Chapter Seven: The High Road

 Years passed. The times of Plenty were over, and Lapis had to admit, part of him felt a savage enjoyment, watching what came after. Rationing was done by Joseph’s decree. After living on Prisoner Rations for more than a decade, he had no pity for wealthy and entitled people who demanded a bigger portion. Rank had its privileges, as always, but there was no profiteering. It simply wasn’t possible, with Joseph in charge of the nation’s stockpiles.

The Temple Granaries were as full to bursting as every other stockpile in Egypt, but the High Priest was paranoid. He could have served the wealthy their larger portion, made enormous profit, and traded favors. But Potiphera was still expecting Joseph to use such excess against him in the Royal Court. Maat was measuring their supplies of grain carefully. If the Temples used up their stock faster than Joseph, then they’d either have to admit waste, or ask Joseph for more.

And for all his insistence that the signs said differently, Joseph had been right so far, and even the High Priest wasn’t willing to risk starvation in the hope he was wrong.

Lapis found he was enjoying the progression of those in the Royal Court. Most of them were waiting to see how successful their new Prime Minister was. And then the years of plenty offered quick wealth and most of them wanted to capitalize right away; which made Joseph an obstacle. Then the times of famine began; and one by one, they went from vocal opponents, to silent opponents, until finally their own stockpiles ran out, and they had to ask for their rations, just like the poorest slave.

One or two of the wealthier men of Egypt tried to take advantage of the famine. Joseph kept careful records. There were snap inspections of the weights and measures used when handing out portions, and those that were being deceitful faced punishment. Joseph made no exceptions.

When falsifying measurements and records failed, the hoarders and profiteers found other ways.

~/*\~

“They don’t appreciate Taafeef being cast out like that.” Asenath grumbled one morning as she walked to the Temple of On with Lapis. “He was within his rights. It was all his property.”

“He had his household slaves collect their rations, and then had them all killed so he could have their food.” Lapis commented archly. “You don’t see a problem?”

“They were slaves.” Asenath reminded him, as though he was missing the obvious.

“So was Joseph.” Lapis shot back. “You’ve only known him as Prime Minister, my lady. But his life before that was worse than Taafeef’s house slaves. I was his Warden for some years; and I’ve had to keep on top of the current Prison leadership to make sure this doesn’t happen to them. They were adding sawdust to Prisoner rations even before the famine.” He let that thought hang for a moment. “Besides, Taafeef wasn’t charged with killing his servants, he was charged with hoarding rations; which was true enough.”

“It was.” Asenath deflated. “You’re right, of course. I forget my husband’s views on such things sometimes.” She bit her lip. “You won’t tell him?”

“He’s never really needed me to tell him things before.” Lapis admitted. “It’s why he has me handle several matters.” He gestured ahead of them. “Like today, for instance.”

Asenath rolled her eyes. “My father was put on notice by the exile of Taafeef. His frequent ‘lunches’ with members of the Courts, the Guard… The Temple Granaries are still full…”

“If anyone but Joseph was in charge, nobody would care.” Lapis nodded. “Of course, if anyone but Joseph was in charge of the rationing, we’d be finished.”

Asenath smiled at him. “You were his Warden, now his servant. Sometimes I wonder how you must feel.”

“If it were anyone else, I might even feel awkward around him.” Lapis admitted. “It’s an incredible thing, Asenath. I know where I can do good in the world. There’s no… deception. Every man of power, even generous ones, have their own agenda. And if they had to choose between doing good, and following that path, they always choose themselves. For the most part, it’s alright; because they still do their part. Joseph… he doesn’t have any agenda that the Courts of Power can relate to.”

As if to answer that, the doors of the Temple opened, and the idol of Ra was brought forth, carried by the acolytes and temple guards. Priests kept pace, chanting their prayers, as the public bowed, and echoed the prayers. The procession walked from the temple, across the city, towards Memphis. The singing of praise continued at every step, as the citizens of Egypt came in their droves to throw petals, or wave palm branches at the passing of the Idol.

As prominent ones, Lapis and Asenath kept pace with the procession in their pulled chariots, riding side by side, close enough to speak to each other, even over the singing and cheering of the crowd that flanked every street they walked.

As the Priests sang the legendary stories of their Sun god, one of the Palace Guards slipped back from his post, to pass a note back to Lapis. He darted back into position before anyone else could notice, the eyes on the shining gold statue.

Lapis waited until the chanting paused, and checked the note as everyone bowed in prayers.

Lapis smothered his reaction. “The Chief of the Guard is asking for a private audience. He’s the third member of the Royal Court to want a secret meeting in the last six weeks.” He commented to Asenath, the only person on his level that didn’t have her own agenda.

“The famine is starting to reach even the court officials.” Asenath observed. “During the years of plenty, even the extra storehouses were overflowing until they finally stopped counting. Several of the Court were able to make stockpiles of their own. Most of them tried to make a profit when the crops failed. Potiphar was one of them, from what I hear.”

“Sold his stockpile too early?”

“They all need to eat, but they don’t dare lose face by being the first one caught unprepared.” Asenath nodded. “And now he has to apply for rations in secret.”

“If he doesn’t turn them away.” Lapis said quietly.

Asenath glanced over. “Why would he do that?”

Lapis froze. “It’s… not for me to say, my lady.”

Asenath looked at him oddly. “I will admit, I don’t understand Zaphenath-paneah’s thoughts on the Chief of the Guard. My husband’s always spoken highly of the man himself; but Zaphenath-paneah refuses to be left alone with his wife during official functions. I don’t know what the history there is, but the rumors about the lady are-” Asenath’s eyes flashed. “That’s it, isn’t it? She’s the one you told me about. She’s the reason my husband spent years in prison.”

Lapis winced. “I told you too much that day. I was trying to reassure you of your husband’s character, since the marriage was arranged without you ever having met him, but-”

“No, you did the right thing.” She assured him. “Lapis, my husband’s weakness is his heart. The years of trial he went through just made him more determined to be compassionate. I’ve borne him two sons. Believe me, I’m glad for his character. But someone who feels so deeply… It could be bad, when confronted with an enemy so personal.” She looked after the wealthy couple. “I’d like to be present when he confronts her again.”

~/*\~

There was a protocol in meeting the Prime Minister of Egypt. There was a certain protocol when asking for help making ends meet. It wasn’t that Potiphar no longer had his wealth or authority, there simply wasn’t a supply to be bought, except by Joseph’s command.

As a result, begging not to starve had to be done with tact. Especially given the history between Joseph and Potiphar. The Chief of the Guard had asked for a meeting. Joseph had known the real reason, and invited the man over for a meal; so that they could talk.

It’s a classy move. Lapis considered as the servant laid the main course in front of them all. It gives a fine cover for a secret meeting, and it allows us all to discuss the matter of food without drawing attention to the fact that Potiphar can’t host a meal himself.

Lapis caught the movement out of the corner of his eye. Asenath had shifted over to sit much closer to her husband. She recognized Potiphar's wife, of course, and sent a glance to Joseph.

Lapis regarded Potiphar’s wife with a cool eye. The woman was… haggard. Going from great wealth to hunger in less than two years had changed many of Egypt’s most powerful players. He had never actually met the lady herself. Part of him had been expecting a twisted shrew, who chased the slaves because she had power over them; and no other options for affection. Part of him was expecting a flawless beauty, who chased men like Joseph because she deemed herself irresistible. Or even a perfectly normal woman who chased a handsome, gentle servant because her marriage was arranged and she was desperate for someone to be genuinely nice to her.

