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“I’ Or if not wrong, at least very different She didn’t understand as happening, except that Biryar was ushering the them to sit “Hoas Carlisle?”

“Fine It was fine I had some time to think, and I wanted you both here”

Mona felt a stab of fear, but she took a seat Veronica lowered herself into a chair “What’s this about, dear?” Mona asked

“It’s important that Auberon and Laconia be very much coordinated In the sciences,” Biryar said There was so very odd about the way he spoke He seeht have beenthan Veronica’s presence “So I’ve taken the liberty of requesting a placement at the science directorate in the capitol And I’ve recommended Ms Dietz for the position Transport will be entirely taken care of Your housing will be in the university comple

x with some of the best minds in the empire Xi-Tamyan has already been informed”

Veronica’s mouth was open Her face was pale Mona felt like she’d been spun too long on a swing She didn’t understand what Biryar was thinking And then she did

“Her living expenses…” Mona said

“All overseen by Laconia,” Biryar said “Everything will be overseen by Laconia”

“I can’t do that,” Veronica said, and her voice was tight “That’s very kind of you That’s… But I have so much here that I can’t really—”

Biryar raised a hand, and his voice went quiet Quiet, but not soft “Ms Dietz, it is critical to the success of this colony that you understand what Laconian culture and discipline are, just as we learn what it is to be from Auberon You will accept this position, and you will take the honor seriously We will be treating you as one of our own”

Veronica see Mona felt sohten her heart She thought she saw Biryar glance at her, a sone before she could be certain His handheld chi the connection When he looked back up, he was so

“This position could change your life,” he said

“I don’t knohat to say,” she said