Funeral Pyre

Gra'akast

The Holy City was in mourning. Those that still lived in the once great jewel of the Desert of Skulls gathered in the huge plaza at the center of town.

Tamazzalt, the Ascendant, looked on as the the dark plumes of smoke rose into the night sky, slowly drifting across the steeples of the city, carrying the ashes of the Prophetess in the wind.

Less than 200 people, that still called the city their home, turned to witness the cremation of Sister Locust. Long gone were the days when their mighty city held thousands across its homes. Now most of the city laid abandoned, slowly being claimed back by the desert.

He lifted his shoulders and looked into the bright flames of the funeral pyre. She had lived longer than the last two he had served. But had been the least effective of them all. Content to allow their ways to simply be. Content to watch as more and more Septs returned to the desert. Content as the Ozainae's influence in Arcadia waned.

Slowly those watching started to filtered out of the square. He would be the last leaving as their traditions called. His long black mane cascade past his broad shoulders, Tamazzalt was still in good shape for his age. His faith in the Twins rewarding him with longevity.

He wasn't sorry to see her die. She was after all just a vessel. Her refusal to raise the Horde since the arrival of the devils from across the sea four years ago on their shores, had become a sore point of contention between the two.

But despite being the highest ranking priest in 'The Wandering', hold a position of power and influence over all other brothers and sisters, he was still second to the Seer. Always was, always would be...

But Tamazzalt was unique. Almost as unique as the Seer itself. In their two thousand year history he was the only priest of the Twins that was blessed by both Yther and Viher. Tamazzalt, The Ascendant, was a Water-Bearer, as well as a Air-Weaver. He was a master of Water and Dust.

And the time had come for changes.

"Gather the Brotherhood of the Ebony Hand." He whispered to a woman standing close to his shoulder. "The time has come..."

She bowed deeply, pulling her good over her head, grinning, turning from the pyre.