The assassin grinned, revealing jagged teeth, a daunting smile that Nadia found reassuring. He nodded, returning to the shadows from which he came, an evil specter greatly feared who stalked his prey before striking.
A cold shiver ran up Nadia’s spine when the assassin appeared to have vanished before her, a stark reminder of her vulnerability as she ran through the corridor, stopping suddenly when she saw Sharif turning the corner. She tossed the satchel onto the floor, brushed aside unruly strands of hair, straightened her dress, and smiled as she approached Sharif.
“Has Thayer returned then?” Nadia asked playfully.
“You are to await him in his bedchamber,” Sharif replied gruffly. “I was sent to escort you.”
“I do not need an escort...I know the way quite well...unless my freedom has been taken from me?”
“Thayer fears harm may befall you, that is all.”
“Tell Thayer I am capable of defending myself...you may go. I will make my own way to his bedchamber.”
“As you wish,” Sharif said curtly before taking his leave.
Nadia glanced behind her, expecting to see one of Sharif’s men blocking her way and praised Allah when she saw she was alone. She retrieved the sack and hurried towards the courtyard, pressing against the wall each time she heard voices before her, waiting for silence before moving forward. She kept looking over her shoulder, fearing discovery, and praised Allah again when she reached the stables safely. She slipped through the slightly open door unseen, grateful for the shadows as she walked past the stalls, oblivious to the horses’ agitated state. She narrowly missed being kicked by a stallion as she searched for Bashir in the darkness, becoming unsettled when he was nowhere to be seen.
The restless horses neighed, moving about and swinging their heads in the confined space, spooked by a smell Nadia had yet to detect. She sat on a bale of hay, dropping the satchel beside her, jumping to her feet when she noticed a lifeless body. She held her breath when she turned the body over, covering her mouth when she recognized Bashir.
“It cannot be,” Nadia whispered, dropping to her knees in tears.
Nadia closed Bashir’s sightless eyes, touching his lips gently with the tip of her fingers while trying to make sense of his death. She shook her head in disgust when she noticed caked blood covering his throat, proving he had been taken by surprise. She examined the jagged pattern left by the dagger, trying to discern its owner, becoming pale because of her suspicions. She sat back on her heels, looking around the stables for Bashir’s assailant while wondering if Chad had betrayed them both. She was deep in thought, considering her options when she heard something. She searched Bashir’s body for his dagger only to find it missing. Nadia rose quietly, praying her movements could not be heard as she glanced at the door, which had been closed.
“Show yourself,” Nadia shouted, peering through the shadows for an unseen enemy as she stepped away from Bashir’s body. “If I am to die, I would know why.”
“You already know why,” a familiar voice said from the loft.
The animals moved about, swinging their heads and tails as a cloaked figure slid down a ladder, landing on his feet with ease, his belted dagger prominently displayed. He grinned malevolently at his victim, licking his lips as spit ran down the side of his mouth. He walked purposefully towards her, his hand gripping the hilt, his eyes boring into her soul.
“What price for my life?” Nadia asked as she emptied the sack, retrieving the bejeweled coffer that she opened. “These gems are worth a king’s ransom...take them all, but spare me.”
“I have enough wealth for two lifetimes,” he sneered, knocking the box out of her hand, taking pleasure in her fear.
Nadia looked steadily into his steely eyes as she walked towards him, loosening her clothing as she pressed against him, her hands caressing his body. She kissed his chest, swaying provocatively, enticing him to possess her, believing she would be spared. But he pushed her to the ground, his disgust evident when he kicked her repeatedly before drawing his dagger. He knelt beside her, the blade at her throat, the cold steel piercing the flesh, blood seeping from the wound.
“Who betrayed me?” Nadia begged. “You owe me that much.”
“I owe you nothing; you betrayed the family I serve,” the assassin replied, slicing her neck slightly, prolonging the inevitable, taking pleasure from her torment.
“End this then,” Nadia told him, grabbing his wrist, believing she had the strength to force him to shove the dagger into her throat.
