Fic: The Servant (13/?)
Kris awoke shivering. He noticed the fire in the room had gone out and the Prince had stolen most of the blankets. Kris tried pulling the blankets but only managed to wake the Prince up. “Sorry, your highness, I was just trying…”
“Your freezing, Kamea, you should stay under the covers or you will get sick. I don’t want to get slowed down by yet another ailment.”
“You stole the blanket! You really are selfish.”
Prince Adam suddenly laughed, “I must have cooled down and cocooned in my sleep. Come here and I will warm you up.”
“I’d rather die of frostbit.”
The Prince pulled Kris up against him and repositioned the blankets around them. The Prince rubbed his arms vigorously, “Kris, you feel like an icicle.” Prince Adam wrapped his arms around Kris and kissed him on the head. Kris’ body began to relax as the blood returned to his limbs. A few minutes later, he was warm and able to sleep. Kris woke up a few hours later alone in the bed. The fire was lit and the room was warm. He also noticed there was fresh warm water in the tub. Kris wasn’t sure who it was for but decided to take advantage. He still felt a little dirty from the night before. After bathing he dressed and tidied up the room.
Prince Adam and Raja came back later that morning, “Adam, I don’t trust Madu as far as I can throw him. I don’t think it is a good idea joining him on a raid. It is too good of an opportunity to take you out. Instead of protecting you, he is more likely to expose you, You may find yourself overrun by the enemy and no one at your side to help.”
“Madu, would never risk losing a battle or allow Agbekians to die unnecessarily. His anger is at me not Agbeko. Besides it is an easy battle that will take less than two days. I can’t cower from a fight.”
“You are foolish when it comes to Madu. He is a threat to you and you need to take him out.”
Prince Adam turned to Raja, “Raja, he is family.”
“He would kill you in a heartbeat. You aren’t children anymore and these aren’t games. He is dangerous.”
“I will ride into battle at dawn. I agree with Madu the enemy is too close to an Agbekian village. End of discussion.”
“This is not a full battle so you should not be going. I will take your place.”
“No, I am the Prince and I will defend Agbeko. If I die, than Madu will take over and if he doesn’t make it then good luck because Neil will assume the thrown.”
Raja shook his head, “Exactly my point.”
Prince Adam looked at Kris, “Clean my armor, Kamea, I am going to battle in the morning.”
Kris nodded and began cleaning his armor. As much as Kris resented the Prince from the night before he didn’t want him hurt. Raja left and Neyou came to the room. Prince Adam smiled, “Neyou, come in. Have you more to tell me about the raid?”
“No, since your Captain is not here I just wanted to make sure you didn’t need anything or wanted additional company tonight.”
“I am good, Neyou, I will take Monte into battle and I have my servant here tonight. Doesn’t Madu desire your company?”
Neyou looked sad, “Prince Madu follows the ways of his father in some matters. Anyway, it will be an easy battle as long as our information is correct. Sleep well, Prince of Agbeko and I will see you at dawn.”
Prince Adam hesitated, “Neyou, how is it serving Madu?”
Neyou stiffened, “Madu is a good leader and a strong warrior. I am honored to serve him.”
“He is petty.”
“Only with you, your highness, his men love him and he has made us heroes. He will do the right thing in battle regardless of his feelings.”
“Let’s hope so.”
Neyou bowed and then left. Kris continued to polish Prince Adam’s helmet, “Do you think Prince Madu will try and kill you during the battle?”
Prince Adam shook his head, “No, I don’t think he would do that but I have been known to think too highly of people. Hurry up with that and come to my bed.”
Kris was torn. He swore he would not willingly go to the Prince’s bed but the man was going into battle the next day. Plus, he had turned down Neyou’s offer assuming Kris was an option. Kris doubted he really had a choice. Kris sighed and looked at Prince AdamKris did not like the thought of Madu hurting his Prince. Now that Prince Adam wasn’t immortal, Kris was worried, “I am willing to go into battle with you. I can watch your back.”
Prince Adam laughed, “That’s sweet, Kris, but let’s face it a warrior you are not.”
Kris felt insulted. Prince Adam continued, “If you want to help me come make love to me and give me incentive to return unharmed.”
