Despite his earlier speech about the emotions involved, Yousif seemed stunned by the reaction of the Disciples followers. He could not comprehend being so hated by people who did not know him. So the human tragedy goes, men hating without trying to understand, and unable to understand why they are hated.

Later in the week, Radetic cautioned his employer. There was planning behind this. They anticipated you. Did you happen to notice that neither one of them really tried to defend himself? Especially Nassef? He never said a word through the whole trial. I think youve created a couple of martyrs, and I think you did exactly what they wanted you to do.

Are you listening, Haroun? the Wahlig asked. He was keeping the boy close. There were people in the streets who wanted to lay hands on him. Nassef. Hes the dangerous one.

This rioting will spread, Radetic predicted. Itll begin to show elements of class struggle, too. Common folk, artisans and merchants against priests and nobles.

Yousif looked at him oddly.

I may not understand faith, Yousif. But I understand politics, vested interests and promises for tomorrow.

What can they do? Fuad demanded. A handful of outlaws? The Little Devils scattered converts? We can hunt them down like wounded jackals.

Im afraid Megelin might be right, Fuad. I think Aboud overdid it. He took away their pride. You cant do that to a man. He has to save face somehow. We sent them out like whipped dogs. They have to hit back. At least, Nassef does. Hes the one with the ego. Think. What would you do if wed done the same to you?

Fuad did not think long. He replied, I see.

Radetic added, Messiahs tend to take what comes, I think. They see the abuse as part of their witnessing. Ive begun to think the jihad El Murid preaches is a metaphoric concept, that he doesnt really see it in terms of blood and death. Not the way Nassef would look at it.

Still, said Fuad, all we have to do is go kill them if they try something.

Yousif replied, I think I can guarantee that Nassef will. Well just have to judge his strength and try to anticipate him. And, of course, try to kill him. But I have a gut feeling that he wont let us. I have an audience with Aboud tonight. Id better light a fire under him.

The King, unfortunately, shared Fuads thinking. For him the El Murid matter was closed.

Yousif and Radetic fussed and worried and, even so, were no less stunned when the blow finally fell.

Even they had grossly underestimated Nassef.

Chapter Three

Chapter Three

A Minor Squabble in Another Land and Time