“He waits for me,” Chad said, looking at Nadia with loathing.
“Chad, please!” Nadia begged.
“You could not leave it alone, could you?” Chad retorted. “Your vengeance cost Bashir his life because he could no longer be trusted...his blood is on your hands!”
“Spare me and I will leave these lands,” Nadia said tearfully as the assassin ran the blade across her face, droplets of blood dripping on the ground, the smell of death frightening the horses.
“I could understand having Thayer killed,” Chad replied, “but wanting me dead too! After I took you in...is that how I am repaid?”
“You cast me aside...and threw me at your brother! I loved you....I still do,” Nadia screamed as the tip of the blade cut her forehead and blood seeped over her eyes.
“Then why have me killed?”
“I do not know...I do not know.”
“Finish it,” Chad told the assassin, finding little pleasure in torturing the woman he once loved.
The assassin grabbed Nadia’s hair and pulled her head back, exposing her bleeding neck and deftly slit her throat. Blood gushed from the deep wound, gurgling sounds echoing throughout the stables, the horses frightened by the throes of death.
“Burn the bodies, and wait for me in the village. I have further need of your talents,” Chad said, whispering a name and laughing loudly as he walked away.
The assassin nodded as he wiped his bloodied blade against Nadia’s clothing, cleaning the dagger and slipping it into its casing. Once Chad left, he covered the bodies, throwing them over the back of his horse and walking the animal out of the stables. He led his trusty steed through the forest, stopping at a clearing not readily seen. He set the bodies on fire, stepping back from the heat of the flames that engulfed them quickly, calming his horse as he watched them burn. The assassin buried the ashes, tossing rocks and fallen branches over the improvised grave. He mounted his horse and returned to the village to await the arrival of his next victim.
Chad joined Thayer in the main room where he and his men were drinking excessively. Sharif’s stern countenance depicted his displeasure as he stood guard, appalled by such reckless behavior and Thayer’s indifference. Chad filled a cup, pretending to enjoy the sweet wine as he joined Sharif standing in the archway that faced the road leading to the villa. Both men nodded, acknowledging each other’s presence, preferring silence over senseless pleasantries. Chad did not trust Sharif, but then Chad hardly trusted anyone, especially the men who had sworn their allegiance to his brother. It was well known that Sharif would avenge Thayer should the need arise. Sharif would be relentless and unforgiving, sealing his fate in Chad’s opinion.
“It will not be long before the Caliph’s soldiers arrive,” Chad told Sharif. “I will speak to my brother, but I need to know what is happening in the village. You have spies there, do you not?”
Sharif nodded, eyeing Chad suspiciously while wondering about his true purpose.
“See what you can learn and report back to me as quickly as possible,” Chad said gravely. “I ask this of you because I trust no one else. You will agree we have not much time.”
Sharif glanced over his shoulder at Thayer who was suffering from the effects of drinking overmuch. His soldiers were useless in their present state, a sorry lot who could not stand nor wield a sword. If the Caliph’s soldiers appeared this day, all would be lost. Sharif had no choice but to obey Chad.
“You will guard Thayer while I
am gone?”
“They will soon be asleep,” Chad grinned. “Do not worry, I will protect them all.”
Chad returned to the merriment once Sharif left. He retrieved a vial hidden in his belt and poured white powder into the flask. He proceeded to refill the cups, encouraging the men to swallow quickly while promising to send for the women. Thayer walked unsteadily towards his brother, grabbed the flask and emptied its contents, throwing the pitcher across the floor when he finished, and fell against Chad purposely. Chad placed his arm around Thayer’s waist and led him out of the room. He was patient when Thayer stumbled, falling numerous times as they made their way towards Chad’s quarters. The unbearable heat was stifling, adding to Thayer’s discomfiture as the brothers entered the cool, darkened chambers. Chad tossed Thayer upon the bed, leaving him to his fate while he searched for Jafri who had yet to return. He walked out to the portico, resting against the pillar as he looked at the beckoning sea. He glanced upon the grounds, expecting to see Jafri, chiding himself for being impatient as a soft sea breeze ruffled his hair.