Kris finished the helmet and stood up. Prince Adam held up the blankets for Kris to join him. Kris sighed and undressed. Kris climbed in the bed. Prince Adam started kissing him. Kris wanted to resist but he also wanted another night with the Prince. Kris returned the Prince’s kisses which seemed to please Prince Adam.
“Kris, you know it is our custom that warriors make love before battle. Warriors share their strength but I wanted to be with you again.”
Kris looked at Prince annoyed, “Are you saying I have no strength or just that I am weak?”
“I just meant I wanted to be with you over the usual customs. Do you want to be with me again?”
“Do I really have a choice?”
Prince Adam pulled back, “Yes, Kris, I am giving you a choice. You had a choice last night too. You can tell me no and I will stop.”
Kris weighed how amazing the night before felt and immortal damnation, “I don’t want you to stop. I choose to be with you.”
Prince Adam smiled, “I was hoping that was your decision. If I didn’t say it earlier, I thought last night was amazing. When you put aside your silly beliefs and give in to your passion, you are very sexy.”
Kris took a deep breath, “Your highness, let’s not talk.”
Prince Adam seemed clueless to his tactless approaches and just nodded not really understanding why Kris was ending the conversation. Kris kissed him before he could say more and let the passion take over. Kris was still a bit sore from the night before but Prince Adam took his time preparing him and was gentle. Afterward, Prince Adam held Kris, “I am leaving early but will be back before you miss me.”
“Ad-your highness, are you sure you don’t want me to come? I know you think poorly of my fighting skills but I can wield a sword and at least draw the enemy away from you.”
Prince Adam smiled, “You are so cute. No, you would be in the way and distract my attention. This is not a big battle. A raid is easy but fairly brutal. You would not like it, Kamea. You don’t have the animal instincts for such a battle. Spend the day resting and soaking because when I come back I will want to ravage you.”
“I am more than a whore, you know.”
“I know, you are a pain in the ass too.”
Kris laughed, “I can say the same about you, literally.”
They went to sleep and Kris awoke alone. Prince Adam was gone and potentially getting himself killed. Kris cleaned the room but felt like he was on pins and needles. Raja came in, “Did Prince Adam spend the night with Neyou?”
“No.”
Raja looked distressed, “He didn’t come to me. Didn’t he spend the night with a warrior?”
“He spent it with me.”
“That does not bode well for battle. Did he seem nervous?”
“No, he said it was going to be an easy battle.”
“Well, hopefully it will be. At least Madu had the sense to leave Brad behind. That boy is a snake and would as soon kill an Agbekian as an enemy.”
“What happened with Prince Adam and Brad?”
Raja shook his head, “The Prince was dumb enough to fall for his charms not realizing that Brad was ambitious. Madu showed up and Brad decided Madu was the stronger of the two and would King. Without any hesitation, he humiliated Adam by publicly throwing himself at Madu. Knowing Adam had fallen in love with his servant, Madu decided to take Brad as his own servant. I think Brad expected Adam to fight for him but Adam just agreed. Madu didn’t even compensate Adam which made people think Adam was scared of Madu. It created bad feelings and Adam lost a lot of respect. I don’t think he would make the same mistake twice.”
“I would never betray him.”
“I agree you are not like Brad but the problem is Madu. Madu hates Adam and will use anyone to hurt him. If Madu thinks Adam has fallen for you, he will use you against him.”
“Well, Prince Adam has made it pretty clear to me he is not going to fall for another servant so it shouldn’t be an issue. Why does Madu hate Price Adam so much?”
Raja shrugged, “He is probably jealous and envious of him. Now make sure you behave and if Madu asks for you again, you do what Prince Adam says and keep the drama at a minimum.”
Raja left and Kris began worrying again. He decided to go check on Andrew and Charles. Instead, he bumped into Tommy, “Thanks for telling me all those lies and making me embarrass Prince Adam.”
Tommy looked down, “Sorry, I get carried away sometimes. I still think the light eyes mean something and he is unusually brave.”
Although Tommy was a liar, he was a talker, “Why does Madu hate Prince Adam?”
Tommy looked away and then answered obviously wanting to talk, “Some things happened between them years ago that are not talked about. I was young. Our custom is that Kings inherit through their mother’s line. So Adam’s mother’s brother is the King not his father. When a Prince turns six or seven he moves into the King’s household. Prince Adam and Prince Madu both moved to the King’s household when they were children and were raised as brothers. They did everything together and Madu hero worshipped Adam. When they were about fifteen or sixteen, Madu was suddenly pulled out of the house and moved away to be with his father. I am not sure what really went on but Madu’s mother was furious and claimed Adam had hurt her son. Adam must have done something pretty bad because he was severely punished. The rumor is Adam raped Madu.”
