Seeing that Ashley made up her mind, Jeevika, Suzanne and Stephen didn't argue.

It surprised them that Vera found them, but she had proved herself an ally already—or at least, not a threat.

Putting away the pieces of the broken teacup, she poured Jeevika a new cup and smiled, "It's alright—no need to get discouraged over this one. Losing to someone with Vera's wisdom and experience is only normal, so let's just wait for her invite."

Jeevika, Suzanne and Stephen traded glances and sat down aga