This was not the Paths of the Dead. Anarchy of the Interregnum aside, if anyone would have studied the appropriate texts it was Aerich. That twisting sensation, a bright and open world, tiny bears chirping 'kupo' -- none of these were part of the afterlife he'd prepared for. All of these things the good duke could remain composed for, knowing that this simply required time to absorb and contemplate the necessary information. Comprehension, he thought, would inevitably follow.

But a larger bear, boasting a dragon's title? It was enough to make him wonder if he had wandered into a comedy. Curiosity roused, Aerich brought a hand in in a minor gesture to catch the warrior's attention.

"Pardon," he said. "But I nearly think you have said something famous."