Kris was not sure he believed Tommy. Well, actually he didn’t believe him at all and it didn’t make sense, “Your culture rapes men all the time. Why would that lead to a punishment.”
“Well, we don’t rape close relatives or royalty. Adam and Madu are considered siblings. I know you southerners don’t trace family correctly but the son of your mother’s sister is the same as the son of your own mother.”
“You are embellishing this story. My guess is they had a simple falling out and never made up.”
Tommy pouted, “Well, that falling out had Adam receive twenty lashes and confined for over fortnight. So it was something big. I heard the only reason he wasn’t executed is because the King is so fond of his sister, Adam’s mother Leila. They are twins.”
“I don’t think Prince Adam would rape anyone.”
Tommy shrugged, “I don’t think so either but I can’t think of another explanation. I asked Raja once and he yelled at me for bringing it up. No one talks about it and everyone pretends it never happened. Try not to take any truth syrup and blab this too.”
“Does Brad know this?”
Tommy shrugged, “I doubt Adam would say and I am sure Madu would not admit it happened. Neyou probably knows because he was actually Madu’s servant back then. Raja also probably knows the truth too but neither likes Brad much. Do you want to go ice fishing with me?”
Kris decided he had nothing better to do but worry so he went ice fishing with Tommy. Although Tommy was a storyteller and liar at least he was nice to Kris. He treated Kris like a person and that was something. Tommy turned out to be a lousy fisherman and they ended up with only two small fish that Kris caught. They went back to the town and waited for the war party to return. Around midnight, Kris heard the horses returning and the town cheering. Kris was relieved to see Prince Adam riding next to Prince Madu.
They dismounted and were immediately given ale to celebrate. The fires were lit and everyone was eager to hear the tales of battle. Raja told Kris to get a bath ready since the men would wash the blood off before celebrating. Kris quickly got water and filled the tub. Prince Adam came in and was covered with blood. The physician stuck his head in, “Are you injured your highness?”
“No, I am fine. Go to Prince Madu, he was hit by an arrow.”
Prince Adam immediately stripped and climbed in the tub. “Kamea, help me scrub this blood off.”
Kris went over and helped Prince Adam clean up. Although he was disgusted by the blood, he liked touching the Prince. The Prince laughed, “I don’t think I got any blood there but you can keep scrubbing.”
Kris blushed when he realized he was running his hands around Prince Adam’s nether regions. He pulled his hands back, “Sorry.”
“Never apologize for that.” Prince Adam stood up and climbed out. Kris wrapped a fabric around him and realized he was happy he lived. Overcome with emotion, Kris blurted, “I am glad you are safe.”
Prince Adam just smiled, “It was an interesting raid. Not one I’d want to repeat anytime soon. Let’s go celebrate with the others and then come back here. You can show me how much you missed me.”
Kris just helped the Prince dress and followed him to the fires. Prince Madu came a few minutes later with Brad trying to fuss over him. Madu didn’t seem to appreciate the attention and finally pushed Brad into some other warrior’s lap. Prince Madu sat down and was joined by Neyou. Raja began congratulating the war party for making it bak safely and slaying the enemy. Prince Adam spoke and praised Madu for his courage on the battlefield and his ability to out think the enemy. Kris was surprised when Adam formerly thanked Madu for saving him from an arrow and taking the wound himself.
Prince Madu laughed, “I could not risk an arrow marring your pretty skin or ruining a precious hair on your head, brother.”
Raja grimaced but Prince Adam continued, “Nonetheless, I am grateful and thankful to have such loyalty.”
Prince Madu scowled, “Yes, well that is what is expected of Princes although one of us might struggle with it.”
“Well, you proved differently today.”
Madu snorted, “I wasn’t being introspective, cousin.”
Kris noticed Madu intermixed cousin and brother but said both in a bitter tone. Neyou spoke up, “How about a toast to the health of all our Princes of Agebeko.”
Everyone cheered but Madu didn’t look satisfied, “So since you are so grateful for my courage, what is my reward?”
