The Dread smiles. “Am I? The Ashlords grow bold. They reach for the future. The Striving gives them whatever they please. They adore things that move or flash or buzz. The other deities are well attended, but my people neglect caution. Walk by my temple. Note the empty ramparts. My priests in this realm are few. But I assure you that it is not my intention to simply go away. I am not like the Veil. I will not lie down and die. I will not accept defeat.”

My mind races again.

The Dread continues. “I seek new worshippers. Whether you live or die, war is coming. Do you imagine your fight will be against the Ashlords alone? No. You will face all the power the gods can summon across the barriers and into this world. Surely you know this?”

I nod. “We are ready this time.”

The god’s face twists into a smile. “So your father thinks. Let me add my strength to yours. Let us see how ready you are, then.”

“In exchange for blood? Servitude? I haven’t come this far to bow to you.”

“Partnership,” the god corrects. “Between equals.”

That pulls a laugh up my throat. “I don’t trust you. None of our kind do.”

“Allow me to offer the first sign of faith between us. Your father has thrown you into the fire, Adrian. He did not accept my trade. So allow me to offer my protection freely.”

He unfurls his left hand. My grip on the knife tightens, but before I can do more than unlatch it from my belt, he blows powder from his palm. It flashes out like smoke and fills the room in less than a second. I hold my breath, but the substance coats my skin, tingles down my spine. I do everything except pinch my eyes shut. I don’t want to lose sight of him in the haze.

“Calm down,” the god says. “It is a boon. This will help you survive the Races.”

I wave my free hand to clear the air. It slowly starts to thin until I can see him again.

“What did you do to me? What is this?”

“Caution,” he answers simply. “You think they come to bruise and break you. You’re wrong, Adrian. They are coming to kill you. The blessing I just offered will bring swift healing. Sturdier bones. Less bleeding. It will keep you alive. You’re welcome.”

My eyes sharpen. “I didn’t ask for your boon. We have no agreement. Understand?”