"Sirs, please allow me to explain." She said carefully, kneeling down on her knees and bowing her head like she was taught for confession. "I was alone here, and the city Mayor approached me to offer what protection he can and to warn me that the people of this city do not take kindly to the Church." She peeked up as she heard plates clatter on the modest table. They were listening.

"The Mayor here, he told me that we must hide symbols of our faith from the outside, that we may only preach to those who seek us, and not to knock on doors or preach on the sidewalks." She paused, wondering how to explain why, then she remembered. "The people here remember the attacks on them years ago, some are even survivors. Seeing our symbols is a reminder of the war. We must tread carefully, amd win their hearts with kindness and service. If we go too heavy on the doctrine they will not tolerate our presence, and our very lives might be endangered."

There was silence for a moment as the priests considered her statements.

"Why did you go to this festival, why watch those people be sacrificed to that demon without saying anything?" Father Gerrick asked, his brown eyes had never been more piercing.

"I needed to see for myself the extent of their sin. To understand why they believe it is necessary and why they allow it."

"And you followed that man into the temple? Why did you stay so long?" This from Father Darrin, as he set the table with silverware they must have brought.

"He was ill. I wanted to make sure that he was alright. Was that not the right thing to do? It is what I was taught." Now she looked up, certain they were satisfied.

"It is the thing to do, my child. Now come, eat. We shall discuss how to handle this city tomorrow." Father Gerrick motioned her to a plate set in the only place with no seat. She didn't mind sitting on the floor, but it was clear they were giving her her place. There were three chairs, he had purposely placed her plate where she would need to sit on the floor.

She moved into place and sat daintily, eating with poise as she contemplated her new predicament.