I apologize for my absence on here, I’ve been extremely busy and contending with some respiratory bug that has sapped me of strength and power of will to do anything but sleep. To atone for this, allow me to divulge Chapter 2 of One With the Gods for those curious about this tale. 😉

A word of caution…it is rather dark, the content dabbles in circumstances rather uncomfortable, and those that find the darkness of humanity something that offends them easily, it may become rather unbearable. If you still care to take the plunge, read onward.

 

CHAPTER TWO

            The skies showed gray of color: the color gray that does little service to those reliant on its blessings. Not gentle and blue to nourish and grow the crops or greet the people with its warmth…veiled from them instead with a pale color, not dark, either, to promise rain, at least. The skies had seemed this way for years, now. The sun remained obscured, and continued to break the promise of a deluge to quench the thirst of the land me and my people relied on. Not wanting to discourage my wife, I tried to lift up her spirits…but it was obvious that my platitudes were hollow, and my concern couldn’t mask how truly worried I had become.

 

I’d never seen a drought like this. Crops were withering everywhere, there wasn’t enough rain. I could only imagine what Pangaia looked like at this moment. My mind filled with memories of the people from my city, like watching the children play and help repair weapons, help skin the animals the gatherers would return with for food and for blankets. I’d watch as these children would learn the ways of my people, watch them mature from mischievous children whose work would amount to little results, to the point of them being teenagers to where they could practically do these things by themselves. They were the new generation, and they would go on to father and mother new children to teach, and the cycle would continue.

 

I wished for this. The simplicity of it all was something appealing to me. From birth, Nadir and I were denied these things, for our path was differently laid. We were to remain in our temple, separate from the people around us. Having only contact with those deemed appropriate, my social connection was only with my tutors, my family, and the witch doctors. Learning the ways of my people through the stories recited to me and the scrolls handed down throughout the generations, I was taught about our gods and how to appeal to them. It was my destiny. But all along the way, I coveted something else…

 

From my window peering out over my people, I took notice of a family who lived on the edge of where this temple, my very world, seemed to exist. The father would be away, hunting, and when he returned with another man who might have been his brother, the results were impressive. He brought back enough to feed the family, and would share his conquest with their neighbors. He would be permitted entrance into the temple, where he would lay out an offering of his very best to the royal family and the Gods as an offering.

 

I observed: he was always honest in this. Always the very best of his haul would be offered, he never once cheated the royal family or the Gods their due.

 

Such honesty spoke out to me, this family had good, honest values passed on.

 

The mother would remain busy, cleaning what little livestock they had and tending to them. She would hum a song unknown to me while she mended clothing, sewing together garments with expertise and crafting beadwork to adorn them with. She worked tirelessly on one particular garment for years, with intent on someone in the royal family wearing it. However, it was fashioned for a woman. It would never be worn by someone of royal blood, directly. She seemed not dissuaded by this in the least, and kept on sewing, making this garment of hide with a subtle pattern sewn into it.

 

For the longest time, it felt, I wondered what this garment was going to look like, as this woman had been working on it for a very long time. It was obvious to me that she had many other responsibilities that came first, and she seemed to not want to rush this garment. She wanted to get it just right.

 

And then finally, the couple’s daughter caught my eye. Watching her care for the livestock, feeding the hens bits of corn each day, and chasing them back into their pens when they’d accidentally get free was a sight I looked forward to every day. She had long, dark hair, like every woman in his city, but her hair seemed nicer to the eyes for some reason. I wasn’t sure why. The sun would seem to catch it just right some days, and it would hypnotize me as it would blow freely from a gentle wind. When I started to mature a bit, I imagined running my hands through her hair and it feeling very pleasant…like running fingers through the sand bed on a shore of all white coloring to it, feeling the soft strands gently hug in between my outstretched fingers.

 

She would hum this same tune as her mother. Her eyes would light up when she saw her father return from their hunt. Running out to greet them, she remained elegant, somehow in doing so. She would never scream or get overly excited, but she was happy to see them return, and greeted them as such.

 

One day while gazing out, my eyes caught hers. Taking the moment to better examine her face, her deep brown eyes met mine. She had high cheekbones and a small nose, and as her smile lit up her face, her teeth were straight and inviting. Her long, dark hair framed her face, and compared with her darker skin, this smile stood out brilliantly. I wanted to see more of it. Her smile was shown to members of her family, and me in this moment, but rarely to anyone else. She seemed preoccupied with her familial duties.

 

I could never get that image out of my head. We were about the same age, and this was before my age of maturity. When I did finally mature, my sole experience for wanting a woman to become my wife hinged on these encounters over the years with this mysterious girl…but this one moment stood out most singularly to me.

 

Nadir was the exception to the royal family’s rule. For I was meant to attain the gift of the gods, Nadir was meant to be the bridge between. Solei wanted for his son to be out into the world, to learn from his people. Nadir was allowed to be amongst the common people. Dressed in deep blue garments, accented by gold throughout his tunic, the helmet he wore, a crown rather, was set with precious stones. Guards were all around him at all times, but Nadir was allowed permission everywhere. Inside homes, along for hunts, there was nowhere that barred his path.

 

All I could do was watch from my window. Nadir would return home from his studies, as father deemed them to be, and tell us both all about what he had learned. From what I could gather, the people worshipped their Gods appropriately, gave ample sacrifice, and worked hard for them. Our father should be pleased. Nadir intended to spend more time with them, learning their ways and the specifics involving each task. For if he was to be the bridge between the gods and their people, he needed to see how best the Gods could benefit his people, and how to better please the Gods for even more enriched results.

 

Nadir continued doing this, going to each home and learning how they lived. One day as I had a break from my studies, I watched as this girl from my window interacted with Nadir. She seemed nervous, but excited at the same time. Nadir seemed unfazed by her. Nadir seemed to not appreciate the beauty of this girl or her family, it seemed Nadir had other interests. Seeming dismissive towards her and her family, I watched on as this family tried to show him how deeply committed they were to the Gods and the royal family. Nadir was making his way back to the temple as the sun began it’s descent below the horizon.

 

The girl seemed bothered by something, I wanted to know what happened.

 

Upon Nadir’s return, I quizzed my brother about his travels that day, seeming to catch Nadir off guard. Nadir had no idea that I had watched him from the window, and had no idea of the fondness I had developed for this particular family.

 

Nadir replied that he was learning more from the people, about how connected they were to the Gods and how each family sacrifices their fare share to them and to the royal family in offering.

 

I asked my brother if they all were doing so.

 

Nadir said he learned of some today that were holding back.

