Guards patrolled around the edges of the tables with their reed sticks in hand. I followed the others’ example and didn’t make eye contact with them, but I kept track of their locations. So it wasn’t unexpected when one man stopped next to me. However, the sharp line of pain across my shoulders surprised a yelp from me.

“Eat,” he said, pointing to my bowl with his weapon.

“I’m not—” Another sting landed on my upper arm.

“Eat.”

I pulled the bowl toward me and took a bite. The disgusting texture hadn’t improved.

“More.” He remained by my side until I choked the rest down.

After we finished, we lined up to use the privy before heading to the prayer room. I paused at the threshold, amazed by the immense square room. Penitents streamed in from multiple entrances and formed long rows facing the same direction. Well over two thousand people. Pushed from behind, I followed the woman in front of me until a guard yanked me from the line.

“New penitents stand in the front until they learn how to pray.” He escorted me to the front row.

I stood next to a young woman who flinched any time one of the guards came close to her. Nothing was between us and the stone wall. I’d expected an altar or a religious artifact.

Once the shuffling noise of bare feet on stone stopped, a priestess arrived in a silky robe that flowed around her as she moved. She reached the front and gazed at us.

“You are filthy sinners who do not deserve the creator’s forgiveness. Get on your knees and beg for it,” she ordered.

Everyone knelt. The collective thump echoed off the walls. I quickly complied, joining them.

The priestess spread her arms wide and raised them. “Look upon the creator’s glory and pray for forgiveness.”

The skittish girl next to me craned her neck back and stared up. So did the others. I copied them. Far above, the sunlight struck a beautiful square stained-glass window. The intricate design showed a progression of pictures, and I guessed it must be the story of the creator. The monastery’s boxy tiers framed the window. Each upper tier smaller than the one below it. Like being inside a wedding cake.

Believing there would be more orders, I glanced back at the front. The priestess had disappeared and a guard stood in her place.

He strode over to me. “Keep your gaze heavenward while you pray. This will be your only warning.” He touched the reed hanging from his belt.

I returned to contemplating the stained glass window. It had enough detail to keep my interest for a while. However, my neck soon protested the strain caused by the angle. I bent my head to rub out the kink. Big mistake.