The Echoes of Solon

by D S S Atkinson

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  As the morning heat began to rise, Thu’Ra’s mind surged with ideas and methods that he might use to persuade Imr’As that a far more daunting task was required of him, though the chosen’s true purpose for keeping the boy away from the delta was all but settled with his rulers, he still required the prince of Atlantis to agree.

  He did not wish to be too bold for the boy’s attitude, yet he simply could not allow for the child to risk their entire purpose within the Parting Sea. When the moment came in the early afternoon of that day, the conversation was brief.

  “The men of the northern shores are whispered to be undefeatable in battle, not even Poseidon could combat their gods, the scale of responsibility upon your shoulders is grand, my prince, your leadership skills will be needed if we are to keep our fleet from straying from its purpose. I am bestowing this post upon you, for I do not trust another.” The boy had appeared mesmerized by the chosen’s words despite his efforts to act impartial over his decision, the articulation of his invented description of the men of the northern shores had persuaded the boy, no word of command was necessary. “Should the people of this land be made aware of your father’s plans in the delta, nothing less than a leader of men shall be required to organise the warning of encroaching danger. By no means should you engage these people, Imr’As.” The two shared nods. Thu’Ra acted as though the boy was his only option, that he needed him as an equal to succeed in the progression of his nation. An immediate feeling of inner peace surged through the chosen when Imr’As accepted his request.

  The persuasion had been easier than Thu’Ra could ever have imagined. He was not surprised the boy had taken to the plan with such enthusiasm, he believes he is now a commander of his people. The chosen shuddered at the thought of laying responsibility on the child’s shoulders, but he was sure keeping him away from the delta was the safest option for his army. All that was required now was to escort the sovereign to the delta and enact Atl’As’ plan.

  Before Imr’As stepped up to move over the vessel’s reed work portside, the waters all across the Parting Sea began to judder wildly. Huge waves picked up from the midst of the calm, rising and colliding at the whim of some unknown force.

  “Look! To the northern landmass!” Emen’Rus called out from the crow’s nest and the crew gathered up to stare at the shoreline that was now far away in the distance. The earth quaked violently. It could be felt in the water despite their distance from land. Imr’As turned to Thu’Ra, a look of perplexed terror was strewn across his adolescent face.

  “Are we being punished by Poseidon, chosen?” He knelt down for the boat began to shake uncontrollably under the strain of the stirring sea. Thu’Ra however walked across deck towards the boy, and grasping his arm with colossal strength dragged him to his feet. He smiled confidently, reassuring Imr’As of his knowledge.

  “It’s merely an earth tremor, my prince, we’re quite safe upon the ocean, it will pass in good time.” As the two stared towards the northern shores of the Parting Sea at the wondrous power of nature, Thu’Ra’s thoughts returned to that of Atl’As and his detailed description of the chosen and sovereign’s actions within the delta. The sheer daring and magnificence of the plan’s formulation caused him to shiver for the thought of their endeavour possibly succeeding against such minute odds.