Rhenal’s footprints in the freshly fallen snow revealed the triangles upon circles held together by bands of gold. This was the symbol of life energy, flowing freely, covering the courtyard of the L’Intin Palace and the inside walls of its three triangular towers. If the Deception failed, this would be the last time Rhenal entered the palace, his home for the past 50 years.

On the steps leading into the L’Intin Palace he looked back at the silvery grey of this day’s last light. Twilight was falling fast. Once the moon rose, the world would be two.

All the sun orbs in the entrance hall of the palace were filled with light. Rhenal blinked as his eyes adjusted.

Will such light ever fill this hall again?

Nothing was decided. Nothing certain. All now depended on the Decision Maker’s choice.

Rhenal hurried across the entrance hall and down the hanging staircase to the Room of Life where the Joining would take place. Where Joinings had taken place for centuries, perhaps never would again.

Despite his nervousness, the blissful joy of childish expectation filled Rhenal’s chest. The anticipation of basking in the free flow of life energy just before it was pulled into the single purpose for which it was released was stronger than all doubt and fear.