 

At the words, my heart began to hurt. Surely, he didn’t mean this family I’ve been observing…

 

While the royal family gathered for dinner at the royal eating chamber, we sat down on our golden seats with silk cushions to partake in the food offerings of the day. Nadir told our father about what he learned that day. Citing examples from this family that I was fond of, about how the man of the family wasn’t present and how they didn’t have anything to offer him upon his arrival. Nadir seemed unimpressed. I wanted to speak up, knowing that their father offered plenty when he returns and that this family is loyal to the Gods and to the royal family, but I was out of turn doing so.

 

My place was among the Gods…not with the people. That was my brother’s charge.

 

As Nadir kept making the rounds, he kept learning the ways of our people. Sometimes being gone for several days, Nadir went hunting with some of the gatherers as well. I, in the meantime, kept peering outward, imagining what life must be like.

 

This girl had developed into a beautiful young woman. Her bosom had developed, hidden by the tunic she would wear while doing her chores. Her hips also had more definition it seemed. Her hair was longer and somehow seemed to catch the sunlight more often, and her face became even more beautiful to me. Her smile had turned from contrasting beauty, to dominating radiance. I loved watching her and wished it was me instead of Nadir being allowed outside.

 

One day, unexpectedly, her mother had her try on this outfit she had been working on for years. Going somewhere inside their tent, she reemerged to take my breath right out of my lungs. The garment modestly covered her breast, allowing for the curves to show, with an array of beads to accent above the neckline. The lower part of the garment sat just below the waistline and covered her hips, showing a bit open along the side of the leg, and the part over her front could be tied together over the back part as well, or left open to allow for sitting. This girl seemed embarrassed a bit, but her mother encouraged her. She seemed hesitant to turn in a circle for her mother, perhaps not used to how revealing this outfit was. However after a bit of convincing, this girl did so to appease her mother. She gave a laugh after doing so, seeming to become very slightly more accustomed to this outfit donning her beautiful body.

 

I thought this garment was made just for her. She belonged in this outfit, whether intended for her or not. It would be absolutely wrong for the Gods or the royal family to deny her of this. I had just witnessed another moment I’d not be able to forget involving this young woman. She was stunning.

 

That same night, her father returned from their hunt. Strangely, he wasn’t carrying any goods this time, a sight that seemed very irregular to me. He also had a more troubled expression on his face than usual, as this girl ran up to him as always. Seeming concerned, my attention turned towards a rustling sound from the shrubs and trees offering a bit of privacy for this family from the rest of the community. Emerging was Nadir and his entourage from the temple. As guards held spears outward, this hunter lowered his head with a shameful expression, as this girl cried out in fear. Immediately, Nadir yelled loudly in anger, his words were unclear, but his reaction was not. Ordering to his guards, the tips of their spears plunged into the hunter, his blood spilling out onto the ground as the mother dropped to her knees, breathing heavily. The girl was crying, wanting to run over to him, but would immediately place herself in danger doing so. All she could do was shake in fear, staring down at the ground, not being allowed to look at Nadir.

 

As Nadir’s face turned to a glare, the guards then approached the mother and this girl. As words were spoken by Nadir to this mother, she struggled to get to her feet, obviously shaken up by what just happened, and went inside the tent. This girl next found herself surrounded by these guards. Nadir approached closer to her, glaring at her with this expression of malcontent…I could tell from all this distance away. I didn’t know what had transpired to call for this wrath of my brother’s…but from what I knew of this family, they were undeserving of such treatment. All I could do was watch from my window at the atrocities being committed.

 

The mother reemerged, a sense of desperation seemed evident in her body language and her demeanor, holding outstretched in her hands, the very outfit her daughter was wearing moments ago. This girl, crying, couldn’t bring herself to look at anything but the ground below her as she had collapsed to her knees now, also. The tips of spears surrounded her, as Nadir approached closer to this girl. His voice couldn’t be heard from my window, but the actions spoke for themselves. As a soldier leaned in and jerked this girl to her feet, aggressively, her mother, sobbing, handed her this garment.

 

Removing her tunic, exposing her nude body for the soldiers and Nadir, watching inappropriately, the girl was crying still, as she brought her hands to her face, covering her breasts in the process. An angry soldier reacted by grabbing a wrist and bending it awkwardly, so she could not cover herself from their leering. As they continued this disgusting behavior, she struggled to place the garment over her, crying still from everything happening. Nadir’s face took on a demonic sneer; it appeared my brother was ravishing in this moment. The same guard who had jerked her into an upright position, next started to touch her breasts, and as his hands started working his way in from her upper thighs, she reacted by hunching over a bit. The only thing saving her in this moment was another guard showing jealousy, and shoving him away, trying to lay his hands on her himself.

 

In the fray of this moment, her garment was ripped off of her body, the once-breathtaking outfit she had donned now lie tattered on the ground below, as Nadir had evidently had enough. At once, the guards began to collect themselves, and Nadir stepped over to the tattered outfit, picked it up, and tossed one part at the mother, the other at this poor girl. Spitting upon them both, he exited. I couldn’t believe what had just happened. The girl cried out, I could hear her from my window. Neighboring villagers came over to see what had just taken place, the girl’s mother had come over to cover up her daughter from being seen naked in the meantime. Some thirty people or so had come to check on them. People were supportive, but at the same time, seemed cautious, as if they knew that to help these good people would mean inviting the wrath of Nadir and these guards on them, next.

 

As soon as Nadir had returned, I wasn’t sure what to say. As we all had gathered around the table again, Solei asked his son about what he observed on the hunt. Nadir mentioned how some men don’t offer their best to the royal family or the Gods, and it is his place to bring them to justice for doing so. I spoke up.

 

“Once that justice is delivered, does the punishment extend to their families?”

 

Solei’s eyes shot open, staring inquisitively at both of his sons for an explanation. Nadir’s eyes opened a bit wider, perhaps, and gave a cold reply.

 

“It depends on the severity of the crime, dear brother.”

 

I glared now, “Like, violating their daughter, for instance. What calls for that?”

 

Nadir stopped eating, seemed to gauge his response, and glared back a moment before fixing his expression to hide the evil in his heart. Evil that I was fully aware of being present after this incident I witnessed.

 

“If she is guilty as well, then why would she be spared? Surely, one who’s destined to be connected to the Gods on high understands that the Gods turn a blind eye to nothing. Cheat the Gods of their sacrifices…and the persons responsible will be stripped of their blessings.”

 

In this instance, that same demonic sneer filled his face for a moment, turning just so slightly to avoid being seen by our father…meaning for only me, his brother, to witness. Nadir had no intention of allowing our father to see the wickedness of what he had just done. In fact, father voiced in.

