Fic: The Servant (31/32)
Kris went by Tommy to help oversee the preparation of food supplies for the journey south. Afterwards, they went back in the main hall which was still chaotic. Madu was yelling at some servants to prepare enough food for everyone and not hoard the royal supplies. Kris noticed Eber coming into the main hall and looking very nervous. Kris hoped it was his imagination but he had a feeling something bad was going to happen. Kris went over by Madu and sat down not caring if he got yelled at. Madu looked over, “You OK?”
“Not really. Why are we celebrating? All you have done was murder a King and imprison your female relatives.”
Madu just shook his head, “Kris, I have a splitting headache, don’t compound it. Not tonight.”
Kris could hear the weariness in Madu’s voice and felt sympathetic which clearly indicated he was losing his mind. “I’ll bring you some food, even as a tyrant you have to eat.”
Madu smiled at that, “Thanks.”
Kris went by the food and grabbed a couple dishes. As he headed back towards Madu, he noticed Eber had moved closer to Madu and was standing almost next to him. That, definitely was going to make Madu’s headache worse. Kris went over. As he approached he saw movement in his periphery and then was a shiny object coming towards Madu from behind. Kris dropped the plates and without thinking lunged at the assailant. Kris found himself tackling Brad. Brad hissed at him, “Traitor! How could you save that monster!”
Kris was stunned and Madu was obviously taken by surprise. Guards came over and grabbed Brad. Kris looked at Eber who shook his head, “You have completely betrayed Adam and sentenced him to death.”
Kris paled. Madu became furious. “Eber, you dare plot my death? Aside from the stupidity of planning with a buffoon, I cannot overlook such a blatant act. You will both be killed.”
Kris became nauseous thinking he would be the cause of Adam’s father’s death. Kris spoke up, “Please, Madu, show some mercy. Eber is scared for Adam and not thinking straight.”
Madu shook his head, “He is the husband of the Queen and was a friend of my Uncle. That alone put him at risk. The only reason I showed any mercy was because he had shown a little kindness to me as a child. However, he has proven to be my enemy.”
Kris continued to plead, “Please, Madu. I saved your life, grant me this one request.”
Madu paused, “Kris, you did save my life so I thank you. If I grant this request, I do not owe you in the future.”
Eber spoke, “Kris, save your breath. I do not want to live to see my son killed and this monster rule.”
Kris wished Eber would shut up. Although Agbeko did not formerly recognize fathers as being important, he knew Adam loved Eber. Kris looked at Madu, “OK, spare him and we are even.”
Madu nodded, “Guards, take Eber to the prison.”
Brad looked up, “What about me! Madu, Eber made me do this.”
Madu looked at Brad, “Sorry, Kris is all out of wishes.” Madu ran his sword through Brad’s stomach. Kris was horrified. Brad looked shocked and then collapsed. Kris wondered how many people he sentenced to death by saving Madu.
Madu put his hand on Kris’ arm, “Don’t shed any tears for Brad. He was loyal to no one but himself. Thank you, I am not myself tonight. If you hadn’t intervened, I might not have reacted in time.”
“Is Eber right, did I sentence Adam to death?”
Madu looked at Kris, “You don’t determine Adam’s fate, he does. We will ride south in a week and pay Adam a visit. If he proves he is fit to rule, he lives. If he does not, he dies. Now you promised me some food.”
Kris nodded and went to get more food. Tommy came over, “I just heard a creature from the underworld tried to get Madu’s heart and you repelled it back to the underworld.”
Kris shook his head, “Brad tried to stab Madu and I blocked him.”
Tommy looked disappointed, “That, isn’t half as interesting. No offense but I don’t think you are going to be a very good bard with such boring tales.”
As usual Kris let Tommy’s observations roll over him, He needed to vent his guilt and despite his active imagination, he considered Tommy a friend, “I may have killed Adam by letting Madu live.”
Tommy shook his head, “Brad would have botched it or Madu would have survived a mere stabbing. Neyou has magic and could have revived him even if Brad succeeded. You did good Kris because there has been enough death. Besides, Adam would have wanted you to save Madu.”
“I will hate myself if Madu kills Adam.”
