All That Is Evil Is Not Dark/Chapter 67

Jano moved to comply with Tralin's order, feeling dizzy with all that had occurred in so short a time. Something had clearly happened to accelerate Tralin's plans from a gradual change from without to a more hostile taking of K'eld Ner. Jano had been concerned about disrupting the lives of Tralin's family, but now he was an entry into a disruption of the entire social structure of the K'eld.

The artifact that Tralin had used inverted magic, that much was clear. Jano concluded that it must have been the very artifact the Drakel sought in the Derenian countryside. Somehow Tralin had managed to acquire it first. Jano boarded the steam-driven cable car and directed it toward the gate. The world was spinning out of control and he had no idea what was going on around him.

Upon arriving at the gate, he was greeted by the same Drakel guard he had met on his entry into the city. He noted that Shirian was also present and recalled his entry into the city in the company of the Drakel. He recalled also Sithian's greeting to Shirian and frowned anew.

"Open the gates," Jano directed nervously; how was he to force the issue if they refused? The gate guard seemed confused and hesitated.

"You heard the T'palo," a female voice said, and Jano was startled to see Kithia step out from the guardhouse. "Open the gate..."

The gatekeeper moved to comply with Kithia and Jano turned to her and Shirian considerately. With the two of them together, he noted a strong similarity in their appearance. Mother and son...

"You are Tralin's son," Jano said, dumbfounded.

"Yes," Shirian responded simply.

"Your father declares the ban on the De'me'thar ended... They are to be allowed open access to this K'eld."