Half of our forces were decimated by the demons. The majority of the maimed succumbed to their wounds. And with two of our ships blasted to rubble, we had only to think ill-tidings were to meet us in Yudhruman. There was little to believe that the Demons hadn’t already visited the city. For as we continued our journey toward the borders of Yudhruman, we could sense the traces of aether that lingered in the air.
Things of seemingly greater import took precedence in my mind. When I finished my meditations in the early morn, I visited Druzhat’s quarters.
“What did the God of Death mean when he said my life was promised to him?” I asked. “What does my father have to do with this?”
He remained silent for some time. In deep thought, he paced the room. He looked to the glass of the window, revealing the forest and sky in its view.
“I cannot speak to you concerning your situation,” he said. “It is not my place to do so. Yet when your father returns, beseech him to reveal those details. For if the Agent of Death now seeks to take you away so soon, then it is paramount that you know.”
“But if it’s so important, then why hold your tongue?” I asked.
“Because your father promised me under oath of the zshtya that I speak not of this,” he said with a sigh. “And not just me, but all the ministers, aristocrats, and officials who knew. Even your mother knows what was done to bring you to this world.”
There were a myriad of questions I had. This went even beyond the hold of death, to even concern other beings who kept watch over me, as they certainly have over you.
But for the time, the matter had to be put to rest. I left his quarters, and tended to the soldiers as best I could, assuring that all was right. They feared not for themselves, but for me. Death himself had declared me to be the sole object of his pursuit, and all around had heard. Whether or not they realized it, death would continue to follow me, finding as many chances as could be had to drag me to the underbelly of the world.
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We reached the border where a great wall was erected. Paths led from the forest to connect the nearby villages. All around the wall were the aerial ships lined, their pyramids shining under the light of the setting sun. It seemed we arrived last, for very few soldiers or others could be sensed inside the vessels.
A path of light was given to us, aiming toward the city in the distance. Another series of walls surrounded it, but was eclipsed by the height of the buildings, whose tips were like spears. The city ascended like terraces, with the base stretching far into the horizon. All farm work was ceased. The reared lands were empty. And from the city we could see lights raised and burst.
Festivities were about and fireworks were in season! The sadness I held washed under the glorious sight of revelry.
“Let’s move Druzhat, soldiers!” I cried. “It’s time we were merry!”
I took to my chariot and raced down the path of light. The soldiers laughed as I sped away. Druzhat followed after me, crying for me to wait. The soldiers that were to come entered their chariots and soon after followed.
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My anxiety and doubt were pushed aside for the moment. It was time I reveled in the merriment of our hosts. At last to see my friends of the gated-city!
The path was long, yet could easily be ridden. Without my realizing, I had issued the air underneath, and flew the chariot. I raced about the bursting fireworks. The people below could see me flying above, and they called with shouts, holler, and laughter.
I continued past the high pointed roofs and elevated terraces to reach the massive courtyard of the high palace. Druzhat followed right behind me, and we landed near the open doors. The King, queen, princes, and princesses were there beside their retinue, ready to greet us.
I disembarked and knelt, while Druzhat hastily arrived to my position.
Before Druzhat could speak, I said, “My gratitude for extending your invitation! We come with our retinue of soldiers, who have just for the moment fallen behind.” They laughed, and I rose and bowed with folded hands. “I am Prince Yurva, for I am One who Represents Death. I am prince to the Immortal King, Desyar, and heir to the seat of the Kingdom of the Well-Skilled, Koshapa! I come in attendance of the centennial festival and tourney.”
The King came to me and tapped me on my shoulders, giving a hearty laugh. Though he was old, and his hair and face grayed, his frame resembled my father. He was dressed in ceremonial armor with his long scepter standing as tall as him.
“Welcome prince, I am King Brirad, for I am One who is a Fortunate Warrior! We are glad of heart that you arrive in time for the evening celebrations. We feared you would miss them. What caused the delay? Ah, well, we shall talk of it later, for you have the whole of my family to meet, and I am sure many friends that have to either attend or visit. I hoped your father would come, but I know he and the Solar King are busy protecting the entirety of our realm from the horde in the north. My blessings upon your entire family!”
I bowed in respect. “My gratitude to you!”
“Now come, come!” he said, pushing me forward and raising Druzhat. “We must feast and make merry tonight!”
“Sire, sire,” said Druzhat, “we have not yet given the ordinance of our delegation!”
“While formalities are important, a stuffed belly is more so!” the King said heartily.
I was already fond of him. Perhaps had we arrived earlier, then we would’ve had to give my father’s ordinance as was custom, but I suppose some good things come to those who have ill befall them. Regardless, at some point, we would have to discuss the matter of the Demons.
It was rather strange that though their scent was strong in the area, their presence was masked. No destruction or anything of the like could be had. Where were they?
We walked into the palace and passed through the great halls held to the side by massive pillars. The interior was greater than even my home, dazzling in self-emitted light, greater than what could be had from the light of the oculus.
The King talked much with Druzhat, while Druzhat wiped the sweat from his face. When protocols were not followed, he grew rather anxious. The servants flapped their great fans to the minister, but his hair flailed about, leaving the hold of its knot. He now seemed like a madman and we laughed at that display. The great minister only sighed and shook his head in shame.
We descended on many airborne lifts that flew far fast to the bottom of the great estate. I wondered how it was the soldiers would use these, given their number. Perhaps there were other means for them to be lowered, if not just walking normally by way of the sidesteps. Now I felt a little sorry for them.
As the lift lowered, we could see light at the base. At its halt, we moved through the great opening. Light flooded our view, but as my eyes came to adjust, I could see the great throng assembled outside the gates of the lower courtyard.
They were busy with festivities, but with all sorts of attractions and entertainments spread the main road. Letting myself be absorbed in the merriment, I dashed toward the gate, only to be held behind and pulled.
I was caught in the embrace of familiar persons.
“I know you,” I said.
“I hope you do!” said the familiar voice.
“Oh! I pray that you would not forget us!” said a higher, mellow, but equally familiar voice.
I pulled from their embrace, and cried, “Varey! Viruka!”
They nodded and said, “Welcome to Yudhruman, Yurva!”