 

“What’s done is done. The Gods look favorably upon those that deliver their will. Honor your brother, Zenith, for he has done well in the eyes of our ever-watching Gods. He is someone to be proud of with the work he is doing for our people.”

 

Raising his glass of mead, he gave Nadir a nod. Nadir’s expression turned to one mimicking modest appreciation in the moment.

 

Nadir was practiced in deception. Our father, in all of his wisdom, didn’t see this. I intended to see justice truly served. I thought about what I would do…and decided I’d carry out my plan. As far as twins go, the witch doctors and teachers were correct. One was good…the other was evil. But one thing strange about this notion was that we both understood each other. I understood the darkness consuming my brother’s intent and his actions. While I chose to keep it at bay and not give into cruelty, which our position could mask, Nadir gave into it…in this incident, at least. I understood my brother more deeply, perhaps because we were born together. I was immune to my brother’s deceptions…perhaps the only one who saw him for who he truly was.

 

As we turned in for the night, I decided what I would do. I waited for the guards to do their rounds, knowing each and every one of them in their routines would walk a certain pattern depending on what time of the night it was. I searched where I slept and grabbed hold of a spear in my room. Not well-versed in how to combat, I had never needed to learn how. The fear my subjects exuded of the royal family was all the protection I needed from others. I would always be safe. Nevertheless, armed with this spear, I crept out of the hallway, through the open doorways, and silently traversed the hallway into the main chamber. With one mission in mind, I sought out the guard who would be approaching my brother’s room right around this time, while remaining shrouded in shadows.

 

Creeping along, I waited for the perfect moment to spring into the light, making this guard get into an attack stance. Once the guard realized who it was, he confusedly dropped his guard and resumed an obedient demeanor. Studying his face carefully, I had to make certain…ordering him, quietly, to stand below a torch on the wall, I got a better look at his face. It was the same guard who had initially touched this girl, and was molesting her. Dishonoring her was a crime in my eyes, and regardless of what Nadir said, he deserved capital punishment. The next part of my plan was my most daring yet.

 

“Follow me back into my room.”

 

The guard seemed even more confused by this, until I spoke up once more, deception being a tool I was utilizing now. I wondered who could do it better.

 

“There’s someone in my room, guard.”

 

The guard immediately nodded, grabbed his spear, and began rounding the double corners into Nadir’s room, spear out, expecting to come face to face with an intruder to immediately eliminate. Instead, as this guard rounded the corner, he came face to face with Nadir sleeping soundly under his sheets on his bed made of straw, while I silently stood behind him.

 

Taking my spear, with all of my might, I forced the tip of this spear into the back of this soldier, causing the soldier to collapse. Taking the bottom part of this guard’s tunic, I covered his mouth to muffle the sound, and began plunging the spear into the soldier repeatedly, the distance not allowing for very deep wounds, but bludgeoning him from the sharp tip nonetheless. As the life drained out of him, I was being extra careful not to get a speck of blood on my tunic, for if I did, my plan would unravel. Everything hinged on me being careful. As the guard lie dead at my feet, the lake of blood running further outward from his fresh corpse, I stood outward from it and started stabbing him in the front, repeatedly, until a thrust of his became stuck in his body. Jerking it free, I held the spear, still, and made my way next to Nadir’s bedside.

 

Nadir began to stir a bit as I tiptoed towards where he lay. Searching his room, I gripped the spear tightly and shadowed over my brother, lying there, peacefully on his back, untroubled by the atrocities he committed today. The casual brutality and disregard for someone so good…I couldn’t tolerate it. My hands shaking a bit, I took the spear and held the shaft of it over my brother’s neck, not touching his skin yet. Debating on what I should do, I decided I would leave my face uncovered. I wanted my brother to see who did this to him. And then I acted.

 

Forcing all of my weight down onto my brother’s neck, Nadir’s eyes shot open in a panic, his arms flailing about as I wouldn’t let up. Holding my brother down, I intended to kill him…or come as close as possible to the final act without letting him expire. Hearing the sound of my brother rasping and choking, I let my eyes meet my brother’s panicked gaze…and it was in this moment I pulled the spear back, my brother choking with tears in his eyes, gasping for air and coughing.

 

I took a moment and glared into his eyes, letting Nadir soak in this moment that I had created for him; absolute helplessness and complete and total fear of another. Giving the exact same look into his eyes that Nadir had given me at the dinner table, completely obscured from our father, I then backhanded my brother across the face with as much force as I could muster, knocking him from the top of the bed onto the floor into the pool of spilled blood. Nadir was crying…probably from fright, shock and hopefully a bit of pain.

 

I then walked over to my brother’s identical spear in his room, completely unblemished, grabbed hold of it, and while side stepping this same visceral mess, took care in not allowing any to touch my shoes, garment, or any part of me, and made my way back to my room.

 

Nadir and I were both protected from our father searching into our memories. Royal blood was considered sacred, and not to be spilled by any means. For coursing through our veins, lie the power of our Gods…father wouldn’t dare probe into his son’s memories. The only other witness to what had really happened, outside of the royal family, lie murdered on the floor of Nadir’s bedroom. No matter how Nadir would spin it, their father would never believe I did what I did.

 

I could play the role of deceptive snake, too.

 

The next morning, a great ruckus awoke me, opening my eyes to the sight of four guards watching over me. Silently they stood until I engaged them. One guard spoke up immediately.

 

“Your highness, there’s been a commotion last night. Apparently your brother was injured in an attack.”

 

I tried my best to hide a smirk from my face, no doubt, they’d conclude that there was an altercation between Nadir and this murdered guard. It’d look like there was discord of some sort between them during Nadir’s learning process that spilled over into the evening hours. Nadir had murdered this guard in reprisal for something…I was sure Nadir would take that way out.

 

“Apparently someone snuck in here, seeking revenge on the person that your brother had disciplined yesterday…apparently the brother-in-law to the man your brother brought rightfully to justice in the eyes of our Gods.”

 

My eyes shot open. I hadn’t accounted for this…Nadir snaked his way out of this, somehow. And in doing so, I had brought further wrath down on the family I intended to protect. I was unsure what to do.

 

Getting out of bed, I inspected my room, my tunic, my brother’s spear posing as my own, everything for any sign of an altercation. Perhaps if I could convince my father that we had fought last night, we’d both be punished, but I could spare the life of this hunter’s brother-in-law…and not bring more hardship down on this innocent, dutiful family.

 

Not a trace.

 

Not even where I had struck my brother was there a bruise or a cut to indicate evidence to a violent act. Even my word would not be believed if I told the truth, now. Unless I could get my brother to go along with the truth…doubtful, given what had just taken place.

