The gods are dying and the world they have ruled for time out of mind is dying with them. All seems well for now in their vast Garden, but beyond the great Rim Wall that keeps it secure, the rains are failing, deserts are encroaching, and prayers are lost to the howling winds. The people of the outer nations watch the heavily guarded wall with hungry eyes, knowing that they or their children will one day starve or die trying to breach its defenses. And then, the unheard-of happens. A warrior, bred to serve and protect the gods with unthinking loyalty, asks a question.