A/N: Hello, I am back with a new chapter. While I was writing it, I thought of making this one a two-parter but decided against it, so enjoy it.

Disclaimer: I wish I would own those two...in my dreams.

Sunlight painted fiery streaks across the sky as it sank toward the mountains. Bells and chimes rang throughout the Tiger Shrine, creating a melodic tone. Carrie viewed the terrain from the shrine's exposed wall, leaning on a railing. Despite wearing layers, the frigid air stung the stab wound on her back. She massaged the injury with care until footsteps reached her ears.

On a bench beside her, Jago sat with two baskets in his hands. "You must be hungry." He motioned to one of them. "Please. Eat."

Stepping away from the railing, Carrie grabbed the basket and thanked him. She sat on the other end of the bench. As she removed the lid, her brows knitted. In her hometown, her diet revolved around food blessed by God. Anything else, and her mother would've screamed expletives. She recalled how her mother declared the food at a McDonald's as godless.

A conflict of religious fury and longing raged within Carrie. Her shaking hand lingered near the basket. What if she fell into temptation? Would her mother's spirit punish her?

Jago sensed the girl's reluctance. "Is something wrong?"

Carrie's throat tightened. "It's-It's nothing."

She hid her face as her stomach gurgled, heat spreading across her cheeks. Her mother had warned her about eating the 'Devil's food.' In her head, she debated whether to eat. Again, her stomach growled in frustration. Faced with hunger, she reached inside the basket.

She removed the cloth, revealing shriveled, wet bread with chopsticks. Carrie struggled with the utensils until Jago helped her. Figuring the chopsticks out, she picked up a piece of bread and inspected it. After drawing a deep breath, Carrie closed her eyes and bit into the bread. Between chews, she let the seasoning tingle her tongue. Once she swallowed the food, her eyes grew wide, and her mouth opened.

"Wha… what is this?"

"A momo." Jago split his chopsticks to unbind them. "The village I visited is famous for it."

"Oh." Another momo slipped from Carrie's grasp as she tried to pick it up. "These sticks feel weird to use."

"You'll get better with practice." Jago loosened his mask's straps and removed it, drawing Carrie's attention. A light tan encircled his eyes. Tiny, stiff hairs covered his lower jaw. "Since you're staying with me, we should interact. You've been avoiding me for the past few days."

Carrie played with her food. "I… don't want to be tricked… or hurt."

The monk released a deep sigh. "You have nothing to fear from me. I promise."

Despite her mother's description of men, Carrie struggled to read Jago. He was calm, reserved, and disciplined, unlike a lust-crazed ravenous beast. Kind… but with an element of sorrow. His quiet demeanor masked an inner struggle similar to hers.

Shifting towards Jago's tattoo, the thick lines mimicked tiger stripes. On closer inspection, the same lines stylized into a fierce, tiger-like face. In some parts, near the edges, was strange writing that she couldn't identify. The design enchanted her until Jago cleared his throat.

"Is everything alright?" he asked.

Carrie emerged from her hypnotic trance, blinking a few times. "I'm sorry. I-I couldn't he-help stare at your tattoo."

The monk examined the swirled black inks covering his left arm and chest. "As a baby, the monks adopted me and trained me when they lived here. I was a favorite among the Order until…." A distant memory swept across his mind's eye as his brow knitted.

"Jago?" Carrie called.

Jolted from his thoughts, the monk shook his head. "My apologies. I was thinking back. The High Abbot had engraved this on me as I showed such promise. The stripes, in his belief, were the mark of a warrior. See that writing at the end there? That is a Tibetan prayer."

Carrie's head tilted as she studied the inscriptions. "Forgive me, but… what religion do you follow?"

"I'm a Buddhist. Why? Is that a problem?"

"No. Well…." Carrie struggled to find the right words. "I… well… um… assumed that uh… as a monk, you wanted to be near God. I'm a Christian, and believed in Mama's words until I questioned her methods."

"Hmm, I see. Your path has reached a crossroads and you're unsure which way to take" Jago paused, reflecting on her words. "I won't change what you believe, nor will I convert you."

Carrie's tense posture eased.

"But," Jago continued, "I can show you something."

"W-what is it?"

An inner glow ignited in his eyes. "That will be a surprise for tomorrow."

A heavy sensation weighed on Carrie's chest. Whatever the monk had planned, she prayed that history wouldn't repeat itself.

The following morning, Carrie studied the ceiling in her cot. After her chat with Jago, she never expected how things would turn out. While reflecting on her situation, footsteps approached her room. With her eyes closed, she pretended to be asleep. Under her blanket, Carrie trembled, her hands sweaty, as the door creaked open. Oh God, it's happening! He's going to--!

"Meet me at the bridge. We're grabbing breakfast," Jago whispered in her ear.

