"There is nothing to be sorry for."

Valdis refuses to see herself as a victim, perhaps Meira was, but she isn't and she never will be. She takes another sip of tea, watching more than just Deirdre's movements. Valdis could assume she knows the answer, or she could say what she thinks about the entire idea of assumed power.

"I'm afraid I don't have much experience with the house always winning, so you'll have to explain."