Cowards Illusion
Fragment 5
FRAGMENT 5
“Clean yourself up,” he was directed. “You must look somewhat presentable for my sister and nephew.”
Maesha did the best he could, given the cold, dank water. His tunic was chilled when he put it back on but at least he smelled better. He knew the deal with guests. Stay out of their way as much as possible but see to anything they need. They had a handful of other servants, ones that he was told were much more attentive than he was anyway.
Later that evening was the first time he saw Vhet, and his mother, Lady Hara.
The young man was extremely tall, with shoulder length auburn hair. He did a lot of laughing, Maesha remembered, most of his time spent with a smile.
He teased Delmir in good human, which the boy took to with a scour.
Maesha did what was expected, and made himself scarce.
It was later that evening that Delmir came storming down into the servant quarters.
“Maesha, go see to my cousin's needs! Now!” he was ordered.
Maesha did as he was told immediately. Delmir, as a young man now, was a master of the house as well.
He walked silently to the guest chamber, knocking softly on the door.
Vhet looked surprised to see him, already in his night clothes. Maesha shifted nervously, trying to ascertain exactly how late it was. This would not be the first time Delmir had sent him on an errand that got him in trouble.
“Master Delmir has brought it to my attention that you are in need of something, Sir” Maesha spoke carefully, looking to the floor.
“No. I was simply asking Delmir what books he had read recently, and if he could bring me something of interest. He told me that was why he had servants. I didn't expect that he would send someone,” Vhet spoke, shaking his head in slight amusement.
“Please sir, what book would you like me to bring you?” Maesha questioned.
“Anything, really. Perhaps you have read something of interest recently?”
Maesha did not know how to read. He was forbidden from the library.
He bowed without answer and scurried to find something he hoped was suitable.
Vhet fell asleep waiting and Halden beat Maesha senseless for poking around at night.
Vhet didn't see the disturbing looking servant for the rest of his visit.