Summary

In Chapter 21, two ancillary versions of the Lord of the Radch stand on a dais before Breq and Vendaai. It is believed this is because the Lord is at war with herself, and wants to ensure the conversation about to be had is genuine. The Lords have recognized Breq and Vendaai easily, and ask why they have been attempting to play at deception. It is clear neither ancillary Lord knows of the truth of the events on Justice of Toren, though each suspects the other. To protect Vendaai, Breq explains clearly she is indeed Justice of Toren One Esk, and that Vendaai had no idea who she truly was. Breq goes on to pretend she is still a functioning ancillary, after which the Lords order Vendaai to leave and speak of this to no one. Vendaai refuses. The Lords then ask for the truth...