 

Searching for alternatives, I started walking along the concourse, letting the sunlight pour in from the tall pillars and warm me, the light being significantly brighter today, seemingly. Witnessing guards everywhere, I had to think on my feet quickly…catching the sight of my father approaching my position, my father, in a very rare instance, showed concern for his son’s well-being.

 

“My son, come here.”

 

I approached my father’s outstretched arms and accepted an embrace from him. My father held me for several seconds, allowing a private moment of vulnerability be shown to me.

 

“I was very relieved to hear you were unharmed. Apparently your brother was attacked by a relative of someone he brought to justice yesterday. There is no excuse that the guards didn’t protect Nadir better. I’ve posted more guards by his room for the time being, until this man is brought to justice. He’s not to leave his room.”

 

As my father placed his hands on my shoulders, his gaze kept looking into my face, perhaps taking in the image of me. I, while placating my father in this instance, kept trying to come up with alternative solutions to the complicated problem I just created. I thought I had thought it all through…I was wrong. Now, even killing my brother would be impossible, and utterly pointless. Everything was set into motion already, and even taking Nadir’s life would not solve this dilemma. I had to skirt them away to safety somehow, or come up with a solution that would deflect the reprisal away from them…but how? And I had to act, immediately.

 

Abruptly, a desperate thought came to mind.

 

“Father…what steps must be observed for me to take a wife?”

 

My father’s expression turned to one of curiosity in this moment. Not expecting this, I myself, honestly not expecting to blurt this out in this instance, could think of nothing else to protect this young woman and this family. For if she was to be taken by my hand and brought into the royal family, her family would also be pardoned and cleansed in the eyes of our Gods, as long as they would partake in the necessary rituals.

 

“My son…now is not the time to be thinking of such things.”

 

“But father…my mind would rather think of pleasant thoughts.”

 

“Yes, my son…but save your thoughts for your brother and his well-being. He will rely on your strength until he has recovered.”

 

I was unsure what it took to take a wife in the eyes of our Gods. I hadn’t been instructed yet in how to do so. It was to be delivered to me after twenty cycles of the seasons had passed. I’d only lived through nineteen of them. I couldn’t wait a year to save her life…I had to act immediately.

 

“Father…what would you say to me taking Nadir’s place for a day or two, so that he may continue to learn the ways of our people?”

 

My father took an heir of concern at the audacity of such an idea.

 

“Zenith, I just told you your brother was gravely injured in an attack! You have no place outside of the confines of this temple, your place is at the seat of the Gods.”

 

“Yes, father…but what of his studies? How is he to connect if he remains bed-ridden?”

 

My father seemed receptive for a moment…I had to make a good case.

 

“Father…while he is bedridden, he can be tutored like I have been. He can see a glimpse of what I am destined for. He can bring this knowledge to the people even more so, because he’ll have some direct knowledge…just like I have had the benefit of knowing. And by granting me this responsibility he was charged with, I can also see more of our people directly and see better ways to bring them closer to our Gods. This benefits us both, father.”

 

My father seemed to understand my reasoning…perhaps.

 

“I must think on this, my son. Your reasoning contains logic…and perhaps it is a failing on my part to have isolated you two so separately from each other’s paths of destiny.”

 

I knew how to set the sun and close the day on this deal, now.

 

“Father…there is still time to correct this, even slightly. This is the perfect opportunity. Albeit, I’ll have to have more guards with me, of course, to protect me from this attacker…but not only will this benefit both Nadir and I in our development as the future leaders of our people…but think of how much more positive impact this will have on our people and our Gods?”

 

My father stood silently, seeming even more receptive to my reasoning.

 

“Father, this decision can only strengthen our relationship with the Gods, and have a positive impact on our wisdom to rule our people. Please, father. I implore you, let me be a better leader to our people.”

 

My words had moved my father. With a gentle smile crossing my father’s face, he nodded in approval and spoke up with a tone denoting respect.

 

“You have much wisdom in your head, my son. I’m proud of you for the man you have become…and I have confidence that when my time ends, I’ll have placed our people in good hands, fathering such a fine son as you. Your wisdom will surpass my own, I’m certain of it.”

 

I grew excited at my father’s approval. My father next gave me some parting words.

 

“Go with care, my son. I shall see you upon your return, and I look forward to hearing of what you learn.”

 

My father smiled, and with those words, I took to immediately summoning guards to my entourage. I’d have double the amount of them that Nadir had, all to appease my father, of course. The real damage had been caused already, and was done by my own hands. Now, I needed to immediately ensure the safety of this family, hoping that Nadir hadn’t already had guards dispatched to find them. I could find them and protect them for as long as possible…but the chances of being able to wait close to a year for me to reach the correct age to marry was unlikely. I doubted my brother would be kept close to home for longer than a week, if that. Our father was protective of the two of us, naturally, because not only were we the heir to his entire nation, but we were his only beloved family left to him.

 

I had to ensure lasting safety on these people…they were good people, I was certain of it. It was all that mattered in this instance. The guilt of my actions, meant to protect this family and deliver justice to those doing acts of evil in my eyes, the eyes of the Gods according to what I had learned, instead was undoubtedly going to lead to more injustice.

 

Injustice on my part towards a guilty party, to pay for an act of injustice in turn…caused more injustice, nothing else. Two wrong deeds did not create a right solution, I learned. I could no longer be deceptive like my brother. The Gods punished me for doing so, I saw that now.

 

Somewhat nervous and scared for the world outside the confines of this temple I’d been inside my entire life, I couldn’t deny a definite excitement in my heart also. I’d longed to see this world outside of my sleeping chamber for years. Now, I had the opportunity.

 

Making my way down these grand, gray-stoned steps, taking care placing each foot in front of the other, my guards surrounding me gave me a circumference to have some space and navigate, while also not wanting to bar my path from seeing in front of me. I’d not be carried, like my father when he was brought outside the temple. Such rights were allowed only for our High Shaman. I wasn’t of that title yet, so walking on this uneven, light-colored dirt path was proper form in this instance. The ground had a different give to it than the hard stones of the familiar temple floor to me, smoothed to maintain an even surface, everywhere. The ground here had unfamiliar contours to me, it was awkward at first with my first few steps, but I quickly grew accustomed to it.

 

The sun beat down on me, donning my crown and my deep blue colored tunic, with gold borders. Blue and gold were the colors of the royal family, nobody else was permitted to wear these colors. Because of this, and my great accompaniment of guards, no doubt, I’d go absolutely nowhere in anonymity.

