Then they can celebrate! And then go home, in less of a hurry than before, and even buy some things from the town markets along the way. And then they will be home! Entirely intact and with a probably-figurative blessing from Baba Ostankya!

And a day after he gets home, he is trotting along a path in the woods again, with larger saddlebags.

Baba Sonya is sitting outside today.

"You look well, young Teodor."

"I feel well also, and have all the senses I did when we last spoke. Thank you, Baba Sonya. It was at times painful, and terrifying, and confusing, but it was worth it."

"And you came here just to tell me so?"

"No. I also brought gifts."

He dismounts, and opens his saddlebags.

"A peck of southern apples, only a week from the tree. And... something, a coin that sparkles to the Sight. If you want them."

She smiles. "Keep the coin. Thread it into your wing when you join the rota. But I will take the apples, and thank you for them. You're a good boy, young Teodor."

"Thank you, Baba Sonya."