“And we will get what we need from you, one way or another.” “You want me to fear you.” My words are soft as silk, but as strong as steel, and I am not backing down as he continues to try to loom over me. “But I don’t.” “Then you forget your betters.” “No, I know that you need me to engage in the anointing. You can’t force it upon me. I must learn the words. And I also know it’s too late to find someone else. There are only a few months left until the summer solstice.” I ease away with a smug smile. “So let’s cut the posturing, shall we?” Ventris looks as though bubbles might come from his
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