Amanda was heartbroken when she learned of her mother’s death, but her first act as matriarch was to ask Janette and me to leave, although her request was phrased more tactfully.

“I think it better the two of you move on,” she said. “I appreciate the gifts you’ve shared with us but it is too dangerous for you to stay. The Reaper is hunting all who will not come into his fold. If you stay here, you will bring unwelcome attention to us.”

“We can protect you,” Janette said. “I can set wards—”

Amanda’s bitter laughter cut her off. “I don’t mean to offend you,” she said when she got herself under control again. “But the Reaper killed billions of people, how can two of you stand against him?”

Jan...

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