Confrontation/Chapter 23

In the time since the fall of the Brilhado temple, I have come more and more to appreciate just how loathsome The'Galin considered the entire process to be. I also came to realize how angry he was at me for my interpretation of his command, none more so than the way in which we responded to those who refused the tide of progress. It took hundreds of years and many, many worlds before he would even speak of the matter to me, and even then he only did so with bitterness.

"It is known to me, Xilar," he said, "the darkness you suffered at the hands of the temple at large. Were it not known to me, I do not know that I could forgive what you have done, especially as it has been done in my name. I can, however, no longer escape its irony. Just as the people of the Elemental Lords now act in their god's name falsely, so now are things attributed to me that bear nothing of my approval no less my countenance. That I will be vilified by the process has been known; still, it is a bitter pill to swallow."

By the time of this speaking, I had come at long length to understand what The`Galin's goal in seeking me was. Indeed, what his goal was in creation entire, and while his methods sometimes infuriated me with their indirectness, I could not fault their singular devotion to purpose. I could not deny his wisdom over time, either.

"I acted wrongly," I said humbly. "Turning brother against brother, enslaving the dissident. I acted wrongly."

"Among the Brilhado, there is a family in which I see great promise. I wish to see them raised to the level of the generalship. The eldest of the brothers is to be made my communicant. Do what is necessary. Use what means are necessary. For them, I have a plan they will never expect. We might in time restore what has been lost. Though it is a bit late."

"My lord?"

"Yes?"

"Which family, my lord?"

"Celegra. The family name is Celegra."