The Last Aayu: Book 1 - Ashes

Chapter 17: Bloodstrife

The skies weep for Sushal, heavy rain pouring down in torrents as if nature itself mourns the passing of the great Patriarch. The funeral procession winds its way through the streets of the Aayu stronghold, a somber river of black-robed figures moving in solemn unity.

At the head of the procession, Utahis leads, his face a mask of stoic grief. His black robes, sodden with rain, clinging to his frame, but he stands tall, embodying the strength expected of the new Patriarch. Beside him, Oqanae walks in eerie silence, her eyes fixed on some distant point, unseeing and unresponsive to the world around her. The once-fierce matriarch seems but a shadow of herself, her grief too profound for words or tears.

Erisliu, Utorou, and Zhrokoi flank their mother and eldest brother, their own faces etched with sorrow. They join their voices to the mournful chorus rising from the procession, ancient Utalan words of lamentation carried on the wind.

The air thrums with the steady, heart-like beat of drums, their rhythm matching the measured steps of the mourners. The sound seems to penetrate to the very core of each person present, a tangible reminder of the gravity of this moment.

Behind the immediate family, the rest of House Aayu follows: nobles, warriors, and servants alike, all united in their grief. The usually vibrant red skin of the Utalans seems muted under the grey sky, as if the very life force of their people has been dimmed by Sushal's passing.

As they march, Utahis feels the weight of every eye upon him. He knows that even in this moment of profound loss, he is being watched, judged, measured against the towering legacy of his father. He squares his shoulders, determined to show the strength and dignity befitting the heir of House Aayu.

The procession makes its way towards the ancestral burial grounds, where Sushal will be laid to rest among the great leaders of House Aayu's past. The rain continues unabated, mingling with tears on the faces of the mourners, as if the very elements seek to cleanse the world of its loss.

In this moment of raw emotion and symbolic transition, Utahis leads his people not just in mourning a great leader, but in taking the first steps into a new era for House Aayu. The future looms uncertain, but for now, all are united in honoring the memory of Sushal, the Patriarch who led them with strength, wisdom, and honor.

As the funeral procession reaches the ancestral burial grounds, Utahis steps forward to perform the final rites for his father. The rain continues to fall, but Utahis' voice rises clear and strong above the downpour, addressing the gods in turn:

First, he turns his face to the sky, calling out to Krasil, the God of War:

"Mighty Krasil, hear our plea. Before you stands Sushal, a warrior without equal, a leader of unmatched valor. We beseech you, listen to the wisdom of his years. Let his strategic mind and courageous heart strengthen your eternal armies."

Next, Utahis lowers his gaze to the earth, speaking to Aksen, the Goddess of Death:

"Merciful Aksen, we entrust to you the soul of Sushal Aayu. Guide him gently through the veil that separates our world from yours. May he find peace and purpose in the realm beyond the material."

Utahis then raises his arms, addressing Qhevian, the Kaans'Pelor:

"Great Qhevian, Kaan of Gods, we present to you a true son of Utala. Welcome Sushal into your divine halls. Let his honor and dedication serve as an example to all who dwell in your celestial realm."

Finally, Utahis places a hand over his heart, speaking softly but firmly to Ahuna, the Goddess of Life:

"Blessed Ahuna, giver of life, we ask for your grace. Though Sushal's mortal journey has ended, let his legacy endure. May his teachings, his courage, and his love continue to flourish in the hearts of his family and his people."