All His Wrath

“But how do you support that, Kimar?” Anders asked, with more heat in the question than he really intended. He sat facing Kimar, with everyone else sitting in a rough circle. The gargoyles squatted, as was their habit during discussions.

Before anyone had a chance to say anything, Anders added, “Please, forgive me. We’ve already had enough to get upset over. I’m just trying to understand all of this. Based on the evidence we have at this moment, we have as much reason to suspect Lohxnahr has been undone by Kahrnahrgx and replaced by an altogether evil impersonator! Because Mrs. Macy was rescued and returned to us by Zarentil, it seems we have more reason to question whether it was really Lohxnahr who was speaking to you.”

“As I have said already, Anders,” Kimar replied, his voice tightly measured, “I have known Lohxnahr for many generations of men and I trust my senses. Beyond this, I do not need to justify my decision.”

Anger flashed across Johann’s face, and he cleared his throat loudly. Heidi quickly laid her hand on his knee and pressed down hard.

Tiny lazily opened his eyes, curious if everyone was ready to play again.