The Last Aayu: Book 1 - Ashes

Chapter 14: The Joys of War

The first rays of the Ardor sun crept through the ornate windows of House Aayu, painting Utahis' chamber in a warm, red glow. The young Utalan warrior stirred, his red skin glistening in the morning light. As consciousness slowly returned, memories of yesterday's confrontation with Tygrell flickered through his mind.

Utahis sat up, his muscles slightly sore from the previous day's exertion. His eyes, still heavy with sleep, caught sight of a folded piece of parchment on his bedside table. Curiosity piqued, he reached for it, immediately recognizing the elegant script of his sister, Erisliu.

Unfolding the letter, Utahis began to read:

"Dearest brother,

Your actions yesterday have filled my heart with gratitude and pride. In standing against Tygrell, you not only defended my honor but also upheld the values of our house. Your strength and adherence to our ways remind me of why the Aayu name commands such respect.

Thank you, Utahis. Your return from the War Academy has brought more than just your presence back to our home.

With love and admiration, 

Erisliu"

Utahis read the letter twice, a mix of emotions playing across his features. Pride swelled in his chest at his sister's words, but it was tempered by a lingering concern. The fact that such a letter was necessary at all spoke volumes about the tensions within their extended family.

Resolving to speak with Erisliu in person, Utahis rose from his bed. He dressed quickly in the traditional garb of House Aayu, the fabric a deep crimson that complemented his red skin. As he fastened the last clasp, his mind wandered to the possible locations where he might find his sister.

The halls of House Aayu were already bustling with activity as Utahis emerged from his chambers. Servants and family members alike nodded respectfully as he passed, word of his victory over Tygrell having spread quickly.

Utahis first checked the family's private gardens, a favorite spot of Erisliu's for morning meditation. Finding it empty, he made his way to the training grounds, thinking she might be there to reclaim the space after yesterday's incident.

As he approached the training area, he heard the familiar sound of practice weapons clashing. Rounding the corner, Utahis saw Erisliu engaged in a spirited sparring match with their younger brother, Utorou.

Erisliu, her movements fluid and precise, noticed Utahis first. She called for a halt to the match and turned to face her elder brother, a warm smile spreading across her face.

"Brother," she called out, her voice carrying a mix of affection and respect. "I see you received my message."

Utahis nodded, closing the distance between them. "I did," he replied, his voice low and caring. "I wanted to make sure you were truly alright after yesterday's... incident."

Erisliu's smile faltered slightly, but she quickly composed herself. "I am well, thanks to you. Tygrell's actions were... unexpected, but they've only strengthened my resolve to improve."

Utahis placed a hand on his sister's shoulder, his eyes searching hers for any sign of lingering distress. "You know you can always count on me, Erisliu. Not just as your brother, but as a fellow warrior of House Aayu."

Utorou, who had been standing quietly nearby, stepped forward. "And on me as well, sister. We stand together."

Erisliu looked between her brothers, her eyes shining with emotion. "I know," she said softly. "And that knowledge gives me strength."

As the three siblings stood together in the morning sun, the bond between them was almost palpable. Yet, in the back of Utahis' mind, a quiet concern lingered. Tygrell's actions had revealed a fracture in the family's unity, one that might require more than just physical prowess to mend.