Keywords:

Git: Juice made from different fruits.
Krid: A white person.
Fatoo: Come.
Min: A silk dress that is sewn to hold the body with ropes at the top and accompanied with a long, flow bottom.
Ba: Endearment for older brother.
Broo: national anthem.
Swears kiss: another way of saying "I promise"

•Sanusi

I adjusted my white button up shirt and smiled at Najma through the mirror. She doesn't see me looking as she's engrossed in her work. We overslept this morning and forgot we had a lot to take care of today.

Surayya didn't come back home the previous night and I didn't send guards to look for her. For two reasons; she could hold her own and was also very clever so I knew she wouldn't go ravaging around the city.

If anything, I know she's sleeping somewhere safe but that's asides the point that I'm angry at her for choosing to go with that krid rather than her family. As usual, Najma didn't understand. So I didn't express my distaste to her. Rather, I let my best friend suffer with rants as we spent hours sipping on some git.

"Fatoo," I turn to Najma who stops writing and looks at me but remains seated "I'll be busy so don't wait for me tonight."

"I will not be home either." she continues writing.

"Where will you be?"

"Oof," she waves her hand dismissively with a smirk on her face "You almost sound jealous."

"I just want to know where my wife will be."

"Or you want to know when you can tear my legs open again." She deadpanned.

"What?" I chuckle lowly, turning to the door "Your mind will never be pure." I shrug "I just care for my wife."

"If you say so my lord."

It was starting to be obvious I cared less for her than what she had to offer to me whenever I pleased so she preferred to do anything but be with me unless, she really did need my services.

Life was comfortable with Najma but to be happier, I knew I needed someone who was a graduate in studying my personality as I am sure will be the same for her.

I wink and exit the door humming down to the detachment room where I was to witness the punishment of the ill-fated priest that was sent to Kindo from Disa.

People shifted away as I walked down to the middle of the ancient room. Bala shook my hand and hugged me, whispering "I hope you are better today." into my ears.

I nod and moved to grab a knife off a wooden table holding other torture items then something makes me stop to look at Bala again. I raise the knife to him and say "Be my guest."

"Ohhh," he roars excitedly but refuses the knife and opts for a scalpel "I need something more than that."

"Proceed," I drop the knife back "... friend."

"No mercy!" The few audience consisting of men who work closely with Bala chant.

"No mercy!"

"No mercy!"

"No mercy!"

"Bala." I pass him the scalpel and he rolls his sleeves to do the work while I move to my chair at the back of the room to watch the show with crossed legs and a glass of water that was brought for me just now.

"I'm ready." He sits on a chair that's been leveled with the table he's supposed to cut the fingers on and a guard straightens the arms of the priest on it.

The man quivers, he's in tears. He refuses to let the guard hold his hand so I send two more men to hold his first hand.

Bala adjusts himself on the seat and goes for the hand. With the scalpel he pierces the back of his index finger slowly. It reaches the bone but doesn't break through so he picks up a giant cutter from the table and dices it one by one from tip to where his palm begins. He continues the cycle till all four fingers are gone and he does the same for his left hand.

"Try stealing now." I tell him but he's passed out so he couldn't hear anything anyone had said.

"Justice for Kindo," I throw a fist in the air, waiting for them to finish the sentence.

"Justice for all!"

I'm not even being selfish when I say the drugs distributed are mine. The only difference between I and the other rulers is that I divert the profit to other sectors of the Kindoni economy.

I invest in all sectors and give donations so at least everyone can have a source of income even without a job. Good or bad?

After Bala was done, I asked everyone to leave the room except him. We sat done together and discussed how he would be shipped back to Disa in a crate. It was the perfect birthday gift for their queen.

On our way out, Surayya bounces in with yesterday's clothes and her shoes in her hands. She looked tired and didn't even notice us when she passed. It made me wonder where she'd been all night.

Bala calls out her name and she turns slowly back to us as she gives a random maid her shoes to take to her room.

"I need money Sanusi." She holds her head with one hand and the other on her waist as she leans on the wall. Her eye bags drooping and obvious that she might've just not slept well. Or not at all.

"Ask your big sister." I replied.