 

My first location I headed was towards the direction of where this family lived. I would have to think quickly on how to protect them. As I gazed around at the surrounding city, the magnitude of it all seemed more astonishing to me than it ever had before. There were thousands of people. The main street of Pangaia had a clear divide of this dirt path, stretching far into the horizon, heading downhill slightly until it disappeared down a winding hill, down onto the plains of the land below. The hills surrounded my city…apparently we were quite high up in altitude. This made sense to me, given that the seats of our Gods were on high, and the closer we could be to them, brought greater blessings to us.

 

I knew that further outside of Pangaia lay forests and land where my people grew some crops. Judging from what I observed, this meant they were downhill, beyond this horizon. Lining this main road, were many tents and small huts where families lived. Outside, the activity was a hum with people sewing, carving canoes and spears, whittling arrows and repairing their bows, cleaning animals to utilize their gifts to them for their everyday lives, and speaking to one another. I knew to head towards the direction of my room, but I’d have to cross through these streets until I found where this residence was. I knew it lay in a small enclave where trees and shrubs closed them off a bit, so I had to search for a collection of trees, located a closer distance to where my bedroom would sit inside this temple than all of the others.

 

The problem for me was, from this perspective, I was a bit overwhelmed in this task. Making my way through; I had a singular objective in mind. I’d bring her to safety, somewhere beyond the limits of our city, somewhere to hide from the guards and keep her safe, for now. I had a slight feeling of optimism creep into me. If Pangaia was this expansive and crawling with people, it was entirely possible that it would take some time for this family to be found and have “justice” brought down onto them.

 

As people parted a path for me, I saw many of them look similar in stature. Most of the men had a muscular build to them, only some of them wore tunics to protect their bodies from the hot, intense sunlight. Those that wore tunics, they seemed to be made of a cloth material, sewn from cotton perhaps from the outskirts beyond the slope on that horizon. The coloring of them was a gentle, pale yellow color, rather dim in comparison to the greatness of the sun’s glory. Not even great by comparison to the wild flowers I’d seen inside of our temple, offered to the Gods and the royal family on a somewhat regular basis.

 

Everyone had dark hair, except for the respected elderly, whose hair varied from a grayish color like the sky sometimes, or even a few who’s hair was whiter than anything I’d ever seen before. The men had shorter hair, typically, than the women. The color didn’t change among them, even their skin tones, all having this color to them of a darker reddish brown color, reminding me a bit of caramel; a treat I would get to indulge in on occasion, when it was offered to the royal family by a townsperson. The women of this village were covered in tunics, all of them. Their hair fell longer, in many cases to their waist, the color of their hair being exact in comparison to that of the men. Some had some muscle definition in their arms and shoulders, but not to the extent that these men had. My people worked hard, their muscles were trophies earned through the steady course of continuous, hard work.

 

As I approached closer to this enclave where I believed this family lived, I readied my heart and steadied my mind for the upcoming encounter. I played the words over again in my head, what I would say not only in my first official encounter with this family, but also my first words uttered to this beautiful young woman who I’d grown exceptionally fond of. However, everything required tact. I had to ensure I stayed within the confines of my Gods’ rules, and observed the boundaries of my role to my people, also, even if it may take all of my will-power to not run my fingers through that elegant head of hair this young woman possessed.

 

I crept closer as my entourage parted a bit to allow me to observe the homestead. Seeing the signs on the ground of the blood from this murdered man, I saw nobody outside. Not wanting to intrude upon their home and startle this unfortunate family once more, regardless, for their safety, I had no choice in the matter. I grabbed hold of the hide-covered flap draped over the entrance to this tent made of the same, thick hide material, and entered.

 

Expecting to come face to face with this startled family, perhaps animate in their surprise for this unexpected royal intruder’s presence into their home, I was instead greeted by vacancy. There was no trace of them. Gazing about, I saw a straw bed by the edge, a clay kettle positioned over where a flame would sit underneath it in a bed of wood, serving to both nourish and warm them. Inside the kettle was not a hint of food remaining. Personal belongings were not there…this place was cleaned of everything.

 

Shaking my head, confused, I made my way back outside to the equally confused looks of my entourage, not maintaining their eye contact with me for too long, for it was inappropriate to look at a royal family member. We had been touched by our Gods, the people were to avert their eyes, lest they tempt their wrath in reprisal for showing disrespect.

 

Had they been taken already? Was I too late?

 

Worry overcame me like a flood bursting a dammed river. I needed answers. As I made my way out of their enclave, I noticed some townspeople had taken to showing attention to me, probably curious. I needed answers, so I spoke to them.

 

“What happened here, do any of you know?”

 

All of them looked to the ground, nervously. They were hesitant to speak, but one particular young hunter who was there, must have plucked up enough courage to voice in.

 

“Your guards already found them, your highness.”

 

My heart sank to my toes. I felt my stomach churn, wanting to throw up. My expression must have gave away my mood to this young hunter, and the others now, daring to pass a glance at their esteemed prince.

 

The hunter spoke again.

 

“Your highness, after you punished them yesterday, you taught them to stay honest and humble. It isn’t my place to question your will…but from what I observed, they have stayed true to this until the moment they were taken. You taught them, your highness.”

 

This hunter seemed bothered by the words coming out of his mouth. I sensed both fear of me in his voice, and resentment. This hunter thought he was speaking to Nadir. Realizing this, I thought long and hard on my next course of action. It was obvious that he took a stance siding with this family, perhaps in a protective manner. Nadir, obviously, was the largest threat to this family’s well-being. This hunter knew that. If this hunter thinks I am, in fact, Nadir, this hunter, with his resentment for Nadir, would not tell me anything that would damage the image of this family further and place them in further trouble. Otherwise, if he had seen this family do something dishonest or dishonorable, he wouldn’t hold them in such esteem as to protect them. That much was obvious to me.

 

I decided I would seek the truth from this young hunter, rather than hear what he intended to say to Nadir. Perhaps his message would change if he knew who I really was? I decided to test this hypothesis. Ushering him to stand before me, I spoke.

 

“Hunter…by what name are you known?”

 

Taking a moment, it was obvious he felt out of place, he spoke, still averting his eyes down to the hard soil below our feet.

 

“Atlatl, your highness.”

 

“Atlatl, I’d like you to come with me for a moment.”

 

I observed a sense of hesitation in Atlatl to do so, and also some concern from my entourage for my safety. Stepping into this tent, I stood on one side, intent on using this pot and fire pit as a barrier between us while I shared some words with him. At last, Atlatl entered, nervous seeming, while still averting his eyes. I could sense that this young hunter had animosity towards Nadir…perhaps the entire royal family. I needed to come clean, and see if I could learn everything this young man knew about the situation.

 

“Atlatl, I want to come clean. I witnessed my brother, Nadir, here yesterday.”