“Hate Madu then because it still wouldn’t be your fault. If Madu dies, Neyou will destroy everyone in Agbeko so think of yourself as a hero. Madu is the only thing keeping these Nubians in check. I heard Mari trying to convince Neyou to abandon Madu and just return to their homeland. Neyou refused and told Mari not to speak of it again. Besides, I really don’t think Madu will kill Adam.”
Kris wished he could be as sure as Tommy. Kris brought the food over to Madu. Neyou had joined Madu so Kris offered Neyou his own plate. Neyou accepted, “Thanks, Kris. You did good saving Madu. We were being very complacent with security. After dinner, Madu, say a few words and then go to bed. I can tell you are having one of your headaches and are not at your best. I will post guards outside your door. I can sleep in by you too.”
Madu laughed, “Neyou, stop being a mother hen. Don’t you have Emperor lessons or something?”
Neyou laughed, “Pashou is teaching me about the infrastructure of Nubia but until I leave Agbeko, I am still your Captain. Your safety is my priority.”
“Neyou, I will be fine. I should be serving you.”
Kris noticed Neyou looking at Madu intensely, “You need strength. I could…“
Madu shook his head, “Thank you but I am fine. You need to spend time with your people and I can tell Mari is getting antsy. We have a few days to recoup and then we head south.”
Neyou looked a little disappointed but then added, “Do you really think Adam can gain the South’s trust in a mere week? Maybe we need to give him more time.”
“Adam is very persuasive. He will unite them in a week. Besides, as much as I enjoy your company, I want your warriors off my land.”
Neyou nodded, “I think that is best too. Once Agbeko leadership is stabilized, I will head back to my land. I have a hard fight ahead.”
Madu looked at Neyou, “I wish I could help.”
“You have. You have taught me about intrigue and overthrowing corrupt leaders. Your fight is here and Adam will need you.”
Madu looked away slightly, “Despite your confidence, Adam needs to prove he can be a good King or all this will have been in vain.”
Neyou went to argue but Madu raised his hand, “Have a care, Neyou, my head is pounding.”
Neyou relented, “OK, Madu. Let me set up your guards. Will just Kris be sharing your skins?”
“I will probably grab Tommy too. Your countrymen are far too interested in his blond hair.”
Neyou laughed and left to arrange for Madu’s security. Kris went with Madu and Tommy to a private chamber. A few Nubian guards posted themselves outside Madu’s door. Tommy raised an eyebrow, “If I didn’t know any better it would almost seem like you were a prisoner of Nubia. Why aren’t Agbekians guarding you?”
Madu shrugged, “Probably because Agbekians tried to murder an hour ago. Tommy, no flights of fancy tonight because I really need to rest.”
Neyou came in and gave Madu a vial and was speaking in his native tongue. Tommy whispered to Kris, “I am not sure Neyou should be trusted.”
Kris could not deal with anymore intrigue and decided to just focus on worrying about Adam. Madu drank the vial and then went by the bathing area to wash up for bed. Neyou motioned for Kris to come over to speak to him alone.
“I gave Madu a pretty strong potion that is going to make him sleep. He is going to be very vulnerable so you need to stay by him. I cannot watch over him all night. Kris, I know you have seen a lot of violence and are worried about Adam but I need you to protect Madu. Even though Madu has doubts about Adam’s abilities, I do not. I love Madu and think he is a stronger leader then Adam but power should never be absolute. Since Madu is stronger, I think Adam should be King. Madu can keep Adam in check and it would also free Madu up to visit me.”
“What if Madu does not agree and decides to be king?”
Neyou sighed, “I truly hope it doesn’t come to that but like I said I will not betray Madu. Kris, regardless of that risk, Adam’s only hope is Madu backing him. I don’t think Adam can be cold and calculating enough to keep the throne.”
“I will stay by Madu tonight.”
Neyou looked relieved, “Thank you, Kris. I will do what I can for Adam.”
Neyou left. Madu finished bathing and seemed to be getting very sluggish. Tommy helped him to the bed. Tommy looked at Kris with concern, “What is wrong with him?”
“Neyou gave him some kind of sleeping draught. We need to make sure no one tried to hurt him. Do you at least know how to wield a sword?”
Tommy made a face, “I am an Agbekian warrior of course I can wield a sword. I just am not always good with my aim. What if Neyou poisoned him and then is going to blame it on us?”
