The Fortress Ch. 07

We can't use force to keep you all safe all the time. Even though in our city the ratio has improved, there are still too many men. If enough of them decided to step out of line, and even those who disagree rarely will step up to stop them, if that happens things could get very dangerous again.

So Paula, there are still two days until the next phase of your training begins. You have that long to decide. You may transfer to asexual service, you may continue as a novice as long as you agree to follow the rules, or you may leave the city entirely. Our city does not have the resources to allow women from the outside, except for those who come into the fortress. Enjoy the company of your fellow novices, and talk your options over with them before you decide."