Standing proudly in the bow of the boat, he looked north toward Babylon, the home of his father and his ancestors. The day had finally come.

His chest swelled up with pride. His appointment as king of Borsippa, a client city of Babylon, had been approved by his father, King Zig Apilsin, and had received the approval of the gods.

A tablet had been inscribed bearing his name and the question, "As to the man whose name is inscribed here, shall he be appointed as king of Borsippa?" and placed before the statue of Marduk. The signs were a clear and unanimous yes.

So today, found him repaying the gods and his father for their trust in him. His first Akitu. He'd seen to the details himself. He was certain Bel-Ibni, Nabu's priest, had lost a good twenty pounds just trying to keep up with his demands.