Kisa’s.”

            “Kisa.” The word was bitter on the king’s tongue. “Kiongozi’s brother?”

            The queen nodded.

            “So…” Ahadi’s unsheathed claws left a deep cleft in the rock beneath. “I have lost two of my lovers to that damned family, and a son as well.”

            Uru could say nothing, only shook her head in defeat.

            Ahadi glared at her. “And to think I had just poured out the rest of my heart to you. Thank you, my most beloved queen, for breaking it.” He sighed, then turned around. “It’s time I forgot matters of the heart now. They have caused me naught but grief.”

            The king looked out to the sky, and snarled. “So be it then. I shall fashion for myself a broken kingdom fit for a broken king.

            “It is time for the reign of Ahadi to truly begin.”