Kris hadn’t thought of that but if that were the case, it was too late.
Tommy continued, “Everyone saw us leave with Madu but Neyou didn’t follow. Kris, this could be a set up.”
“You know I am getting to the point that I would welcome a simple cut and dry execution. Tommy, let’s just hope for the best.”
They both climbed in the skins so Madu was between them. Madu was not generated much heat and his breathing was slow. Kris was a little worried that Tommy’s concern at merit but far too exhausted to dwell on it. They would be heading south soon and Kris needed his own strength to deal with what was to come. Kris fell asleep. He awoke a few hours later and Madu was cool to the touch and breathing even slower. Kris removed their fabrics and moved right up against Madu hoping to generate more heat. It was weird seeing Madu so vulnerable especially after watching him slay so many. Kris stayed awake for the next few hours.
Neyou returned at dawn, “Tommy, I need you to go back to organizing the supplies for our trip. Kris, Madu may be out for a few more hours, are you ok staying with him?”
“I can stay but he is very cool and hasn’t moved much. Is he ok?”
“I gave him a very strong dosage because he needed to rest. Killing his Uncle was the final revenge for what had happened to him. I think it all the event and memories of the past were too much to digest. He needed to rest.”
“Is Eber OK in the jail?”
“Yeah, he has his own cell and I slipped him a couple jugs of ale. Listen, when Madu does come around he may not be himself for a bit. It will pass, just don’t antagonize him.”
Not good. Neyou left and Kris just continued to lay with Madu and eventually was able to sleep. He woke up when Madu finally stirred. Kris looked over and Madu seemed bewildered. He looked young and innocent which was very un-Madu-like. Kris smiled, “You were out for about a day. How is your head?”
“Foggy. Has anyone else been in here?”
“Tommy slept in here and Neyou checked on you this morning. I have been here watching over you the whole time.”
Madu shifted and then seemed angry, “Why are we naked? Did you touch me?”
“What? No, you were really cold and I just-just…nothing happened I swear. Tommy didn’t touch you either, at least not while I was awake.”
Madu relaxed, “OK, thanks. Kris, you are a good, honest man. I can’t promise to spare Adam but I promise I will do everything shy of destroying Agbeko to help you and your family be safe and happy.”
“I will never be happy without Adam.”
“Never is a long time. I thought the same thing once. Now come on, let’s go get some food.”
The next week passed fast. Kris noticed Mari was getting rather impatient with staying in Agbeko but Neyou kept her in check. Neyou was becoming much more dominant and Madu did not seem to mind. They were going to head down south the next day. They had a celebration and Tommy dressed up as the goddess. The Nubians did not seem too impressed with the ceremony but afterwards seemed to enjoy getting drunk.
Kris did not indulge too much but stayed up late anyway from nerves. He was both excited and nervous about seeing Adam again. Kris spent the night reciting all his prayers that Adam would survive the encounter with Madu.
The next day they headed out. Kendin and Tommy were left behind in Agbeko with some Nubian warriors. By the time they headed out most of the order had been restored. The King’s guards that had survived and surrendered seemed to accept Madu as the new leader. Their loyalty to the old King obviously didn’t run too deep. They would reach Kris’ village in four days. Madu had insisted Kris ride with him and never seemed to let Kris out of his sight.
“Madu, why are you watching me like a hawk? Wouldn’t it be more impressive if you rode alone”
“We are nearing lands you are familiar with and I don’t want you running off getting yourself killed. Besides, I need you to prevent Adam from doing something stupid like having his archers hit me from afar.”
Great, Kris’s status had been elevated to that of a body shield. Madu was right about being on familiar ground. Kris was starting to recognize the landscape and appreciated the warmer temperatures. At night, Kris was actually too warm sharing Madu’s skins. He wondered how Adam was faring with the heat and smiled thinking how his Prince would complain. Kris stopped day dreaming when he realized they were only a few hours ride from Beru. As they neared his home, a scout approached the army. Madu and Neyou exchanged glances. The scout came up to Madu and gave him a note which made Madu shake his head and mumble to himself, “So naïve.” Kris recognized the scout as one of Adam’s junior officers.
