“Wait here,” the priest said before entering into the room. He returned and held the door open for Aramis to enter.
The Prophet was standing by the map table, looking expectantly at him. “You’ve brought the blood?” he asked. There was an excitement to his tone that wasn’t lost on Aramis.
“I have,” he answered.
“This is good news. Where is Melchiades?”
“He …” words failed him. He swallowed hard and tried to speak again, but nothing came out. Finally, he simply shook his head.
“I see,” the Prophet said somberly. “His sacrifice will not be forgotten. Melchiades was a great man, ardent in his faith. He will be greatly missed.”
Aramis could only nod in agreement.
“Where is the blood?”
Aramis held the wineskin out to him. The Prophet gingerly accepted it and set it on his desk.
“I’m gra
