His eyes went round. “I couldn't do that.”
“Yes, you could. We can be friends. Friends use first names.”
“Friends?” Bantar's eyes went wide.
It occurred to me that using my name might get him punished too. “But if it would get you in trouble, just use my name in private.”
“Yes, mas—Nadar. Thank you. But, what shall I do now?”
“Whatever you wish. If you want to get back to what you were doing before, do that.”
“I am supposed to serve you. That's my new job.”
“Well, I have little for you to do. Have you eaten?”
“Me?”
“Yes, you.”
“I had some porridge several hours ago.”
“Why don't you get a breakfast plate for me and bring it here to eat?”
“You want me to eat your breakfast?”
“Sure. I don't need it. I'll be eating with the king. Tell them to make your favorites.”
He chuckled. “You are mischievous.”
“I'm a Dragon. It's our responsibility to take care of those who aren't as strong as we are, especially if they are serving us. So, get some breakfast and anything else you might like. You caneat here. There are books in the study if you want to stay and read.”
Bantar bowed deeply. “I am grateful. If there's anything you need, please let me know.”
“Oh, there are some dirty clothes in the dressing room. I'd appreciate it if you could get them cleaned.”
“I will see to it immediately.”
“Thank you.” I left, my face red, and hurried downstairs to the first floor.
My face was hot. I never got embarrassed. Many men had offered me more than Bantar had and with more . . . creativity, and I hadn't batted an eye. It wasn't his body or words that had embarrassed me. It was his gratitude. He shouldn't have to thank me for rest and food. And I shouldn't feel as if I had to hide the way I treated him. It was the way everyone should be treated. My stomach turned. I was back to being uncertain about slavery in Kansu.
“Lord Nadar?”
I stopped for my guards to catch up with me. “Are all of you comfortable?”
The men shared a strange look.
Lord Anfar stepped forward. “Lord Nadar, they, uh.” He cleared his throat.
I sighed, suddenly knowing what that look was about. “I know about the slaves. Evidently, they serve willingly for five-year terms. I'm sorry if you're uncomfortable. I don't like iteither, but a diplomat's job is to observe without judgment. Just try to ignore them.”
“Ignore them?” Lord Mahden looked as if he'd swallowed a lemon. “Do you know what they do at dinner?”
“No, but if it makes you uncomfortable, dine in your rooms.”
“We're supposed to be accompanying you.”
“I'm fine. King Jucai is taking me on a tour of the city.”
