The Prophets

by Robert Jones Jr.

B’Dula spoke out of turn. “We should kill them all.” The king shot a damning glance his way as the others shifted uncomfortably on their behinds. “You never fail to insult the ancestors, B’Dula. Nor yourself.” King Akusa rubbed her hands together and took a breath. “I called this meeting and you did not even think to give me the respect of speaking first. Surely, your saltiness from so long ago does not still cloud your reason. You could not possibly have forgotten your lessons so completely. Kill a visitor and bring down the ancestors’ wrath. Kill a neighbor and start an unnecessary war. This is a time for careful contemplation, not childish rage. You will be silent or be gone.” B’Dula sank into himself. He considered the fact that he had been bested by the king in battle and so would not test her resolve.