absent himself. In the beginning he is felt and known, sometimes as
a shape, sometimes as a voice, sometimes an overpowering emotion.
Later on all is dry, dark, and harsh in the soul. Then you would
think that Thire was a million miles off."

"How do you explain that?"

"When everything is darkest, he may be nearest, Maskull."

"But this is troubling you?"

"My days are spent in torture."

"You still persist, though? This day darkness can't be the ultimate
state?"

"My questions will be answered."

A silence ensued.

"What do you propose to show me?" asked Maskull.

"The land is about to grow wilder. I am taking you to the Three
Figures, which were carved and erected by an earlier race of men.
There, we will pray."

"And what then?"

"If you are truehearted, you will see things you will not easily
forget."