‘All forces are arrayed in opposition, Mother Dark. It is this tension that weaves the threads of existence. Even the Abyss stands, and exists, in answer to something – to us. To you, me, and every other sentient creature upon this and every other realm. Will I speak of gods, then, and their dominion over lesser beings? I will not. Such hierarchy signifies little. We must all stand upon this side of the Abyss, and make what we can of words and dreams, of desires and ambitions. The gods are only elevated in the boldness of their arguments.’

‘The river god is slain.’ She brought her hands up to cover her face.

‘An argument lost,’ Grizzin Farl replied. ‘And yes, I do grieve.’

Behind her hands she asked, ‘What will come of the Deniers?’

‘I cannot say, Mother. Perhaps they will walk the shore, in eternal longing for the world they have lost.’

Mother Dark visibly trembled, and then slowly lowered her hands. They stole out along the arms of the throne to grip the elegantly curved ends. She drew a deep breath. ‘And now?’

‘Lord Draconus brought to you his gift, his power. He is the first Azathanai to have done this solely for those who dwell in his domain.’ Grizzin Farl hesitated, and then said, ‘I did not know that your children were ignorant of your Consort’s true nature.’

Her eyes went flat. ‘Mothers have secrets.’

After a long moment, he nodded. ‘Do not blame Draconus. All that comes was begun by another Azathanai.’ Then he shook his head. ‘My apologies. I dissemble. We all have had a hand in this. The one you name T’riss, who walked into, and then out of, the Sea of Vitr. My own children … but most of all, this belongs to K’rul, who answered worship with generosity. Who, assailed by prayers written in spilled blood, gave answer to them. But the power he surrendered was not intended only for those who worshipped him. He has given it freely, to everyone. By this, new sorceries are born, Mother Dark. By this, the forces in opposition are given names, and aspects. They are given realms of influence. A storm awaits us all, Mother Dark. To save you … to save your children who worship you, Draconus has done only what was necessary. The Gate of Kurald Galain now belongs to you, and over Night you now have dominion.’

‘And my lover will just step aside?’ There was venom in that question.

‘The giving of gifts is a fraught enterprise, Mother Dark. I am sure I was not alone in warning him. Stem this tide of fury in your heart, I beg you. He has done what he has done out of love.’

‘As did this K’rul, too, surely.’

Grizzin Farl nodded.

‘And what has it cost him, Azathanai?’

‘The tale of that is not yet complete, Mother.’

‘Then the blood still flows.’

Grizzin Farl started, and then he sighed. ‘A most apt description.’