Silence ensued in Donovan's office, both of them staring back at one another.
"Very well then," Martha said at last, clutching tightly onto the parchment. "I will bring evidence to you to clear my name. However," she paused, her gaze stern.
"Whoever is behind this will pay dearly."
"One more thing." Donovan halted the churchwoman from leaving. "As protocol is required, you are suspended until you bring evidence to clear your name. You may hand in your pending works to either Churchman Theodore, Churchman Welsh, or Churchwoman Aurora."
And she turned and left the office.
Outside the office, Martha saw Theodore resting his back against the wall of the corridor. He smiled on seeing her.
"Don't burn your office down this time," he said, a loopsided smile stretched on his lips.
