Hear my words, Great Riashmanei, and I will deliver you paradise beyond your understanding.
Riashmanei, I have divined our allegiance. I have cast aside the material world for seven days and seven nights until God wreathed me in the sight of you, red-coated and striped by the night, asleep in a bed of stars.
Riashmanei, do me one service and you will never hunger, never tire, never want.
Hear me. No other creature will come bearing such gifts. Hear me, please.
Can you hear me?
Yes, girl, I hear you. Get you from this place.
• • •
Great Riashmanei, I am the sorcerer of Ukrasil. At the touch of my hand, I have grown trees that bear pearls instead of fruit. I have spun weightless thread from the inky darkness of the woods. I pulled our temple out of the ground and into the sky. I bade the dead speak and the living silent. I offer you the fortunes of the world.
Find those who will speak with prey. Rid my mind of your voice.
What must I lay at your feet? For an audience with you?
