Her prediction proved correct, and Patrick was shown into the Council Chamber without any wait. It was a surprisingly utilitarian room. They sat around a large table with an oversized chair at one end. They set a smaller chair for Patrick at the other end.

"Welcome," the Chair said. She looked even bigger up close. "be at peace in our City and our Land."

"You honour me with your welcome," Patrick said.

"Is it true that you came through the Goddess Tree?" a man dressed in ...