"So, you're the foreigner they spoke so highly of," Sargon remarked, his voice dripping with a hint of amusement. "I must say, you do stand out among the others. A prince in appearance, they say."
I nodded, "Yes, sir. I have been educated in the arts of reading, writing, and even calculus, among other noble skills."
The merchant's eyes gleamed with interest as he contemplated the possibilities. "Remarkable. In this place, literacy is a rare and valuable asset. Your abilities could be of great use to me."
Here is where our little talk came to an end as the merchant, already in his later years, decided to take a break and entered his palanquin or also known as a sedan chair.
This simple contraption was a common mode of transportation used in ancient China. It consisted of a small, enclosed cabin or seat, usually made of wood, which was carried by multiple bearers using long poles on their shoulders. The chair was adorned with ornate carvings and decorative elements, reflecting the prestige, power, and social standing of the old man being transported.
One of the primary reasons for using sedan chairs was to protect the occupant from the elements. The enclosed cabin provided shelter from rain, sun, and dust, ensuring a more comfortable journey. Additionally, it offered a degree of privacy and security, allowing important individuals to travel without being easily recognized or disturbed by the public. They were also efficient for navigating crowded city streets and narrow alleyways, where larger forms of transportation would have been inconvenient or impossible, which was perfect in our case.
I on the other hand will have to somehow keep up with the buff bearers and guards that wouldn’t easily let me go, especially not after their boss spent a small fortune on my sorry ass.
“Now then. To the mansion please.” Sargon commanded after he was comfortably seated inside his human-propelled vehicle.
“While we are on the topic, can you tell me how did you learn our language?” he inquired.
“Well, Akkadian, that we are currently conversing in, is what we call Lingua Franca. This means that the language happens to be widely spoken in the region. Subsequently, because it is a language commonly used for trade and communication among diverse groups, including merchants, traders, and slaves, it was important for me to learn it before going on an expedition.”
I knew that Sargon, an experienced merchant, was accustomed to interacting with individuals who have learned much and traveled the world. This led me to believe that he was probably just testing my backstory and thought process, so I gave the most learned response I could. My future would depend on his decision after all, so giving a good first impression is always a plus. If he is even a tiny bit as smart as he thinks he is, he should recognize that my real worth isn't in my appearance, but in the knowledge of trade routes and business tactics I hold.
I would obviously not tell him the real way of acquiring knowledge on that damned boat. The process was grueling and I have probably never in my life tried to learn something with that much of a hurry and intensity. My life also didn't really depend on learning anything new before, let alone a language, so that was also something new.
The first step was to carefully listen to the guards whenever they spoke. I tried my best to remember a few words they used so that I could understand them better. But I didn't stop there; I found a fellow prisoner named Malik, who turned out to be kind and brave enough to help me learn their language.
At first, I resorted to pantomime and gestures, using my hands and body to convey basic needs and intentions. I would point to objects and animals, mimicking their sounds and actions in an attempt to associate them with their corresponding names. Through repetition and observation, I slowly began to identify patterns in their speech, linking certain sounds to specific meanings.
Malik became my patient teacher, guiding me through the intricacies of pronunciation and intonation. It was a mix of excitement and uncertainty as I stumbled through sentences, but Malik's support and encouragement never wavered.
Every day, I spent as much time conversing with Malik as possible. He taught me simple words and phrases, and with practice, our exchanges evolved into real conversations, as I stumbled through sentences with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. It was a process filled with suppressed laughter and occasional frustration, but Malik's support and threat of the unknown future were a constant source of encouragement. Thankfully the mind palace was also available for an hour a day to revise my newly acquired knowledge and really cement everything I learned.
The merchant, satisfied with my answer, decided to let me be for the rest of the journey and simply relaxed on his comfortable pillow.
After around 15 minutes of walking on the colorful streets of Assur, we finally arrived at his villa.
Outside, the mansion was guarded by a formidable wall, made out of wood and clay. Its height and strength are a testament to how much value he placed on his family and fortune. Skilled guards patrolled the premises, their presence a constant reminder to keep other uninvited visitors away.
Clad in intricately detailed armor, their attire showcased a mix of ancient Mesopotamian craftsmanship with a hint of mysticism, making them an intimidating sight. Bronze accents adorned their leather garments, and their captain's headdress resembled a regal crown, denoting his authority within the group.
