Kush

By N.J. Matthews

Kush is the sequel to my book 'Perusia'. The five boys introduced continue their adventures with the 'Black Prince' and they become embroiled in adventures as they follow the Nile upstream to the Kingdom of Kush.
Magic and conspiracy dogs them as they travel towards the Ciry of Meroe, where not one but two evil Queens await. Black Magic challenges the powers of Caecus the blind philosopher.

• Language: English
• Publisher: N.J. Matthews
• Release date: Dec 1, 2010
• ISBN: 9780986802218

N.J. Matthews

Having always being an avid reader, particularly of murder mysteries, I decided that I would try my hand at writing one. The first one, Singularity, turned into a series of three others, The Sophia, The Sign of Nun and Wee Johnnie Norrie. All feature Dave Harris, who rises to Chief of Detectives through the course of the series. After I had written the four crime novels, my youngest grandson asked me why I didn't write anything suitable for his age group. This was a challenge I couldn't resist, Perusia followed along with the sequel Kush. Both are aimed at young adults and are historical fiction set in a time just after Julius Caesar is assasinated. I must admit to being somewhat eclectic. What's next? Who knows.

Book preview

Chapter One

The torches in the throne room cast ominous shadows on the wall as the Queen paces. In her right hand, she holds the heavy ceremonial staff that thumps against the stone floor with each step.

A servant appears crawling on all fours with his forehead touching the floor.

Yes your Majesty?

Bring Nicoda to me. Now.

The servant backs away never turning his back to the Queen.

Yes your Majesty. His voice is almost inaudible.

A noise, someone comes coughing and muttering.

A man enters, if indeed he is a man, standing no more than four feet tall. Except for his head, hands and feet, which are the size of a normal man, one might take him for a boy.

His short legs give him an awkward gait. He approaches and loses his balance tumbling forward, head over heels, landing just at the Queen’s feet.

With aplomb he rises to his knees, brushes off his clothes with his large bejeweled hand and asks.

You called, your Majesty?

Yes, I did. Now get up off your knees.

Yes my Queen.

He pulls himself up with his own short staff.

Nicoda I have a task for you to undertake. It is extremely important and it could be dangerous.

I have no fear in my service to my Queen.

Yes, yes, very good. But you may think differently when you hear what the task is.

Tell me, what you would have me do?

Find my son Kashta and bring him to me.

Nicoda plucks at his bushy eyebrows and strokes his sparse beard. His large eyes grow even bigger.

Find Kashta?

Your ears seem big enough to have heard what I said.

Yes, of course your Majesty. But where is he?

If I knew that, why would I need you? The last I heard he was in Rome.

"Rome the city or Rome the Empire?

Rome the Empire.

That’s a big place.

Tell me something I don’t know?

No, No, sorry my Queen. I just meant that it could be very difficult.

Are you saying you can’t do it?

Nicoda inhales and puffs himself up to his full height and says.

Have I ever failed you your Majesty?

No, but I have never entrusted you with such a challenge.

You may have faith in me my Queen.

Do you have a plan?

The wheels are turning, but one thing is certain.

What’s that?

It’s going to be very expensive. Rome is so far away and I must hire people.

Leave me now and come back to me when your plan is complete. If I agree with what you propose expense will be no object.

Yes your Majesty.

"Remember Nicoda, no one must know of this, my enemies are everywhere.

* * *

Do you know who I am?

Should I? The old man responded.

I am Lord Nicoda, Chamberlain to Her Majesty the Queen.

Tell me Lord Nicoda, why are you in my home, uninvited and unannounced. Like some thief in the night?

The old man’s eyes made Nicoda feel distinctly uncomfortable.

How dare you talk to me like that. I come on a mission for the Queen.

I feel no obligation to treat you as an honoured guest. If that offends you, please feel free to leave.

Will you listen to the Queen’s request?

I have only admiration for the Queen. Speak.

Nicoda stood as straight as his small body would allow.

"Her Majesty requests that you help me in locating her son Kashta.

I see, and you believe I can locate him.

All the world knows of the powers of the Great Tafari.

That is so, but, I am old and weary.

Perhaps this might nugget might help with your weariness.

