“Now, for the second thing we need. Father Veronica. Tell us about . . . the Church’s historical records.” “NO!” Bishop Soldano rose to his feet, slamming his hands on the table. “Let her speak,” Nikos said. “Don’t do this, Veronica.” Father Veronica appeared unhappy, yet determined. “It’s too late, Eminence.” “It is a betrayal of the Church!” “No. It is upholding the Church’s principles. God’s principles.” The bishop sat down heavily and closed his eyes for a moment. “You are making a serious mistake, Veronica.” “Perhaps, Eminence. But I make it with good conscience.” The bishop had no response to this except to stare at me with that same malevolence he’d directed at me the day before; eventually he sank back, still shaking with rage. Father Veronica”