seal the alliance."

"An offer I'll definitely accept," Cortin said. "And I'd prefer a
meeting in person, if he can get here without frightening the servants."

"He says he can. Tony and Chuck will be here as soon as they get
dressed, and he'll join us himself when we're in the common-room and
ready for him."

* * * * *

The reunited Family had spent a few minutes celebrating, then Cortin
had ordered refreshments set up in the common-room. When that was done
and the servants had left, the Family pulled chairs into a circle and
seated themselves. Moments later, with no fanfare, the empty spot was
occupied by what looked like a slim elderly man in a white cassock.

"Shayan," Cortin said, keeping her voice level.

"I prefer Lucius, if you don't mind."

"Lucius, then. I knew I'd have to face you eventually; let's get it
over with."

The Pope held up both hands, shaking his head. "This is a simple
discussion, Colonel, not the decision point. You must have realized
that for yourself, to have accepted the alliance and this meeting."

Cortin sighed. "It could've been a ruse. I was almost hoping so, just
to finish the matter."

"No ruse," Lucius assured her. "My motives must remain my own, but it
is in my self-interest to support the Strike Forces and the Families,
as well as promoting devotion to both Jeshua and the Protector. For
that reason, and that reason alone, you may count on my unstinting
support for . . . I would estimate the next couple of years, perhaps
more."

"Why should I believe you?"

"Because of your truthsense." Lucius smiled briefly. "I like you,
Colonel Cortin."

"Which is a flat lie." Cortin nodded. "All right, between that
evidence and your claim that your support is due to your own
self-interest, I'll accept it as real. What about the Brotherhood?"

"I have ordered it disbanded and recommended the members repent their
sins and return to the Church." Lucius paused, smiling again. "Don't
expect much from either order or recommendation, however; I recruited
among, and accepted only, the most disaffected of those susceptible to
the idea of becoming terrorists. I can think of only one major error
in that selection process, and he is presently a member of your team
and Family."

"Me, right?" Degas said.

"Yes. I would tend to believe, now, that I was under outside influence
when I selected you--but I doubt very much any of my other selectees
h