Chapter Sixteen

Lorn treats a shoulder wound and grapples with rising emotion and doubt seeded by Tool’s words. Tool arrives, announces the “opening” is ready, and leads Lorn through wards into the Jaghut Tyrant’s barrow, where time is suspended. He admits he knows the Tyrant’s name, fears release, yet is compelled; within, his vows will end, after which he invites Lorn to leave with him.

Meanwhile, Crokus rides with the amnesiac girl, who recalls being called “Sorry.” Seeking a new name, she insists on Apsalar, after the Lady of Thieves. Their wary, awkward attraction surfaces as they plan to camp near Catlin Bridge and continue toward Darujhistan.

Kruppe and Murillio follow, arguing over haste and obligations. Kruppe reveals Oponn’s interest in Crokus and suspects Malazan activity tied to the barrow, even a T’lan Imass. Murillio, anxious about Coll’s condition, is nonetheless persuaded to press on, and they make camp at dusk.

On the plains, Paran is engulfed by a vast Bhederin herd and confronted by Rhivi warriors. Chance deflects multiple lances in a divine display, halting the attack. A mysterious Rhivi child and an old woman declare Paran spared and deliver a message: the woman he mourns—Tattersail—has not died but returned, reborn among the Rhivi. The herd departs, leaving Paran shaken but resolute.

At sunset, Paran meets the wounded Coll and shares food and stories. Paran confesses he’s a Malazan deserter; Coll recounts his fall from Darujhistan nobility and desire to reclaim his life. They agree to travel together, using Paran’s spare horse, toward Darujhistan and the converging fates awaiting them.