"Who?" She sounded bemused. It was then I noticed her top was missing and I catch Bala's focus on her chest for a second.

I won't query him because I trust he wouldn't ever seek Surayya out. Moreover he's always treated her as his little sister.

"Who do you think?" I hiss, my impatience growing by the second.

"See, I need it." She breathes tiredly, adjusting the twisted strap of her bra.

"What makes you think I'm going to give you?"

"You have to give me." she chuckles, nervously as frustrated as she exhales with a worrisome look on her face.

"Try asking Najma, don't ask me when you can't follow my simple orders."

"You're not my king." She stomps her feet angrily just when she begins to yell "You're my brother."

"Let's go Bala." I nod at him and we all continue to our initial destinations.

Today I had to broker a deal for the marketers exchange forum and the meeting was to start in an hour so I and Bala would be heading out soon.

The car was waiting outside when we reached the main entrance of the palace. A guard opens the door of the back seat for us and Bala goes in first since he was in front and I join him.

I drag the door and close it as the ride began. Slowly, I was overtaken by sleep so I didn't realize when the car stopped. I heard Bala speaking to someone through the window and I opened my eyes.

"Are we there yet?"

"No, we're here for a re-fill of the tank."

"They could've done it before the time of our meeting," I hiss, "I detest being late."

"It'll be fine."

"How?!"

"You're the Lion of Kindo!" He slaps my shoulders excitedly. "They can't start without you."

"Let's just be quick,"

He looks at the driver and the man runs into the car. It's a short drive to the Kindoni noble house of messengers with amazing architectural design. If I was being honest it's majestic ensemble resembles a castle not of Nahuri engineering, not to talk of Disa, Gaso or Bunisa.

The structure was massive like the palace but it carried so much details that other countrymen and women envied for its features and decor. It was no doubt, a sight for tourists but seeing it housed all six messengers, it wasn't everytime visitors were granted access to take leisurely visits of sight seeing.

We step out of the car onto the glass floors that led to the tall and bulky, red, marble entrance of the house. A man took our coats from the door and handed us cigarettes as per custom of the household.

I almost forgot the master was also my father in-law. Bala wouldn't stop reminding as we crossed the third door before reaching the large room with a thousand different art forms that marred the plain, white walls.

We removed the fancy papers with our names and sat on the pillows that were allocated to us with folded legs and I admired the long table that was decorated with useless but perfectly sewn velvet napkins that could only smear more of whatever liquid was on your lips to your face and the mini vases cradling them.

Najma's father entered the room right after we sat and the meeting was to commence with a total of us eight.

He set his hands on the table and waited for us all to do the same as we chorused the broo. After, we were to give a hand to our neighbor to shake before he cleared his throat and greeted us all.

"I hope it wasn't a hassle to get here." He smiled at everyone but winked at me. I nodded and greeted everyone next as the king before some snacks were served by his underdressed maids who began to dance at the center of the room after dropping their servings in front of us.

"I don't like this," Bala whispered to me.

"He's waisting our time." I concurred.

"If we wanted this we could've ordered for this at home."

Master Barau looked at me, a little disappointed "You don't like this."

I nod slowly, careful not to seem like I was insulting his gesture "The demonstration was splendid but I wouldn't mind if we rushed to the start of this meeting."

"Leave, now." He orders the girls calmly with a wave of his chubby right hand, each encircled by golden rings with gems of distinct color in the middle and clears his throat, "After a little pleasure, we must discuss our business."

"Yes." I join my hands together on my lap as I see the other men murmur words of agreement even if their faces showed they wanted the performance to continue.

"It has been brought to my attention that a group of farmers have been pressured into selling their lands for money and some shop owners say they should be charged less rent for the shops because farmers don't sell to them at cheaper rates."

Maids trooped in after a while and stood by the door with shiny trolleys of covered food, gently carrying a plate  to the front of each messenger till they reached I and Bala.

They lifted each metal conical cover till our foods were left bare on the table, looking and scenting tantalizing. We were served chicken stuffed with sauced potatoes, a salad and the special wine only found at this noble house.

