the young woman’s determination. Cord said something loudly in her own language. “We may speak in Veden,” Nikli said, “so Rysn may understand.” “Very well,” Cord said. “I challenge you! You must duel me now to the death!” “I think you’ll find I cannot be defeated by a mortal,” Nikli said. “You don’t know what you’re asking.” “Is that a yes?” Cord bellowed. “If you insist.” “Ha!” she said. “You have been tricked, god! I am Hualinam’lunanaki’akilu, the daughter of Numuhukumakiaki’aialunamor, the Fal’ala’liki’nor, he who drew the Bow of Hours at the dawn of the new millennium, heralding the years
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