Potiphar bowed to Zaphenath-paneah. “My Lord, I am truly grateful to you for allowing this meeting; and being so generous as to share a meal.”

Potiphar was groveling. Lapis was stunned at the thought. Admittedly, he had only met that man in person once or twice, but Potiphar was as regal as any man of wealth and privilege. The Chief of the Royal Guard could always count on at least one soldier to be discreet when violent action was needed to clear a path for someone’s personal gain.

Potiphar made me Warden as an exercise of power over my predecessor, and by the will of Joseph’s God, he comes now on bended knee, just like every slave and servant.

The meal continued. Joseph had calculated the portions carefully, striking a balance between being a generous host, and being responsible with his stores. Potiphar had surely realized what Lapis had: Joseph knew about Potiphar’s supply problem; and was helping him save face, even before he could ask.

But as the meal wound down, and the attendants brought drinks for everyone, Potiphar got the point and made a discreet confession that times were harder than planned, and his stores were exhausted.

“If memory serves, you are responsible for your immediate family, a staff of about four people to each; and of course your attendants among the Guard; who number five.” Joseph rattled off the numbers from memory easily. “And I understand there are three more men that are not part of your household, but still dependent on your generosity. Fed and paid from your own pocket, rather than your allowance from Pharaoh; since they’re so important to you personally.” The tone was purely professional; though Lapis didn’t miss the way Potiphar twitched. “Fear not, Chief. You’ve done nothing wrong. After all, heredity is how the Temples decide most of their appointments and administration. You’re to be commended for taking care of those less fortunate than the Priesthood’s own relations.”

Potiphar visibly relaxed. Lapis wondered for a moment. As a former Steward, Joseph would have known if Potiphar had anyone else on his payroll, or was supporting anyone discreetly. Joseph had offered a cover story easily. He wasn’t going to let anyone starve, even if their secrets meant they couldn’t line up for rations in the usual way.

Hearing the matter-of-fact recitation of the numbers, Potiphar’s eyes widened, just a little. How? Lapis could see the question clearly on the man’s expression. How does the man know so much about my household?

His wife barely made eye contact. Lapis glanced at Asenath, and saw nothing but pity on her face.

“I’d be grateful, for your discretion in this matter.” Potiphar admitted. “I have… opponents, as anyone in the Royal Court does. To have miscalculated so early in the famine would surely be embarrassing.”

“I believe we can be adults about this.” Joseph assured him. “But I would want to be sure that you were taking care of your people. After all, if we’re being discreet, they can’t just line up for rations like everyone else. Their lives would be in your hands entirely, sir.”

Calling him ‘sir’ was a generous breach in protocol. One that muted the fact that Joseph was warning the man not to keep anything back from his slaves, if he was being supplied in secret.

“I believe we understand each other.” Potiphar agreed, and as loaded as the conversation was, Lapis could see the relief on his face.

~/*\~

After the meal had broken up, Joseph went back to work. Lapis followed. Asenath stayed at her husband’s side until they returned to the Palace. Lapis wasn’t close enough to overhear what was said, but whatever it was, Joseph gave his wife an affectionate kiss before they parted ways.

Asenath came back towards Lapis. She would be making her way home, and he would follow Joseph into the Prime Minister's Office, but Asenath gestured for him to wait before following Joseph.

“They didn’t even recognize him.” Asenath said quietly to Lapis. “Lapis, you are certain of Zaphenath-paneah’s history?”

“Every word of it. I investigated the claims made about him personally.” Lapis was unsurprised. “My lady, believe me when I say: A Hebrew Slave and an Egyptian Lord are nothing alike. Your husband went out of his way to appear before Pharaoh according to the customs of our people. I barely recognized him myself when I saw him presented by Pharaoh.”

Asenath couldn’t help the smile tugging at her lip. “Oh. That’s… rather delicious, isn’t it? All his enemies are groveling to him, and some of them don’t even know it.”

Lapis smiled back. “If he were a vengeful man, the list would be long and distinguished.”

Asenath laughed.

Lapis settled. “In a way, that convinces me of his God more than anything.”

Asenath’s head tilted. “How so?”

Lapis lowered his voice. “I was put on a work detail once, when I was imprisoned for a trivial matter. For the larger jobs, several prisons sent workers. And I discovered how many of them were locked up for insignificant things. Six months hard labor, over the tiniest of transgressions. When I was one of those workers, I suddenly realized: The goal is not to punish crime. Prison is an excuse to find workers, a lot of the time, because Prisoners don’t get paid; no matter how hard or risky their work is. People were thrown into those cages on the whim of powerful people. Released that way too. Your husband went from prison to the Prime Minister on that.”

“He’s most definitely the right man for the job.” She countered.

“Unquestionably.” Lapis agreed. “But for a lot of years, I believed that power and cruelty were the same thing. Being… under the authority of multiple people, I’ve seen what authority is used for. Joseph is the exception. Under his command, Egypt does not starve. Nobody is stealing food to feed their children. Even before the famine, that happened often enough to keep the Prisons busy with workers. Under Zaphenath-paneah, the hungry ones that are poor, are looked after, even alongside those that had means, but nowhere to buy food in famine. It’s the first time everyone’s been fed, all across the nation. People are less… afraid.”

“I’ve been noticing the same thing in the City of On.” Asenath agreed, despite herself. “I can’t explain why leadership makes such a difference, but Egypt is prospering. At least, compared to our neighbors over the border.”

“In food and people, certainly, but the work is slowing.” Lapis admitted, and lifted a papyrus scroll. “In a few minutes, I’ll have to share reports from the Quarries. I’ve been warned that the stone masons are behind on their quotas. With nobody hungry, the Prison workers and the day-laborers are hard-pressed to keep supplying workers. If Pharaoh wants his gleaming marble cities, we’ll have to find workers somewhere.”

Asenath lowered her voice. “I should suggest to my husband that he needs a plan on the subject. Because my father has noticed the same trend, and is… preparing to approach the King on the matter. He’s suggesting a war.”

Lapis froze. “Why?”

“Other nations are weak, due to the famine. Egypt is the only Empire with seven years worth of provisions.” Asenath said softly, both of them holding a secret conference now. “My father is aware that his influence has only served to lessen in the Royal Court, since Zaphenath-paneah came to be in ascension over him. But a labor crisis…”

“If the High Priest can convince the King to use the opportunity to launch an attack on other nations, take thousands of slaves… Then the Temples benefit from the numbers; and Egypt gets it’s free workforce, without having to imprison our own people.”

“We’re feeding most of those people already.” She nodded. “As you said: My husband has been enslaved against his will before, Lapis. He won’t like that plan.”

“It may not matter. Egypt’s food stockpile is known to Goshen, to Assyria, to all our neighbors. Pharaoh is already being warned to increase our military power. It’s only a matter of time before one of the neighboring kingdoms decides to die fighting, rather than die starving. Your father will get his war, whether we start it or not.” Lapis let out a breath between his teeth. “I’ll speak to my sources in the Royal Court; and see how much support your father’s plan may have… I’ll brief the Prime Minister. Tonight, you ask him about his day and mention your father’s plans. And tomorrow, I’ll ‘have the same thought’. If Zaphenath-paneah can head off a war to enslave half the known world, so much the better, but he’ll need to have something better in mind.”

Asenath nodded, pleased. It wasn’t the first time that the two of them had allied with each other to help steer Egypt’s future. Such deals were made in secret all the time, but usually for personal gain. The two of them were united in their love and loyalty to Joseph, which made their service greater. Lapis was amazed to find that Asenath had become a dear friend, despite the difference in their stations.

