The goddesses sat on the edge of spring, gazing at the summer that lay before them.
“I suppose you think yourself very clever, manipulating the Armonia into reuniting with your precious Lisitsa,” said Zivena.
“Moderately clever at best,” Marzanna said deprecatingly. “For anyone who understands the underlying nature of mortals, it was fairly evident that all it needed was the occasional push. The bond between siblings can be quite useful.”
“Well, you haven’t won yet, my sibling!” said Zivena.
“Of course not. I only warned you not to count me out. Now I’d say we are more or less on an even playing field.”
“Only if you can get those willful, atheistic Kantesians to cooperate.”
“True,” agreed Marzanna, although for some reason she did not seem particularly concerned.
They were silent for a few moments.
Then Zivena said, “It was surprising to hear that name again after so long.”
“Mokosh, you mean?”
“Yes. Do you suppose Mother is even more cross with us than usual?”
“Why?” Marzanna asked teasingly. “Have you done something that warrants it?”
“Not I,” asserted Zivena. Then her liquid eyes narrowed. “Have you?”
Marzanna’s smile stretched into a broad grin that showed her rows of gleaming black teeth.
“Who can say?”