The City of Refuge: Book 1 of The Memphis Cycle by Diana Wilder

Author:Diana Wilder [Wilder, Diana]
Language: eng
Format: epub, azw3
Publisher: RiverOfWind
Published: 2011-04-19T23:00:00+00:00

XXXIII

“His Grace is resting, Commander,” said Rai, the second ranking of Lord Nebamun's personal guard at Akhet-Aten. He was an older man, always calm and courteous, but Khonsu caught an underlying note of worry in his even voice. “Father Perineb has taken over some of His Grace's duties, if the matter concerns this expedition. If not… Well, His Grace hasn't given any new orders concerning you. Indeed, his standing command is that you're to be admitted to his presence whenever you wish. If you like, I'll show you in.”

“No, wait,” said Khonsu. “I know His Grace has been ill, and I don't want to disturb him unnecessarily. Would you simply tell him that I ask the favor of an interview with him? Tell him it's a personal matter: I have received a letter from my daughter, which I think he'd enjoy hearing. And add that I'll understand if he wants to wait a day or so.”

Rai's expression warmed. “I'll do it, Commander,” he said. “But I'm sure His Grace will see you.”

Rai left, but he was back almost immediately. “His Grace says come in and be welcome,” he reported. “He says he'd be delighted to hear news of the Commander's daughter.”

“I thought he might be,” Khonsu said.

Rai smiled and led Khonsu through the Second Prophet's private chambers to the terrace that overlooked the king's ruined garden. “His Grace is there beside the reflecting pool,” he said. “Or what's left of it. You'll find him tired but in good heart.”

“Thank you, Rai,” Khonsu said. He took the message from his sash, smoothed it between his fingers, and then, taking a deep breath, went to the pool with firm footsteps and a warm smile.

Lord Nebamun was reclining on a low cot, his shoulders propped upon a snowy pile of folded linen cloths. His sandals were set neatly beside the cot and a light wrap covered his feet against the afternoon chill. A table sat nearby, bearing a faience cup and a small clay pitcher that probably contained watered wine or beer. He looked tired and wan, and his eyes were bright with the last traces of fever, but his smile was warm and alert, and he sat up to greet Khonsu.

“You're welcome indeed, Commander,” he said. “I apologize for receiving you like this, but Sennefer has bullied me into spending the day abed, and he's a bad one to cross.”

“Your Grace has been going at a run since we came to this city,” Khonsu said. “A rest is probably just what you need. If it helps Your Grace to recover more quickly, then Sennefer has placed us all in his debt. Your Grace still seems tired.”

“I am,” Nebamun admitted. “It is good to be lazy for a day. To take time, once in a while, to forget cares, concerns and heartaches and let oneself drift...” He saw the message and smiled again. “Rai tells me you have word from your little girl,” he said.

“Oh yes, Your Grace,” Khonsu said, unfolding the papyrus. “She's written an entertaining letter, and I thought it would cheer Your Grace.

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