Carrie raised her head, blinking as he left. After a few minutes, she laughed. I can't believe I was so worried! She massaged the bridge of her nose, closing her eyes. When she arose, she found a thick piece of clothing at the foot of her cot. Upon unfolding the garment, she discovered an orange skirt-like cloth. She also found two more pieces. The second was four-sided and pink, while the third was a gold double-layered robe.

After getting dressed, Carrie stepped into a room with a mirror. Blonde hair with red highlights reached her shoulders and back. In the absence of sunlight, her complexion remained pale. Tiny lights glimmered in her bluish-grey eyes.

Carrie adjusted her outfit when her mother appeared behind her reflection. She reeled from the woman's harsh stare.

"You dirty slut… burn those clothes and pray for forgiveness!"

"NO!" Carrie spun, but no one was behind her. She turned back to the mirror, where only her reflection remained. As a Christian, her discomfort at the Tiger Shrine increased. She massaged her forehead, trying to soothe her nerves. Relax. Your mind is playing tricks on you.

On leaving the temple, Carrie hugged herself. While passing a large boulder, she muttered, "How can anyone live here without freezing?"

An amused chuckle reached her ears. "In time, you'll get used to it."

Carrie found Jago leaning against the boulder. A red zhen outer robe covered most of his attire.

"Are you ready?"

Carrie nodded in silence.

"Alright then. This way." He pointed to a nearby dirt road. As he walked along the path, Carrie followed him. However, as time passed, she struggled to stay close, drawing deep breaths.

Jago checked on her. "Are you alright?"

Carrie placed her hand over her heart, panting. "I'm-I'm sorry. I'm… I'm finding it difficult to breathe."

"Yes, the air is thin up here. Slow your breathing."

Carrie wiped her forehead as she followed his advice. "You-you said we would get breakfast, but where?"

"You'll see."

They walked to a hilltop where sunlight flooded the land.

Carrie's heart fluttered, and her eyes sparkled. "Wow!"

Jago chuckled. "Indeed. Whenever I'm depressed, I would come here to lift my spirits. Even in dark times, a new day awaits us."

Observing the scenery, Carrie considered the monk's words. As they descended, they trekked through the forest toward a town. Colorful flags fluttered in the gentle breeze as they hung on the lines. Smoke billowed from close-knit houses dotted with Buddha shrines.

A sweet aroma wafted into Carrie's nose, leading her to a baker. As she walked away from Jago and examined the bread, her mouth watered. The confectioner cleared his throat to grab her attention. Soon after, he spoke in that strange language.

Stumped, Carrie blinked as the baker spoke to her again. "I-I don't understand what you're saying."

"He's asking if you want to try a sample." Jago approached Carrie from the side.

"What are they?"

Jago and the merchant exchanged words in their native tongues. "He says they're balep korkun."

The baker offered Carrie a flatbread with a red band with what appeared to be red filling. She studied the bread before biting into it. A sweetness tingled in her mouth as she chewed. "This is… good! Jago, can we have this ba-lep-I can't pronounce it."

"Of course. Sir, we'll have four slices."

A smile spread across the seller's face as he prepared his goods. As he and Jago chatted, Carrie pressed her lips together. Though tempted to use her powers, she avoided peering into their minds. Jago bowed his head once the cook handed him two bags.

Carrie waved goodbye to the baker as they departed. They trekked across town until they sat on a bench. Several people visited stands to arrange deals or trades. An elder crowd carried hand-held wheels, clicking and whirling.

"Why are they in a cheerful mood?" Carrie munched on her food.

"They're preparing for Drukwa Tsezhi," Jago said. "An event to honor Buddha's first sermon about the Four Noble Truths. The holiday begins on the fourth day of the sixth lunar month."

"Isn't it July now?"

"Yes, but you're counting the solar months. The locals use a lunar calendar."

"Oh. Mama doesn't let me attend any festive events. She thinks people commit acts of sin during those things."

"Really? Hmm. Well, Drukwa Tsezhi will be your first. Lhasa is where it happens, but traveling could be difficult."

"Excuse me?" A woman stood behind them, wearing beads in her abundant black hair. She wore a long-sleeved dress with a vibrant pattern. "Sorry if I listened, but are you two heading to Lhasa? I'm heading there to visit a friend that lives in the Sera Temple. I can help."

The trio spoke to a driver possessing a pickup truck at the town border. After an agreement, they hopped inside the vehicle and followed the road. The surrounding terrain changed, from mountains to river-carved lands.

"Thank you for helping us, um…." Jago scratched the back of his head.

The woman smacked her head. "Oh, dear, where are my manners? I'm Nima."

The monk bowed, pressing his hands together at chest level. "I'm Lama Jago. The young one is Carrie."

"Carrie, that's a pleasant name." Nima furrowed her brows when Carrie recoiled. "Have I… said something wrong?"

