The Last Aayu: Book 1 - Ashes

Chapter 16: Loss

As the days pass, a sense of limbo settles over House Aayu. Sushal's condition remains unchanged, neither improving nor worsening, leaving his family in a state of anxious uncertainty. The once bustling infirmary grows quiet, with only the soft sounds of healers moving about and the steady breathing of the wounded Patriarch breaking the silence.

The arrival of Talor Valtanis Bothrik with his impressive force of twelve thousand men marks a turning point. While it solidifies their hold on the conquered territory, it also signals the end of House Aayu's immediate role in the campaign. The orders to return to Luey Pass for resupply and to winter at home are met with mixed emotions.

As the Aayu army prepares for the journey home, a stark contrast emerges between the troops and their leaders. The soldiers, buoyed by their recent victory and the prospect of returning home, maintain high spirits. Their laughter and songs of triumph echo through the camp as they pack up their gear and prepare for the march.

However, for the Aayu family, the journey is somber and introspective. Utahis, Oqanae, and Utidass oversee the preparations with a sense of duty, but their thoughts remain with Sushal, who is carefully transported in a specially prepared wagon.

Oqanae spends much of her time by her husband's side, her usual commanding presence subdued by worry and fatigue. Utahis, thrust into a leadership role he doesn't feel fully prepared for, alternates between projecting confidence to the troops and seeking quiet moments of reflection.

Utidass, ever practical, takes charge of many logistical aspects of the journey, her efficiency masking her own concerns for her uncle and the future of House Aayu.

As they travel, the family's conversations are muted and often revolve around Sushal's condition and the potential outcomes they might face. The weight of uncertainty hangs heavy over them, a sharp contrast to the victorious mood of their returning army.

The landscape gradually changes as they make their way back to Luey Pass, the signs of autumn becoming more pronounced. The falling leaves and cooling air seem to mirror the family's mood – a sense of change and the end of a season, both literally and figuratively.

Despite the challenges they face, there's an underlying current of resilience among the Aayu family. They know that regardless of what awaits them at home, they must stand united to lead their house and honor Sushal's legacy, whether in his recovery or in his memory.

As they approach Luey Pass, with the familiar silhouette of their home on the horizon, a mix of relief and apprehension settles over the family. As the Aayu army marches up the causeway to the Temple fortress, the sight of home lifts the spirits of the weary soldiers. The massive gates of the fortress swing open, and a tide of red-skinned Utalans pours out to greet their returning warriors.

At the forefront are the remaining members of House Aayu. Erisliu, her white hair gleaming in the sunlight, leads the charge, flanked by the twins Utorou and Zhrokoi. Behind them, Vharad strides forward with measured steps, his face a mask of anticipation. Servants and lesser nobles of the house follow, their faces alight with joy and relief.

The initial moments are a cacophony of jubilant cries and tearful reunions. Soldiers embrace their families, recounting tales of their victory. The air is filled with laughter and the sounds of celebration.

Erisliu reaches Utahis first, throwing her arms around her brother. "You're home!" she cries, her voice thick with emotion. "We've been so worried!"

The twins, not far behind, join the embrace, creating a tangle of siblings. Their usual mischievous grins are replaced by genuine relief and happiness.

Vharad approaches more sedately, but even his stern features soften at the sight of the returning army. He clasps Utahis on the shoulder, a rare show of affection. "Well done, nephew. Your father would be proud."