Most of these converts have taken the faith only because they faced a prison sentence or crippling fine. Convert to the true faith, and all charges are dropped

She rocks his shoulder, just slightly. “Forgive me, Papa, for robbing you of your sleep, but I am sorely in need of your wisdom”

She closes the book, thinks of the parchment. The only thing she does know is that Heaven wanted Jocef’s strange work to come to her hands

The glass is thick; cheaply made. But there is something inside it, she is sure. She holds it tight, and wades back to the shore

As the land recedes behind them, Ramon stares. Africa. Home of riches and cruelty. The glitter of gold and flash of blood

Papa holds out his hand. “Brother Garcon,” he says in greeting. He will not dip his head, for the icon the man wears on a thick gold chain

Something inside her burns. She steps forward. “We are indeed honored by your suggestion, but I am afraid we must decline”