"They were born together and share the same body, so it’s impossible to separate them," he explained.

My worry for Hina grew. I feared that Vera’s cunning and strength would someday completely take over her.

"How could Ray claim Hina when Vera is his greatest enemy?" I wondered aloud.

"That’s a very complicated issue," he said thoughtfully.

"Why haven’t you claimed your bride yet?" I asked, curious. "You’re old enough."

"Claiming a wife isn’t something I can do," he said with a ...