They heard footsteps coming up the marble hallways, and quickly stepped back from each other, bringing their private conference to a close. Lapis resumed waiting outside the Prime Minister’s Office, Asenath returning to her private chambers.

Coming up the hall was Maat, appointed by Joseph as chief of the Granaries. During the famine, Potiphera had consulted his omens and decided Joseph’s foretold schedule on plenty versus hunger was exaggerated. Joseph had demanded the temples take a greater part in the stockpiling, and Potiphera had left the matter to someone much lower in rank. Lapis had always wondered if it was a coincidence, or his part in Jehovah’s prophecy, that Maat was put in charge of administering the Temple Granaries.

Maat’s work brought him into contact with the Royal Court all too often. The Palace Guards had been deployed to protect the food stockpiles, and then Lapis had put his own informants in place to make sure the guards weren’t stealing for themselves.

Maat waited with Lapis, until they were summoned by Zaphenath-paneah.

Lapis brought the reports from across Egypt, and put them on Joseph’s desk. The Prime Minister glanced at the size of the stack, and gestured for Lapis to hold off on his usual report. “Maat.” He welcomed. “It has been a while since our last successful harvest. What’s the situation at the granaries?”

“I’ve had to increase the size of the guard, until everyone understood the rationing would be doled out fairly to all of Egypt.” Maat reported. “But once word got around that there would be no gouging or preferential treatment, it got easier. I’ve had workers who decided to take their chances with relatives in other lands, but they all came back quickly once they discovered just how widespread the famine is.”

Joseph tapped the pile of reports Lapis had brought. “I’m assuming that’s included in here?”

“All our scouts report widespread famine in all lands, my lord.” Lapis confirmed. “In fact, several of our people are asking your permission to return to Egypt. They can’t afford to stay at their posts, for fear of starving to death there. Those that have the means to buy food can’t find anyone with enough to sell.”

“Which is why I called you here, Maat.” Joseph said calmly, unconcerned with the end of the world. “By my calculations, we should still be at 90% capacity in our granaries?”

“Enough to feed Egypt if the famine lasts another ten years, my lord.” Maat said with pride.

“Good. Because the famine will only last another six. That gives us a four year surplus, does it not?”

Maat blinked. “Y-yes, but if I may… How do you know it will be six years? The Minister for Agriculture sees no reason the famine would last much past one. Irrigation is being dug from the Nile at a record pace, the soil is being fed with as much manure as possible…”

“The Minister for Agriculture is concerned another bad season will cost his head, if he reports more crop failures to Pharaoh.” Joseph said easily. “The famine will last another six years. That extra four year surplus will feed far more than Egypt.”

Lapis blinked. “That… that was always the plan, wasn’t it?”

Joseph smiled. “You thought I was taking it too far, building so many extra granaries.”

“You said seven years each way, but I didn’t think…” Lapis was stunned. “My lord, the surplus can be sold, of course, but my reports say our neighboring nations are on the verge of collapse. The famine has left their workforces empty, and their… If the famine does indeed last another six years, then selling them our surplus won’t matter for more than about eight months. They won’t be able to afford more.”

“Then they can pay tribute in land.” Joseph said with certainty. “And besides that, their peoples will be offered residence in Egypt. The King’s plans for a great marble city will require a workforce, and if our neighbors know we’re willing to trade work for food; we can head off a war.” He picked up the reports and started flicking through them. “Maat, issue orders to begin preparing caravans of foodstuffs. You’ll need protection on the roads. Bring it up in the Royal Court tomorrow?”

“Yes, my lord.” Maat bowed, and turned to leave.

Lapis burst out laughing as soon as he was gone. “You were ready for this five years ago!” He nearly cackled. “I came in here hoping to warn you that some in the Court are trying to bring about a war to take slaves, and you’ll have workers flocking into our borders, begging to serve.”

Joseph said nothing. “I know you and my wife have become staunch allies, Lapis. I don’t mind. It is your job to see these things coming. But you don’t have to do it in secret. I gave you the job specifically to keep me informed.”

“You did.” Lapis admitted. “But I wonder if I’m even needed, most days. Your ability to see the future had you ready five years before the rest of us. Some days, I forget your name.”

“Not my ability at all.” Joseph said immediately. “The Revealer of Secrets is Jehovah God. All I have is thanks to Him. Interpretations belong to God. I am just His servant.” He put the stack of papyrus down and squeezed his eyes shut. “Lapis, would you do one thing for me?” He rubbed the bridge of his nose. “Make sure there will always be enough grain for the land of Canaan?”

~/*\~ Ellis ~/*\~

It wasn’t their regularly scheduled night together. Debra had picked up an extra shift, so Ellis took the kids for a few hours that afternoon. Piper’s classes ended early, so she was at his place before Gigi’s daycare let out. Piper brought over her homework, and worked on it for a while. She struggled a bit with English Lit. Ellis sat with her, helping her through it.

“I could just look it up.” She groused. “You never minded before.”

“True, but I’ve been learning a few things myself.” Ellis admitted with a gesture at the Bible, and his study guides. “Something I’ve learned about educational material? It’s trying to help you understand it. They don’t hide the answers. It’s not a mystery, it’s a lesson plan. Richard Feynman once said that the way to learn something was to study the material, and try to explain it to a five year old.”

“Gigi’s not out of daycare for another hour.”

“Maybe not, but you’ve got me.” He quipped. “Surely that’s close enough?”

She scoffed, and they worked on it for a while. Ellis provided snacks, and they talked back and forth. It was, by far, the most civil conversation they’d had in months. Piper was still leery about asking for help, or having him closely involved at all, given that homework wasn’t something she enjoyed doing on her own, let alone with her father.

When he had to leave and collect Gigi from daycare, her face changed, as though she’d suddenly remembered where she was. The distance between them was back when he returned with Gigi in tow.

Gigi was still young enough that a favorite movie and a favorite dessert was enough to make her happy. Even so, she was sitting a lot closer to her father than usual. As the movie rolled credits, she was asleep in his lap.

Piper, glued to her phone, was less happy to be in his house at all. Her loyalties were strictly to her mother. Their moment of connection working through her homework was over.

Time. He reminded himself. Good things take time.

Even so, Piper kept glancing at him, and her expression said she was rehearsing something. Ellis spoke first, keeping his voice low. “Y’know, when your mom and I would fight, we’d have to discuss things rationally; or you’d know we were bickering. When we had something to really fight about, we’d have to leave the house, so you two wouldn’t overhear us.”

“You weren’t fooling us.” Piper admitted, voice low, mindful of her little sister, asleep across his lap. “When you were my age, you couldn’t hear what your parents were fighting about from one room away?”

Ellis gave a single nod, admitting that. “Even so, eventually your mom and I decided to just not talk about it at all. And look where it led us. I don’t want it to be like that with you, so if there’s something you want to say to me… without wanting to fight?” He gestured at Gigi. “I can be quiet if you can.”

Piper winced. “I’m sorry. What I said last time? About mom dating again? I shouldn’t have done that.” She shook her head. “I don’t know why I said it that way.”

“Because you wanted to hurt me.” Ellis said flatly.

A flash of hate crossed her face for a second, before her eyes flicked to Gigi. “That’s not true.”

“Yeah, it is. You’re angrier at me than you’ve ever been at anyone, and you only see me twice a week. Even then, you have to keep smiling, or the Rugrat’s gonna lose it.” Ellis said plainly. “I don’t like it, but it’s not an original story. Your mom doesn’t get on well with her parents either, and she has a lot less reason to dislike them than the ones I gave you.” He kept his own voice low. “When your mom and I came home that night, the first thing you asked me was who’s side you should be on. You’re my daughter. I’d like it if you felt less hate for me. But that’s going to take a while, and we only get a few hours a week to work on it.”