“Tell your Prince the game has changed and I expect an unconditional surrender. If he attacks my army, not only will I slaughter his men but I will execute his lover.”
Wait! What? Kris stiffened as did Madu’s hold on him. The scout nodded and headed off toward Beru.
“Not really. Why are we celebrating? All you have done was murder a King and imprison your female relatives.”
Madu just shook his head, “Kris, I have a splitting headache, don’t compound it. Not tonight.”
Kris could hear the weariness in Madu’s voice and felt sympathetic which clearly indicated he was losing his mind. “I’ll bring you some food, even as a tyrant you have to eat.”
Madu smiled at that, “Thanks.”
Kris went by the food and grabbed a couple dishes. As he headed back towards Madu, he noticed Eber had moved closer to Madu and was standing almost next to him. That, definitely was going to make Madu’s headache worse. Kris went over. As he approached he saw movement in his periphery and then was a shiny object coming towards Madu from behind. Kris dropped the plates and without thinking lunged at the assailant. Kris found himself tackling Brad. Brad hissed at him, “Traitor! How could you save that monster!”
Kris was stunned and Madu was obviously taken by surprise. Guards came over and grabbed Brad. Kris looked at Eber who shook his head, “You have completely betrayed Adam and sentenced him to death.”
Kris paled. Madu became furious. “Eber, you dare plot my death? Aside from the stupidity of planning with a buffoon, I cannot overlook such a blatant act. You will both be killed.”
Kris became nauseous thinking he would be the cause of Adam’s father’s death. Kris spoke up, “Please, Madu, show some mercy. Eber is scared for Adam and not thinking straight.”
Madu shook his head, “He is the husband of the Queen and was a friend of my Uncle. That alone put him at risk. The only reason I showed any mercy was because he had shown a little kindness to me as a child. However, he has proven to be my enemy.”
Kris continued to plead, “Please, Madu. I saved your life, grant me this one request.”
Madu paused, “Kris, you did save my life so I thank you. If I grant this request, I do not owe you in the future.”
Eber spoke, “Kris, save your breath. I do not want to live to see my son killed and this monster rule.”
Kris wished Eber would shut up. Although Agbeko did not formerly recognize fathers as being important, he knew Adam loved Eber. Kris looked at Madu, “OK, spare him and we are even.”
Madu nodded, “Guards, take Eber to the prison.”
Brad looked up, “What about me! Madu, Eber made me do this.”
Madu looked at Brad, “Sorry, Kris is all out of wishes.” Madu ran his sword through Brad’s stomach. Kris was horrified. Brad looked shocked and then collapsed. Kris wondered how many people he sentenced to death by saving Madu.
Madu put his hand on Kris’ arm, “Don’t shed any tears for Brad. He was loyal to no one but himself. Thank you, I am not myself tonight. If you hadn’t intervened, I might not have reacted in time.”
“Is Eber right, did I sentence Adam to death?”
Madu looked at Kris, “You don’t determine Adam’s fate, he does. We will ride south in a week and pay Adam a visit. If he proves he is fit to rule, he lives. If he does not, he dies. Now you promised me some food.”
Kris nodded and went to get more food. Tommy came over, “I just heard a creature from the underworld tried to get Madu’s heart and you repelled it back to the underworld.”
Kris shook his head, “Brad tried to stab Madu and I blocked him.”
Tommy looked disappointed, “That, isn’t half as interesting. No offense but I don’t think you are going to be a very good bard with such boring tales.”
As usual Kris let Tommy’s observations roll over him, He needed to vent his guilt and despite his active imagination, he considered Tommy a friend, “I may have killed Adam by letting Madu live.”
Tommy shook his head, “Brad would have botched it or Madu would have survived a mere stabbing. Neyou has magic and could have revived him even if Brad succeeded. You did good Kris because there has been enough death. Besides, Adam would have wanted you to save Madu.”
“I will hate myself if Madu kills Adam.”
“Hate Madu then because it still wouldn’t be your fault. If Madu dies, Neyou will destroy everyone in Agbeko so think of yourself as a hero. Madu is the only thing keeping these Nubians in check. I heard Mari trying to convince Neyou to abandon Madu and just return to their homeland. Neyou refused and told Mari not to speak of it again. Besides, I really don’t think Madu will kill Adam.”