Prince Adam smiled, “Well aside from my undying gratitude, perhaps I can offer you…”
Kris felt Madu’s eyes on him and then Madu supplied, “your servant for the night?”
Prince Adam’s joyous expression changed, “My servant? You already have one.”
“Yes, since that worked out so well, I would like another. Surely, that is not too much to ask considering I saved your life. Isn’t the life of the ‘Heir Apparent’ more valuable than that of a common servant, a southern servant at that. You wouldn’t insult me by denying such a harmless request, would you, cousin?”
Kris could feel the anger emanating out of Prince Adam. Raja spoke up, “Of course he wouldn’t, Madu. Of course, I am surprised you would want to lay with a servant with so many fair maidens about. Perhaps, you would prefer more buxom company?”
“No, Raja, I wouldn’t. What do you say, Adam?”
Prince Adam looked at Kris and then back at Madu, “I assume you are not going to harm him.”
“If he gets damaged, I will just give you back your old one. After all isn’t one servant as good as the next?”
Neyou spoke up, “Your highness, I am sure Prince Madu would never treat your property carelessly. As you see, even Brad has managed not to get maimed.”
Kris could tell that everyone expected Prince Adam to give Madu his servant. Prince Adam was tense. Kris looked at him and whispered, “It’s ok. I can deal with it for one night.”
Prince Madu spoke up, “What are you worried that yet another servant will choose me over you? You can always raid the south again and find another one. They all seem to look similar anyway and isn’t that all you care about? After all, most of your lovers seem to be short, pretty and dumb. They must have an ample supply of that.”
Brad spoke up, “I resent that. I am not dumb you just don’t get my humor.”
Neyou spoke, “That is because you are not funny. Isn’t this supposed to be a celebration?”
Raja nodded, “Yes, it is.” Raja looked at Adam and whispered, “Send Kris to Madu or you will be seen as a selfish, ungrateful Prince that is far too attached to his servant. This is not worth it.”
Prince Adam looked at Kris, “I am so sorry, Kamea. I promise it is only for one night.”
Kris felt his blood run cold. He did not want to be touched by Madu but knew it was inevitable. He was also scared Prince Adam would not want him back, “Will you take me back even after he…”
“I will take you back and make it up to you. Just do whatever he says. I don’t think he will maim you.”
Kris could tell Prince Adam was worried. He just nodded and knew he was in for a terrible night. At least, Madu wouldn’t be his first. Prince Adam looked at Madu, “Since you were so brave today, I will let you have my servant for the night. I expect him back tomorrow and able to travel since we will be heading out in a couple days.
Prince Madu laughed, “He can always ride side-saddle but I am sure he will be fine in a day or so. After all, he was your lover so he must be used to a good tumble. May I have my prize now? He can keep me company as we celebrate our victory.”
Prince Adam turned to Kris. Kris noticed Adam was distraught and holding back his emotions, “Go to him, Kamea.”
Kris just nodded and got up on shaky legs. He went over to Madu slowly like a man walking to his death. Madu grabbed him once he was in arms length and pulled him down to him, “Don’t worry, Adam’s servants tend to like me.”
Kris just sat there tensely. Madu didn’t seem to care too much about Kris’ distant demeanor. Kris could feel Prince Adam’s eyes on him. Madu did notice that and pulled Kris closer to him. Kris just looked forward. Madu grabbed his face roughly and kissed him long. Kris could hear the others cheering and felt humiliated. Madu was rough and his kisses were nothing like Prince Adam’s. They were brutal and lacked any warmth. Kris just stayed in place and wished he was drunk. The kiss finally ended. Madu went close to Kris’ ear, “If you treat me nice here, I will leave you untouched tonight. I just want to make Adam jealous.”
Kris wasn’t sure if Madu could be trusted. He also knew this would hurt Adam but he was in between a rock and a hard place. Madu whispered, “Kiss me passionately and climb on my lap. If you do that, I give you my word I will not sodomize you.”
Kris decided to take the deal and beg for forgiveness later. Kris turned his head and kissed Madu passionately and continued to kiss him as he climbed on Madu’s lap. Kris could hear the cheering and then someone saying, “I think your servant likes being shared. Madu does seem to have a way with them.”
Kris ended the kiss and looked over at Prince Adam. Kris could see the pain in his eyes and felt terrible. Still, he did not want to be raped and he was sure Prince Adam would understand him avoiding it. Well, he hoped he would forgive him. He also hoped Madu kept his word.
