The Gate

Dahut, X, 10.

Here is a seasonal reference that I missed. On a calm, crisp day when waves roll softly against Ys:

"Inland, autumn colours dappled the hills." (p. 232)

Gratillonius and Cothortin Rosmertai, Lord of Works, stand above the sea gate. A sample shows that the doors are sound but have become damp. Dry rot will get under the metal. The wood will be weakened within ten or fifteen years and must be replaced before then. Records show how to do it. Craftsmen and divers will have to be trained. Before that, oak from the Osismiic forests will have to be cut and seasoned. Gratillonius will shortly visit Aquilo on political business and will also ask about timber. He looks forward to being away from the Gods of Ys: Gods that can be left behind just by travelling a short distance. Think of Ys as a haunted city.

Irony: those gates will never be replaced.