Piper’s face twisted. “Rehearse that much?”

Ellis almost smirked. “A few times. I’ve been… taking a long hard look in the mirror since the separation. If you get to be my age, you’ll realize a lot of people don’t do that.”

Piper rubbed her eyes. “I shouldn’t have been so… vicious, about what mom was up to. Truth is, I don’t think her heart’s in it either. She’s not really looking, she just… I think she’s looking at a life where she’s suddenly single again, and doesn’t know if she’s up for it. Dating is hard enough without two kids and a full time job, right?”

“Right.” Ellis sighed. “I was really hoping we’d get back together.”

“Could still happen.” Piper offered. “She’s having a rebound fling. It’s how you know for sure if you still have options after twenty years with one person. You should understand that. You had your rebound before the separation even started-” She winced hard. “I did it again.”

“Yeah. Rehearse that much?” He quoted back at her tightly.

“I can’t seem to stop attacking you.” She admitted. “I don’t know if I’m fine with it or not.” She sighed. “What we did before, with you helping me with my homework. You learned that from your Church Group, right?”

“My Bible study.” He nodded. “Del never gives me the answer. He just keeps rephrasing the question until I get there myself.”

Piper bit her lip. She wanted to say something.

There was a car horn honking out front. Their mother had come to collect them. Piper nearly levitated up out of her chair, coming over to scoop up Gigi before she could get her eyes open. “See you next week.” She said quickly, carrying her sister with one arm, and her backpack on the other.

Gigi revived enough to make her own goodbyes, and Ellis kissed both their cheeks, feeling the usual spike of pain. Part of him always felt like they’d never come back.

Ellis watched the car drive away, and pulled out his phone, sending Piper a text message. Why do you run away like that? It’s like you’re afraid of me.

A few moments later, her answer came. Because you’re the guy who cheated on my mom.

Ellis felt his guts clench again. Yes. But you can still call me ‘dad’, if it’s not too much trouble.

Another few moments. Not what I mean. How do I tell mom that you’re actually getting it together? Now that you’re not with her anymore? How do I tell mom you’re better without her?

“Aw, kid.” Ellis sighed and tapped at his phone. I’m not getting my life back on track because she’s gone. It’s because losing her was a wakeup call. Her, and you. You aren’t betraying her by deciding you hate me less. Ideally, you and Gigi don’t have to pick sides at all.

Piper didn’t respond for several minutes. See you next time.

~/*\~ Lapis ~/*\~

It was the second year of the famine, and the Royal Court was taking stock of the situation. As with most Royal discussions, the whole point was to convince the King, either to support a position, or not to bother with it. This balance allowed his Court Members to each follow their own policies without Pharaoh’s intervention.

As a result, everyone liked to know what was going to be said before reaching the Throne Room.

“My father is still pushing to use the opportunity for conquest.” Asenath said quietly to Lapis. “For… for capturing slaves. Joseph is the one pushing back, from what I hear.”

“You hear correctly.” Lapis said grimly. “Slavery through economics is one thing. It’s almost a choice between selling yourself and starvation, even before the famine. But through conquest is another matter. Joseph was sold into bondage against his will. And Pharaoh has a high regard for him.” He gave her a sideways look. “Taafeef’s defense was that slaves aren’t like our own people. An argument that does nothing against Joseph, while he wears Pharaoh's signet ring.”

Asenath bit her lip. “The argument in favor of slaves breaks down when you start thinking of them like real people. As long as Zaphenath-paneah has Pharaoh on his side, a slave will always be a person. Just like Joseph.”

Lapis agreed. “So what else will your father and his supporters try?”

~/*\~

Pharaoh ruled by decree. When matters were brought before the Court, his word was Law. But in between, there were several matters that fell under his jurisdiction that didn’t need the whole Court to weigh in. As a result, the Prime Minister had several private meetings with Pharaoh over the course of a week. Lapis was present for some of them. He’d always been amazed at how at ease Joseph was with the King. Every conversation with Power was a dance for your life. But not with Joseph.

“The Flood season appears to be coming early this year, so we’ll need to set aside a few cargo barges.” Joseph explained. “Normally, they would be used to carry stone, but the farms are already becoming waterlogged. During the Flooding Season, the farm workers always relocate to the city. That’s happening early this year, so we must increase our rations to the Temples of Siwa.”

(Author’s Note: The typical reason for a famine would be a dry season, or poor soil quality. The Nile was the source of Egyptian irrigation and farmland, and it wasn’t fed by rainfall. The Bible gives no specific reason for the famine in Egypt, but given the seven years of plenty, and a matching seven years of hunger, it doesn’t seem like a typical weather phenomenon.)

“It is so ordered. Can you handle it?” Pharaoh nodded.

“I’ll speak to the stonecutters now.” Joseph said promptly.

Pharaoh was pleased to have things running so efficiently. “You have my leave to go.”

~/*\~

Lapis returned to his own office. As Joseph’s Chief of Staff, he had access to many records and messages, flooding in from all parts of Egypt; providing daily updates of food storage, locations, and transport. Such things were confidential with the limited food supply, so the messages were delivered by courier, and kept in the Palace.

Which was why he was surprised to find his office occupied by two of the more cunning spies in Egypt. “Manasseh! Ephraim! What are you two doing in here?”

The boys came scrambling out from under his desk. “We were hiding.” The elder brother said as though it was obvious.

“Don’t you have classes with your tutors? Your father went to considerable effort to find a Tutor that’s not from the Temples.”

“He smells like donkeys!” Manasseh complained in his father’s Hebrew language. “Mother wears enough perfume that she can’t tell, but we get stuck with him for hours.”

At that point, Asenath joined them. “There you are! You know you’re not meant to be playing around in here!”

“Make up a reason for us to stay, please?” Ephraim begged Lapis in Hebrew, so that his mother couldn’t understand.

“Go now, and I won’t tell her what you said about your tutor.” Lapis shot back.

Lapis noticed Asenath watching all this with a bemused smile as they scampered out of the office, heading back to where they were meant to be. “They’re good boys.” Lapis excused.

“They are.” Asenath smiled at him. It was a long look. “Lapis, we need to find you a wife.”

Lapis rolled his eyes. “I knew you were going to-”

Just then, The Royal Cupbearer came running in. “Lapis, where is Zaphenath-paneah?” He called urgently. “Potiphera has called an urgent meeting with Pharaoh. Just the two of them.”

The Cupbearer owes Joseph as much as I do. Lapis sent a hard look at Asenath, who immediately shook her head. “I haven’t heard anything about it.” She swore immediately. “Zaphenath-paneah is visiting the stonecutters; regarding their transport barges. He’ll be back in a few hours-”

“Which is why Potiphera called for a meeting right now.” Lapis turned to hurry. “Find Zaphenath-paneah. Knowing your father, I’m already concerned.”

~/*\~

Lapis came rushing into the Throne Room, disheveled from the run. In comparison to Potiphera, he looked awful. “Apologies for my tardiness, great Pharaoh.” He bowed swiftly. “Zaphenath-paneah would have been here himself, but we were not informed of this meeting.” He glanced around the mostly empty room. “Nor, it seems, was the rest of the Court.”

“Indeed.” Pharaoh intoned. “We are not accustomed to being summoned at a moment’s notice, Priest.”

The High Priest was in full regalia, and he bowed elaborately. “We beg your indulgence, Excellency; but this matter could not wait.” He declared. “Amon-Ra has blessed the Great God-King, our Pharaoh, with foresight. The gods have told me that the Flood season will come early this year, and the farm workers will relocate to the city. The Great Ra has told me that we must increase our rations to the Temples of Siwa.” Potiphera paused for half a heartbeat. “I took the liberty of giving that order before I came. Time seemed to be critical.”

