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How could I not?

Riv sighed.You know so little of me.

I know more than I let on. I’ve been studying you since you made the jump into this sector. I sensed your interactions with everyone at the markets you visited, from traders to beggars. Your reputation as a Rider also precedes you and tells me you are a man of honor, Riv Sable. I, in turn, am pre-potency to be your son.

Another short silence fell as unseen birds called over the fissured desert.

Riv took a shaky breath, still not believing he was having a telepathic conversation with the son he’d had no idea existed until these last few days.How are you?

Well. I am coming to terms with what is to come.

And what is that?

A reckoning.

Riv huffed.Can you share what you think that is, son?

Enunciating the word was strange, yet nothing had ever felt more right.

Not yet. Only when I see how all the pieces come together.

Where are you?

Not far. I will return in three days. Until then, I hope you take care of her.

You keep saying that as if I wouldn’t cherish her.

She needs it. Part of this plan was to ensure she found her joy once more.

Riv flinched.Did you orchestrate this?

Let’s say it was a welcome side effect in my cause.

Son -

Killen chuckled.I’ll see you soon. Father.

He emphasized the word as if he, too, was pleased to say it.

Fare thee wellwas all Riv managed as their connection fell away.

The Rider spent a few minutes absorbing the conversation he’d just shared with Killen.

To his wonder, the encounter had buoyed him up, and his spirits lifted.

Because if his son saw a way forward, so would he.

He returned to the Räk House with a lightness in his heart he hadn’t experienced in years.

13

Shattered Smokescreens

RIV

Early the following day, Riv awoke to the scent of spices andkahawa.

A bright acidity and clean finish eclipsed the tantalizing fruity notes and deeper hints of wine.