With silent, stealthy movements, they displayed a fluid grace that mirrored predatory animals. Their piercing eyes scanned their surroundings with intense awareness, ready to pounce on any potential threat. Wielding elaborately designed bronze swords and curved bows, they exuded confidence in their skills, acquired through years of training.
Intricate tattoos adorned their arms and exposed skin, adding to their enigmatic presence. These symbols, as I will later learn, seemed to tell their allegiance to the old man and his faction.
The entrance to my future home was adorned with ornate wooden doors, embellished with gold accents and an intricate plaque exposing the family name and logo for all to see.
“Here we are,” Sargon said as the guards opened the gate.
After entering the outer gate, the first thing we saw were meticulously manicured gardens, filled with vibrant flowers and aromatic herbs, creating an oasis of serenity in the bustling city.
In the middle of all that greenery was a small palace with stone columns and white-painted walls. The sight was even more surprising for me as the craftsmanship surpassed anything I have imagined would be possible in this era. Maybe my high hygiene standard will still be met in this place. Though my position will not do me any favors in that regard.
"So, my dear esteemed guest, what do you say?" Sargon inquired, his tone dripping with faux admiration. "Is this good enough to house a person of your esteemed stature?" His eyes gleamed with a mischievous glint as if secretly mocking my current predicament and standing.
I couldn't help but chuckle at his facetiousness, understanding the thinly veiled irony behind his words. "Well, Master Sargon," I replied, matching his tone, "it seems I have found myself in the lap of luxury indeed. How fortunate I am to be graced with such magnificence."
Stepping inside, we were greeted by a majestic atrium adorned with floors out of some sort of expensive polished stones and intricate mosaics depicting beautiful patterns. The walls were adorned with tapestries and hide paintings, showcasing scenes of conquest, trade, and divine blessings. The air was perfumed with exotic incense, adding an ethereal touch to the ambiance.
Next, as we were approaching the opulent grand hall, Sargon led the way, his steps measured and purposeful, while I followed closely behind, my heart pounding with a mix of trepidation and curiosity. The flickering candlelight cast dancing shadows on the walls, adding an eerie yet captivating ambiance to the scene.
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Sargon gestured toward the imposing dining table, his voice resonating with authority. "This is where I entertain my esteemed guests and conduct important business negotiations. Remember, your role is to ensure their comfort and attend to their needs with the utmost discretion."
I nodded, absorbing his instructions. The table loomed before me, its grandeur magnified by the intricately carved chairs that surrounded it, waiting to host the influential figures that would grace Sargon's mansion.
Then as we approached the fireplace, Sargon's gaze flickered toward the tools lined up beside it. His voice lowered, carrying an air of sternness as he pointed to the iron brand. "This is the mark of ownership, a symbol of your allegiance to me. It will be heated and applied to your arm, serving as a constant reminder of your place within my household."
I swallowed hard, realizing the implications of the brand and the problems it will bring me. My voice trembled slightly as I mustered the courage to speak. "Understood, master. I shall bear the mark with loyalty and carry out my duties diligently."
My thoughts were completely different though. The whole damn time we were walking I was hoping that it would not come to this but alas, my luck left me on the drain once again.
Sargon nodded, his eyes holding a mix of control and sovereignty. "Good. Remember, loyalty and discretion are paramount. The success of my ventures relies on the trustworthiness of my employees. Do not disappoint me."
As the moment of branding drew near, the tension in the room was palpable, a servant approached with the heated brand, the iron glowing red-hot in the fire's embrace. I extended my arm, offering it for the searing touch, and braced myself for the pain that would be etched into my flesh.
Sargon's voice resonated with a mix of solemnity and finality. "This mark shall forever signify your allegiance to me, and it shall bind you to my service."
The servant pressed the heated brand against my arm, the searing pain seeping into my skin as the imprint of ownership was seared onto me. I clenched my jaw, fighting back the instinctive urge to cry out, determined to show resilience in the face of this new reality.
As the brand was lifted, leaving behind a charred emblem on my arm, Sargon's eyes locked with mine, his voice carrying a tinge of warning. "Remember, Jason, your loyalty and dedication will determine your fate within these walls. Do not forget the mark you bear."