Lapis’ eyes widened slightly, recognizing those words from only a few hours before. He glanced at Pharaoh, who had also noticed.

“The gods assure me that to assure your own place among their number, and as a beloved deity to your people, you need only provide years of plenty. But if there is an interruption in their food supply, the doubters among your servants will believe you to be just a man. For the sake of the gods, and your own-”

“Enough, Potiphera. I’m convinced.” Pharaoh waved him silent. “It’s good to see that the gods of Egypt have granted you prescience equal to that of… others.”

“Indeed.” Lapis commented, trying to work it out.

Potiphera bowed graciously. “I live to exalt you, my lord.”

Lapis caught the expression on his face as he left the room. It was a look of triumph. Lapis pulled back from the doors as Potiphera strode past. They didn’t speak. There was nothing to say.

How did he know? Lapis asked himself sharply. Did the gods actually tell him?

Lapis pushed that thought away immediately. He was quoting Joseph. He even used the same words. Somehow he was aware of the exact words spoken at our meeting with Pharaoh. There were only three of us in the Throne Room. Me, Joseph, and Pharaoh. So who could have… Oh. Of course.

Lapis craned his neck to peer into the Throne Room again. The Scribe was missing from his usual post.

~/*\~

Tracking down Montu was not difficult, once Lapis realized Potiphera had him. He was in the Palace Prison. Lapis hadn’t been the warden for years, but some of the guards still knew him, and owed him. He was able to meet with Montu without anyone knowing.

“I knew you would have warned me if the High Priest was using your contacts to make a power play.” Lapis said gently. “Of the two of us, I have more to offer. So I asked myself: Why wouldn’t he tell me? The answer is: Because you couldn’t reach me. Didn’t take long to find you after that.”

Montu, his face covered in bruises, smiled around broken teeth. “You’re my best investment. When you started buying from me, you were a Prison Laborer. Look where we are now.” He coughed in pain.

“The scribe was one of yours.” Lapis guessed.

Montu nodded. “I don’t know how Potiphera found out. I was walking into my home, and then there was a crack across the back of my head. I woke up here.” He forced his eyes to focus on Lapis. “He has the Scribe; who would either work for Potiphera or be locked in here with me. I don’t blame him for his choice.”

“My life story, without a happy ending.” Lapis said grimly. “He’s already taking advantage, using the details of Pharaoh’s private meetings to give himself the appearance of omniscient knowledge.” He sighed hard, and rested a hand carefully on Montu’s bruises. “I’ll get you out.”

“He won’t let you.” Montu warned. “He’s got me, he’s got at least a few of my people. These bruises are because he wants the rest. He’s keeping a close eye on my time here.”

Lapis gave that some thought. It would take someone who could overrule the High Priest. It would take an act of Pharaoh. Maybe Joseph. But either way, Lapis would have to admit his connection to Montu. Such things may have been common, but they were still unspoken. And if I tell either of them what’s happening, aren’t I putting the Scribe in mortal peril?

A scribe of the Royal Court, and his life is finished if I tell the truth to Power.

Lapis’ face hardened at the memory. “No. I’m getting you out of here, and we’ll find a way to fix this.” He said seriously. “I know you, Montu. You’re working an angle of your own, I’m sure.”

“I may have spoken to the Warden, and found out what price was worth my freedom.” Montu admitted. “But he’s afraid of Potiphera. It’ll take his own weight in gold to make it worth the risk.”

“I’ll get it.” Lapis promised. “I’ll pay for it myself if I have to.”

“If Potiphera catches you-”

“Let him. He can’t do anything against me without Zaphenath-paneah finding out.” Lapis insisted.

~/*\~

Next came the matter of telling Joseph. The Prime Minister was not close with Montu. He’d never bought anything from the man while in Prison, though he’d never asked Lapis to stop. In fact, he was the only member of the Court without a secret vice that most people knew about anyway. As a result, Montu and Joseph had very little interaction between them, except through Lapis, who routinely bought from him, and traded information.

“I’ll have Montu released immediately.” Joseph said, once Lapis explained what was happening.

“The High Priest is waiting for you to do that.” Lapis warned. “He’d love to attack you with that in the Court.”

“Let him.” Joseph countered. “Potiphera is a priest. He’s been performing ‘magic tricks’ to prove ‘divine’ power longer than either of us have been alive. He can’t accuse me of doing the same without showing everyone how he does it himself. So what is this really about?”

Lapis winced. He wrestled with it a moment before he confessed. “Whatever else he does, Potiphera can have Montu killed at any time.” He said finally. “I’m the one that convinced Montu to work for you. He’d have spent his life dealing in narcotics, liquor, women… But I convinced him that information was more valuable than vice, and that we had a chance to do good in the world.”

“Don’t know how to tell you this, Lapis; but I don’t think your friend ever gave up his ‘side business’.”

“I think you’re right.” Lapis admitted. “But I feel responsible for him, nonetheless.” He lowered his voice. “I have a duty to you, My Lord. It’s the only job I’ve ever had that felt like a privilege and a service in equal measure; and it’s all because of you. If there’s any chance this could reflect badly on you, then I have to handle it myself.”

“Can you?” Joseph asked simply.

“It will take my entire savings, but I can afford the Warden’s price.” Lapis nodded.

“I’m not comfortable with you giving up everything you have for the sake of a man like Montu.”

“For the first time in my life, I am not afraid of how I will afford food.” He almost smiled. “In the midst of an unprecedented famine, I finally do not fear hunger.”

Joseph regarded him. “Lapis, I was against you bringing Montu into your employ, but I named you as my chief of staff. If you say he’s a valuable source, I’ll leave it in your hands. If you have a need for wealth, I will grant whatever sum is needed. But take some advice: Your friend can’t be trusted.” Joseph warned him. “He makes his living appealing to people’s worst inclinations. He finds the bad habits that men can’t break free of easily, and profits from making sure they’re never denied.”

“He’s a friend, and he’s been useful.” Lapis offered. “Not that long ago, I was no more redeemable than him, if you remember. I took kickbacks often.”

“And your life didn’t improve in any real way until you stopped taking bribes, humbled yourself before Jehovah, and began living honestly.” Joseph countered. “Do you really think you can save this man?”

“I think I would have asked the same about myself, and I got my answer. I owe it to… well, to the world; that I make an effort with others. I promised that man there was a future in helping me. He’s the reason I’ve been able to keep you informed, and his information has helped smooth the way on a lot of your orders. The last five years, you’ve turned the entire Nation over. The next five years will be even harder still.”

“By all means, get him out.” Joseph promised. “But be careful with him, Lapis. That man made a living in the shadows, and now he’s lost everything he’s built.”

“Weren’t you the one that said God does His best work when the world turns you away?”

“I did.” Joseph agreed. “I was locked in that exact cell when I said it, as I recall.”

“Once we get him out, I’ll need to talk to him. Potiphera has bought the loyalty of just a few of Montu’s customers, and Pharaoh is half-convinced he can see the future as well as you can.” Lapis warned. “I don’t see any way to undo that without putting lives in danger. But how do we counter Potiphera’s sudden gift of foresight without looking like petty children throwing a tantrum?”

“We don’t.” Joseph said simply. “We can’t counter every lie told in the Royal Court. For one thing, there simply isn’t time.” Joseph gave him a look. “And I could just tell Pharaoh what’s happening.”

