Dawn of the Epoch

Chapter XXXII - Training Day

Virgil seemed happy. He shuffled from one room to another stoking the fire and preparing a hearty breakfast. He hummed a tune and bantered with the three explorers.

“Did you sleep well?” He asked.

“Very. We were up late last night.” Tiyana said.

Virgil smiled wide, “I apologize. I have not had company in many years and I got carried away in conversation. You have no idea how wonderful it feels to converse.”

“Glad to keep you company.” Hunter said. “So, what do we do now?”

“Training day.” Said Virgil.

“What kind of training?” Hongo asked.

Virgil smiled, “The training of the new Dahjaat, of course.”

“Have you done this before?” Tiyana asked.

“Dahjaat live so long that our memories from centuries ago begin to fade and we lose them. But, yes Tiyana Price, I believe that I have done it before. It should be like riding a bicycle. I am sure that I can still do it.” Virgil explained.

“Why can’t you just keep records?” Asked Tiyana.

“We can and we did, but they became lost in the typhoon.” He responded.

“The flood that wiped out humanity?” Hunter asked.

“It is more complicated than that, but yes, I am talking about the fate of the Aldenduenum.”

“Ok, so what about this training?” Tiyana put the conversation back on track.

Virgil smiled, “I have asked Hunter to join our tribe. There are things for him to learn. You all should watch.”

Virgil went on, “I am going now to prepare the training fields. They have, unfortunately, fallen into a state of disrepair. Please use my house as your own.” Virgil said. With that, he got up and left them.

“Rafiki Yangu, what mess have you gotten into now?” Hongo asked Hunter.

“Did you just call me your friend?” Hunter asked. “I’m flattered.”

• • •

As Hunter, Tiyana, Hongo, and Virgil hiked around the mountain, Virgil began singing. They could not understand the language, but each verse ended with a strong, guttural sound. They found themselves marching to the rhythmic beat and getting motivated to walk harder and faster with the forceful ending of each verse.

“Do not forget to enjoy the mountains. You can see the majesty of creation better here than anywhere.” Virgil said, after a pause in the lyrics.

“It is breathtaking.” Tiyana said.

“Let me try something in your language.” Virgil blurted.

With that, he burst into song again.

Sing a song and ring the gong,

Leave them wanting more,

Listen to the river’s throng,

Tip your troubadour,

Birds will sing, chirp, chirp, chirp, chirp,

Whisper of the wood,

Frogs join in, burp, burp, burp, burp,

Your guide must be good,