakob about his past, but he’s saved from scrutiny by Alex, who comes up with fabricated backstories for each member of their party: she’s a thief seeking redemption, Balthazar is a repentant merchant, Rikard is a reformed drinker, Vigga is a converted former Viking, and Brother Diaz is the priest, there to keep them in check. The bishop accepts her explanation and praises Brother Diaz’s “divine mission” to save their souls.