"I hate what you've done, but I keep remembering that you were once one
of the greatest princes of Heaven, and I'd like to see you back in that
position."

"We shall see." Lucius made an abrupt gesture with his hand, then
turned his attention back to Cortin. "Would you care to concelebrate
Mass with me Sunday, Excellency, then be present for my announcement of
these policies?"

Cortin thought about that, then said, "What do you think, Captain
Odeon? Would that be appropriate for the Protector's Herald?"

Lucius frowned, sent Odeon a thought. *She is still unaware of her
true status?*

*Yes. Jeshua said she'd be happier not knowing, and I agree.*

*Happier, perhaps, but what makes you think she will be able to remain
ignorant, now that she is being hailed and worshipped as Protector?
Although it is small as yet in her case, that worship does generate
energy, and it is focused on her; she will soon begin to feel and
manipulate it, whether she recognizes it or not. I suppose trying to
protect her as you are doing is praiseworthy, but I question both its
wisdom and its fairness.*

*Umm. I don't like it, but you may have a point.*

*I do indeed. Will you tell her, or shall I?*

*I'll do it, since you don't seem to be leaving me much of a choice.*
Odeon looked around at the Family, then concentrated on its head.
"Joanie . . . I've just been told I've--we've all--been doing you a
disservice, thinking it was a favor."

Cortin frowned. "What are you talking about?"

"Michael--" Chang said cautioningly.

"If I don't tell her, he will." Odeon sighed, rubbed the back of his
neck. "And there's no way to break it easy--"

"I am the Protector, then," Cortin said flatly. "When that man called
me that yesterday, I had the oddest feeling . . . tried to tell myself
it was only because he believed it, but . . ."

"Acting, but yeah. He says you're going to start feeling the worship
directed at you soon."

"I already have, I think. The other part of what made me think he was
right. Sort of a cross between extra energy and feeling like I've
eaten too much." Cortin smiled at him. "Keeping it from me this long
was a favor, Mike--and now, telling me that I'm only Acting is a
definite relief. I can handle it for awhile, knowing I won't have to
do it forever." She turned to the Pope. "How long, and who's the real
one?"

"Less than six months, and I do not know. If I did, I am certain I
would not be allow