Original X-roads-2003

    Within second the purple mist had us standing in front of Othesis castle.
    “I’m gonna…” Mesiaha started to walk off.
    “Just wait.” I grabbed her arm. “We’re all going to see Xiantin.”
    We made the long trek up the stairs to Xiantins door which was wide open.
    I scrunched up my face, that doesn’t make sense.
    “Enter.” I heard his voice boom out from inside.
    We shuffled in single file, the room looked the same, Xiantin sitting on his chair.
    “I have been expecting you.” he watched the sky outside the window.
    Zariaha quietly approached him.
    He turned to look at her, I gasped. His eyes!!! Xiantin had turned blind while we were away.
    “Do not be overly concerned Assassin, or should I say Empress now?” he faced my direction.
    “Assassin is fine. What happened?” I held back the urge to go to him as if he was a helpless old man, he was far from helpless.
    “I am old Jasylin, I am dying.” he set his hand on Zariahas’ arm as she knelt beside him and set her head against his leg. “I know why you come, You will not die Zariaha. None of you will fall to that fate. You have still more to learn Dear, dear, Zariaha.” he stroked her hair. “I must apologize for not being here for you.”
    I took in a breath, wanting to say something, but nothing would suffice. I turned to walk out.
    “Do not leave.” Xiantin stopped stroking Zariaha’s hair and made her sit up. He faced her, “You have learned a great deal, you have surpassed all my expectations.”