The Grave of a God

Year 690, Ruins of Valenca, Whitemire

She knew it wasn't his time yet and regretted what she would have to do. But to kill a divine thing properly was a special task, and he needed to be consulted. Eigengrau took the time to walk the ruins first. She missed the Rozen Republica dearly, it had been her favourite human civilisation of this kalpa, and the ones that replaced it weren't any fun. Except for the one that was still yet to come. The Ashen Empire would be quite fun.

Even in these long overgrown ruins, she could see what her Apprentice saw in this city and sighed. The inevitability of growth and collapse in all mortal affairs tired her sometimes and she wished they could all be free of the cycle that trapped them, herself included.

"Thoughts for another time." She whispered, her voice lost on the wind that swept through the city.

Slowly she walked through the city gates, past overgrown fields, until she arrived at a secluded grove. The trees parted just enough for her to pass through, before stitching themselves back closed. None would disturb his slumber.

His body was perfectly preserved in the embrace of the tree, and he looked as if he might make up at any moment. Around his feet were many dozens of rose bushes, forming a protective barrier between him and the rest of the world. She gently placed her hand on his cheek and smiled wistfully.

"I am sorry o King, but I need your advice. Rested a thousand years you have, but it is still not enough." Eigengrau said softly.

The Raven King did not stir, but she heard his voice. It came from a primal place, and was not quite speech, but was at the same time.

"Oh Lady Death, a sight for sore eyes you are indeed. What can nature do for you?"

"I will get right to the point." Eigengrau said softly. "A divine... thing. Not a God, not one of our creations. How do I destroy it?"

"Show me, Lady Death. Show me this thing from your deepest nightmares."