I nodded, a mixture of acceptance and determination filling my being. "I will not forget, master. I will prove my worth and serve you faithfully."
With that, the process was complete. The grand hall, with its imposing table, flickering fireplace, and the brand's lingering imprint, became the backdrop to my new life as a servant in Sargon's mansion.
After the intense experience of being branded, I made my way to the designated servant quarters, a modest yet relatively comfortable space tucked away in a secluded corner of the mansion. The room was sparsely furnished with a simple bed, a small wooden desk, and a small chest for my belongings. It lacked the opulence of the grand hall but offered a sense of privacy and solace.
It was definitely much better than I was expecting, but that just went to show how much he was willing to invest in me. I suspected that the rooms adjacent to mine were all occupied by guardsmen and my room was also previously intended for one of them. The comfort will also come with an additional set of problems to face if I ever decide to make my getaway.
With weary limbs and a mind still reeling from the day's events, I collapsed onto the bed, the softness offering a welcome rest. The flickering candle on the bedside table cast a warm glow, gently illuminating the room and creating a serene atmosphere.
As I just got comfortable on the bed made out of straw and rough cloth, a wave of unease washed over me. What if I will not reach his standards tomorrow? He made sure to not disappoint him. He can't be thinking of killing me then, is he?
Amid this internal struggle, a knock at the door interrupted my efforts. The sound drew my attention, and I quickly composed myself, pushing aside any trace of fatigue or vulnerability. As the door creaked open, a group of servants entered, bearing trays laden with food.
The tantalizing aroma wafted through the air, enticing my senses and reminding me of my rumbling stomach. The spread before me consisted of simple yet hearty fare—a platter of roasted meat, accompanied by steamed vegetables and a crusty loaf of bread. The servants had also brought a jug of water and a small cup, ensuring I had enough to quench my thirst.
As the servants were placing the sumptuous meal before me, I glanced up to see Sargon standing at the door, observing me with a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Enjoy the feast, Jason," he said, his voice tinged with a sly tone. "Consider it a rare treat. Tomorrow will be a big day for you, and you'll need your strength."
“Thank you very much, sir.” I nodded, acknowledging his words without batting an eye. My main focus was the pile of food before me.
Without hesitation, I eagerly dug into the meal, savoring the flavors that danced upon my palate. The meat, tender and succulent, practically melted in my mouth, while the vegetables provided a refreshing crunch. The bread, warm and fragrant, offered a comforting accompaniment to the meal.
As the servants left, I continued to eat, savoring each bite while simultaneously contemplating what tomorrow might hold. Sargon's cryptic remark left me with more questions than answers. Was it an opportunity to prove my worth and gain his trust, or was it already a test of loyalty?
As the night wore on, I decided to do the final preparations for our meeting tomorrow.
The memory palace, a treasure trove of knowledge, became a sanctuary where I will seek answers and plan the next step. The more I played around with the talent the more powerful it seemed. I dug through all my memories regarding history lessons from school, old maps, ancient war movies, and documentaries. Through this, I slowly pieced together the lifelike map of Mesopotamia inside my mind.
It was a vast region nestled between two mighty rivers, the Tigris and the Euphrates. These waterways served as lifelines, shaping the destiny of the people who dwelled in this ancient land.
The Tigris River flows southeast from the towering mountains of modern-day Turkey, carving its way through the heart of Mesopotamia. Along its banks, mighty cities emerged, like Nineveh, Assur, and Babylon. Their inhabitants relied on the Tigris not only for water and transportation but also for the prosperity that trade and irrigation brought.
But the Tigris wasn't alone in its significance. Its sibling, the Euphrates River, journeyed alongside, mirroring its course. Together, they cradled the fertile lands of Mesopotamia, giving life to vast agricultural practices. The Euphrates nurtured cities like Ur, Uruk, and Larsa, providing them with sustenance and abundance.
To the south, near the merging point of the Tigris and the Euphrates, lay the mesmerizing Mesopotamian Marshes. A sprawling wetland teeming with diverse wildlife, it acted as a natural buffer zone, separating the various city-states that dotted the landscape.
