The Prince treks across the desert in a month-long journey to a port town. He goes to a tavern and looks for sailors who could take him to the Western Lands. He meets a skilled swordsman named Zarik, who owns a ship called Ormazd's Breath. The Prince asks Zarik if he could take him to the Western Lands, but Zarik questions his purpose. The Prince sighs and begins the tale. After he finishes, Zarik agrees to take him, and takes his cargo, supplies, all, to the ship.
They are a few miles off of land when Zarik becomes curious again and asks more questions. Some anger the Prince by questioning his honor and why he cut the seal, and they engage in a dual. Zarik laughs haughtily and boasts, but then The Prince defeats Zarik, making him wonder his own skills. They end the tiring night with stories and wine, The Prince hoping that the next day will bring him closer to Elika.
Quotes[]
- "I have a sword to lay waste upon Ahriman, but it will take more than one man with more than one mind and goal to guide that sword, lest we all perish."
- ―The Prince to Zarik in his ending line after explaining his purpose of going to the Western Lands
- "Do you think I wanted any of this, Zarik? If it hadn't been for that damned sandstorm ... none of this would've happened."
- ―The Prince questioning Zarik's own questions
- "A dual? Ha! Your challenge is accepted, but I warn you, I have traveled across the world and have always won my fights, with admirals, generals, soldiers, and kings. You don't stand a chance."
- ―Zarik boasting his swordsmanship to the Prince