Kris wished he could be as sure as Tommy. Kris brought the food over to Madu. Neyou had joined Madu so Kris offered Neyou his own plate. Neyou accepted, “Thanks, Kris. You did good saving Madu. We were being very complacent with security. After dinner, Madu, say a few words and then go to bed. I can tell you are having one of your headaches and are not at your best. I will post guards outside your door. I can sleep in by you too.”
Madu laughed, “Neyou, stop being a mother hen. Don’t you have Emperor lessons or something?”
Neyou laughed, “Pashou is teaching me about the infrastructure of Nubia but until I leave Agbeko, I am still your Captain. Your safety is my priority.”
“Neyou, I will be fine. I should be serving you.”
Kris noticed Neyou looking at Madu intensely, “You need strength. I could…“
Madu shook his head, “Thank you but I am fine. You need to spend time with your people and I can tell Mari is getting antsy. We have a few days to recoup and then we head south.”
Neyou looked a little disappointed but then added, “Do you really think Adam can gain the South’s trust in a mere week? Maybe we need to give him more time.”
“Adam is very persuasive. He will unite them in a week. Besides, as much as I enjoy your company, I want your warriors off my land.”
Neyou nodded, “I think that is best too. Once Agbeko leadership is stabilized, I will head back to my land. I have a hard fight ahead.”
Madu looked at Neyou, “I wish I could help.”
“You have. You have taught me about intrigue and overthrowing corrupt leaders. Your fight is here and Adam will need you.”
Madu looked away slightly, “Despite your confidence, Adam needs to prove he can be a good King or all this will have been in vain.”
Neyou went to argue but Madu raised his hand, “Have a care, Neyou, my head is pounding.”
Neyou relented, “OK, Madu. Let me set up your guards. Will just Kris be sharing your skins?”
“I will probably grab Tommy too. Your countrymen are far too interested in his blond hair.”
Neyou laughed and left to arrange for Madu’s security. Kris went with Madu and Tommy to a private chamber. A few Nubian guards posted themselves outside Madu’s door. Tommy raised an eyebrow, “If I didn’t know any better it would almost seem like you were a prisoner of Nubia. Why aren’t Agbekians guarding you?”
Madu shrugged, “Probably because Agbekians tried to murder an hour ago. Tommy, no flights of fancy tonight because I really need to rest.”
Neyou came in and gave Madu a vial and was speaking in his native tongue. Tommy whispered to Kris, “I am not sure Neyou should be trusted.”
Kris could not deal with anymore intrigue and decided to just focus on worrying about Adam. Madu drank the vial and then went by the bathing area to wash up for bed. Neyou motioned for Kris to come over to speak to him alone.
“I gave Madu a pretty strong potion that is going to make him sleep. He is going to be very vulnerable so you need to stay by him. I cannot watch over him all night. Kris, I know you have seen a lot of violence and are worried about Adam but I need you to protect Madu. Even though Madu has doubts about Adam’s abilities, I do not. I love Madu and think he is a stronger leader then Adam but power should never be absolute. Since Madu is stronger, I think Adam should be King. Madu can keep Adam in check and it would also free Madu up to visit me.”
“What if Madu does not agree and decides to be king?”
Neyou sighed, “I truly hope it doesn’t come to that but like I said I will not betray Madu. Kris, regardless of that risk, Adam’s only hope is Madu backing him. I don’t think Adam can be cold and calculating enough to keep the throne.”
“I will stay by Madu tonight.”
Neyou looked relieved, “Thank you, Kris. I will do what I can for Adam.”
Neyou left. Madu finished bathing and seemed to be getting very sluggish. Tommy helped him to the bed. Tommy looked at Kris with concern, “What is wrong with him?”
“Neyou gave him some kind of sleeping draught. We need to make sure no one tried to hurt him. Do you at least know how to wield a sword?”
Tommy made a face, “I am an Agbekian warrior of course I can wield a sword. I just am not always good with my aim. What if Neyou poisoned him and then is going to blame it on us?”
Kris hadn’t thought of that but if that were the case, it was too late.
Tommy continued, “Everyone saw us leave with Madu but Neyou didn’t follow. Kris, this could be a set up.”
