Crystal nodded, and then she turned to a servant. “Go and cook a large pot of porridge and keep it hot. If he does not eat now, maybe he will eat later.” Then she took wet clothing that was on the night table and wiped off the blood around Nathan’s mouth.

“I tried to do that,” one of the servants said apologetically, “But he wouldn’t let me. He even spat blood on my uniform. It should be easier now that he is asleep.”

Crystal turned and saw that it was true. He was asleep, after ...