Tafari reached out, took the gold nugget, and held it close to his right eye.

Ah yes, I am improving as we speak.

You will help me?

I will help the Queen.

How do we begin?

"Just sit quietly on the floor in that corner. Say nothing regardless of what you see or hear.

The old man lifted a crude lamp from it’s place and put it on the floor in the center of the room.

He took down a strange looking mask. Nicoda couldn’t remember ever seeing one like it. The face was contorted as if in pain or was it angered? The color is like black slate with blood red rims around the eyeholes and the lips a startling white. Tafari placed the mask over his face and tied it with hide strips behind his head.

The dwarf watched in silence as the old man removed a small drum from the wall. He began to beat it as he walked around the lamp, his steps in time with the beat. A strange chant filled the room as the tempo of the drum increased.

Tafari began to twist and bend from the waist in time to the drum. The chant grew louder and each time he circled the lamp it glowed brighter.

The sound of the drum and the chant made Nicoda’s ears ring. The lamp burned so brightly that he had to shield his eyes from it. It ended without warning. Tafari fell to the ground. The room was silent and the lamp flickered just as it had when he first entered.

After the brightness of the flame, it was difficult to see much beyond the old man’s body on the floor. Then Tafari rolled onto his back. He raised himself to a sitting position and carefully removed the mask.

Nicoda hoped that the magic had worked but was afraid to speak in case the trance had not ended. In a weary voice that was almost a whisper, Tafari spoke.

Kashta lives. On a farm close to the Roman City of Perusia, north and east of the city of Rome.

Still unsure, the dwarf remained silent. The old man continued.

Kashta is under the protection of a strong spirit.

Nicoda looked at the wizard.

Tell me of this strong spirit.

A blind prophet who is called Caecus.

Tell me Tafari, are the powers of this Caecus greater than yours?

Who is to know?

I don’t understand.

Until there is a confrontation between he and I, we will not know.

What else can you tell me?

Kashta has a close relationship with several young Roman citizens. They regard him as a mentor almost another father.

Tell me more about these young Romans.

Three of them live in the city of Perusia and spend much time with him. Two others live in Rome, a fair distance away and see less of him.

Who are the three in Perusia?

The eldest is named Pando, the next is Tactus and the youngest is called Pico.

And the two in Rome.

The eldest of the five is Viaticus and his brother Ludus.

And you say that Kashta has a strong bond with them all?

Yes.

Then he would protect them and keep them from harm.

Without doubt.

Thank you Tafari, I will leave you now.

And you will tell the Queen of the great service I have done for her? And that I can do more?

Of course.

* * *

So, I take it you have formulated a plan?

Yes your Majesty, I have.

Get up off your knees Nicoda so that I can see into your eyes. And tell me of what you propose.

I have traced the location of your son.

Where is he?

Gritting his teeth Nicoda says.

He is close to the City of Perusia not far from Rome.

What do you mean, ‘close to the City of Perusia?’ Where is he exactly?

On a farm.

"On a farm, a Prince of the Royal Blood on a farm? Is this some kind of a joke?

I do not lie your Majesty. It’s not just any farm, but the home of a blind prophet named Caecus. Kashta is under Caecus’s guiding hand, has become skilled in the ways of the Greek prophets.

I don’t trust Greeks.

Kashta is very committed to this Caecus and is unlikely to come home willingly.

I assume that this is when you will finally divulge this master plan of yours? How do you propose to get him to come here?

He has become attached to some young boys that live in Perusia. They spend much time together and an almost paternal affection has developed.

Get to the point Nicoda.

If we kidnap the three boys and bring them here to Meroe, Kashta will surely follow. Once here, I’m sure that you could use your most persuasive powers to convince him to take his rightful place in the Kingdom.

But why all three boys? Why not just one?

Having all three would be a greater incentive for Kashta to come. It will cost little more to bring all three.

And after Kashta returns, what are your plans for the boys?

We could just send them back to their home.

Nicoda, great care must be taken for safety of the three boys. If they are as close to Kashta as you say, your plan might backfire if any harm came to them.

My Queen, I guarantee that they will be safe.

How long will it take for you be ready to carry out your plan?

