Murder at Abu Simbel by William G Collins

Author:William G Collins [Collins, William G]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781983775062
Published: 2018-02-12T16:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Meren’s heart was heavy over what had happened. The brutal death of the poor servant haunted him and he began to lose hope of ever finding Kashta.

When Nakht tried to speak to him, Meren raised his hand and turned him away.

The guards put more wood on the fire. They too were shocked by what happened. They just sat by their fires in silence. Meren sat by himself close to the river and wondered if they would make it out of Cush alive.

The dark sky grew lighter and by the coughing and yawning of his men, Meren knew they were up. They drew water and prepared for the morning’s departure. Then, one of them shouted and called for the major.

Nakht shook his head. “I still can’t believe it. They wouldn’t even let us bury the poor man.”

“I’ve been told Nubians do not respect the dead,” Meren shouted, hoping the Cushites would hear.

“No so, my Lord,” Nakht said. “Kashta has violated his own beliefs.”

The rhythmic splashing of oars made them turn as the sail of a large ship came into view.

“It’s Phoenician,” Meren said. “Like Akbaru’s Star. A magnificent vessel. The owner must be wealthy indeed.”

When it docked and all lines made secure, it didn’t take long for everyone to go on board. The ship’s captain met them and was formal, but not pleasant.

Meren suggested Imani and her servants use the only passenger cabin. “All I want is a cot, Captain, I cannot sleep in the hammocks of the crew. They make me dizzy.”

The other man frowned. “Your Highness should not give up the cabin to a woman. What will my crew think?”

“It is of no importance, Captain. Prepare to sail.”

The man nodded and ordered the crew to their posts. As they lowered the great rectangular sail, the painted image of a large African mask stared at them, identifying the owner’s tribe. Children ran along shore clapping and laughing at the Egyptians. Then, turning around, they showed their naked behinds—the greatest of insults.

Meren’s men made roaring sounds as if angry over the children’s gesture, making the children laugh even more to the delight of the guardsmen.

When the ship reached the middle of the river and the fast current, Meren walked to the helm and asked the ship’s captain how long it would take them to reach Napata.

“Four days, my Lord,” Dakka said, “or it might be three. We have the current with us which is an advantage. We should make it to Dangail tonight and then we’ll dock on this side of the fifth waterfall the next day.

After the vessel sailed, the prince soon became bored with walking around the deck. He would have welcomed Imani’s companionship on the voyage, but could not find it in his heart to forgive her for the loss of his men. She took her meals privately with her servants who prepared them for her on metal grills used by the crew.

They arrived at the small town of Dangail late in the afternoon, but there was still plenty of daylight to enjoy the fishermen in small feluccas pulling in their nets.

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