There was a chair in front of the desk, and a few more off to one side. Jaedia sat in one of these, looking down at her hands as Maya came in. Maya tried to catch her eyes, but Basel cleared his throat, demanding her immediate attention.

“Maya,” he said. His smile was almost lost between beard and mustache. “It’s good to see you.”

“And you, Kyriliarch.” Maya bowed, her hands clenched at her sides.

“Basel, please.” He waved a hand. “Shut the door and have a seat.”

She did so. Jaedia still wouldn’t look at her, and Basel’s smile had a forced quality to it, as though he were putting the best face on something unpleasant. Maya’s stomach went sour, and she swallowed.

“Jaedia,” Basel said, “has given me extremely encouraging reports on your progress.”

“I’m gratified to hear that,” Maya said, sneaking another sideways look at her mentor.

“And how do you feel?” He touched his chest, about where the Thing would be. “No fevers or weakness?”

Maya shook her head. “A few ordinary colds now and then, but nothing worse.”

“Good, good.” Basel gave a long sigh. “You don’t know how much we agonized over your … treatment. Looking at you now, I’m very glad we made the right decision.”

“I …” Maya hesitated. “Thank you, Kyriliarch. Basel.”

“Now.” Basel leaned forward, clasping his hands in front of him. “You are a very talented young woman, Maya. From what Jaedia tells me, you have the potential to be one of the strongest centarchs the Order has seen in many years. Is that still your desire?”

“Of course.” She blinked, a little bewildered.

“Excellent.” He sat back. “We believe you’re ready for the next step in your education.”

“Ready?” Maya shook her head, glancing at Jaedia. “I thought it would still be … some time.”

“Yes. Well.” Basel looked uncomfortable for a moment. “Circumstances being what they are, the Council thought it best to … accelerate things somewhat.”

“Circumstances?” Maya said. “I’m afraid I don’t understand.”

“Jaedia’s services are required for a particular task,” Basel said. “It would not be ideal for your training to accompany her. But since you are doing so well, she and I agree it will do you no harm to begin your next assignment immediately. Quite the opposite, in fact.”

“Begin—you mean now?” Maya caught her breath, and all at once she understood. Whatever she’s doing is the important mission, the one I’m not ready for. So she’s shuffling me off to a … a sideshow.

“Yes,” Basel said mildly, as if he hadn’t just turned her world upside down.

“I …” She said I was nearly ready for my cognomen. Maya’s throat felt thick, and she groped for words. Now she’s leaving me behind. “I … understand.”

“Very good,” Basel said. “I expect great things of you, Maya.”