Two weeks, your Majesty.

Then get on with it.

Ah, but I will need gold to be able to hire the men and cover the expenses.

The Queen reaches inside her robe and retrieves a leather pouch. She throws it to the dwarf. Without looking inside, he grasps it.

Now go and do not fail me. You know better than most, how I deal with people who don’t satisfy my needs.

Yes your Majesty.

Chapter Two

Two men sat in a wagon by the side of a road leading into the City of Perusia. They watched as three boys approached.

Pando, can you see who that is?

I don’t think they’re from around here Tactus.

Pico ran to catch up then asked.

What’s going on? What did he say?

He called and asked us for help, maybe something’s wrong with their wagon. Let’s go see.

Once they were close enough to talk without shouting, the man with the beard spoke.

"Thank you for coming young men. As you can tell, we are strangers to your country and I’m afraid that we’ve run into a problem.

My name is Iniko and as I said, we are strangers to your country and we need your help.

Where are you from, asked Pando.

From very far away, in a land called Kush. Now that you know our names, may we know yours?

Pando’s eyes widened at the reference to Kush. Was it a mere coincidence? My name is Pando, and over there is my brother Tactus and my youngest brother Pico is next to him.

And fine young men you are.

What brings you here from so far away?

So you know where Kush is, asked Manu.

No, not really, it’s just that your friend said it was very far away.

"Excuse Manu Pando, this is his first trip away from home and he’s very nervous.

The reason that we are in your country is that we took work aboard a ship that carried grain from Egypt to Rome. Unfortunately, we came upon a storm at sea. The ship foundered and sank just before we were to arrive. Lucky for us both we learned to swim in the River Nile as young boys and we were able to swim to shore. Others were not so fortunate.

How exciting, said Pico.

Tactus edged closer and asked.

But this is a long way from Rome. What brought you here?

Iniko spread his hands and looked to the sky.

Today I ask that of myself, what indeed brought us here. Not knowing your fine country, we have lost our way. We landed a distance from your great city of Rome and after buying this wagon and donkey from a very nice farmer we met, we set out to get to Rome. We have traveled many days and still could not find Rome. I can only assume that we made a wrong turn.

Pico chuckled and said.

It seems so.

Pico, it’s not funny. How many times have you been lost? You know how it feels.

That’s quite alright Pando, we do feel like fools.

Why do you want to go to Rome?

Our only hope to get back home is to get to Rome and find another ship going to Egypt for grain.

Iniko, I’m curious. How is it that you speak our language so well? Considering you’ve never been in our country before?

Without hesitation, he responded.

I’m sure you know of the many outposts maintained by your glorious Legions. Both Manu and I were fortunate enough to live in the City of Elephantine where there was a large Roman garrison. We worked at the garrison and learned the language from your mighty Legionnaires.

Elephantine. Are there elephants there? I’ve seen an elephant on parade when father took me to Rome, said Pico.

Iniko smiled at the boy.

Not that I ever noticed.

Pando may we count on your help?

I think we might be able to provide you with directions. Maybe even a rough map.

Thank you, both Manu and I will be eternally grateful to you, as will our families. Now, I insist that we all have a refreshing drink to celebrate. It is a hot day after all. Bring the jar Manu.

Manu ran to the wagon and returned with a ceramic jug.

I’m afraid we have no cups so we will have to share the jar, but then we are all friends. Aren’t we?

He handed the vessel to Pando.

As the eldest, you have the honour of the first drink.

Pando lifted the jar to his lips and tasted the refreshing liquid.

Made from some kind of fruit, but none that I’ve ever had before. It is delicious.

Iniko this is the best drink I’ve ever tasted. What is it?

In my country it’s known as The Elixir of Isis. Here Tactus you try some.

Oh, that is very good. May I have some more? Tactus asked.

Surely my young friend and then pass it to Pico.

Pico, usually suspicious of anything resembling food or drink was not to be outdone. Even he praised the flavour and took a second drink too. He handed the jar back to Iniko.

"Thank you Pico. Why don’t we all just sit down here for a moment and be thankful for our new friendship.