 

The look on Atlatl’s face changed to one of confusion at my words.

 

“Where my brother looks to do this family harm, I believe them to be honest, loyal people. I’m looking to protect them from my brother. How long ago were they taken, Atlatl? How many guards came for them?”

 

Atlatl didn’t answer immediately. He seemed in disbelief perhaps. I changed my tone.

 

“Time is of the utmost essence. If I am to rescue them, I need to know the answer, and I need to know it now.”

 

Atlatl shook his head, seeming hesitant to share any information with me regarding this. I became angered.

 

“I sensed animosity in your voice towards me earlier, Atlatl. I assumed you and I shared respect for this family who will surely be killed for attacking my brother. I believe in their innocence, and to safeguard them, I need your cooperation!”

 

“Your highness, I didn’t see how many of them there were.”

 

“How long ago did they leave, then?”

 

“Early last night, after it happened!”

 

“Lies! I was inside the temple, and nobody was apprehended last evening!”

 

Anger in me spilled over. Perhaps a bit of fear placed in Atlatl would loosen his tongue and challenge this stubborn resolve of his.

 

“I see…here’s how it will play out, then. You challenge the resolve I have for carrying out this task, then I will punish you for it, and ensure their safety.”

 

I felt my skin flush as Atlatl challenged a gaze upward at me, having knelt upon his entrance into this tent, showing a look of dread at my comments.

 

“Please, your highness…I’m innocent, don’t get me involved in this…!”

 

“If you don’t tell me what really happened here, this is what will follow. I will step outside of this tent, and tell them after questioning you, that you snuck inside the temple last night, murdered the guard outside of my dear brother’s room, and attacked him while he slept. Fighting you off, my brother was able to stave off death. Charged with bringing his attacker to justice, I returned to the scene of my brother’s last-known whereabouts yesterday, only to come face to face with my brother’s attacker…the animosity towards the royal family being evident in his tone he took with me, which all of my guards and our fellow townspeople heard as well. While inside this tent, he cursed the Gods, challenging our authority as the royal family and spoke of dissidence. I find him to not only be a heretic to our Gods, but a terrorist to our people. Immediately, this family will be safe once again, found to be innocent, even corroborated by your statement outside to my guards, moments ago.”

 

Atlatl shook with fear, as tears started forming in his eyes. I spoke again. Yelled, more accurately.

 

“Your life, your very fate is insignificant to me compared to theirs! What really happened here? The truth!”

 

Atlatl covered his face, fear overtaking him as he spoke.

 

“They fled…they heard guards approaching this morning, and they fled.”

 

I approached him closer, not needing this barrier between us any longer. Deciding to take a more forgiving tone, I tried to build him up a bit after whittling his defenses down.

 

“Your intentions were to protect those that you care about, where they not?”

 

Atlatl replied with a fervent nodding of his head, while still looking downward, obviously still shaken. His reply was honest, I deduced. He cared about this family.

 

“I care about them as well, and I honestly intend to protect them from my brother.”

 

“F-forgive me…your highness.”

 

I squinted a bit. I couldn’t leave him completely free of this, I felt. I needed leverage still, just in case. I chose my tactics carefully on how to go about this.

 

“You will tell me exactly where they went. I want to see them and take measures to ensure their continued safety. I will exit this tent, and you will leave a few minutes later. If at any point you tell anyone that I am not Nadir, or you betray the safety of this family or speak of the conversation had inside here today, I will share the alternative plan to my father and my word will say it is truth. Understood?”

 

“Understood, your highness.”

 

“I understand your devotion. That is honorable. Lying to me was dishonorable, as was misreading my intentions. However, coming clean, as long as it leads to this family’s safety and well-being, was an act of honor as well. Upon ensuring this, I will speak to our Gods, and I will mention your name to them for your honorable deeds…and ask that they disregard the dishonorable ones.”

 

“Th-thank you, your highness!”

 

As Atlatl told me of their location, I quickly left Atlatl to return outside where the townspeople remained bowing, and my entourage looked on with a sign of relief in their faces upon seeing me safely exit the tent. Choosing a brisk pace, I bid my guards to follow me. The journey would take us outside of Pangaia, further west a bit, where explorers had ventured, but not quite so far as to test the unknown boundaries of the sea beyond. Somewhere in the forest, this family had sought shelter from the reprisal of this royal family, for acts they had never even committed. Leaving the city, upon its edge where the tents gave way to open grassland, I noticed that deeply sloping hill with a difficult to navigate path leading downward to this larger expanse of rolling green. I knew I’d need to traverse this for a bit, perhaps a night or two, and then turn towards the expansive woodlands in between this hill where Pangaia sat, high into the sky in comparison, with mountains near it’s western edge, forming a barrier. It was in these woods that this family was hiding somewhere…

 

Feeling the insects on my skin, the blades of grass against my shins, ankles and my feet, my entourage would occasionally comb through taller prairie grass in search of snakes, not wanting their prince to succumb to a poisonous bite. The guards carried bits of food with them, sharing rations with their prince. I had never tasted food so bland and dry…it made me thirsty, whatever this strange, dense, bread was. It had sweetness to it, somewhat. I didn’t know how people survived on such sustenance.

 

Upon our entrance to these woods, I observed mounds underneath the dirt. Confused as to what this was, I directed my inquiry to my entourage. Explaining that there are those that do not follow the customs of our people in accordance to the God of death, Anjahl, I learned there were other practices done upon expiration of people from the mortal realm. They were simply discarded into the ground, covered by the very soil to be trampled under foot and rained upon, defecated on, and dishonored. The very notion repulsed me. The Gods must be very displeased with these actions. Perhaps it would be I and my brother’s responsibility to teach our ways to these outsiders, and spare them the wrath of our Gods’ reprisal.

 

For when an honored elder expires, it is customary to hold a ceremony for the deceased, surrounded by the family and friends who loved them, to place them upon an altar above fire, and send their spirit towards the Gods upon high. What remains are left, their bones, are then ground into dust, and eaten with broth by these loved ones…so that what is left of them in this world would always be with their loved ones.  They would live on inside us, guide us and protect us, for as long as we lived, until we expired ourselves, and the cycle would repeat.

 

What heretics.

 

Trekking through this forest, my guards took the lead. Scanning what I could ahead of me through the dense greenery, I knew based on what Atlatl had told me approximately where to begin looking for them. They were near a source of water. Somewhere near the foothills of this great mountain range spanning northward for a great distance, this family sought refuge. Worried that my numbers and my likeness to Nadir would cause a panic among them all, I had no other alternative but to hope my superior numbers would spot them before they could flee from us. If they fled, I’d end up giving chase to them for a long time, I worried, and place them in even more grave danger.

