“What is this?” the reverend demanded. “Like I said, we should talk in private.” Ten minutes later, she was standing across from Shandarel, who sat behind a desk in an office that was illuminated only by the tiny flames of candles in glass jars. Thick shades on the windows would prevent anyone outside from seeing anything they weren’t meant to see. Everyone was trying to pretend that the church was empty. “So, let me get this straight,” the reverend began. “You’ve stolen the very Nassai the Ragnosians admiral is looking for.” Anna leaned against the wall, idly inspecting her nails. “Well, I prefer the term ‘liberated,’ but yeah. That’s pretty much it.” “Have you considered handing them over to the Ragnosians?” Anna looked up, her gaze settling onto the other woman with deadly intent.

