Iwazar stiffened, its eye flashing as the holo-projector whirled, an image materialising in the window frame and blotting out the clouds. I straightened, glancing for somewhere to place my glass as the feed coalesced into a figure clad in the vestments of a priest, his shoulders adorned with a white cassock, a golden cincture straining against his waist. The chain slung around his neck supported a modest aquila, cast from humble copper, and his sun-blushed face was drawn in a broad smile that almost encompassed his rounded cheeks. He was not exactly corpulent, but there was a softness to him, especially when compared to his sister.

Except for his eyes.

‘Confessor von Shard,’ I said, bowing. ‘I thank you for making time for me.’

He spread his hands. ‘How could I refuse? Any man who earns my brother Tobia’s respect is at least worthy of my time.’

‘I am grateful, confessor. We have met briefly. I don’t suppose you recall–’

‘The Gigerian Cleansing?’ he said. ‘Yes, of course I remember. Your picts helped rouse the Imperial citizens against the threat posed by their so-called ruling family. The God-Emperor was pleased by your work. As am I, His humble servant.’

He bowed his head, doubling his chins in the process.

‘Thank you,’ I said. ‘I am sorry to ask for your aid now, but I am not sure what else to do.’

‘Oh?’ he said. ‘Do you fear for your soul?’

‘On occasion. But this is not about that. There is a situation developing here. I fear that conflict between the governing forces on Bacchus and the military will–’

‘Is it a spiritual conflict?’ He spoke softly, but his eyes were hard.

‘No.’

‘Then I cannot assist you. The Ecclesiarchy does not involve itself in local politics. Unless there is evidence of spiritual corruption. Or heresy.’

He spoke with such self-assurance I almost believed him. He was still smiling, the expression almost apologetic.

I sighed. ‘I have not seen evidence of either.’

‘Unfortunate,’ he said. ‘If you do, you must inform me. But unless you find proof of corruption, I cannot assist you. At least, not directly.’

‘So, there is something you can do?’

‘Of course,’ he said. ‘I will pray for a swift resolution. You have my word.’

‘Thank you.’ I sighed again, forcing down my disappointment. ‘Well, I will not take up more of your time. I–’

‘Nonsense,’ he said. ‘If I cannot offer my services to a troubled servant of the God-Emperor, what sort of priest am I? Is there anything you need to confess?’

‘I do not think so.’

He smiled. ‘It might surprise you how many hold that view, until they find themselves in the penitent’s chair. But I will take you on your word. Tell me, then, how do you find my little sister, Lucille?’

‘I… She is a fine warrior, and–’

‘Come now,’ he said. ‘You can be honest. She’s my kin, remember?’