 

As days faded together, I kept pressing onward, determined to find them. They had to be somewhere close. I kept in mind the description of this location that Atlatl had imparted to me, and kept searching for signs. As I noticed an area of the rock face had an inlet of sorts, directly ahead of us, hugging the same mountains that bordered Pangaia high above us to our east, a hope crept its way into my heart.

 

Rounding the corner cautiously, I ordered my guards, quietly to not draw attention, to stand behind me while I made the first approach. Hesitant seeming in their compliance, they begrudgingly stood behind their prince as I peered around this corner.

 

There was a gentle waterfall, flowing water into a stream that seemed to disappear somewhere below the rocks. There was no real reservoir of water collecting, no lake at all, but a small stream of fresh mountain water seeming to appear and disappear all within a close proximity. Standing in shock, was this hunter’s brother-in-law, scapegoat of my actions, with a deer carcass over his shoulders, freshly hunted, it appeared. His eyes grew wide as a second person took notice…the mother of this family. Her face said it all as she grabbed hold of a sharpened stone, one which she uses to help carve these wooden objects with, and held it in her hand threateningly. A small tent had been erected behind them, closer to this water source, where movement from within became more apparent. Emerging after a moment, probably to check on why the sounds around her became more silent, was this young woman who had captured my attention so pervasively.

 

At once, my face drew into a smile. This hunter dropped his catch, and readied his spear. The girl, a frightened look filling her face, sought refuge once again inside the tent. Standing between this tent and myself, this hunter and this mother took a stance of protection of this young woman. The hunter was the first line of defense, and if he were to succumb, mother stood at the ready to defend her. I tried to dispel of this tension.

 

“I am Prince Zenith, and I am glad to see you all safe and unharmed.”

 

This hunter looked questioningly at me a moment, as this mother did too. This mother spoke.

 

“What proof do you have of who you say you are?”

 

I gave a gentle chuckle. “I’ve never once been questioned who I am, nor have I ever needed proof to claim I am who I say, in spite of being a twin. This is a first…and I’m at a loss.”

 

Somehow, the warmth I conveyed in my response received a chuckle as my reward from this hunter, seeming to disarm him for a moment. My face took a look of grave concern, remembering back on the image I saw from my window inside this temple.

 

“From my room, I have stared longingly throughout the years to learn what lie beyond the confines of my world…the boundaries of this temple, protecting me, served as bars inside a cell for me to peer out and yearn for what lie beyond. Over the years, witnessing the goings on of you and your honorable family were my understanding of this world beyond my confines. Longingly I gazed on, witnessing the deeds your family has done in the eyes of our Gods and of my family.”

 

This hunter seemed a bit embarrassed, but this mother seemed to feel differently. She felt appreciated, perhaps. Nodding her head, her eyes had tears as she kept looking downward, and in her heart, I could tell that she knew I was speaking the truth, now. I addressed her now, directly, in as formal a manner as I knew how.

 

“I remember watching you over the years, honored mother, weaving a garment fit for the royal family…no, fit for the Gods themselves with utmost care. Your husband would offer his very best of his haul to my father and our Gods in sacrificial tithe, and it brought honor to you and yours. And the day I saw your beautiful daughter don this garment…I saw the Gods’ will, that day.”

 

This mother started sobbing and dropped to her knees, as this young woman came rushing out of the tent, perhaps listening to this all, also. Clutching her mother, she dared a glance upward at me for a moment, a longer look than anyone else had given me before that wasn’t my father or brother.

 

“I saw your beautiful smile from afar, and the way you looked in this garment, it was meant for you to wear. I swore from that moment on, I wanted to allow you to wear it. Your family’s devotion over these many years, in my mind, surely have allowed for a small indulgence such as this.”

 

This girl’s beautiful green eyes squinted somewhat, taking the sight of me in a bit, perhaps…I dared a smile, hoping to convey warmth towards her that would dissolve the tension and earn me their trust, once and for all. I needed their trust, I didn’t want animosity from them. As she seemed to question my sincerity more, I reminisced once again.

 

“I remember the day my eyes first met with yours. I’d seen your smile a few times, but never had it looked more radiant than in that moment. It was as if your beautiful smile was meant all for me. In that moment, your outer beauty gave way to your inner beauty…I saw you for the true beauty you truly possess. Please…don’t fear me. I am not my brother.”

 

Her face softened a bit with my words, and her expression dared a smile, nervous in that moment to commit to it, but her soft-spoken words revealed her feelings.

 

“It really is you…not your twin brother.”

 

This uncle spoke up.

 

“Your highness, why are you here, if not to bring us to justice for this crime we’re accused of?”

 

“I know of your innocence, in this purported crime and of the one my brother lay upon your patriarch and the rest of you. You are undeserving of the Gods’ wrath, and of the reprehensible actions my brother and his guards took to you.”

 

I clenched a fist for a moment, looking downward with an angry look.

 

“The responsible parties from yesterday…justice has been delivered. I want you to know this. But the blame for such actions has been placed upon you, further tormenting an innocent family who have served as the very essence of my understanding of this world outside of my cage. I’ve come with intention to safeguard you all.”

 

My heart was pounding, I grew nervous. I’d never felt my nerves react in this way before…but it felt as if a flock of flittering birds took flight within my body. Seeing her stand up now, her tunic covered her curves, seemingly more so than previously, perhaps done so deliberately after yesterday’s appalling events. The question of how was asked by this mother, in a respectful tone.

 

“Will you stay with us here, away from our people forever? What of your responsibilities, your highness? Surely we are not of paramount concern to you…we are one simple family, your place is above us all…”

 

Her words showed great respect to me and my position, I felt. Even in their time of need, they sacrificed their own good for the greater good of me, and our Gods, as obedient subjects should. This moved me even more. I knew my words I would utter next were our Gods’ will. It was obvious to me.

 

“Your well-being is of concern to me, because you embody the loyalty that all good subjects and obedient followers of our Gods should have. Your example is one to be honored…and that was robbed of you yesterday from a man acting in impunity, and to safeguard you all from it, I ask for something big…”

 

Capturing all of their attention now collectively, I outstretched my hand towards them.

 

“I ask that your daughter be my wife, and no harm may come to you from here onwards.”

 

Nervousness crept into this young woman’s eyes, but it wasn’t a sign of dread or even worry. A slight smile started to form for a moment, as a giggle came out in the midst of her reply.

 

“If you deem me worthy, your highness…”

 

My smile beamed, and her mother, now to her feet, gave a loud sigh, like a weight came off of her, burdening her heavier than the weight of anything she’d had to shoulder.

