ed the phrasing of her denial.
"If it were me," he said slowly, "I'd keep my mouth shut. No one's
being hurt by that belief, and it may help. That Brother said piety
was necessary, in both senses of the word--this could be what he was
talking about. Piety the person, and a pious faith and hope--belief,
if you will--in the Protector and His or Her imminent appearance."

"In which case," Illyanov said, "it is a belief worth promoting." He
turned to Cortin. "If the idea makes you uncomfortable, beloved, I
would suggest you ask Michael and Eleanor to dedicate this evening's
service to your guidance, and pray that it be revealed while you sleep.
I am sure God will not deny such help to one who has given herself to
His service."

"Sounds reasonable," Odeon said. "We'll do it."

* * * * *

Cortin knew in a remote way that she was dreaming, even though it
seemed real enough--the clean smell of the mountain air, the
sun-warmth, her Family surrounding her with the Archducal Palace behind
them. All were in white Enforcement uniforms, like none she'd ever
seen, but that seemed right somehow, and she was buoyed by the love she
felt from all of them.

In the distance she saw a bright glow. As it grew, she saw it was a
man, also in a white Enforcement uniform, his rank insignia a single
silver star. When his feet touched the ground in front of her, he
hugged her and gave her a thorough, highly enjoyable kiss. When he
released her, he smiled. "You asked for help, Joanie; I'm here to give
it. The first order of business, though, is to tell you that you're
doing as well as anyone could, under these circumstances."

"Thanks--that's good to know." Cortin was calmer than she thought she
had any right to be, with the certainty it was Jeshua Himself talking
to her--probably His influence, she thought. "You know the problem;
what should I do? Or not do?"

"Don't deny the beliefs that concern you," he said promptly. "They're
natural ones, since you're fulfilling the prophecies that show the
Protector's about to appear."

"But they're supposed to apply to the Protector or His Herald--and both
of them are men!"

"Not in anything I've said." Jeshua chuckled. "That's a human
assumption I allowed to stand, as harmless. Those with enough power
can choose what sex to appear as--see?" With that, he became a woman,
wearing the field habit of a Blue Sister. After a few seconds, he
changed back.