35. Ceiling

[He recites, in a language which is not English, but whose cadence is unmistakeable, a clear, gentle prayer. Those denizens of the barge who were present and transformed into Imperials during the breach of his homeworld brought about by his escape attempt may or may not remember and recognize it: an honor and a blessing, for both the living and the dead, known of but rarely heard, one only the Emperor himself could bestow.

He wants anyone he has abandoned who might take comfort from it to hear it.

He thinks of asking for Anastasia. He does not know if he hopes for or fears her voice. But he will not ask.]