ToP Chapter 53

Chapter Fifty-Three: A LAdder of Rivers

Meliu, seeking Sedut to unite the Silone Church and clans, uses the Codex of Sol to lure Ulrikt, who, disguised as a boy, reveals Sedut’s location and hints at a map showing Tomarok, a mysterious place or concept. Guided by Ulrikt’s cryptic directions, Meliu and Lelishen find a hidden encampment of three thousand devout, where Sedut, skeptical of Ulrikt’s survival and Meliu’s claims, confirms Tomarok’s location on an ancient God Wars map as a holy mountain plain. Meliu persuades Sedut to join the clans’ southward migration to the Dragonspans, citing mutual survival, though Sedut reserves commitment for her followers. Meanwhile, Ivin and Solineus, planning the Silone’s river crossings, devise a floating bridge of lashed ferries, supported by Edan-supplied wood and ropes, to navigate the Ilmen and other rivers. At the Ilmen, rapid barge construction progresses, but Tek threats loom, with scouts monitoring for Reshu attacks. Sedut, impressed by the bridge and the camaraderie between Meliu’s escort and her devout, agrees to join the migration, acknowledging the need for clan protection, though some adherents may stay in New Fost or the wilds. Ivin, bolstered by Meliu’s success, remains wary of her unspoken concerns, as the Silone prepare for a perilous journey south.

• ToP Chapter 52 — Crackling Winds
• ToP Chapter 54 — Awakening the Night* Trail of Pyres - Main Chapter Listing