“Your freezing, Kamea, you should stay under the covers or you will get sick. I don’t want to get slowed down by yet another ailment.”
“You stole the blanket! You really are selfish.”
Prince Adam suddenly laughed, “I must have cooled down and cocooned in my sleep. Come here and I will warm you up.”
“I’d rather die of frostbit.”
The Prince pulled Kris up against him and repositioned the blankets around them. The Prince rubbed his arms vigorously, “Kris, you feel like an icicle.” Prince Adam wrapped his arms around Kris and kissed him on the head. Kris’ body began to relax as the blood returned to his limbs. A few minutes later, he was warm and able to sleep. Kris woke up a few hours later alone in the bed. The fire was lit and the room was warm. He also noticed there was fresh warm water in the tub. Kris wasn’t sure who it was for but decided to take advantage. He still felt a little dirty from the night before. After bathing he dressed and tidied up the room.
Prince Adam and Raja came back later that morning, “Adam, I don’t trust Madu as far as I can throw him. I don’t think it is a good idea joining him on a raid. It is too good of an opportunity to take you out. Instead of protecting you, he is more likely to expose you, You may find yourself overrun by the enemy and no one at your side to help.”
“Madu, would never risk losing a battle or allow Agbekians to die unnecessarily. His anger is at me not Agbeko. Besides it is an easy battle that will take less than two days. I can’t cower from a fight.”
“You are foolish when it comes to Madu. He is a threat to you and you need to take him out.”
Prince Adam turned to Raja, “Raja, he is family.”
“He would kill you in a heartbeat. You aren’t children anymore and these aren’t games. He is dangerous.”
“I will ride into battle at dawn. I agree with Madu the enemy is too close to an Agbekian village. End of discussion.”
“This is not a full battle so you should not be going. I will take your place.”
“No, I am the Prince and I will defend Agbeko. If I die, than Madu will take over and if he doesn’t make it then good luck because Neil will assume the thrown.”
Raja shook his head, “Exactly my point.”
Prince Adam looked at Kris, “Clean my armor, Kamea, I am going to battle in the morning.”
Kris nodded and began cleaning his armor. As much as Kris resented the Prince from the night before he didn’t want him hurt. Raja left and Neyou came to the room. Prince Adam smiled, “Neyou, come in. Have you more to tell me about the raid?”
“No, since your Captain is not here I just wanted to make sure you didn’t need anything or wanted additional company tonight.”
“I am good, Neyou, I will take Monte into battle and I have my servant here tonight. Doesn’t Madu desire your company?”
Neyou looked sad, “Prince Madu follows the ways of his father in some matters. Anyway, it will be an easy battle as long as our information is correct. Sleep well, Prince of Agbeko and I will see you at dawn.”
Prince Adam hesitated, “Neyou, how is it serving Madu?”
Neyou stiffened, “Madu is a good leader and a strong warrior. I am honored to serve him.”
“He is petty.”
“Only with you, your highness, his men love him and he has made us heroes. He will do the right thing in battle regardless of his feelings.”
“Let’s hope so.”
Neyou bowed and then left. Kris continued to polish Prince Adam’s helmet, “Do you think Prince Madu will try and kill you during the battle?”
Prince Adam shook his head, “No, I don’t think he would do that but I have been known to think too highly of people. Hurry up with that and come to my bed.”
Kris was torn. He swore he would not willingly go to the Prince’s bed but the man was going into battle the next day. Plus, he had turned down Neyou’s offer assuming Kris was an option. Kris doubted he really had a choice. Kris sighed and looked at Prince AdamKris did not like the thought of Madu hurting his Prince. Now that Prince Adam wasn’t immortal, Kris was worried, “I am willing to go into battle with you. I can watch your back.”
Prince Adam laughed, “That’s sweet, Kris, but let’s face it a warrior you are not.”
Kris felt insulted. Prince Adam continued, “If you want to help me come make love to me and give me incentive to return unharmed.”
Kris finished the helmet and stood up. Prince Adam held up the blankets for Kris to join him. Kris sighed and undressed. Kris climbed in the bed. Prince Adam started kissing him. Kris wanted to resist but he also wanted another night with the Prince. Kris returned the Prince’s kisses which seemed to please Prince Adam.
