The Drowned Gods, #2
Stranger Skies
by Pascale Lacelle
Contents
Chapter 35: Baz
Overview
Baz and Kai are unexpectedly legitimized by the Karunang dean, forcing them into public classes during the games. In theology, Clover advances provocative ideas about the Tides and the Shadow. Kai confronts Clover over choosing Baz and hints at Clover’s unlocked Eclipse magic. Later, Kai reveals a dream-bond, reassures Baz, and agrees to seek Emory in the sleepscape, deepening Baz’s trust in him over Emory.
Summary
Morning after the first challenge, the Karunang dean warmly greets Baz and Kai, accepts Baz’s game participation, and insists they attend classes, promising protection for Eclipse students. This unexpected legitimacy forces Baz and Kai into visibility instead of their planned anonymity.
In advanced theology with Professor Aurora Hoyaken, Clover argues that the Tides and the Shadow may have been divine intermediaries rather than gods, and that greater powers may have recalled them, fracturing magic. Wulfrid scoffs, but the professor welcomes Clover’s speculation. Kai watches Clover with growing suspicion.
After class, Kai confronts Clover about choosing Baz as a partner, accusing him of endangering an Eclipse-born. Clover cites Baz’s cleverness and time magic, pledges not to jeopardize him, and admits to gruesome nightmares tied to childhood trauma. Kai references entering Clover’s nightmare and extracting an umbra, implying Clover has unlocked Eclipse magic. Clover promises Baz’s safety, and the tension eases.
That night in the illusioned gardens, Baz and Kai question the dean’s acceptance and Clover’s timing, fearing manipulation. Kai reveals he repeatedly drifts into Clover’s and Thames’s nightmares—and thinks he saw Emory there—suggesting a magical dream-bond among certain souls.
Baz worries Kai is only drawn to his darkness; Kai rejects that, affirming Baz is not like truly terrible minds and confessing enduring intrigue and care. Baz asks Kai to try reaching Emory again in the sleepscape, and Kai agrees. Baz reflects on Emory’s secrecy versus Kai’s steady loyalty and realizes he trusts and is aligned with Kai.
Who Appears
- Baz BrysdenTimespinner competing in the games; attends theology; mediates between Kai and Clover; seeks contact with Emory; recognizes growing trust and closeness with Kai.
- KaiProtective and suspicious; confronts Clover about choosing Baz; reveals entering Clover’s nightmares, suggests a dream-bond; reassures Baz and agrees to seek Emory.
- CloverAldryn figure and Baz’s partner; presents bold theological theories; admits traumatic nightmares; promises not to endanger Baz; likely unlocked Eclipse magic.
- Karunang DeanWelcomes Baz and Kai as students, legitimizing their cover; supports Eclipse-born and insists on class attendance.
- Professor Aurora HoyakenTheology professor who encourages scholarly debate on the Tides and the Shadow.
- WulfridStudent who derides Clover’s theories and champions strict Tidelore orthodoxy.