Chapter 1: April 8

Both men smiled sadly and gave a slight dip of their heads in agreement as Seth continued. “You have helped in governing the other two great cities of Siriad, and now, I ask that you would help my son Enosh in this responsibility. You were chosen by my father to lead because you are men who revere the ways of the Almighty and have not run to other lands in search of greatness. Although your grandfather was taken before his time, you have remained humble and have ruled justly. Please, help my son to do the same. Keep our cities in counsel together and continue to follow the ways of righteousness.”

The two men again nodded. Amos, the elder, replied, “We shall do all that is in our power to help your son as long as we have breath in our nostrils.”

Seth smiled, knowing he could trust his nephews with this duty. Then, he returned his gaze to the man kneeling next to Enosh. His chocolate brown hair retained its color, but his beard was losing the battle to grey. His beige skin showed only a few signs of aging with a wrinkle here and there, but energy still vibrated from his mournful light green eyes. Behind them was a man who saw the traditions as pillars of life and upheld them without complaining.

“Kenan, my grandson, help your father and learn from him. You have been given the ability to organize efficiently. Use it to make sure that the city is run resourcefully and the people are able to have the things they need. You also are good at designing and constructing things. Thank you for planning the layout for the expanded city, as well as overseeing the crafting of the roads and the walls.” Kenan began to blush at the praise. “Continue to use these gifts in service to your people and as a service to the Almighty.”

The entire first chapter of The Corruption – Book 1 in The Age of the Watchers – will be published on this blog throughout the month of April.