Nolraitru was the Emperor of a mighty Kingdom; his was the most ancient, the center of the world. The Minister of Agriculture had been in the palace prison for several days. It was time for his hearing. Two guards escorted him silently into the ancient hall. The Emperor’s throne sat on the far end.
“Your majesty, I haven’t done anything wrong. I beg of you, please spare my life!” The Minister’s skin was rippling with fear.
“Cagypre, your sacrifice for your people is noble. It’s a shame it must be made, but I assure you it will not be in vain.” The Emperor appeared unmoved.
“It’s not necessary, Your Majesty! We can just tell the people the truth, our soil is depleted. The crop failures were not my fault.”
“I know. I know.” The Emperor tried to console him with just his voice. “If I told them the whole truth, the Emperor of the Kingdom to the north might suspect what I’m going to do. Don’t worry, Cagypre; I will personally care for your parents. I will treat your children as my own. Every opportunity I can offer will be available to them.”
“Please! If you execute me, do not do it in the arena. Do you not remember when we were children? We used to play together. I beg of you! If I must die in behalf of my people, at least do not make it so painful. Wouldn't a firing squad execution be acceptable?”
“My good friend, the arena most necessary part of all. How will the people respect their lord if he doesn’t punish those who betray him? The execution must demonstrate that I will not tolerate traitors to the monarchy or to the people. I assure you: I will annually visit your tomb and remember your noble sacrifice.”
With that the Emperor waved his hand and the guards began to haul the Minister away. He was screaming but his cries went unheeded. The Emperor was sorry to see his friend go but some things were more important than any particular friendship.