"I believe a contract has been drawn in the past between the two parties that states they should be fair to themselves and their customers." Dr Rob imputed. If not for his clothes I wouldn't know he was a messenger. But as a respected member of the Kindoni society, clothes were made with different textures according to stature and status. Anyways, he was one of those people who sounded like dullards but actually knew what they were doing.

"They claimed it was to be amended." His neighbor, another messenger added.

"I see no reason to amend."

"If I may ask my king, why do you refuse to buy into this idea?" Master Barau, sipped from his goblet of wine, immediately pushing a fork already stuck to a little chicken pieces into his mouth.

"It is obvious they have broken one rule of our constitution which says no resident of this nation is allowed to trade to neighboring kingdoms without a written letter from the said kingdom requesting our assistance."

"If they don't have enough to sell here, they begin to look for money to buy more seeding which we originally do not produce here."

"How do we solve this?"

"Arrest the perpetrators allowing this at the borders and take the farmers licenses for a month."

The meeting ended shortly after. Bala was more quiet than usual so I decided to pry a little on our way home to see if I could be any help.

"What's on your mind?"

"I need to take my mother out of Disa."

"Is she sick?"

"No, but..." he bites down on his lip worriedly "... A friend sent word that a war is coming."

"And we'll be ready." I voiced, "Bring her to the palace."

"I want her out of Nahur when it begins."

"Where will you take her?"

"I don't know yet."

"Well you know my home is also your home."

"I appreciate that."

It was night time when we arrived the palace and there seemed to be a celebration. We looked at each other, confused and strolled in to beatings of drums and loud music. I couldn't help it to think I was in the wrong kingdom.

Bala looks at me with an evil smile and runs off to his office when Najma approaches me with open arms. She kisses my cheek and drags me into the throne room.

Light strobes moved in different directions to brighten the room. The most popular Nahuri musician Drae sang his famous song Guilty as she screamed "Happy birthday my lord."

I'd totally forgotten today was my birthday, I've been swarmed with too much. Surayya would've been the one to remind me but she was in a world of her own these days so I didn't expect much from her.

After a short dance with Najma, I let go of her to go and change my clothes for the party. Bala met me going to my room as he left his office and stopped as soon as he saw me with a big smile.

"Happy birthday Lion!" He taps my shoulder and continues to where he was initially going.

As I open the door of my room, I see Surayya sitting on a chair and holding a box in her hand.

"Happy birthday ba Sanusi." She pushes the box into my hand "Wear it."

I open it and see a wristwatch inside. It's very expensive but I don't question how she got it because she made an effort for tonight. I thank her with a hug and she decides she's going to her room instead of the party.

"Wait," She steps a bit closer to me, rubbing the back of her neck with her right hand and her left tucked under.

"Yes?"

"I'm sorry,"

"Where were you yesterday?" I question, dropping the box on a table in the middle of the room.

"My friends house."

"You lie."

"Please tell me how this is a lie?"

"You came back naked."

"Ok?"

"My conclusion is that you let the krid have his way."

"I..." she turns away hurriedly, almost yelling but sits back down with a huff "... I didn't do that. I haven't seen him in a while."

"So you admit you have met with him?"

"Not like that, you insinuate what is not real."

"Do you have feelings for him?"

She almost smiles but masks it quickly when she bends to adjust the bottom of her dress. "I don't."

"Better."

"Can I have the money now?"

"You will face being penniless as your punishment," I smile, knowing she's going to take a break from her endless shopping sprees and probably learn a thing or two about frugality soon. "Don't beg, I shall not go back on my words."

"Whatever." She squeezes her lips, nonchalantly playing with the ropes of her dress. I was always fascinated by this particular work from the seamstresses who made these mins. They were so light but appreciated every body that was opportuned to get it sewn.

I find a new set of Nimpa's to change into as she leaves and join everyone at the party. Decorated officials from other kingdoms were invited as well. Najma orchestrated a dance choreography with herself as one of the dancers to end the night and it was beautiful.

We retired a minute into three and stayed in bed watching a movie on the television as we still had so much energy. It'd been long since we had a wild night like that.

"Ba Bala," Surayya sang as she pushed the door to his study.

He squinted, confused because he knew there was no woman in the palace he was expecting to come to him then he sees Surayya and welcomes her in cheerfully despite how exhausted he was.