“Not much longer,” Chad said to himself, closing his eyes as he remembered the night Concordia conceived his son.
It did not take long for Sharif to reach the village. He left his horse in the stables, walking the deserted streets cautiously, wondering why no one was about while noticing smoke arising from the field where the Christian monk and his followers had been slain. He made his way cautiously towards the goldsmith’s dwelling, searching the surrounding landscape for signs of life. Sharif wondered if the people had fled to the town seeking protection, and cursed Thayer’s foolishness beneath his breath. He became uneasy when he entered the empty dwelling, keeping his hand on the pommel of his sheathed sword as he searched the rooms. He walked towards the back of the building and noticed the door to the storage shed was open, yet he hesitated before entering.
“Is anyone here?”
Sharif stood still, glancing about the darkened room, unaware of the danger. He did not hear the assassin’s footsteps nor did he feel his hands upon him until it was too late. The sound of cracking bone was deafening in the stillness when the assassin broke his neck in one swift movement. Sharif fell to the ground, urine and feces soiling his clothes. The assassin tossed Sharif’s lifeless body into the root cellar, lying face down amongst the sacks of vegetables, an unfortunate accident once his body was discovered.
The assassin left the shed as the early hues of twilight darkened the bright blue sky. He did not hurry as he walked through the deserted village. He smiled inwardly, remembering the villagers’ fear when he had told them Thayer and his men would soon return to silence them all. They had believed his warning and fled to the city, leaving everything behind. It would take a day, perhaps two, before the Caliph’s soldiers arrived, and Chad would no longer be in these parts. He had no quarrel with Thayer or with Nadia for that matter, but Chad held his allegiance. Chad had not only saved him from the executioner’s block, he had also made him wealthy. The assassin did not fear discovery because of his elevated status, being a respected merchant who journeyed throughout the known kingdoms acquiring goods to sell at the market. He would feign surprise when word reached him, commiserating with the people when they recounted the horrors of this day, offering to purchase Thayer’s estate and protect the villagers should Thayer’s father accept the offer. The future was promising for the son of a slave. His only regret was not being able to share his good fortune with his father whose death had ensured his freedom.
The assassin returned to the stables where his horse was chewing on hay. He patted the animal’s neck, leading him outside before mounting, choosing to follow the main road leading to the city. He need not fear brigands since the road was patrolled by the Caliph’s soldiers, nor would his purpose be questioned. He was a husband and father, returning to his villa after a long journey where his wife and children waited, and he would soon be home.
Chapter Twenty Four
Jafri and Concordia followed Yara down the wooded hillside, stopping to rest when they reached the coastal road. Concordia sat on the ground, her clothes damp from exerting herself in the excessive heat, her breathing labored as noticeable drops of sweat dripped down the side of her face. Her mouth and throat were dry, and her lips were chapped and painful as she gratefully accepted a drink of water. She drank slowly, hoping to regain her strength, noticing Yara’s concern for her well-being as Jafri placed a wet cloth on her forehead. Concordia smiled reassuringly as she leaned against a tree, grateful for the respite, yet knowing she would not be able to keep up the pace. She closed her eyes, praying for God’s protection, fearing Thayer’s reprisal should they be captured by his guards.
“She cannot go much further,” Yara told Jafri. “We can spend the night in one of the sea caves and continue our journey at first light.”
“Our cave is not far,” Jafri winked, “but I must return to the villa once you are settled.”
Yara embraced Jafri impulsively, startling the man she loved when she kissed his lips tenderly.
“You have grown bold,” Jafri said, releasing her reluctantly when she pointed to Concordia who was walking unsteadily towards them.
Jafri ran to her assistance, catching her before she fell, speaking comforting words as she started to cry.
“All will be well,” Jafri told her soothingly. “I will carry you if you do not have the strength to walk.”