They sat in a semi circle. Each of the boys felt refreshed and very much at ease. But none of them noticed that neither of the strangers took a drink from the flask. It wasn’t long before their eyes grew heavy and they fell into a deep sleep.

It works as well as Nicoda said it would. They’re sound asleep.

"Yes Manu and they should stay that way for three days.

Come we must load them on the wagon. Hurry our ship awaits.

Chapter Three

Caecus woke up with his bed in disarray. His nightclothes soaked in sweat. He sat up and contemplated his dream.

There is great danger. Not just for Kashta but for the three boys. A dark force was at work. Kashta must be warned.

Come in Kashta, I’m awake.

Slowly the door opened and the one-armed man was framed in light from the hallway.

I’m sorry if I disturbed you, but you called.

Come in, come in. I didn’t call, we shared a dream.

I did dream, but it was confused and I heard your voice calling me to come here. What is it Caecus?

The old man moved to a table and sat in one of the two chairs, he shivered and held his nightshirt close to his body.

Caecus, you’re cold. Let me fetch a blanket.

No, no, don’t fuss. I’m fine, we must talk.

What is it.

In my dream, I saw the face of evil. An omen of sinister things to come, you must take great care for you will be in great danger.

I sensed that, in my dream too, but my skills are not as great as yours. Tell me what this means.

A Magician of the black arts is involved in an action against you. Things are already in motion to achieve their goals. The first steps have been taken.

Caecus, I don’t understand, what steps?

The boys, Pando, Tactus and Pico have been taken.

Taken?

Kidnapped.

Why would anyone do them harm?

Harm may well come to them but you are the target.

Target?

I’m sorry, I cannot determine why. The power of my adversary is great and he clouds my sight.

Can you tell me where the boys have been taken?

"I can only say from where the were taken prisoner and when. It was yesterday. Two men met them on the road from Perusia.

The men were dark skinned and while they spoke Latin they were obviously not from here.

I must find them, perhaps a trail has been left.

The old man rubbed his forehead as though in pain and said.

You had best wait until dawn for there is something else.

What is it?

Viaticus and Ludus will arrive here. I have seen them on their way.

How can they know of all of this?

The know not. But rest assured they will insist upon going with you when they find out.

They will slow me down, I must insist that they stay here. Why do they come?

We will know that soon enough. But I would not dismiss them from this mission. You will need help. You remember the recent past how brave and resourceful they were.

But what about their parents?

They must be told. I will send messages.

I have reservations but I will do as you suggest. I must go and make ready.

"Go Kashta. When the others arrive we will meet and do what we can to assure your success.

* * *

Good morning Oratio. Something smells good. What’s for breakfast?

Lucia, you’re up early. I think you smelled the fresh bread baking. It won’t be ready for a while yet. The chickens have been good to us today so I thought we’d have omelets and cheese with the bread.

Delicious, is there anything I can do?

No, just sit and talk to me.

Oratio I’d sooner hear the sound of your voice. It’s so nice to hear since you regained your tongue.

Thanks to our young friend Pico, he was very brave.

I still haven’t figured out how he did it. He was there one moment and disappeared the next.

Mysteries, seems this house is full of them. Did you hear that?

What?

Someone’s coming up the gravel path.

This early? Who could it be?

Lucia ran to the door and threw it open.

It’s Viaticus and Ludus. She cried.

She ran from the house and down the path calling their names. When she reached them, she embraced them, kissing each on their cheeks. Neither could respond before she said.

What are you two doing here? Sorry, that didn’t come out right. I mean, I’m so glad to see you. How long has it been? Six, eight months?

Ludus slipped behind his much bigger brother. Lucia had always intimidated him. He could still feel her kiss on his cheek. He was sure if he said anything; it would be something foolish.

Viaticus gave his brother a push and said.

It’s good to see you too Lucia. We just thought it was time that we came back and visited, to see Caecus and Kashta and everyone else. And you of course.

"Well Viaticus, I think that’s more than I’ve ever heard you say before.

Welcome to you both, come in, you’re just in time for breakfast.

Smells wonderful in here. How soon till breakfast, asked Viaticus.

Oratio laughed.

"I see nothing has changed Viaticus. Your appetite is undiminished. Trust me, it won’t be long.

