Audio Book (Paid) 'Serpents of the Heart'
Dahyunagan for Xanados
'High Son,' [he said, thin lips turned to a smile.] 'Are you ready to face your test?' [...] 'Bring him.' 'Strike him down, High Son', [said Xanados.] 'I give you this command.''
[Direction and explanation: Xanados addresses Yaran, the High-Son. He asks him in a dark and somber voice if he is ready to begin his test: The killing of a young Man.[Xanados leaned forward in his throne and he said:] 'The gods see all, my child. They see the light of the Solthari in your eyes though that is not yet there. They see the many battlefields upon which you shall be victorious, even as your father, if you be as strong as he in your manhood. If that may not be and you are to take after your mother's father, then all the unholy Unshathar shall you bend to the ways of The Messenger with blessed tongue. Yea, the gods see all your life laid out though you cannot. Tell me, child, how many winters have you known?'
[Direction and explanation: The young child Yaran asks his mother if the Gods can see him where he now stands. Xanados, who is sitting close by, ever brooding and snake-like leans forward and speaks to the child regarding his future. He speaks of the Solthari, a herb with mysterious properties that makes the users eyes turn a misty grey. He continues to speak to Yaran about the 'unshathar' or 'low ones' who are doomed to die or to be imprisoned if they do not follow the ways of the messenger.]'See, Daedren's son? Have no fear. The beast is tame. He speaks even as we do and is of no harm to you or your mother. In time all the creeping things of the earth shall know the light of the Three and the power of their holy servants.'
[Direction and explanation: A prisoner scares Yaran, a young child. After the prisoner is gone Xanados laughs upon his throne. He finds the events that just occurred amusing. While he is in a way consoling the frightened Yaran he does not sound overly caring.