“He’d have the Scribe put to death. Maybe Montu too.” Lapis shook his head. “For obvious reasons, I have a soft spot for a Scribe who’s caught in the battles of more powerful men.”

“If Potiphera has found a way to make his lies more believable, then it changes nothing.” Joseph waved it off. “God is a better player than any man. We do our part, and the rest will attend to itself.” He sighed. “Unfortunately, ‘our part’ involves the small matter of averting a war.”

Lapis bowed. “Montu was my choice, and is therefore my problem. I thank you for your counsel, but some things you have to take responsibility for. I’ve dedicated my life to your plans, but this one is mine.”

Joseph didn’t push further. “I'll leave it with you, then.”

~/*\~

Lapis was certain he had done the right thing by taking responsibility for Montu’s situation. It had been his choice to recruit the man when Joseph ascended to power, after all. But without Joseph’s resources, it took almost all Lapis’ savings to meet the price of buying Montu out of prison.

Cash was preferable, but Lapis was in too much of a hurry to sell his possessions properly; and ended up filling a small cart with silks, idols, and whatever other precious materials he had on hand. The price gathered, Lapis quietly went back to the Palace Prison, and had a word with the Warden. The job had changed hands once or twice in the nine years since Lapis had appointed his successor. He was quite surprised to see a familiar face. “Khons?”

The scarred man wasn't surprised to see him. “Hello, Lapis. You’ve come about Montu.”

Lapis nodded, not surprised he’d worked it out. “You would have known Montu, of course. He would have had dealings with the Chief of the Guard, whom you were Steward for, years ago.” When Khons nodded, Lapis took a breath. “I have come to pay for the release of Montu. I understand you have negotiated a price?”

“A rather large one.” Khons nodded. “I never expected him to provide it. He must really have something on you.” He shivered. “It’s the first time the Prime Minister and the High Priest have taken such a personal interest in my prison, or any of my prisoners.”

“Believe me, I know the feeling.” Lapis assured him with a grim smile, and he held out a bag with a substantial amount of cash in it. “With Potiphera involved, you might want to get out of Egypt for a while. I wouldn’t be surprised if he punished you for spite. Montu could help you there, once he is released.”

“That’s all taken care of.” The warden promised him, taking the bag. “And I agree, I should probably get away from all this.” He bit his lip. “But what about the temple? If I leave the city, where could I go? I have a few cousins I could stay with, out past the Wadi. But there’s no Temple to Ptah there. When I die, what will happen, if I cannot be prepared for the next world properly?”

“Our empire is growing every day, Khons.” Lapis assured him. “Our gods are on the march with it. I promise, there will be a temple to make your offerings in. The gods will not forget you in the next life. And if you cannot find one… come and find me, when your time is close. I’ll make sure your remains are treated with utmost respect.”

“I couldn’t hope to make much of an offering… If I have to start again, maybe it would be best to just let Potiphera kill me and put everything I have into the burial rites…” He hefted the bag Lapis had given him. “But of course, if the Priest is your enemy, you can’t count on many petitions to the gods once you’re dead.”

Lapis smiled. “Go quickly. The faster you move, the more of a head start you’ll have.”

Despite all he had given up, Lapis was beaming. He’d learned from Joseph that honesty could not only survive in a world of deceit, but prosper. That fact did more to encourage faith than a hundred rituals in the most glorious of temples.

Montu would surely see the same, now. After all, if he relied on blackmail and vice to get my loyalty, would I have just bought him out of prison?

~/*\~

There was always scheming in the Royal Court. Potiphera now had an increasingly accurate account of Joseph’s movements during the day. He knew exactly when to call a meeting to have Joseph be caught off guard, or better still, absent from the Court altogether. Lapis was usually closer, so someone would always be present to make the case that Joseph would have made.

Naunet, one of Asenath’s attendants, moved past Lapis, and put a scrap of papyrus in his hand without breaking stride. Lapis looked down in surprise. It was a note, unsigned, but he knew who it was from.

Montu would greatly appreciate your support of Egypt’s greater future.

It was a threat, phrased so that it could be spun a different way if he told anyone, but he’d gotten the message. Lapis’ eyes went straight to Potiphera, who gave him a soft, cunning smile.

Lapis glanced out at the sun, trying to calculate how long it had been since he’d bought Montu’s freedom. Was he safe yet? Should Lapis stall for time, or excuse himself to hurry things along?

Lapis pushed that thought away. He was here, representing Joseph’s position. If he left, Potiphera would have the whole Court to himself.

Pharaoh called the Royal Court to order. Most of it was routine. Orders needed to be given, meetings were held. There were traders, foreign dignitaries, a few leaders of industries that made petitions or received instructions from the national leader.

Eventually, Potiphera was called on to speak, and he made his case.

“Egypt is not responsible for the hungry. Not beyond our borders.” Potiphera addressed the Royal Court. “But the years of plenty, granted to us by the wisdom of the Pharaoh, will of the Gods-Incarnate, have presented to us an opportunity unknown in all our nation’s history: To push our borders out across the entire inhabited world!”

Lapis felt his stomach turn cold. It was expected, but hearing one of the most prominent people in the world calling for war was unsettling, because he might even get his wish.

“Where would the world be without the food we give them? Where would the rest of the world be without Egypt? And yet, witness what we tolerate from them. False gods, different teachings, different leaders; even hostile leaders! The gods of Egypt did not create the world so that they could be ignored. No, they put their power on the Throne, so that all men could behold a god-incarnate!” The Priest was throwing himself into the pitch. “When a starving animal eats from your hand, he is grateful! When the animal bites or ignores you, he cannot expect to be fed. Why are we tolerating such disagreement across the world? Why should they not be singing your praises, my King? The streets of Memphis are filled with friezes that show victories and conquests of your predecessors, and of the gods themselves!”

Lapis watched the rest of the court. Some of them were nodding their heads. Some of them were shaking their heads, ever so slightly, as if unconsciously rejecting this. Too many of them were agreeing with Potiphera.

How many of them have been bought off ahead of time? Lapis wondered. Potiphera’s power over them grows with Montu’s contacts under his control...

“The whole world already looks to Egypt for the food in their mouths. Why shouldn’t we expect them to know who’s generosity it is? Why should they not know who’s wisdom grants their very existence?” Potiphera was building towards a big finish. “With this famine striking the nations of lesser gods, the path has been laid clearly. “Who could stand against their only source of food?” He turned towards Pharaoh directly, staring into his eyes eagerly. “Imagine a year from now, every single person on earth, in the Temples across every land, worshiping eagerly, singing praises to the icons of Ra… right next to the icons of you, our Pharaoh!”

Everyone’s eyes were on Pharaoh. Hearing the Priest wrap his tale of conquest in glory and worship for the man himself was a good move, and they could all see him being persuaded by it. He wanted to be convinced.

“And if Zaphenath-paneah was here, I’m sure he would agree.” Potiphera finished, eyes gleaming as he turned to Lapis.

More lives than just our own depend on giving the King the truth. Lapis heard Joseph’s voice come to him.

If Lapis supported Potiphera’s narrative, then Egypt would be at war within a week. If he argued against it, it would only make Potiphera more furious against Zaphenath-paneah... and if Pharaoh could be persuaded by tales of his own greatness, it risked driving a wedge between Zaphenath-paneah and Pharaoh too.

“Lapis?” The Pharaoh prompted. “You’ve spoken with Zaphenath-paneah on this proposal?”

Lapis had a sudden flashback to the last time he was stuck between the King and High Priest. That moment had changed his life in so many ways. But Lapis was a servant of Joseph now, and their journey had shown him the power of living honestly in a world of deception.

