My Downfall

I can remember a time when I did not feel the concerns of life. I was wild and free. My elders warned me I was on a fast path to destruction but with the wisdom of youth I knew better. There were battles to be fought, kaiila to steal, and women to win. I was never serious about anything. I traded my furs for paga and I stole women and enjoyed their pleasures before I traded them off as well. None ever touched my heart. I was free.

Then there was Dkhanni. She was beautiful. The daughter of a great warrior like my Father. I wanted her. I saw my own children within her eyes and I felt my chest swell and grow with pride at the thought. We were to be mated. But she wanted something she could get from no other man. She wanted a pretty silver ring from the city. Full of pride and arrogance I swore to get her one and I set off towards Fort Haskins to get it for her.

It was the last time I was to see her, or my Father or my People. They are memories now. Just like the grass, the Sky, the kailiauk, the herlit, and the kaiila.

I am in a cell in the city they call Ar. I am alone and in chains even though the brick walls provide no escape. I wish I had a window even with bars ... at least I could see the Sky and hear the rain. The straw stinks of sweat and urt droppings. I am sick of life but I will not give up my quest for freedom.