Readers should have read several of my other stories before attempting this one. It refers to Brian’s past in the "Requiem" series and in "Prometheus Unbound"; and it follows shortly after much of the narrative of "Aftermath."

Dismay (dis m?) v.t. 1. to break down the courage utterly, as by sudden danger or trouble; dishearten utterly; daunt.

Synonyms: appall, terrify, horrify, frighten, disconcert.