“There is much discussion in the Dome City regarding acolytes,” Liam reported. “The situation with Marian is both sad at the same time it’s disconcerting, for it seems clear she consorted with the Beast, perhaps even played a part in rising him. However, her loss is having some measure of an optimistic affect. For our own have been in deep discussions about a variety of topics, as I’m sure does not surprise you. And there is a sway toward rather significant changes. Including with the acolytes. And Marian…” He hesitated, glancing at Ry before he went on, “going astray has only strengthened the argument of those who wish the role of our women to be more…inclusive.”

Serena exchanged a glance with Elena, but neither said a word.

“I do believe my Marian would wish this,” Ry said quietly, then he shook his shoulders and glanced about. “But in the now, far more pertinent matters need discussing. For, since news came of what occurred at the henge, all of our Go’Nix and Go’Tec have been scouring the tomes. I am here to report our findings and bring those to you that have notations of these creatures.”

Go’Tec were their scholars.

Serena never had any use for those in the Dome City, but it could not be argued the Go’Tec, to earn that distinction, were rather learned men.

Finally, these priests were serving at least one of the purposes that had started that religion.

“It is pieced together,” Ry went on. “And there has been much discussion about what actually was, and what is fable. I myself have read all the notations, repeatedly, and should any of you wish a thorough briefing, I would be at your service. However, I feel at the moment, that which we all could agree on is where we should start.”

“Then do it,” Mars prompted.

Serena caught Silence brushing the backs of her fingers against those of her husband, an indication that he might wish to be more patient, or perhaps less rude.

His expression as he scowled at Ry, however, did not change.

Then again, Mars had never had any use for these priests, and one had murdered his father.

Ry clearly took no offense, for he nodded and began.

“It is agreed they are creations direct of the gods,” he stated. “It is agreed they have powers that are awesome and terrible. It is agreed that they abused these powers and the gods then banished them to the stones. It is agreed one found his way free, and wrought havoc and destruction on the land before he was captured and contained by the Mer. Thus, now, it is agreed he has risen, and in doing so, he sought and freed his siblings.”

“We figured this much out ourselves,” Aramus told him.

Ry nodded. “We are also agreed they have a name. They are demons.”

“Fuck,” Cass bit off.