Nezzar

Part Two: A Decree by Morning

From the top of the roof, Nezzar watched the sun rise over the spread of his kingdom. Around him, his guilt project flourished in a burst of vibrant colours. The lushest of plants, the loveliest of flowers, and the grandest of sculptures and pillars. Even though the garden was yet to reach the perfection he pictured in his mind, Nezzar was still pleased with its progress.

From the moment Nezzar awoke that morning, there arose in him an odd mix of elation and violent determination. It was as though scales had fallen from his eyes and he could see for the first time in years. One truly did not know what gift they possess if they enjoy the luxury of restful sleep each night. And that dream he had was what spurred his violent determination.

Who bewitched him to be dependent on the whims and predictions of a few? He understood tradition and reverence to the great gods of Babylon, but to be left in a suspended state of questioning for nearly three years? No.

Today the wise men must prove their worth. And if they fail, they will be cleansing before the sun sinks behind the valleys of the West. If they are unable to prove the substance behind their specious claims, they will understand just how little he valued their lives.

Shutting his eyes, Nezzar released a long breath before turning abruptly. "I do not care how it will be done, but I want this garden ready before the passing of seven days."

The supervisor bowed but not before Nezzar spied raw panic flash in his eyes and colour leech from his face. "Of course, your majesty."

Nezzar's guards trailed him as he leisurely made his way down the ramps of the tall building. The garden was a project he took great pride in; a wonder that would slacken the jaws of all who beheld it. Something to leave a lasting legacy, and more importantly, mend whatever he had destroyed with Amytis.

Ahead of them, just at the entrance of the Eastern complex of his palace, was a welcome sight. Nezzar paused and cocked his head but did not allow the smile that pressed to show.

"Nebuzaradan," Nezzar said as his captain of guard dismounted his horse and offered a bow. The man and his horse were covered in dust, likely from riding for the better part of the night.

"I heard that the king was about. I had to offer my greeting before I cleaned myself from my journey." As Nebuzaradan straightened he removed his helmet and held it under his arm.

Nezzar motioned for him to walk with him. "Did you find anything interesting while you were away?"

To a person who did not know Nebuzaradan as Nezzar did, they may assume the captain was at ease. But Nezzar knew. There was a tightness with which he held himself, a tiredness in his face.

"The colonies are still firmly in your hands though I had to dispatch a few... disagreeable ones," Nebuzaradan said with a subtle note of displeasure. That was the difference between Nezzar and Nebuzaradan. Even though the man excelled at killing, he found it distasteful and would sometimes present himself to temples for cleansing after particularly brutal battles. Nezzar always sniggered at his methods, but looking at what his mind had gone through in the past two-plus years, he was beginning to see some sense in Nebuzaradan's religious dedication.

"Good. I will await your report." Nezzar said with a nod.

"I learned that the wise men are yet to give a date for Egypt's attack."

At Nebuzaradan's words, Nezzar allowed a full genuine grin. "I assure you, my friend, I plan to permanently end that problem."

"How?"

"You will hear of it. For now, go perform whatever ritual you need to return to your... usual self. I need you in top form for when we march against Egypt."