"Even children surrounded by love may die," Teja says, remembering little Athalwin, son of his friend and predecessor Witichis, after whom one of Wachis' sons is named.

"You do not get what you deserve. You get what you get, and no amount of boldness, love, and determination will sway fate."

"Says the man who saved what remained of our people by just stubbornly standing in the mouth of a gorge, throwing spear after spear, and just not budging," Adalgoth chides, quietly.

Teja shrugs, and reaches out to stroke little Valeria's cheek, where she is cuddled against Demeter and looking at him with big eyes.