Life in a prison cell is stifling and demoralizing, but at least at night as he sleeps, Atticus can escape it for a little while. In the Fade, he is free, and the entirety of it is a canvas spread out before his fingers.

He passes some time in his own dreams, making waterfalls from starlight and islands of gemstones, but the satisfaction he derives from this simple bit of alteration doesn't ease his restlessness or agitation. The need in him draws spirits closer, but the whispered offers they make him don't tempt or tantalize; he is old hat at their game, and casts them away with a spell that sends them retreating into the ether.

With a gesture, he shrouds himself, and steps through the Veil, into the dreamscape of a certain elven enchanter.