As I imagined the ancient Mesopotamians, I couldn't help but think of the Persian Gulf, stretching to the south of this storied land. It served as a gateway to the wider world, enabling trade and fostering connections with civilizations along its coast. Mesopotamians were not confined to the boundaries of their homeland; they were part of a vibrant maritime network.
From the things I remembered from a history class, I envisioned Sumer, the cradle of the earliest civilization in Mesopotamia, emerging around 4000 BCE. It was situated in the southern part of the region, near the marshes and the river's delta. Great cities like Ur, Uruk, Lagash, and Nippur flourished here, contributing to the rich tapestry of Sumerian culture and innovation. That place later became southern Iraq.
North of Sumer, the city of Akkad held sway, later known as the capital of the Akkadian Empire, which emerged as one of the first known empires in history (2334 BCE - 2154 BCE). The city of Akkad itself was situated on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River, near the present-day city of Baghdad.
Under the rule of Sargon of Akkad, also known as Sargon the Great, founder of the empire it became a dominant power, extending its influence over a significant portion of Mesopotamia. Sargon's empire extended its influence and control over numerous city-states, creating a vast dominion that stretched from the Persian Gulf in the south to parts of modern-day Syria in the northwest.
His military campaigns allowed him to forge a diverse and multi-ethnic empire, bringing together various peoples under Akkadian rule. He implemented administrative reforms, established trade networks, and encouraged cultural exchanges, fostering a sense of unity within his empire.
And then there was Babylon, a city steeped in history and grandeur. Nestled on the eastern banks of the Euphrates and served as the capital city of the Babylonian Empire. It rose to prominence under Hammurabi, the sixth king of the First Babylonian Dynasty (1894 BCE - 1595 BCE), whose Code of Hammurabi became one of the earliest known legal systems in recorded history.
The Code consisted of a set of laws that covered various aspects of daily life, including family matters, business transactions, property rights, and criminal offenses. It aimed to establish justice, regulate society, and ensure the well-being of the Babylonian people. The code was inscribed on a stele, a large stone pillar, and placed in a public location for all to see.
He also extended Babylonian influence through military campaigns and diplomatic alliances, creating a vast empire that encompassed much of Mesopotamia. Hammurabi's empire was characterized by centralized administration, infrastructure development, and the promotion of trade and commerce.
The city of Babylon, under Hammurabi's rule, became a center of economic prosperity, intellectual pursuits, and architectural achievements. Even the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is said to have been built during this time.
As I ventured farther north in my mind, the land transformed, and the mighty empire of Assyria came into view (1365 BCE - 1080 BCE). It was a realm of military might and conquest, stretching its dominion beyond Mesopotamia's borders.
The empire reached its height during the reign of Tiglath-Pileser III (745-727 BCE) and later expanded further under the rule of mighty kings like Sargon II (722-705 BCE) and Ashurbanipal (668-627 BCE). They developed advanced military strategies and technologies, including the use of iron weapons, chariots, and siege warfare. Their armies were highly organized, disciplined, and equipped with skilled archers and cavalry, making them a formidable force in the ancient world.
The cities of Nineveh, Ashur, and Nimrud were centers of power, testaments to the strength and ambition of the Assyrian Empire.
However, the Assyrians were also known for their ruthlessness in war and their practice of deporting conquered peoples. They employed a policy of forced resettlement to prevent rebellions and maintain control over their vast empire.
As I absorbed the knowledge of these ancient empires and their geographical boundaries, I realized the immense advantage I possessed. My understanding of their rise and fall, and the locations of crucial cities, rivers, and seas, gave me an unprecedented insight into the unfolding events of history. Hopefully, the fact that this is a parallel world with literal magic won't change too many things.
Then I saw that there was still some time left, so I relearned the abysmal business knowledge I held. I knew it wasn't much but it was still light years ahead of anything these people have even dared to imagine.
After I was thrown out of the Mind palace fatigue washed over me like a gentle wave, soothing the edges of my consciousness. I closed my eyes, allowing the weariness to pull me into a deep slumber.
In the realm of dreams, my mind wandered, conjuring up images of my previous life and all the wasted opportunities. I made up my mind that this time I will grasp at every straw to become better and stronger, no matter what it takes. I knew that in order to navigate this new world, I would need to adapt, learn the intricacies of Sargon's business, and uncover any opportunities that could lead me closer to my ultimate goal—power.