Chapter 8

They had followed a measured and relatively relaxed pace traveling to the battle site. The Nubian forces had been constantly monitored during their march and had remained on track. It had taken 12 days to arrive and now it was time for all to relax, rest, and recoup for the impending battle.

The soldiers focused on sharpening their spears, practicing their hand to hand combat, and talking of how badly they were going to destroy the Nubians. The generals and the Pharaoh refined their attack plans to mesh better with the surrounding landscape, reviewed messages regarding the status of the approaching forces, and circulated through the various groups of troops ensuring that all were well aware of their roles and responsibilities once the battle was upon them.

Surveillance had spotted the Nubians a few hours' march from their location and all were placed on alert. The following morning would tell if all their preparation and planning had been sufficient. The night air was still as the men on both sides of the lines contemplated what was going to happen the next day. Only low voices could be occasionally heard as the men shared their hopes and fears about the coming battle.

Lee made a point of walking throughout their entire encampment, exhorting the men to greatness and assuring that should they fall, a hero's welcome awaited them on the other side. Akhbar had accompanied him on his walk about and was amazed and heartened at how appreciative the men were as their Pharaoh wished them well.

Now done with his walk, Lee headed back towards the tents in officer's country. As he reached his tent he asked Akhbar to join him for a nightcap and some conversation. Once inside, Lee poured them each a cup of beer and handed one to Akhbar.

"Please have a seat Akhabr," Lee started, as he took a sip from cup.

"Thank you, My Pharaoh," responded Akhbar and claimed a pillow on the tent floor. "Is something wrong? You seem pensive."

"Only the uncertainties that rustle inside you before heading into battle," Lee responded with a chuckle. "Akhbar, my friend, I have a very important favor to ask of you."

"Anything if it is within my power, Sekhemkhet. What would you have of me?"

"Should I fall in battle, or be called home by the gods, I would ask that you ensure Djeseretnebti and the children are protected and well cared for. I don't doubt that we will prevail in this battle, we have planned and prepared too well, but there is also that specter of losing one's life in such a struggle. Can you do this for me?" Lee asked solemnly.

"You need not have asked for I will always protect the house of Pharaoh. I will treat them as my own and ensure no ill befalls them," Akhbar replied with equal solemnity having risen to meet his Pharaoh and best friend. "On this I pledge my honor and soul." He extended his arm and Lee quickly grasped his forearm then drew him in for a quick hug.

"Thank you, Akhbar. You have put my mind at ease. You should know, Djeseretnebti is with child and I am to be a father…again," Lee informed his friend with a broad smile.

Akhbar returned his smile and drew his friend into another brief hug. "Congratulations Sekhemkhet. That is glorious news for you and the kingdom. Our victory celebration shall have yet another reason for joy." He turned and retrieved the flask and poured them each another drink. "Let's toast our victory and the new addition to the kingdom."

Lee smiled and raised his cup accepting the toast. They chatted aimlessly for another hour, avoiding the topic of battle as that would consume them in the morning. Having finished their drinks, Akhbar excused himself and returned to his tent to make his own preparations for the big day.

ooo1o)

As Lee readied himself for bed he was startled to hear a voice behind him. "I thought he would never leave," Pem huffed, having appeared in the tent.

"Where have you been, Pem? You've been conspicuously absent of late," Lee remarked as he glared at him.

"I do have other concerns, Captain. You have things well in hand and had no need for my assistance. It's quite obvious you and your men are ready for tomorrow's conflict."

"We are. So, what is it you want, Pem?" Lee inquired

"We need to make preparations for your departure, Captain. Once the battle is won, I will return you to your boat and you may go on your merry way," Pem answered. "I assume that's what you still want, isn't it?" he added with a smirk realizing how much at home Crane had made himself.

Lee narrowed his eyes and nearly growled at the smaller man, who immediately shrank back from the obvious show of aggression. He was torn between his two lives more than he ever expected and had no patience for Pem's nasty innuendo after having been forced into this situation. On one hand, he missed the life he had back in his time. He missed Harri, and Chip, and even Jamie along with his boat and crew and all he held dear. But this new life had equally appealing aspects and he had found a peace and joy that was missing in his other world. He liked being a husband and father, and it was definitely good to the king. What he wanted most was to see the birth of his child and watch him or her grow up, and to grow old with Djeseretnebti, but knew that was not his fate.

After a moment, he replied. "Yes Pem, that's where I belong and where I want to be," he said in a low and deadly tone.

"As you wish Captain," Pem acknowledged. "After the battle is won, I will make it appear as though you are struck down by a bolt of lightning as the gods bring you back to the afterlife having completed your mission. I will transport you back to your boat and place your brother's body where you stood."

Lee nodded his understanding. "When will all this occur?"

"The following day after your victory. You will address your troops and then as you finish your speech, you shall be called home. Very dramatic don't you think?" Pem replied with a smile.

"Yes, very." Lee replied flatly, not at all thrilled with Pem's posturing.

"Honestly Captain, you could sound a little more excited at the prospect of going home. The grand exit will inspire your troops, and people, and ensure the safety of your royal house. After all, who would risk the god's ire by overthrowing the family of the Pharaoh who had brought such glory to the kingdom?" Pem interjected.

"Whatever Pem. I just want this over and done with and to be on my way home," Lee answered wearily. "Now if you will excuse me I need to get some rest. I've got a busy day tomorrow, if by chance you've forgotten." Pem nodded and disappeared.

(o1ooo