‘Why are we doing this honour for him, Lord?’ asked Ogasi. ‘He was gajin and our enemy.’
Ulric sighed. ‘He fought beside your father and me at the Shrine of Oshikai. He helped to bring the magic back to the land. Without him there would have been no Nadir army. Perhaps no future for our people.’
‘The more fool him, then,’ observed Ogasi.
Ulric quelled the rush of anger he felt. Ogasi was brave and loyal, but he would never understand the greatness of men like Druss the Legend.
‘It was my honour and my privilege to stand beside him,’ said Ulric. ‘He was a man who always fought for what he believed in, no matter what the odds. I know you hate the gajin, Ogasi. But Druss was special, he transcended race. A long time ago he and I walked the Void to save the soul of Shul-sen, and to reunite her with the spirit of Oshikai. Yes, he fought us. But there was no malice in him. He was a great man, and – for a time – my friend. Do him honour for my sake.’
‘I will, Lord,’ said Ogasi. The warrior was silent for a moment, then he smiled. ‘By the Gods of Stone and Water, but he could fight, hey?’
‘Yes,’ said Ulric softly. ‘He could fight.’