thank the gandy dancers for a path well worn

Understandably, Malachi had reservations about Caiaphas' edict -- and so clamant was his denial that he came to her quite quickly.

Without pause the spry Caiaphas whirled artfully upon him, the insistence of her gaze acrid with churlishness. There was no pity in those harshly lined eyes for the sundry-colored male -- no remorse. Only the chill of an unconcerned party.

"He is not yours to take." She resounded, her voice low and firm. She did not soften -- she did not bend.