At the Edge of Night: Sorahn vs. Tenmatsu Tenimi

[Sorahn]

Sorahn un’ Rohnahmeh sat atop a cracked and broken pillar, perched high above a derelict temple of Ronah. The old column no longer held the weight of a roof. Age and disrepair had removed this burden years ago, and the remains lay scattered across the stone floor of the ancient temple.

The majority of the great pillar still remained, allowing Sorahn to peer out over what was left of the roof to the forest clearing beyond. The sun was providing its final remnants of light before the cold of night. A soft breeze filtered through his short fur, providing a pleasant cooling.

The Ranoan’s large, swept-back ears suddenly perked slightly, and his eyes narrowed. Those sharp, battle-hardened eyes slowly scanned the trees, searching intently. He remained perfectly still for a moment, save his ever-swinging tail, and listened.

Suddenly he leapt from the column, landing lightly on a shorter one nearby. He hopped again, swinging from one of the high arches to another pillar before sliding down a thick vine growing around it. He landed gracefully on the dusty stone floor with a soft thump which echoed from the walls of the silent hall. He spun quickly and came face to face with an Ai’bron monk.

“I know.” Sorahn said simply.

The hooded figure stood in the shadow, making his face indistinguishable. “His name is Tenmatsu Tenimi. None have heard the name before. He is a newcomer.” The monk responded from beneath the dark hood.

“Is he skilled?” Sorahn said, showing interest.

“None can say. However he has a very unusual appearance, and he carries a large scythe.”

Sorahn nodded. “Thank you.”

The monk simply bowed and turned away, disappearing behind one of the cracked stone pillars. Sorahn turned to the stone statue standing in the middle of the temple.

It was a massive and imposing figure of Ronah himself, the creator and god of all Ranoans. The statue stood 70 feet tall, and had the appearance of a creature similar to Sorahn, except with large horns and great wings that spread over 100 feet. He held a long spear and an intense gaze. Every feature of the intricately carved statue was a testament to Ronah’s might.

Sorahn knelt down at the edge of the pool surrounding the great statue and murmured softly in his people’s ancient language. Then he cupped some of the water in his hands and drank it, relishing its cool, refreshing feeling as it flowed down his throat.

He slowly stood, water still dripping from his chin, and looked to the face of the statue. “Ronah, guide my spear.” He said quietly and turned toward the massive mahogany doors at the opposite end of the hall, just as the enchanted sconces hanging from the pillars burst into flames, lighting the temple in the onset of night.