Concordia rested her head against his shoulder, sobbing softly because she was afraid. She was alone in a world she did not understand and she had suffered overmuch. She grieved for Brantson, blaming herself for his death and needing spiritual guidance to atone for her grave sin. She also feared for her unborn child despite his lineage since he was of her flesh. She willed herself to live because of the life she carried within her while reproaching herself for being weak.
Yara led the way on the coastal road, ever vigilant as the three of them headed towards the rocky caves that dotted the shoreline. Once they reached the grassy path, Concordia’s strength returned.
“I feel much better,” Concordia said as Jafri set her gently upon the ground.
They made their way carefully down the twisting path, stopping when they reached the beach where the breaking waves washed upon the shore, frothy bubbles rippling across the muddy sand, a salty mist caressing their faces. They were laughing as they approached the mouth of the sea cave, refreshed by the cool air and mild breeze.
Concordia was surprised when she entered the dimly-lit cave where wall torches burned brightly in receding crevices. She blushed when she noticed the bed at the far end of the cavern, and smiled knowingly at Yara whose face turned bright red when their eyes met. Jafri guffawed at Yara’s discomfiture while sweeping her off her feet and tossing her upon the covered straw.
“We are not alone,” Yara told him sternly.
“Concordia is family,” Jafri replied mischievously as he sat beside her and kissed the side of her face.
“It pleases me to see you laugh,” Concordia interjected as she sat beside Yara, “and there will be much laughter once we return to Britannia.”
Concordia noticed their silent glance, seeing the hope their eyes depicted and praying to God for His deliverance. She stood up and walked towards the mouth of the cave where she watched the rolling waves, knowing Yara was grateful for the privacy. Concordia could not hear their words above the sound of the roaring surf, but she could surmise their fears, knowing the danger they faced, and the fate that awaited them should they fail. She watched the seagulls foraging for food near the rocks jutting out of the water, their shrill cries piercing her ears. She sat upon the nearest rock, marveling at the bright blue sea and the glistening foamy waves that crashed upon the nearby rocks. She closed her eyes, welcoming the cool spray that enveloped her, and for a brief moment she was at peace.
“Concordia,” Yara said softy, touching her shoulder as she spoke. “Jafri has left.”
“Come, sit with me. I find the sea
soothing and would stay awhile longer. I shall never forget this vision.”
The women watched the mesmerizing waves, each woman alone with their thoughts, both welcoming the silence. Whatever their fears, neither woman dared to speak the words lest misfortune befell them.
“We must eat,” Yara told her as the sun was beginning to set. “We can walk the beach once the darkness sets in. You need not fear discovery, these are Thayer’s lands, and no one rides here without his approval.”
“There are so many caves here, why did you choose this one?”
“The tunnel leads to a coastal village miles from here where Chad has a dwelling. Only Jafri knows of this place and that is where he shall take us to await Chad.”
“I thought Jafri was taking us to Britannia and that Chad would remain here, with Thayer,” Concordia said anxiously.
“Jafri will know more when he returns. Remember we left suddenly and not at first light, but Thayer will not seek you out tonight. His actions this day broke the law and he fears for his life, and he must be gone before the soldiers arrive. He will leave with Sharif and the elite guards, probably to Valencia where my father will give him refuge, and you are not welcome in my father’s house. You are quite safe, trust me.”
“I pray you are right,” Concordia whispered, shivering despite the warmth and filled with a sense of foreboding as she followed Yara into the cave.
Jafri stood in the archway of Chad’s quarters, glancing about the rooms for signs of treachery, entering the chambers once he was satisfied he was alone. He headed towards the table, pouring water into a basin, splashing it on his face and the back of his neck. He grabbed a nearby cloth, wiping his hands as he approached the bedchamber, stopping abruptly when he saw Thayer’s motionless body on the bed. He tiptoed out of the room and walked softly towards the library, but went instead to the portico when he noticed the slightly-opened door where he found Chad sitting on the stone bench that covered the stairwell. He coughed to make his presence known and was relieved when Chad jumped up and backslapped him heartily, grasping his shoulders and looking directly into his eyes when he spoke.
The Briton and the Dane: Concordia Page 16