“Kris, you know it is our custom that warriors make love before battle. Warriors share their strength but I wanted to be with you again.”
Kris looked at Prince annoyed, “Are you saying I have no strength or just that I am weak?”
“I just meant I wanted to be with you over the usual customs. Do you want to be with me again?”
“Do I really have a choice?”
Prince Adam pulled back, “Yes, Kris, I am giving you a choice. You had a choice last night too. You can tell me no and I will stop.”
Kris weighed how amazing the night before felt and immortal damnation, “I don’t want you to stop. I choose to be with you.”
Prince Adam smiled, “I was hoping that was your decision. If I didn’t say it earlier, I thought last night was amazing. When you put aside your silly beliefs and give in to your passion, you are very sexy.”
Kris took a deep breath, “Your highness, let’s not talk.”
Prince Adam seemed clueless to his tactless approaches and just nodded not really understanding why Kris was ending the conversation. Kris kissed him before he could say more and let the passion take over. Kris was still a bit sore from the night before but Prince Adam took his time preparing him and was gentle. Afterward, Prince Adam held Kris, “I am leaving early but will be back before you miss me.”
“Ad-your highness, are you sure you don’t want me to come? I know you think poorly of my fighting skills but I can wield a sword and at least draw the enemy away from you.”
Prince Adam smiled, “You are so cute. No, you would be in the way and distract my attention. This is not a big battle. A raid is easy but fairly brutal. You would not like it, Kamea. You don’t have the animal instincts for such a battle. Spend the day resting and soaking because when I come back I will want to ravage you.”
“I am more than a whore, you know.”
“I know, you are a pain in the ass too.”
Kris laughed, “I can say the same about you, literally.”
They went to sleep and Kris awoke alone. Prince Adam was gone and potentially getting himself killed. Kris cleaned the room but felt like he was on pins and needles. Raja came in, “Did Prince Adam spend the night with Neyou?”
“No.”
Raja looked distressed, “He didn’t come to me. Didn’t he spend the night with a warrior?”
“He spent it with me.”
“That does not bode well for battle. Did he seem nervous?”
“No, he said it was going to be an easy battle.”
“Well, hopefully it will be. At least Madu had the sense to leave Brad behind. That boy is a snake and would as soon kill an Agbekian as an enemy.”
“What happened with Prince Adam and Brad?”
Raja shook his head, “The Prince was dumb enough to fall for his charms not realizing that Brad was ambitious. Madu showed up and Brad decided Madu was the stronger of the two and would King. Without any hesitation, he humiliated Adam by publicly throwing himself at Madu. Knowing Adam had fallen in love with his servant, Madu decided to take Brad as his own servant. I think Brad expected Adam to fight for him but Adam just agreed. Madu didn’t even compensate Adam which made people think Adam was scared of Madu. It created bad feelings and Adam lost a lot of respect. I don’t think he would make the same mistake twice.”
“I would never betray him.”
“I agree you are not like Brad but the problem is Madu. Madu hates Adam and will use anyone to hurt him. If Madu thinks Adam has fallen for you, he will use you against him.”
“Well, Prince Adam has made it pretty clear to me he is not going to fall for another servant so it shouldn’t be an issue. Why does Madu hate Price Adam so much?”
Raja shrugged, “He is probably jealous and envious of him. Now make sure you behave and if Madu asks for you again, you do what Prince Adam says and keep the drama at a minimum.”
Raja left and Kris began worrying again. He decided to go check on Andrew and Charles. Instead, he bumped into Tommy, “Thanks for telling me all those lies and making me embarrass Prince Adam.”
Tommy looked down, “Sorry, I get carried away sometimes. I still think the light eyes mean something and he is unusually brave.”
Although Tommy was a liar, he was a talker, “Why does Madu hate Prince Adam?”
Tommy looked away and then answered obviously wanting to talk, “Some things happened between them years ago that are not talked about. I was young. Our custom is that Kings inherit through their mother’s line. So Adam’s mother’s brother is the King not his father. When a Prince turns six or seven he moves into the King’s household. Prince Adam and Prince Madu both moved to the King’s household when they were children and were raised as brothers. They did everything together and Madu hero worshipped Adam. When they were about fifteen or sixteen, Madu was suddenly pulled out of the house and moved away to be with his father. I am not sure what really went on but Madu’s mother was furious and claimed Adam had hurt her son. Adam must have done something pretty bad because he was severely punished. The rumor is Adam raped Madu.”
