“Ah, if it is to be so,” he said as he studied the concentric circle and its benches that eventually led to the bottom.

“One of your abysses,” I said. I tried to keep levity in my voice. I don’t think I succeeded, but he played along.

“I shall watch my step.”

I smiled. “I would do better if I could. But I have to keep you out of sight, and while the mines are shuttered, where better?”

“Tell me, was your father here?”

“Not at Great Pit. Kahsura, much further north and west. Barely in the Empress’ hands, but she sent him nonetheless.”

“Longevity was never a concern for the Empress following exile.”

Immediately, my stomach twisted. Did he believe I was abandoning him as the Empress casted off rebels and traitors? As she had done my father? “That is not why you’re here. I swear to you, Sansevero—“

“Never apologize for what you are or explain your decisions. We have made you, I have made you.”

“I thought, perhaps, that I made myself.”

“In familiar images.” He took my hand and squeezed it. “I will be fine. The days are not too cool, and there is ample wood to keep me warm at night.”

“The Lings are rated to last another seven years. Don’t overwork them, and they’ll serve well,” I said, kissing his hand. “Don’t open the gate for anyone, except for me.”

“I don’t expect to see you again, my dear. Your path and mine have diverged, yes, never to cross again. You have paid for atonement.”

“Whose?” I asked.

“One day, the answer will be yours.”