Here both of you, sit down we can talk while I work.

I’ll set the table, said Lucia.

Before the conversation could begin, a loud voice was heard from the hallway.

Who are these hungry louts that have come to eat up our stores?

The two boys cried in unison.

Kashta.

The large black man filled the doorway where he stood smiling at the kitchen scene.

Viaticus and Ludus rushed to embrace their friend.

Viaticus you’ve sprouted it seems you’re about as tall as me. And Ludus, you’re not far behind. It’s good to see you both. What brings you here.

Before either could answer, another figure entered the room.

Caecus, it’s so good to see you, cried Ludus.

Both he and Viaticus embraced the old man.

It’s good to have you both back with us. Let us sit around the table and talk while Oratio finishes breakfast. I’m sure we have much to discuss.

The old man found his chair with uncanny ease and sat at the head of the table. He turned his unseeing eyes as though to gaze upon Viaticus and repeated Kashta’s question.

Not that the two of you are not most welcome, but tell us, just what brings you here?

We’ve come to see you all of course, but our cousins too.

Is there anything in particular that draws you to your relatives?

Viaticus paused and then said.

Caecus, what started out as just the desire to visit has now tuned into something different.

How do you mean? The old man asked.

"I have this sense, I can’t explain it, that something has happened to the boys, or at least is about to happen to them.

Has something happened Caecus?

The room grew quiet. Oratio stood by the stove holding a wooden spoon as if frozen in time. Lucia seemed to be holding her breath. Then the silence was broken.

I’m afraid, Viaticus, whatever you sensed is true. Something has happened to the three boys.

What's happened, asked Ludus.

The unseeing eyes turned to Kashta.

Pando, Tactus and Pico have been kidnapped. Kashta said. Caecus believes this was an action aimed at me, to provoke me for some reason.

But who would do such a thing. Lucia asked.

I don’t know, but I intend to find out. I must follow any trail that they’ve left and rescue them. I must leave this morning.

We’re coming with you. Viaticus and Ludus responded in unison.

Kashta frowned and said.

This will take many days to accomplish and each one will be fraught with danger. I cannot take the responsibility for your safety, you must return home.

With respect Kashta, we’ll take responsibility for our own safety. If you refuse to let us join, we will follow anyway.

What about your parents? What will they say?

They know that we are capable of looking after ourselves.

Ludus, do you have anything to say?

I agree with Viaticus. We are coming, one way or another.

Caecus smiled slightly as he said.

Kashta, I’m afraid the matter is settled. I’ll see that both sets of parents are kept informed.

A strange quiet came over the group. It was broken when Oratio said.

Breakfast is served.

Good, let us eat and give thanks to Jupiter and ask for his help and guidance for the task to be undertaken, said Caecus.

Chapter Four

The three boys lay unconscious in the hold of an empty grain ship. Pando stirred.

Where am I? Oh my head hurts so. Everything seems to be moving. I feel I could be sick to my stomach. What’s happened to me?

I must get up. What’s this? Chains?

He tried to move but the chains restricted him. He cried out.

I’m sorry Pando but the restraints are necessary. You’re in the empty hold of a grain ship headed for Egypt.

Pando felt a wave of panic and then responded angrily.

Why am I being taken to Egypt as a prisoner? Where are my brothers?

Iniko’s voice became syrupy.

They are beside you, and they are safe.

Pando struggled trying to get to his feet his eyes blazing with anger.

"Why are we prisoners and why are we being taken on this voyage without our consent?

Is this how you repay those who come to your aid?

We mean you no harm Pando. It’s just that some very powerful people have demanded your presence and I am commanded to take you there.

By this time, Tactus was on his knees beside Pando, while Pico remained sitting listening and watching carefully.

Manu, at a safe distance, strained to hear everything.

If you do as I say no harm will come to you. In fact it could be the adventure of a lifetime.

Pico broke his silence.

I don’t want adventure, I want to go home.

Pando spoke to Iniko.

Why are we shackled? We’re no threat to you. All we did was try to help you.

Iniko smiled his oiliest smile.

You may not believe this, but the shackles are really for your own good.

Exactly what do you mean by that?