Kris was not sure he believed Tommy. Well, actually he didn’t believe him at all and it didn’t make sense, “Your culture rapes men all the time. Why would that lead to a punishment.”
“Well, we don’t rape close relatives or royalty. Adam and Madu are considered siblings. I know you southerners don’t trace family correctly but the son of your mother’s sister is the same as the son of your own mother.”
“You are embellishing this story. My guess is they had a simple falling out and never made up.”
Tommy pouted, “Well, that falling out had Adam receive twenty lashes and confined for over fortnight. So it was something big. I heard the only reason he wasn’t executed is because the King is so fond of his sister, Adam’s mother Leila. They are twins.”
“I don’t think Prince Adam would rape anyone.”
Tommy shrugged, “I don’t think so either but I can’t think of another explanation. I asked Raja once and he yelled at me for bringing it up. No one talks about it and everyone pretends it never happened. Try not to take any truth syrup and blab this too.”
“Does Brad know this?”
Tommy shrugged, “I doubt Adam would say and I am sure Madu would not admit it happened. Neyou probably knows because he was actually Madu’s servant back then. Raja also probably knows the truth too but neither likes Brad much. Do you want to go ice fishing with me?”
Kris decided he had nothing better to do but worry so he went ice fishing with Tommy. Although Tommy was a storyteller and liar at least he was nice to Kris. He treated Kris like a person and that was something. Tommy turned out to be a lousy fisherman and they ended up with only two small fish that Kris caught. They went back to the town and waited for the war party to return. Around midnight, Kris heard the horses returning and the town cheering. Kris was relieved to see Prince Adam riding next to Prince Madu.
They dismounted and were immediately given ale to celebrate. The fires were lit and everyone was eager to hear the tales of battle. Raja told Kris to get a bath ready since the men would wash the blood off before celebrating. Kris quickly got water and filled the tub. Prince Adam came in and was covered with blood. The physician stuck his head in, “Are you injured your highness?”
“No, I am fine. Go to Prince Madu, he was hit by an arrow.”
Prince Adam immediately stripped and climbed in the tub. “Kamea, help me scrub this blood off.”
Kris went over and helped Prince Adam clean up. Although he was disgusted by the blood, he liked touching the Prince. The Prince laughed, “I don’t think I got any blood there but you can keep scrubbing.”
Kris blushed when he realized he was running his hands around Prince Adam’s nether regions. He pulled his hands back, “Sorry.”
“Never apologize for that.” Prince Adam stood up and climbed out. Kris wrapped a fabric around him and realized he was happy he lived. Overcome with emotion, Kris blurted, “I am glad you are safe.”
Prince Adam just smiled, “It was an interesting raid. Not one I’d want to repeat anytime soon. Let’s go celebrate with the others and then come back here. You can show me how much you missed me.”
Kris just helped the Prince dress and followed him to the fires. Prince Madu came a few minutes later with Brad trying to fuss over him. Madu didn’t seem to appreciate the attention and finally pushed Brad into some other warrior’s lap. Prince Madu sat down and was joined by Neyou. Raja began congratulating the war party for making it bak safely and slaying the enemy. Prince Adam spoke and praised Madu for his courage on the battlefield and his ability to out think the enemy. Kris was surprised when Adam formerly thanked Madu for saving him from an arrow and taking the wound himself.
Prince Madu laughed, “I could not risk an arrow marring your pretty skin or ruining a precious hair on your head, brother.”
Raja grimaced but Prince Adam continued, “Nonetheless, I am grateful and thankful to have such loyalty.”
Prince Madu scowled, “Yes, well that is what is expected of Princes although one of us might struggle with it.”
“Well, you proved differently today.”
Madu snorted, “I wasn’t being introspective, cousin.”
Kris noticed Madu intermixed cousin and brother but said both in a bitter tone. Neyou spoke up, “How about a toast to the health of all our Princes of Agebeko.”
Everyone cheered but Madu didn’t look satisfied, “So since you are so grateful for my courage, what is my reward?”
Prince Adam smiled, “Well aside from my undying gratitude, perhaps I can offer you…”
Kris felt Madu’s eyes on him and then Madu supplied, “your servant for the night?”
