ToP Chapter 84

Chapter Eighty-Four: Red Dirt to Red Domes

Solineus, embraced by the Ilu-Silvstro of the Ilû-Strono Plains, participates in their vibrant competitive games, marveling at their strength and agility while nursing a hangover from their potent beer. Invited to a sacred spirit-smoke ritual, he experiences a profound vision where the Lady, his mysterious guide, urges him to hasten west to Mulshuhar, the city of red domes, hinting at a past awaiting him there. Awakening to find Yumûlu reviving him, Solineus learns his vision paralleled hers, with her spirit guide, the eagle Filûrêu, instructing her to save him. Inspired, Yumûlu and her newly betrothed, Rêmwûer, lead Solineus on a 26-day trek through red-rock lands, navigating northward to avoid dangers before joining the Mulshuhar road. Bidding farewell to the Ilu, Solineus secures a ride with a family of Ergôtrîts, non-Ilu travelers, who will carry him to Mulshuhar despite the language barrier. Reflecting on the rare joy of parting without loss, Solineus rides onward, hopeful yet uncertain about the revelations awaiting him in the fabled city, guided by the Lady’s cryptic promise and the bonds forged with the Ilu.

• ToP Chapter 83 — Fir Dancers
• ToP Chapter 85 — Future's Witness Past
• Trail of Pyres - Main Chapter Listing