Well, we can’t have three boys wandering all over the ship. You might accidentally fall overboard, or even be pushed.

Who would want to push us, asked Tactus.

The crew of this ship are mostly convicts, evil men, you’re safer in the hold than you would be on deck.

Manu was stunned when he heard this. It was a shipboard danger that Iniko had never explained to him.

Surely you can tell us where we’re going and how long it will take. Asked Tactus

All right, I don’t suppose that would hurt anything. We are going to the city of Alexandria and if the wind is strong and from the north, it should not take us more than three days.

Is Alexandria the end of our trip?

It is only the beginning. But enough questions. I must see the captain about some food. You must be hungry. I know Manu is.

* * *

After the plain dinner, Iniko had gone on deck to take some night air, leaving Manu to watch the three boys.

It seemed that they still suffered the after effects of the potion and had all fallen asleep again. Pico was moving about and talking in his sleep.

But Pico was not asleep. After their meal, he laid there thinking about their situation.

Carefully he looked around to make sure that no one could determine exactly what he was doing Then he summoned Nog.

Come Nog, he whispered.

Instantly the little man appeared

Nog do you know why we are here or why we’ve been kidnapped?

No, I do not. But I will find out. Remain strong and do not endanger yourself and your brothers. Your kidnappers are not the worst of men, just country bumpkins.

Bumpkins?

Never mind. All I know is that the tall skinny one was a tutor and well educated. The other is, well, not the cleverest I’ve ever seen.

I guessed that. How do we get out of this mess?

You know that I cannot take any direct action to change events in your world.

But surely somebody can.

I believe Kashta is in pursuit even as we speak.

Really?

I don’t know for sure, but one would think….

Maybe he doesn’t even know we’ve been kidnapped. Do you know anything for sure?

Suddenly Pico felt a sharp blow to the back of his head.

A little more respect is in order.

You didn’t have to hit me so hard.

How else could I get your attention?

Nog is there nothing we can do?

Yes, there is one thing. I can leave this place and transport myself to where Caecus is. Since he’s the only other human being that can see, hear and talk to me it makes sense. I will tell him of your plight. Then he can come up with a way to help you all.

How long will that take?

Not long, unless you insist on keeping me here.

Sorry, Go Nog.

Manu looked over at Pico. He was sure he’d heard the boy speak but it was clear that he was sleeping.

Just talking in his sleep I think. I wish Iniko would come back down, What’s taking so long? I hope those criminals haven’t thrown him in the sea. I don’t like this responsibility and it’s so dark.

Chapter Five

Kashta, astride Fortitudo, was well ahead of Viaticus and Ludus. It certainly didn’t help that their means of travel was an old mule called ‘Cubo’.

The animal was so small that the boys had to take turns riding him. Viaticus was in the saddle and his great long legs meant that his feet dragged on the ground.

Viaticus, you look like an ostrich on the back of a turtle. Why don’t you walk and let me ride? You’d be more comfortable I’m sure.

You had your turn and you didn’t look very graceful either.

You’d better give old Cobu a kick in the ribs or Kashta will be out of sight soon.

I’ll run on ahead to let him know we’re not lost."

The day was warm and without wind, Ludus enjoyed his sprint. Kashta had stopped and sat motionless in his saddle.

Is something wrong? He’s not moving.

Ludus slowed as he approached. There was still no movement from the Prince. He circled the horse and looked up at the big man.

This is strange. Kashta and Fortitudo are both so still; they could both be statues. Are they under some kind of spell?

Viaticus was now close enough to realize that something was not right.

What is it Ludus? Has something happened?

I don’t know, they were like this when I got here. Maybe it’s some kind of spell.

Just then, Fortitudo snorted. The noise seemed to break the spell if indeed it had been a spell.

What is it Ludus, asked Kashta.

Are you all right?

Of course, I was just away for a while.

Ludus looked up quizzically.

Away for a while, what does that mean?

It means that I had to meet with Caecus, he had information for me.

But you were right here, you never left.

"Not that you could see Ludus.

I will never get used to this ‘magic’ thing. Can you tell us what was said?

Well Viaticus, it appears that our kidnappers have the boys on board a ship headed to Alexandria.

