Genevieve rested her hands on the counter and offered the clerk a courteous smile.
"If I may ask a hypothetical question," she began.
The clerk looked up. "Sure, go ahead."
"Suppose my companion and I decide not to remain in the City Hall. Suppose we chose to leave. What would happen to the artifacts that we surrendered?"
The clerk folded her hands together and gave a practiced answer.
"In that situation, the council would review your request."
"So they would be returned?" Genevieve tried to be as polite as possible despite the fury burning within her chest.
"The council would make a decision based on the circumstances," said the clerk.
"Is there a policy that guarantees their return?" Genevieve's smile became strained.
"The council evaluates each case individually."
"I see…"
As Michael watched the clerk speak to Genevieve, his heart twisted in rage.
Goodness arcane, she was right!
What the hell have we gotten ourselves into? He thought.