“You know I am getting to the point that I would welcome a simple cut and dry execution. Tommy, let’s just hope for the best.”
They both climbed in the skins so Madu was between them. Madu was not generated much heat and his breathing was slow. Kris was a little worried that Tommy’s concern at merit but far too exhausted to dwell on it. They would be heading south soon and Kris needed his own strength to deal with what was to come. Kris fell asleep. He awoke a few hours later and Madu was cool to the touch and breathing even slower. Kris removed their fabrics and moved right up against Madu hoping to generate more heat. It was weird seeing Madu so vulnerable especially after watching him slay so many. Kris stayed awake for the next few hours.
Neyou returned at dawn, “Tommy, I need you to go back to organizing the supplies for our trip. Kris, Madu may be out for a few more hours, are you ok staying with him?”
“I can stay but he is very cool and hasn’t moved much. Is he ok?”
“I gave him a very strong dosage because he needed to rest. Killing his Uncle was the final revenge for what had happened to him. I think it all the event and memories of the past were too much to digest. He needed to rest.”
“Is Eber OK in the jail?”
“Yeah, he has his own cell and I slipped him a couple jugs of ale. Listen, when Madu does come around he may not be himself for a bit. It will pass, just don’t antagonize him.”
Not good. Neyou left and Kris just continued to lay with Madu and eventually was able to sleep. He woke up when Madu finally stirred. Kris looked over and Madu seemed bewildered. He looked young and innocent which was very un-Madu-like. Kris smiled, “You were out for about a day. How is your head?”
“Foggy. Has anyone else been in here?”
“Tommy slept in here and Neyou checked on you this morning. I have been here watching over you the whole time.”
Madu shifted and then seemed angry, “Why are we naked? Did you touch me?”
“What? No, you were really cold and I just-just…nothing happened I swear. Tommy didn’t touch you either, at least not while I was awake.”
Madu relaxed, “OK, thanks. Kris, you are a good, honest man. I can’t promise to spare Adam but I promise I will do everything shy of destroying Agbeko to help you and your family be safe and happy.”
“I will never be happy without Adam.”
“Never is a long time. I thought the same thing once. Now come on, let’s go get some food.”
The next week passed fast. Kris noticed Mari was getting rather impatient with staying in Agbeko but Neyou kept her in check. Neyou was becoming much more dominant and Madu did not seem to mind. They were going to head down south the next day. They had a celebration and Tommy dressed up as the goddess. The Nubians did not seem too impressed with the ceremony but afterwards seemed to enjoy getting drunk.
Kris did not indulge too much but stayed up late anyway from nerves. He was both excited and nervous about seeing Adam again. Kris spent the night reciting all his prayers that Adam would survive the encounter with Madu.
The next day they headed out. Kendin and Tommy were left behind in Agbeko with some Nubian warriors. By the time they headed out most of the order had been restored. The King’s guards that had survived and surrendered seemed to accept Madu as the new leader. Their loyalty to the old King obviously didn’t run too deep. They would reach Kris’ village in four days. Madu had insisted Kris ride with him and never seemed to let Kris out of his sight.
“Madu, why are you watching me like a hawk? Wouldn’t it be more impressive if you rode alone”
“We are nearing lands you are familiar with and I don’t want you running off getting yourself killed. Besides, I need you to prevent Adam from doing something stupid like having his archers hit me from afar.”
Great, Kris’s status had been elevated to that of a body shield. Madu was right about being on familiar ground. Kris was starting to recognize the landscape and appreciated the warmer temperatures. At night, Kris was actually too warm sharing Madu’s skins. He wondered how Adam was faring with the heat and smiled thinking how his Prince would complain. Kris stopped day dreaming when he realized they were only a few hours ride from Beru. As they neared his home, a scout approached the army. Madu and Neyou exchanged glances. The scout came up to Madu and gave him a note which made Madu shake his head and mumble to himself, “So naïve.” Kris recognized the scout as one of Adam’s junior officers.
“Tell your Prince the game has changed and I expect an unconditional surrender. If he attacks my army, not only will I slaughter his men but I will execute his lover.”
Wait! What? Kris stiffened as did Madu’s hold on him. The scout nodded and headed off toward Beru.