“Don’t pretend this is mercy towards the starving people over the borders. You want to conquer them!” Lapis declared with fire. “You want to march people into your temples at the point of a spear.”

Potiphera’s face fell imperceptibly, realizing Lapis was not going to be controlled. “I don’t think you understand the situation properly.” The High Priest said with forced civility. “If you did, you’d agree with me.”

“We understand, we just have different priorities.” Lapis countered. “You want to increase Egypt’s power and stature in the world, with yourself as the main force behind it; and we want to keep people alive.”

“What I want is to exalt my gods, and serve the best interests of my King.”

“Then why is the King listening to you push for war, instead of ordering it himself?” Lapis fired back. “The only person with a ‘grand vision’ of conquest is you.” He turned to Pharaoh. “My lord, Zaphenath-paneah, whom you appointed over these matters; has directed me to say ‘no’. Potiphera’s agenda is not a mystery to us.”

Murmurs around the Court. Potiphera had been gathering support.

Potiphera knew Pharaoh trusted Joseph’s word. “If you won’t let-”

Lapis spoke over him, interrupting for the first time ever. “Potiphera’s next suggestion will be to increase the prices for whatever food we give beyond our borders. Enough to force other lands into our permanent debt. But Zaphenath-paneah has determined the exact year the famine will end, due to the vision granted to our Pharaoh. In five years, the famine will end. If we gouge on prices now, they’ll have no money left in half that time. If we waste our stores by selling in excess now, we will starve ourselves.” He turned to Pharaoh and spread his hands wide. “My King, your servant Zaphenath-paneah gathered enough stores for more than five years; for exactly this reason. He knows the excess we have, and how to make it last in such a way that nobody will starve, and Egypt will make the most profit.” He deliberately did not look at Potiphera. “And if the High Priest had the same foresight, he would not only know this… he would have gathered such stores himself over the seven years of plenty.”

Pharaoh’s face changed, and Lapis knew he’d won the debate. Pharaoh agreed with that much. It had been a scandal that Potiphera’s reading of the signs and portents was in direct opposition to Joseph’s predictions. The High Priest had declared his beliefs in open court, with the same grand pageantry that the temples demanded. Joseph had done the same. All the most powerful people in Egypt had been able to judge for themselves.

All eyes were on Pharaoh, as he mulled the debate. Finally, he spoke. “This will require a great deal of thought, as it will, obviously, change our standings with the rest of the world. In the meantime, we should all consider the implications, and agree to discuss it more at the next Court.”

Which is code for ‘we’ll talk about it, but not do anything’. Lapis translated to himself.

The Court moved on to other business, and Lapis stepped back. Potiphera waited until everyone’s attention was on somebody else until he sidled over to speak softly to Lapis. “You just signed Montu’s death warrant.”

“Montu is already out of prison.” Lapis smirked back. “You told the Warden to keep his imprisonment a secret, but Zaphenath-paneah can overrule you. Remember that.”

“Who next has business before Pharaoh?” The king called out, and the next piece of business began. It was an Egyptian Citizen, who had been designated by his local community to approach Pharaoh and speak about how tight money was getting, as the fields were producing little, and every meal had to be purchased, for the second year running.

“Is it my imagination, or are we hearing about that happening more often?” Lapis murmured.

He didn’t think anyone was close enough to hear him, but Potiphera spoke anyway. “If only we had a way to bring the wealth of other nations into Egypt.” He said with biting sarcasm. “I’m not doing this because I’m bloodthirsty, Lapis. The gods require our service, and the more Pharaoh gives to Joseph, who openly rejects our gods, the less reason they have to hear our prayers. The Prime Minister wields considerable influence. The gods may yet be rejected by our people. We need the world brought into line, before Joseph can undo the gods entirely.”

“Joseph, or Jehovah?” Lapis shot back under his breath.

~/*\~

As the Court began filing out, Pharaoh gestured for Lapis to stay behind. “Where is Zaphenath-paneah? I would have thought he’d be here.”

“To do what? Listen to Potiphera’s latest reasoning on why he should rule Egypt?”

Pharaoh snorted. “Then where is he?”

“A delegation came in this morning, from the land of Canaan. The famine has reached them too. Zaphenath-paneah wanted to handle the meeting personally.”

“Why?” The King wondered aloud. “We receive delegations seeking food shipments every other week.”

“He didn’t say, my lord. You’re right that it’s a routine event, and usually I handle it myself. But everyone who comes to Egypt from that region? He meets them all personally.”

Pharaoh nodded slowly. “He’s never been one of us, wholeheartedly. He refuses our gods, and many of the… privileges of his office.” The King murmured. “I imagine Canaan is his original homeland.”

This was a thought that had not occurred to Lapis. It suddenly struck him how little he knew about Joseph’s background, from the days before Egypt. Slaves were not often asked about their lives before captivity.

Pharaoh was unconcerned. “There are some matters I need to discuss with Zaphenath-paneah; but nothing urgent. Have him stop by later. If there’s no other business, I’m sure you’re needed elsewhere.”

Lapis bowed gratefully. “With your permission, highness.” He was relieved to be dismissed. Even when there was no point of contention, it was never really safe to be in the King’s presence for too long. One wrong word could get a man killed.

Such is the life when you live close to real power. Lapis reflected gamely as he left the throne room.

~/*\~

Lapis made his way to Montu’s house. It wasn’t as close to the Palace as others who worked there. It held none of the luxuries that wealth brought. Montu had dirt on every member of Egypt’s Upper Society; which meant he had favor from most of them, even grudgingly. He could have lived in a much finer home, but the majority of his wealth was hidden, concealed in locked chests that were well camouflaged.

Lapis found he had oddly approved of this policy. Montu did his best work when nobody was looking at him, and if he kept his fortune hidden; none of his neighbors would be looking at all.

That sense of secrecy was why Lapis didn’t feel overly bothered as he rode to Montu’s house, and found it to be quiet and closed up. He walked up and knocked on the door. Montu would surely be home again by now, and Lapis had questions that needed answering. If Potiphera had taken any of Montu’s customers, or any of his blackmail material; the Prime Minister’s office needed to be aware.

But when Lapis knocked, there was no answer. He waited a moment and knocked harder, only to have the door swing open on its hinges, unlocked.

The house was empty. Lapis suddenly felt exposed, as if someone was about to attack him from the corners of the room. Lapis made a quick search, and found the place picked clean. It hadn’t been ransacked. Someone had packed everything up.

Lapis left the house in a daze, and made his way across the street to the neighbors. It took him a few minutes of questioning to learn that someone had come to collect Montu’s things. A large cart, drawn by mules, had been parked outside that morning, and everything collected quickly. It had been done with such speed that it was clearly planned. Whoever was living in that house, they’d made preparations before the cart had gotten there.

They came this morning. Lapis thought in shock. Before I bought Montu out of prison.

~/*\~

Lapis rode his horse at full gallop towards the main roads out of Memphis. There was always someone coming and going, especially as Egypt was now the breadbasket of the world. The Nile had several smaller docks, for fishermen and smaller traders. It took Lapis a while to find the right one. He could order the manifest of all ships delivered to him instantly, and he rode along the Nile, searching for a ship that wasn’t meant to be there.

At once such Dock, there was a Sambuk getting ready to launch, with a man transferring large woven baskets from his camel to the boat. The man had his face covered, but Lapis recognized him anyway. “Montu!”

Now aboard the boat, Montu straightened sharply, hand flashing to a knife in his belt, until he recognized Lapis. “How’d you find me?” He called lightly across to the dock.