"Carrie isn't used to people who are kind."

"Aw, the poor thing. What happened?"

Jago shook his head. "I'm not sure, to be honest. So, this friend of yours…."

"His name is Fei. I suppose I should call him Master Fei now, though." Nima rubbed the back of her head. "He's a teacher living in the Sera Temple. A few weeks ago, he sent me a letter that the High Abbot had promoted him. I would send Fei a letter to inform him of my arrival, but not today."

"So, you plan to surprise him."

"Right. You and Carrie should visit too. Master Fei might let us stay for the night. Hotels are scarce, even around Drukwa Tsezhi."

Twilight unleashed its golden hues as the vehicle reached Lhasa. The city settled in a flat valley surrounded by mountains. A vast river passed through the capital, blending colors from the setting sun.

Carrie and Nima thanked the driver as they arrived at the Sera Temple. Jago pressed his hands together and bowed in gratitude. The enclosing barrier changed from white to pinkish-red, with signs of renewal. At the entrance, Nima knocked on the doors. Silence lingered until the door opened to a crack.

"Bihāna sam'ma kunai āgantuka chainan," a deep voice said.

"Ö ma phē'ī hērna cāhānthēṁ, mērō purānō sāthī," Nima said.

The door widened, and a man emerged. A maroon robe draped over him while a set of prayer beads rested on his wrist. His tired eyes softened at Nima's presence, and he smiled. They pressed their hands together and bowed to each other.

While Nima and Fei were getting acquainted, Carrie clenched her fists. Her jaw ached from gritting her teeth, and a burning sensation swelled in her chest. However, she opened her hands and lowered her head. The reunion between two old friends didn't spark any joy within her. Perhaps being alone was penance for her crimes.

"Carrie? Carrie."

Her train of thought stopped when Jago called to her.

"Master Fei wants to meet you," he said. "I've already introduced myself to him."

Hesitant at first, Carrie bowed her head. "H-Hello, sir-I mean, Master."

The senior man smiled and spoke his native tongue.

"He says you have a pure demeanor," Jago stated.

Carrie retreated, earning a quizzical expression from Fei.

"Kr̥payā, usalā'ī māpha garnuhōs." Jago waved. "Dayālu hr̥daya bha'ēkā mānisaharūlā'ī kyārī paricita chaina. Malā'ī lāgdacha ū ugra jīvanabāṭa ā'ēkō thiyō."

Fei nodded. "Samaya unakō, jāgō sahāyatā hunēcha. Ā'unuhōs āja rātī cisō hunēcha."

Fei led them to linked apartments within the sanctum. As he pushed on the doors, a lobby dotted with candles revealed itself. Carrie followed the group, leading to the upper levels. As they approached a sliding door disguised as a wall, he motioned them to wait. Upon entering the room, Fei tapped the door. He slid the door open a few minutes later, inviting them.

Bamboo rods covered the ceilings and walls with interior spot lamps. In the center was a table adorned with wooden flowers. The monks shifted towards their visitors, with the High Abbot greeting them. Jago and Nima bowed, though Carrie had a delayed response. When it ended, they sat near Fei. Someone tugged on her sleeve as she relaxed.

A boy approached her, smiling. "Baṭara ciyā?"

Carrie tapped Nima's shoulder. "What did he say?"

"He wants you to try butter tea," Nima said. "Butter tea is a staple in Tibet. You're bringing harmony with yourself and those around you by drinking it."

Carrie had never tried butter tea, let alone heard of it. She nodded to the boy as he poured the drink into an empty bowl. Head bowed, he presented it to her. "T-Thank you. Do you have a name?"

"Dawa." The child gestured to his fellow monks. "Tashi. Li Chang." The boy became intrigued when Carrie waved at them. "Bhā'i jagō, unī kahām̐ baschin?"

"Mailē unalā'ī sōdhēkō chaina, tara malā'ī lāgcha ki unī amērikākī hun." Jago checked on the girl. "How are you, Carrie?"

"Okay, I guess." Carrie grabbed the tea-filled dish and sipped. She expected something sweet, but salt danced on her tongue. She kept herself together as she ingested more and laid it on the table. "What's in this tea?"

"Butter tea has a potent smoky flavor, but you'll adapt." Nima filled Carrie's cup full of the beverage. "For each sip, we replenish the jorum to the brim."

Carrie planned to tell Nima that it was not essential but held her peace. She enjoyed herself for the rest of the night.

The next day, bells rang as everyone gathered at the Great Assembly Hall. The monks sat in rows, creating deep guttural noises from their throats. Carrie wanted to ask Jago what the monks were doing. However, the monk narrowed his eyes toward her and shook his head. Silent once again, she kept watching the morning routine.

Carrie and Jago retreated to their quarters once they received their brunch. "What were those sounds they were making?"

