She lifted her own glass, barely pressing the rim to her lips before placing it back down with the wine untouched. How many of those here knew the truth about her existence? she wondered. Was it no more than a few Thijs, Lampard and Abramovic perhaps, and one or two others or was it indeed the case, as Karl had assured her, that all of them were privy to this age-old conspiracy? Could there possibly be anyone here innocent of the crime against her?

There was no way of knowing, and if she did not act if she allowed her doubts to get the better of her she would surely die.

Gabrielle stood up suddenly, feeling as if her bones had turned to jelly. For a moment she feared that everyone present was entirely aware of her part in Karls conspiracy, and they were simply waiting for the right moment to deliver their denunciation.

She glanced towards Thijs; surely he could detect the guilt radiating from her every pore? But instead he gave her an inquisitive smile that seemed in stark contrast to the iciness of his gaze.

You have something to say, Mer Gabrielle? he enquired.

It was not yet her turn to speak, therefore she was breaking strict protocol. But this would be her only opportunity to say things she had for so long ached to say.

I do have something to say, Pater Thijs, she replied, doing her best not to let his reptilian gaze put her off. She could feel her skin flushing red, and there was a deep thrumming in her veins that pounded in her ears like drums. In return for this honour, I wish also to thank you.

A smattering of mild, uncertain applause, for Thijs had not finished his speech when Gabrielle had stood up and interrupted him. He sat down nonetheless, folding his robes neatly around him, and waited for her to continue.

She found the strength and will to go on by reminding herself of just how long she had dreamed of this moment. All she needed to do was picture his pale, sweaty face looming above hers, and remember the pain she had then felt.

I do not think, Pater Thijs, her voice grew marginally more steady, that I truly understood my role within the Demarchy until you came into my bedchamber when I was only thirteen years old and raped me.

Thijss eyes looked as if they had turned to glass, his entire face frozen, but he recovered quickly.

Mer Gabrielle, he stood up once more, perhaps asking you to take part in this banquet has put too much of a strain on you. May I suggest that you now retire for the night . . . ?

A door banged open, and one of Karls guards came running in. He stepped over to Abramovic and whispered urgently in the mans ear.

Abramovic turned in his chair to look up at the man, his expression incredulous.