"True enough," Verity said, aware it was the height of arrogance to really even have much of an opinion on the Taelon and what they could have done differently. It would be like Liam preaching about the naga. "I'm grateful to them, though; even with all the violence and bloodshed."

She reached for his hand. "You don't make up for all of it, I'm sure, but I'm really glad you're here."