I couldn't bring myself to rush back to the temple, despite knowing Amelina would be worried sick. All of my girls, in fact, were probably running about like a flock of frightened hens. Alas, I trudged through Adhmad Dé at a snail's pace, dreading the idea of having to face Amelina after what I had confessed to her this morning.

She would be looking for answers, reassurance. And I had nothing of the kind to offer her. Nothing to offer any of them should they seek anything from ...