Vera could guess the meaning behind the abbess's words, so she asked, “Master, are you saying that Master Marcius Stark’s ability to be reborn depends entirely on Mr. Wade?”

The abbess said noncommittally, “I have already said too much. Please digest some of these questions on your own but remember not to let Mr. Wade know about these things.”

When Vera saw that the abbess didn't want to say more, she quickly asked, “Master, do you have any other instructions?”

The abbess clasped her hands to