Duty respects what gods are capable of, whether that be John Gaius in the Nine Houses or the Pthumerians in and around Trench. However, a myriad exposure to one leaves him less in outstanding awe of gods in general. Decorum and respect may be given (though not guaranteed), but they are beings of some physical form with reason and emotion, with agenda and alliances, with relationship and rivals. In the end, everyone sentient is just that.

"When the god knows the future," Duty replies, "it is a game of chance." He does not mistake tolerance for approval, nor familiarity for friendship. "He does not always play."

"I served one god for a myriad," Duty says, "one of his fists and gestures. These gods do not frighten me." The Reckoning killed him, and the mark of her shot remains over his heart. Even in the face of death, he did not fear it nor her. Sleepers may return from death, but life is never a guarantee. He will live as he believes, be that for a short time or a long one. He expected to be dead long ago.