 

“Thanks be to the Gods on high…this is truly a miracle, your highness! Bless you, your highness!”

 

A joyous mood filled the small camp, as this hunter laughed, happy to see his family receive such good fortune. Excited now about my return trip with them all, I sought to arrange preparations immediately to hold a wedding ceremony. I’d get married to her, and offer her the protection of royal title, and also the divine protection from our Gods in accordance with keeping their traditions.

 

Things had to be done right, however. Certain I was following the will of the Gods in this pursuit…I still was not of age to take a wife in their eyes. I’d need to convince father to allow me knowledge of the ancient ceremony. I needed to do so.

 

Upon my orders, my entourage emerged from beyond the rocky corner jutting out of this mountainous wall reaching high above us, and the eyes of astonishment were present all around. I instructed them all to safeguard them all also as if they were royalty themselves, much to the surprise of these loyal guards. And at once, we set to heading back to Pangaia.

 

The return trek seemed more difficult, perhaps of the stamina required to reach the summit of this mountain, where we all resided. Determined, I felt a strong sense of relief as I finally set eyes upon my temple, rising above the city in the distance. Approaching closer, guards started to converge on my entourage. Curious about this, I saw the number of people surrounding me started to equal the number of guards I traveled with. A nervousness crept into me as I pressed onward, undeterred from my destination. Regardless, they couldn’t touch me, and I kept the circumference around this family tight as well to not allow anyone to harm them, guard or otherwise.

 

As I approached the inside of this temple, my home, my father was there to greet me. At first with a look of relief on his face, my father’s face took a questioning expression, turned to grave concern.

 

“What is this, Zenith?”

 

“Father…I have learned more of this world, and have returned.”

 

“I can see that my son. I am questioning the presence of the others with you!”

 

“Father…I know we spoke of me taking a wife briefly before I set out…”
“Son, there was nothing to discuss. You are not of age to take a wife, yet.”

 

“But father, this must be done. In accordance with our Gods, I know it is their will.”

 

My father gave a laugh for a moment, shaking his head.

 

“My son…you do not yet know the will of the Gods. You know of their ways and how to please them, but they speak only to me. You must be patient.”

 

As a sense of dread overtook me, I saw a sight that troubled me even more: the emergence of Nadir from over my father’s shoulder. The stare that he gave me sent a chill into me, and I heard a muffled gasp come from this girl behind me…my intended. Desperation overcame me. I knew the Gods intended for me to be with this young woman, and to safeguard this innocent family from more wrongdoing. I needed to act quickly. Turning around, I directed all within my party to turn around and head back into the city. My father called out in protest, but his words fell on deaf ears, for I knew already the words he’d say. He’d say that Nadir was well, my place was once more destined for the confines of this temple, and they’d talk of me marrying in a year. In the meantime, Nadir, no doubt, has ordered these guards surrounding my entourage to acquire these three family members and detain them, and bring them to him for punishment. I could not drop my guard, and this called for an act of desperation.

 

Heading out onto the streets, I asked this mother of this family where I could find a low shaman to conduct the wedding ceremony. In protest, she insisted that I do so with my father, for I was royalty and the ceremony was completely unfit for someone high born such as myself, but to my continued insistence, she finally directed the entourage towards a tent.

 

Taking our places before the low chief, a sacrifice of a chicken’s blood was spilled to satiate the demands of the God of the life cycle…and under the setting sun, our hands were joined in marriage. Kissing as if I’d been submerged under water and held breathless for so long, I wanted to hold her close for all of eternity. With joy in my heart, I knew now that they would be safe. Returning now to the temple, I was greeted by my father, whose expression said everything.

 

In a flash, and a boom of his voice, I was stripped of my destiny to lead my people, and my place with the Gods. I was no longer considered royalty. At once, Nadir’s expression filled with this devilish sneer once more, and he ordered these guards to converge upon us and take us all into custody. Feeling threatened, I watched as my entourage of guards began to show divisions of loyalty among them. Some turned with their spears directed at this mother and uncle, along with me and my wife now, but others took a defensive posture in protection against these guards. As Nadir’s voice raised in decibel, the temples of his head flaring with rage as he commanded them to apprehend us all, my father’s voice rung out, cutting him off.

 

“My son, Zenith, though no longer royalty…will still be protected. Royal blood still courses through him. He will not be charged…the Gods will do what they will with him.”

 

As the soldiers turned now towards the other three, I pleaded,

 

“What of my family, father? Spare them as well, I beg of you…”

 

Silence grew, awaiting the words to deliver their fate unto them. “Your wife is not to be apprehended…but the other two shall be held responsible. This hunter attacked my son…and this woman offered her daughter up for marriage, not in accordance to royal traditions. They are to be punished.”

 

Feeling relief that my wife would at least be safe, I left the circumference of my guards, as my wife started to cry, clutching me close to her. Her whimpering grew in volume as guards began to approach the two declared criminals. As I turned my attention, I saw something unexpected occur.

 

About half of these guards turned in protection of these two. Nadir called out, demanding that these traitors be killed immediately, when one of these guards voiced back in defiance, “I was there when you dishonored this family, your highness!”

 

Another guard called out.

 

“We all were, and we won’t allow this!”

 

My father, angered, demanded that all of these rebels be brought into custody immediately. As this rogue sect of guards began stepping backwards, securing an exit of sorts while harboring these two within their circumference, I noticed Atlatl emerge from somewhere, break into the circle, and direct these guards and the two family members in some fashion. As a great clashing of weapons took place outside in the streets now as loyal guards took to following the orders of both High Shaman Solei and Prince Nadir, I watched as this band of dissenters disappeared down the path they had taken to come back home, the loyal guards chasing after them without relent.

 

My wife voiced in my ear, in that moment in the softest tone I’d ever heard.

 

“You’ve saved us. Thank you.”

 

And with that, I set out to start a life with my wife among the city.

 

The next day, guards ordered me to speak with my father inside the temple, where I was given expectations to follow my new role of being a scout, and to head to the great ocean and learn more…

 

Now in present day, as I approached the outskirts of Pangaia, I noticed nothing was the same. The grass had withered away. These same whispers on the wind spoke of mass sacrificial rituals being performed by my brother. They spoke of undead rising from the ground, the God of Death’s anger manifesting into monsters only spoken of in legend by my teachers growing up. They spoke of gales of wind so great they uprooted trees, and engulfed vortexes of water within their grasps to drown whatever survived the gales. They spoke of an angered dragon set loose upon the land to sacrifice the lives of those within its path not strong enough to defeat it.

 

And with spear in hand, I was the only one I knew of left alive who could stop them.

 

excerpt from One With The Gods (chapter 2)