"Come in," he stands up and goes to sit on a one-seater couch facing one similar to hers. "How are you Surayya?" He asked as if he didn't know why she was here.

"Fantastic," she answered excitedly, "You didn't go for the party."

"I'm not a fan of social gatherings."

"Ditto."

Surayya crosses her legs and smiled. He blinks, resting his back lower onto the chair and drops his arms on the sides of the as he waits for her to talk.

She clears her throat but doesn't say anything as she plays with the hem of the white top of her dress. He chuckles but keeps quiet.

"Ok," he rises up and leans on his knees, rubbing his hands together "I see you didn't sort yourselves out."

"No." she nods like a child.

"And you want money."

"That's why I love you."

He shakes his head, laughing with his hand on his chin "You only love me because I give you what you want and keep it a secret from Sanusi."

"I still love you regardless." Surayya shrugged.

"Ok, ok." He goes to his table and takes out a wad of money and counts half of the bundle. He decides to drag it out of the tie but then shakes his head and pushes it back in and brings her the whole bunch. "This should take care of you until his anger has worn off."

She collects it immediately, clapping and wraps her arms around his neck "Thank you!"

He circles her waist with his arms and they stay there for a second before she exhales and releases him "Goodnight Suri."

She walks to the door, singing happily "Goodnight ba Bala that I love even when I don't need money."

The palace was dead silent as she struts back to her room. Most of the lights were out, she was almost scared of the dark but the moonlight made up for it.

A cold wind blew through the open windows and made the curtains look like flying ghosts. The gleaming reflection of the moon caught her eyes and she stopped by window, enjoying the cool breeze while someone admired her from a distance in the shadows.

She suddenly takes a look at her clothes and remembers the previous night. Her body had never felt colder when she gripped the window sills as her heart began to beat faster. Her head was not an exception as it began to throb on one side.

"Feel at home,"

"It's not mine, so why should I?"

"Because I..." Greg tapped his chest lightly, "The owner... offered."

"If you say so," Surayya shrugged, taking off  her shoes and sitting

"Anything else?"

"I'm good,"

"I'll be in the next room," he closes the door with a bow.

"Take your bed," He pushes the door slightly as he hears her voice.

"Where will you sleep then?"

"The next room."

"That's not necessary." Surayya slides to the middle of the bed and covers herself up with the blanket, awkwardly waiting for his answer.

"Well, I can't sleep." He states, bringing his phone out of pocket to see the time. "I'm actually just going to the library on the third floor."

"I'll wait for you to fall asleep then,"

"You're sleeping, how will you do that silly?" Greg chuckles.

"Right," She laughs, "Just stay here."

He stares at her blankly without giving a reply, scared that Sanusi might be watching from somewhere then he waves it off, thinking it's ridiculous when he walks in and closes the door.

"Ok," He sits, leaning back on the headboard of the left half of the bed, one leg hanging at the edge with his hands joined together on his lap.

"No," She touches his shoulder, staring at him with hooded eyes.

"What?" He smiles, blinking. She almost looks away shyly because of the burning intensity of his gaze upon her.

"Move closer," She swallows, licking her dry lips.

He doesn't move or say anything. Surayya sighs and closes her eyes.

"I'm sorry,"

"It's fine," she turns to her right.

"Come on,"

"You have to promise the king won't hear of this,"

"Swears kiss," She turns again with a smile as he scooted to the middle to join her.

That night she wondered what could've gone wrong. Still she didn't understand why she could only remember everything before she asked Greg to stay in his bed with her.

It felt like her memory between the hours of the previous night to today's morning was deleted from her brain. When she confronted him, his answer was:

"You'd remember if you could hold your estrogen."

"But did we do anything?"

"Nothing I can recall."

That neither confirmed or denied the scrambled thoughts in her head which further confused her. The rest she remembered would keep recycling themselves as neither dreams nor reality. She didn't want to believe it could also be her fantasy. Still, it felt real—like it actually happened.

Him driving her back home wasn't exactly something he wouldn't do but after he kissed her forehead and dragged her hand to rest under the bridge of his nose, he definitely confused her more than ever.
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-Aisha SafiyanuXO💚