“You arranged to have your house cleaned out, and everything in it moved here. The order went out the day after you were locked up by the High Priest. Either you were ready for that, or you cut a deal before I came to see you.” He scowled. “I would have seen it sooner if I had been looking for it. When Potiphera started taking advantage of Zaphenath-paneah’s schedule, I wondered how he knew. After all, that’s the sort of trick you would use.”

Montu deflated a little, glancing around. No guards, no warriors; and only a foot of water between them. “I’ve made a thousand deals in my life. Innocent ones, illegal ones, large and small. I guess I finally found my price.”

“What did you give him?” Lapis demanded.

“Everything.” Montu confessed. “My supply lines, my stockpiles, my informants, my vast collection of blackmail material… Even the spyhole into the Royal Courtroom. He got it all.”

Lapis felt his heart stop, like his blood had turned thick and slow. “And what did he give you?”

“A head start.” Montu gestured at the boat. “I’ve ignored the law for most of my life, Lapis. I can’t expect it to protect me now.”

“We could have protected you! We did, in fact. I paid a huge price to get you out of prison.”

“He was already out.” A voice called.

Lapis looked further up the Sambuk, and found a familiar face. “Khons?”

The scarred man had a bow in one hand, and a quiver strapped to his knee, though he wasn’t drawing the weapon yet. “Step back, please.”

Lapis stepped back along the dock, putting some distance between himself and Montu. Close enough that they could still talk. “My friend Khons knew that he’d never amount to anything as a house Steward.” Montu said with sympathy. “Imagine, his master giving him a fine position simply because he wasn’t pretty enough to be tempting. The way the powerful treat people like us is truly disgusting.”

Khons growled, gripping the bow tighter, just waiting for the order.

“So Khons was on your payroll all along?” Lapis sighed.

“I ran an efficient, and illegal operation among Egypt’s wealthy elites, Lapis. Did you think I wouldn’t have anyone keeping an eye on the Chief of the Guard? Basic survival is not something I take lightly.”

“And when he was made Warden after me, I guess his worth increased?”

“Not really. None of us saw Joseph’s promotion coming. But once the High Priest caught me, Khons was suddenly the most valuable asset I’d ever had.” Montu admitted. “You paid him twice, so worried for his safety once I was set free.”

Khons grinned. “I’m going to have a life all on my own, a free man at last.”

“Then why?” Lapis asked Montu. “If you were free…”

“The High Priest knows who I am. I was freed. So what?” Montu didn’t even blink. “A knife in my back doesn’t care whether I’m a prisoner or a free man. It’ll be far cheaper for the High Priest to end me than what you paid to save me. He knew I had valuable information and resources, and he was willing to kill me, or turn me on a rack to get them.” Montu didn’t seem mad, or scared. Just prepared. “It was always going to end this way, Lapis. The minute I started working, however indirectly, for the Pharaoh’s Prime Minister. It’s what happens when you get noticed by power.”

“If you’d already given everything to Potiphera, then-” Lapis shut his eyes. “The payoff I made to get you out. My life’s savings. That wasn’t going to the Warden, was it?”

Montu regarded him a moment, and reached over to uncover one of the baskets, beside him on the deck of the boat. It was full of treasure. Silks, icons, coins. “Potiphera gave me freedom, in exchange for taking over my operation. I knew you and Joseph would get me out, in exchange for services rendered. But you couldn’t get there faster than the knife. Not even with the new Warden on my side. So I took the deal.”

“You lied to me. You said you needed my help to get your life back.” Lapis summed up. “You took my savings to finance your escape from Egypt.”

“I didn’t know you would do that. I thought you would get the money from Joseph. I didn’t think you’d pay it yourself.” Montu admitted. “But between your money, and what I had hidden in this boat, it’s a fair amount of wealth to start over with. I got caught by someone who could burn me. I played the game too long, and I lost.”

“C-come back with me.” Lapis stammered. “Everything you had that Potiphera now controls? We need to know all about it, and we’ll… we’ll work something out.”

“It’s too late for that.” Montu said quietly. “My informants? My suppliers? They all know I saved myself by handing over their names. He owns them all now, because he has enough real evidence to have them all killed. They work for him, or they die. And they know it’s because I named them. I’m too hot to stay in Egypt, whatever happens now.”

“Why, Montu?” Lapis was amazed. “We could have done this right. You didn’t need to scheme. Zaphenath-paneah would have paid for your freedom without hesitation, because I was honest with him about the work you’ve done for me.”

Montu regarded him. “And I can’t believe you still believe it.” He said simply. “Zaphenath-paneah has the confidence of Pharaoh, and your full devotion, but we both know he’s not a prophet, or divine himself. If he was, he never would have been in Prison to begin with. It’s a great story, but his name isn’t Zaphenath-paneah. It’s Joseph. A foreign boy, sold into slavery, and now sitting at the right hand of the King. Mark my words, nobody goes through that and comes out the other side a good and virtuous man. There are no virtuous men. I won’t deny he’s smart, or skilled. But there’s nobody that good. Sooner or later, he’ll find someone he can’t forgive, or a slight he can’t overlook. And people are equally as good as they are bad. What do you think will happen when he finally shows someone his wrath?”

Lapis felt his shoulders drop. “You really believe that?”

“Of course he does. Why wouldn’t he?” Boomed another voice from the boat, and Lapis saw a vaguely familiar Merchant, with a distinctive gold and purple outfit, come up from below deck. The man was standing easily beside Montu, resting a knowing hand on his shoulder. “This is just how the world is, Lapis. Don’t pretend it’s more noble just because you want it to be.”

Montu sighed. “Lapis, I’ve made my living knowing how to find every man’s price, and every man’s vice. Joseph was the only man who never told me what his price was. But he’s human. There’ll be something. Right now, I’m getting out with wealth enough to comfortably start again, and all my fingers and toes are still attached. In my business, that’s a victory.”

Lapis scanned around. “I can’t let you leave with my entire life’s savings.”

Montu’s hand was still on his weapon. “You can’t fight my crew and win. And by the time you’ve gotten guards over here, I’ll be long gone.”

“If you stay, we can work it out.” Lapis told him. “If you go, with all your ill-gotten wealth, I’ll swear out a bounty. You’ll never be able to return to Egypt, except as a prisoner.”

Lapis and Montu said nothing more, eyes on each other for several seconds, the moment hanging between them.

“Cast off!” Montu called to Khons casually.

“Guards!” Lapis called.

A few soldiers gathered in time to fire an arrow or two in the right direction, but the boat was out of range, and Montu didn’t even look back.

~/*\~

Lapis rode back to the Palace, slower now. He felt foolish. Montu had been his choice, not Joseph’s. He’d wanted to believe he had done as Joseph had done, and redeemed a cynic to live an honest life. Only Montu had never been convinced, and was now fleeing Egypt, while Zaphenath-paneah’s enemies were made all the more powerful for it.

Joseph follows the instructions of his God, but neither Jehovah, or Ptah has ever directed me that way… Well, except for a dream. But Joseph wouldn’t have been fooled, if I had told him everything...

As he reached the Palace, he found a frantic Asenath waving him down. “Where did you go?!” She hissed at him, gesturing for him to follow quickly. “My husband has summoned you.” She explained, her stride quick enough that Lapis nearly had to run to keep up. “That delegation of Hebrews from Canaan? He wants an interpreter.”

“Zaphenath-paneah speaks the Hebrew tongue better than I do.” Lapis retorted.

“I know, but he doesn’t want his visitors to know that. I think he suspects subterfuge.”

(If you're enjoying this book, and would like to support the Author; please do tell your friends, or purchase a copy of your own on Amazon.)