The Scholar (2)

Nti Anem and Ku Jian sat with Ed cross legged around an oak table eating dinner. Ed looked down at the food on the table and looked to Nti Anem.

“When do we leave?” he asked and they both paused and looked at him. Ed almost never initiates a conversation; the fact that he did caused them to tense.

“We have about a month left.” Nti Anem replied.

“I need to step out for a key, would you like to join me?” he asked softly to the two and they swallowed heavily.

“Your Highness?” Nti Anem called to him.

“Yes?” Ed answered.