"Then consider that something in their favor. Miles Illyan -- he claims to be from Barrayar at one point, and has the accent to make believe there is truth in that, for all it must have been difficult for him. I want you to give him an audience, and to hear him out." Olivia gives Piotr a look that, for an instant, is more calculating than affectionate. "You will not want to once you see him, but any man willing to give his life for a planet that would have sooner have seen him dead is worth your time."

Does Barrayar deserve that depth of loyalty? Both sides of her are at war with each other over it -- of course it does, for what would Barrayar be without it? And yet, and yet -- there's a small Betan voice in the back of her head that pulls at her doubts. Olivia shakes it off, refocusing.