The Fallen One
Prologue
A group of nomadic ponies is travelling North across the endless desert, praying to their gods that they may find water. A dune that is easily fifteen times the size of any other in the area suddenly crosses their path. The ponies stop, wondering whether to turn in a different direction, or to brave the treacherous climb in a wind that only exists around such mounds.
One pony, weak of heart and will, shakes his head and turns East, hoping to have better luck by going a different direction. The rest of the ponies watch as he trudges through the sand. Once he has crested the third dune, the rest of the group look to each other for confirmation, as they all nod in agreement, they face the hill once more and begin the dangerous climb. As they reach the pinnacle of the massive pile of sand, the ponies all gasp as their breath is stolen away from them.
Below is a giant river, with a thriving community stretching across both banks, entirely hidden from view by the sheer size of the dune the group was standing on. All along the river is a stretch of beautiful, green grass, presumably the reason for the city in the first place. In what they assumed to be the city center, there was a giant statue of a great being who stood on two legs. This being was crafted with great skill, it's horned head reaching the sky along with the intricately carved wings, its tale resting gracefully wrapped around the rock on which the being stood tall.
The fatigued group of travelers set off down the hill with a renewed vigor, curiosity spurring their exhausted bodies onward. The buildings were all made of red clay from the river bed, and they were supported by thin, scratchy logs from trees which lined the river on both banks.
They reached an inn just as the sun was setting. Inside there was a tavern surround by doors which likely branched off into rooms for rent. The innkeeper, noticing new faces, came out from behind the bar to great the weary nomads. He offered them a table, and some drinks. Once that was provided, the innkeeper sat down with them, and answered their questions. He explained that the city, called Dehenet, was founded upon the resting place of Hapi, the god which resided in the river. The statue in the center was of the artist depiction of Hapi. Amongst his ramblings were many more interesting facts about the city, plus some old myths and stories that he had acquired during his time at the inn.
Once it seemed as though the innkeeper had said all there was to say, the group of ponies requested a room large enough for all of them, and as soon as they were shown which was theirs, they settled in and went to sleep.