Prince Adam’s joyous expression changed, “My servant? You already have one.”
“Yes, since that worked out so well, I would like another. Surely, that is not too much to ask considering I saved your life. Isn’t the life of the ‘Heir Apparent’ more valuable than that of a common servant, a southern servant at that. You wouldn’t insult me by denying such a harmless request, would you, cousin?”
Kris could feel the anger emanating out of Prince Adam. Raja spoke up, “Of course he wouldn’t, Madu. Of course, I am surprised you would want to lay with a servant with so many fair maidens about. Perhaps, you would prefer more buxom company?”
“No, Raja, I wouldn’t. What do you say, Adam?”
Prince Adam looked at Kris and then back at Madu, “I assume you are not going to harm him.”
“If he gets damaged, I will just give you back your old one. After all isn’t one servant as good as the next?”
Neyou spoke up, “Your highness, I am sure Prince Madu would never treat your property carelessly. As you see, even Brad has managed not to get maimed.”
Kris could tell that everyone expected Prince Adam to give Madu his servant. Prince Adam was tense. Kris looked at him and whispered, “It’s ok. I can deal with it for one night.”
Prince Madu spoke up, “What are you worried that yet another servant will choose me over you? You can always raid the south again and find another one. They all seem to look similar anyway and isn’t that all you care about? After all, most of your lovers seem to be short, pretty and dumb. They must have an ample supply of that.”
Brad spoke up, “I resent that. I am not dumb you just don’t get my humor.”
Neyou spoke, “That is because you are not funny. Isn’t this supposed to be a celebration?”
Raja nodded, “Yes, it is.” Raja looked at Adam and whispered, “Send Kris to Madu or you will be seen as a selfish, ungrateful Prince that is far too attached to his servant. This is not worth it.”
Prince Adam looked at Kris, “I am so sorry, Kamea. I promise it is only for one night.”
Kris felt his blood run cold. He did not want to be touched by Madu but knew it was inevitable. He was also scared Prince Adam would not want him back, “Will you take me back even after he…”
“I will take you back and make it up to you. Just do whatever he says. I don’t think he will maim you.”
Kris could tell Prince Adam was worried. He just nodded and knew he was in for a terrible night. At least, Madu wouldn’t be his first. Prince Adam looked at Madu, “Since you were so brave today, I will let you have my servant for the night. I expect him back tomorrow and able to travel since we will be heading out in a couple days.
Prince Madu laughed, “He can always ride side-saddle but I am sure he will be fine in a day or so. After all, he was your lover so he must be used to a good tumble. May I have my prize now? He can keep me company as we celebrate our victory.”
Prince Adam turned to Kris. Kris noticed Adam was distraught and holding back his emotions, “Go to him, Kamea.”
Kris just nodded and got up on shaky legs. He went over to Madu slowly like a man walking to his death. Madu grabbed him once he was in arms length and pulled him down to him, “Don’t worry, Adam’s servants tend to like me.”
Kris just sat there tensely. Madu didn’t seem to care too much about Kris’ distant demeanor. Kris could feel Prince Adam’s eyes on him. Madu did notice that and pulled Kris closer to him. Kris just looked forward. Madu grabbed his face roughly and kissed him long. Kris could hear the others cheering and felt humiliated. Madu was rough and his kisses were nothing like Prince Adam’s. They were brutal and lacked any warmth. Kris just stayed in place and wished he was drunk. The kiss finally ended. Madu went close to Kris’ ear, “If you treat me nice here, I will leave you untouched tonight. I just want to make Adam jealous.”
Kris wasn’t sure if Madu could be trusted. He also knew this would hurt Adam but he was in between a rock and a hard place. Madu whispered, “Kiss me passionately and climb on my lap. If you do that, I give you my word I will not sodomize you.”
Kris decided to take the deal and beg for forgiveness later. Kris turned his head and kissed Madu passionately and continued to kiss him as he climbed on Madu’s lap. Kris could hear the cheering and then someone saying, “I think your servant likes being shared. Madu does seem to have a way with them.”
Kris ended the kiss and looked over at Prince Adam. Kris could see the pain in his eyes and felt terrible. Still, he did not want to be raped and he was sure Prince Adam would understand him avoiding it. Well, he hoped he would forgive him. He also hoped Madu kept his word.