Alexandria?

Yes.

In Egypt?

Do you know of another?

I mean that is very far away. How will we ever catch them?

Well we won’t do it standing here. Climb up behind me Ludus and you Viaticus, give old Cubo a good kick and follow me.

How is it I get this old donkey and Ludus gets to ride with Kashta? It hardly seems fair.

In his anger, he dug his heels hard into the flanks of Cubo. The animal took off with a start almost causing Viaticus to roll off backwards.

He clung desperately to the reins attempting to regain control at the same time he tried to balance himself in the saddle. Not an easy task given that his long legs were thrust forward.

This is like riding Hector the goat. Oh, my backside is already beginning to feel like I’m being beaten, will I even be able to walk when we reach Rome?

* * *

Lord Nicoda tell me what brings you here?

Tafari I need information regarding the boys.

I have done all you’ve asked of me. I told you how to find the three boys and I made the elixir, that was our arrangement.

But the Queen presses for information. Surely you can tell me of their progress.

As I said before, my weariness overcomes me. Growing old is not easy.

Perhaps I can reduce your fatigue.

As he said this he took out a small leather pouch from within his robe, removed another large gold nugget, and handed it to the old man.

Yes, yes, that will help.

After taking the gold, he stood up and went to the open oil lamp that he had used at their first meeting. Tafari held his hand over the flame there was a flash and a cloud of blue smoke.

As the smoke cleared, Nicoda could see the old man sitting on the floor his arms extended and his eyes closed. There was no sound, no chanting this time, just Tafari sitting motionless.

The dwarf twisted the rings on his fingers nervously.

Then the magician’s eyes suddenly popped open and he said.

The three boys are on a ship bound for Alexandria. So far, there have been no problems. They should reach land in two days. As for Kashta, he and two others are within a day’s ride of Rome.

What two others?

Cousins of the three boys.

Why would he bring them?

I don’t know. You should be aware that the sightless wizard knows of the kidnapping.

The sightless wizard?

Caecus, I told you of him in our first meeting. A man of magic and knowledge, you will find him a powerful adversary.

How much does he know Tafari?

He knows that kidnapping the boys was a ruse to get Kashta to follow them.

Surely someone with your power can block his magic.

Perhaps but it would be difficult and the strain may be too much for me. As you can see I’m a very old man.

Is there anything that could persuade you to assist me?

The old man stroked his beard and his eyes glistened as he said.

Only one thing.

Tell me Tafari, what might that be?

I would be honoured to have the Queen appoint me as the Court Magician.

Nicoda tried to conceal his surprise.

Ah, Tafari I can only ask and of course recommend. The decision is the Queen’s and hers alone.

It is my price Nicoda.

I understand, I will try.

Understand this, if you fail, a gold nugget will not help you next time.

* * *

Pico. Are you alright, asked Pando

No I’m not. Why did they kidnap us? It can’t be for money, if it was why take us so far away?

No, there’s more to all this than money. I just don’t know what it is.

Pando do you think Kashta will come rescue us?

Don’t talk so loud you two. You’ll wake Iniko and Manu, said Tactus.

Whispering, Pando said.

I think it is very likely that once Kashta finds out we’re missing, he’ll come after us.

I hope we get something better than that gruel we had last night. It must be nearly breakfast time. Don’t you think, asked Pico.

Pando motion silently to the two of them waving them closer. They wiggled their way so that they could at least touch hands. Then Pando reached inside his tunic.

Here have a little of Oratio’s sweet cake. It’s a good thing they didn’t search us.

Each broke off a small piece and as Pando’s cake had in the past, it immediately grew back to its original size.

The three ate quietly each relishing the taste of the sweet morsel.

Who needs breakfast now, said Tactus.

When they were satisfied, Pico spoke.

I talked to Nog last night.

He’s here, asked Tactus.

He was, but he’s gone to see Caecus. He’s going to find out why we were kidnapped, Caecus is sure to know.

Maybe he’s back already. Why don’t you call him, asked Pando.

Come Nog.

Again, a flash and blue smoke that only Pico could see.

You’re back, it’s good to see you Nog.

--Talk to me in your head.

--Sorry. Did you see Caecus?

