Chapter 14

Benedict watched the smoke billow skywards from the balcony of his chambers. Atomas body had been wrapped in cloth separate from his head and both placed on the pyre which had been lit and now burned furiously.

The pyre had been built in the palace square and few people came to watch. The absence of many spectators attested to what Raeme had said. The people’s disappointment regarding ignoring the superstition was voiced by their absence.

Benedict questioned whether he had done the wrong thing in ignoring Raeme but then pushed the thought aside. The people would forget soon enough and all would return to normal. They would learn that their superstitions were unfounded.

The wind changed direction then and drove the smoke and stench of burning flesh towards Benedict. He cursed as his eyes began to water and the repugnant smell reached his nose. Even now, Atomas seemed to cling to Benedict. He closed the door to his balcony to shut out the smoke and stench. It was too late. The stench li