One Final Note Before I Open the Eternal Book of Time: Through the expanse of space, Thelras and Cael saw me nestle into Tharin’s throat just before she woke up. I heard them say: “Perhaps we should have chosen her brother for the task, Cael. Tharin is so wide-eyed and unsuspecting.” “Yes, but her dog will be a help to her. And it couldn’t be helped about her brother. It was not our place to interfere, nor has it ever been, nor will be.” “Of course, but as a mother . . .” “I know, dear. I kno...

One Final Note Before I Open the Eternal Book of Time: Through the expanse of space, Thelras and Cael saw me nestle into Tharin’s throat just before she woke up. I heard them say: “Perhaps we should have chosen her brother for the task, Cael. Tharin is so wide-eyed and unsuspecting.” “Yes, but her dog will be a help to her. And it couldn’t be helped about her brother. It was not our place to interfere, nor has it ever been, nor will be.” “Of course, but as a mother . . .” “I know, dear. I kno...

Prologue: Of the Gods there be but two who live in Airen Or. From Great Intelligence their wisdom grew And thus was born a plan, a door Through which their children of light would pass and bid farewell to Thelras, to Cael; Then through the law of Arbiter Will amass Glory or condemnation, a consequence, still. And so the Secret Speakers tell the tales of those who choose To return through the door in splendor or blight, Bearing marks of those who win or lose. I’m going to tell you a story. I’l...