Chosen: The Legend of Saqui

BOOK IV CHAPTER V

CHAPTER V - A NATION REMEMBERS

Troops from both sides took a moment to bow their heads in silence in remembrance of Saqui. The Gen Zana did not know her, yet they still knew it was a tremendous loss.

Jonteau returned with Rimac to the Grand Central Palace to sign a new truce. Never again would one race invade the other.

After the new truce was signed, the Gen Zana returned to Nicabar.

The next day was a day of mourning across the tribes. Each village had its own memorial service.

Her body was shown at the Grand Central Palace. She was surrounded by flowers from the six villages. At her side was her sword; in her hand was her dagger. She wore a royal dress handed down from one of her ancestors, only the second time in her life she had worn a dress.

Tens of thousands came to the Palace to pay their final respects to the Chosen One. Eluney, the boy who turned her down. Ayme, Utatci, Kayode, and Sapay, the ones who accompanied her on her quest to find the lost Quesmi. Piro, Tadan, Lluqui, and Ailen, the seekers who helped her find the elements to try and save her daughter. Jonteau, the leader of the Gen Zana. The Council of Six and Rimac.

After the service, she was taken to Leyati to be buried next to her father.

In the weeks that followed, the Palace received many gifts to carry on the memory of Saqui. The Tobbi created a statue in the likeness of her. The Patamon made a painting of her surrounded by the animal symbols of the Great Spirits.

It was decreed that Unity Day would now become a week-long event, Unity Week. Each day would be devoted to a different tribe, starting with her native Chicans. The seventh day would be to honor the legend of Saqui and all of her accomplishments.

With both Saqui and Jumoke dead, the question arose, "Who would succeed them?" The Council of Six suggested that Rimac become the new ruler of the tribes.

"Thank you for such an honor, but I must decline. This is a position more suited for one with experience as a ruler. I am merely a counselor."

He suggested that instead of one ruler that the Council of Six each rule separately over their own kingdoms, yet convene at the Palace so as to keep the tribes united. They agreed, so long as Rimac agreed to stay at the Palace as counselor to the Council.

Every day, Rimac would roam the halls of the Palace and see pictures of Peyeche, the young girl who would grow into the legend that united the people and created a grand state of harmony. He would always feel her presence looking down on him.

Everyone would feel her presence. She would be a positive role model for children all over Larunda. What once was separate was made whole, all thanks to a little girl from modest beginnings who became the Chosen One.