--Yes.

--Tell me Nog, what did he say.

--Caecus said that Kashta is indeed on his way to save you all. Your cousins, Viaticus and Ludus are with him as well.

--How long will it be before they catch up to us?

--They should be in Rome now. They will try to get a faster ship to get to Alexandria. But remember he’s three days behind you.

--Did you find out why?

--Why what?

--Why we were kidnapped.

--To get Kashta to follow you. As to why, Caecus doesn’t yet know.

--What about our parents Nog?

--Caecus has notified them and told them that Kashta is on his way, I’m sure they won’t be too worried.

--Doesn’t Caecus know who is behind all this?

--No, now please dismiss me. I need to rest. It was a tiring journey.

--Of course.

Go Nog.

Chapter Six

Nicoda ran through the hallways of the palace, a summons from the Queen could not be ignored. Out of breath, he collapsed to the stone floor at the entrance to the Throne Room.

Get up you little toad, I don’t have the time to waste waiting for you to crawl to me.

The dwarf arose and took three deep breaths before he moved forward.

You called for me your Majesty?

Of course, why else are you here.

Nicoda struggled to mask his annoyance.

Yes, your Majesty?

It’s been a week and I’ve heard nothing from you about my son’s return. Surely you have some information by now.

Yes my Queen, I do. We now have the three young boys in custody and more importantly I have found that the Prince is indeed following them.

How can you know this?

I have ways.

Do not play games with me.

Nicoda shuffled his feet. He could not lie. He knows the consequences if she finds out.

Talk to me Nicoda or has my little dwarf lost the power of speech?

I consulted a man with great skills who was able to see the events as they occurred.

And just who is this great Wizard?

Ah, my Queen, I’m sure you do not know him.

That isn’t the question I asked.

Again, he moved his feet. His face betrayed his worry.

I consulted with Tafari.

That money grubbing scoundrel. He’s nothing but a fraud. You disappoint me dwarf.

But he saw….

Her staff cracked him across the head. He saw stars and was stunned. He struggled not to fall at her feet.

I trust nothing that old goat tells me. He’s nothing but a conniver. Unless I miss my guess your great plan has already been sold to my enemies.

My Queen, I think Tafari can help us.

Why do you argue with me? I have spoken and that’s an end to it. That vile man caused my late husband much grief.

"But---

Does my staff have to caress you again?

No your Majesty.

You must confirm that Kashta is indeed on his way home. Get out of my sight and don’t return unless you have good news.

His head hung low, Nicoda said nothing more as he backed out of the Queen’s presence.

* * *

I have found us a boat, but we need to be quick about it, said Kashta.

What about Fortitudo and Cubo, asked Ludus.

We take Fortitudo with us but there is no room for Cubo. He will be left with a friend down by the docks.

They made their way down to the dockside where Cubo was left with a kindly looking old man.

Not to worry boys, Cubo will receive the best of care, and Viaticus, he’ll be ready to carry you home on our return.

I’ve talked to the captain and he told me of another boat that had passengers to Alexandria as well. Two men and three boys, I’m sure they were your cousins.

Ludus smiled and said.

That’s good news. How long ago, did he say?

Two days.

Do you think we can make up the time?

We must.

What kind of ship are we going on," asked Viaticus.

Livestock.

Livestock?

Yes, we can’t be choosy. It was the next one scheduled, otherwise we will lose another day.

What are the accommodations like? Asked Viaticus.

There’s a stall for Fortitudo and we will share the last one, that’s why we had to leave Cubo behind.

Really? Asked Ludus.

Really.

Nothing more was said until they reached the ship. Kashta dismounted and lead Fortitudo by the halter stopping at the loading ramp to the entrance of the hold below deck. Fortitudo resisted stepping onto the planks.

--Come Fortitudo, there’s nothing to fear.

--But Master, if something happens, I don’t think I can swim. I’ve never tried.

--Nonsense, all horses can swim. Don’t show yourself a coward.

--Me, a coward, never.

With that, the horse moved tentatively up the ramp. When Kashta and Fortitudo disappeared inside the hull, Tactus said.

"Viaticus, did you hear what Kashta said? We have to live and sleep