‘I have watched you on the weapons-field. You have the potential to become an exceptional warrior, Riv. One of the most skilled I have seen come up through the ranks of Drassil since the Ben-Elim have dwelt in this world. But more than that, there is a fire in you, a purity of dedication to our cause. You hate the Kadoshim, long to take your place in the ranks in this holy war.’

‘I do.’ Riv breathed, looking up now, meeting Israfil’s gaze.

How can he know me so well?

‘But there is something else in you. An anger that cannot be quenched.’

‘Yes,’ she admitted.

‘What I said to you, during your warrior trial. You remember?’

About my father. About my pride. About needing to prove myself. That I am shallow and brittle. Out of control . . .

Even at the memory of Israfil’s words Riv felt her blood stirring, her anger flexing.

‘Aye.’

‘It was not true. It was a test, designed to provoke, to push, to strengthen your control, your ability to weather any storm.’

It’s as Aphra told me, then. And I failed.

‘Aye.’

‘You are the first person that I have told this truth to, before they have passed. All go through it unknowing. It is a hard test.’

She nodded grimly.

‘I want you to pass your warrior trial, Riv. And soon. Dark times are ahead, I feel it. Your sword arm and fervour will be needed.’

‘There is nothing I long for more.’

‘You shall retake your warrior trial soon. So master your anger.’

‘Yes, Lord Protector.’

‘There are other things that I wanted to talk to you about.’ Israfil fell silent, just staring at Riv, a level of sternness in his gaze that she had not seen before.

Oh no. He knows about all of the fights.

‘The other fights,’ Riv said, then paused. Israfil was frowning. ‘What did Kol tell you?’ she asked.

‘Kol? No, it was not Kol that told me of your altercation at Oriens. It was Aphra.’

What! My own sister! How could she?

Riv did feel her anger stir then, a snake uncoiling, hissing and rearing, fangs bared.

‘Riv!’ A hand slapping on his desk, a loud crack. ‘You remember that last command. To master your anger. I suggest you start right now. I can see it in you.’

It’s getting worse. I can feel it there all the time, like a deep ocean, any insult or injury, the wind that whips it into a storm.