"It's called throat-singing," Jago said. As they sat on the floor, a knock sounded at the door. "Come in."

The door opened, revealing Nima as she came inside to join them. "I love these morning prayers."

"I enjoyed it too, though I didn't understand the words," Carrie said. "Ever since I came to Tibet, I have questions. As I told Jago, I once followed Mama's words until I stopped."

Nima rubbed her chin. "We tend to avoid sensitive topics, but I could make an exception. What did your mother tell you?"

Carrie kneaded her hands, trying to think of a way without offending anyone. "She believes that… anyone engaging in other religions is… destined for Hell. I guess Buddhism would be the same since I don't hear about God or Heaven." Jago and Nima's eyes locked onto her, their expressions blank. "I-I'm sorry! That's what Mama believes! You-you're not… mad at me, are you?"

Jago raised a calming hand. "No, Carrie, we're fine. Delusions about our beliefs are not uncommon. Allow me to explain. This might shock you, but Heaven is a part of Buddhism."

"It… it is?"

The monk nodded. "However, Buddhism is not concerned with a Creator God, like Christianity is. Our views are that the world experiences phases. For instance, leaves change colors during the fall and float to the ground to die. When spring arrives, they return. We call this the cycle of rebirth, and it applies to everything on Earth.

"Only Buddha had known this. In life, he had been a prince named Siddhartha Gautama. Once shielded from the world's horrors, Gautama saw suffering in many forms. So, he renounced a life of luxury and became a celibate. He sought refuge in a forest for six years without food or water."

Enthralled, Carrie couldn't imagine someone doing such a thing. "Why would he do that?"

"To attain enlightenment," Jago said. "However, he had learned this way was wrong, so he had tried a different tactic. While sitting under a Bodhi Tree, Gautama attained insight. As a result, he became The Buddha."

Carrie mused this story. In some ways, she saw patterns in her life. Her mother tried to hide her from a 'sinful' world, and she endured suffering. "Was-was Buddha… a god?"

"No. The Buddha was a teacher," Nima said. "Once you escape the endless cycle of suffering, you can achieve Nirvana. The ideal way to learn is to explore yourself. Ask questions such as, 'Who am I? What does the future hold for me?' Only then can you discover your true self."

Carrie absorbed Nima's words, her voice echoing and repeating.

Carrie and Jago approached the gate, their backs facing the temple.

"Wait!" someone called from behind. Nima rushed towards them, taking her time to catch her breath. "You're leaving?"

"The kora will start soon, and we don't want to miss it," Jago said.

"Alright. Before you leave, I have something for Carrie."

She blinked as Nima removed a white scarf from her chuba. The woman bowed her head as she presented it to her.

Carrie tilted her head. "What's this?"

"That is a khata, a present given to guests," Jago said.

Carrie was not sure if she should accept it, given her experience. For support, Jago gestured for her to take the khata. She waited as Nima wrapped the silky shawl around her neck.

Nima tilted her head as she inspected it. "You look lovely in it."

Carrie brushed her fingers against the shawl. She struggled to say something until she grabbed Nima in a tight hug.

"Thank you." Carrie sniffled into her shoulder.

Nima returned the hug. The women held onto each other until they pulled away. As Carrie cried, she wiped her tears away. "Don't cry, little one. May you find enjoyment with this shawl."

Jago lowered his head, pressing his palms together at chest level. "Thank you for your kindness and hospitality."

"I look forward to our next meeting." Nima returned the gesture.

As they turned to the gate, Jago and Carrie said their goodbyes and departed.

Later, they hitched a ride from an auto-rickshaw. The brief ride brought the two to a temple sitting on a tortoise-shaped sarsen. Upon arrival, the duo explored the temple, learning its history.

During their journey, they found pilgrims blessing a pond with incense. Carrie and Jago drank from the water and offered small prayers. They then traveled around the kora, where Lhasa emerged from view. Light rays pierced through the clouds, hitting the capital and the valley.

Something stirred inside Carrie. Nature's beauty left her in awe. The scenery moved her on a mental and spiritual level. As the sun's gentle rays caressed her face, Carrie blinked tears. Throughout her life, she had seen nothing so grand and majestic. Was this an angel's touch?

Warmth spread through Carrie's chest with a sense of peace. Since coming here, she had found hope.

You were wrong, Mama. This world isn't rooted in sin.

A/N: Carrie is entering a new world, and Jago will make sure that she would have a great time. Time to let my brain rest, so I'll see you later.

Translation from Nepali

No visitors until morning.

Aw. I wanted to see Fei, my old friend.

Please, forgive her. Carrie's not familiar with those with kind hearts. I suspect she came from a rough life.

Time will aid her, Jago. Come. It'll be chilly tonight.

Brother Jago, where does she live?

I haven't asked her, but I assume she's from America.