Author: Gregory Finch
Date: April 23, 2025
When Marcus stood in front of Lord Alistair’s chambers, his hands trembled. The servant knew exactly what was expected of him—he had been trained for this role his entire life. His task was simple: bring his master a glass of water at the stroke of noon. It was a daily routine that, in his heart, he believed to be trivial. But today, as he stared at the ornate door, the weight of his decision settled heavily on him.
Lord Alistair, a man of high status and strict discipline, demanded perfection from those in his service. Marcus had seen his master’s temper flare more than once, and the consequences for disobedience were always severe. Yet today, something inside Marcus stirred—a defiance he couldn’t explain.
He had overheard a conversation earlier in the week, one that made him question his place in the world. The other servants spoke in hushed tones, gossiping about how their lives, though filled with hard work and obedience, were often taken for granted. They were no more than tools in the eyes of their masters, existing to serve without question.
In that moment of reflection, Marcus felt a surge of rebellion. He stood there, in front of Lord Alistair’s door, weighing the gravity of his decision. Should he continue in his unquestioning service, or should he refuse to follow this small but symbolic task?
He knew what would happen if he didn’t follow through: the punishment would be severe. Lord Alistair would not tolerate even the slightest disobedience. But the thought of continuing to be a mere instrument in the hands of someone who saw him as nothing more than a servant… that thought gnawed at Marcus’s soul.
And so, he stood there. Hesitating. The clock on the wall ticked louder with each passing second. Marcus knew that much was required of those like Lord Alistair—those born into wealth, power, and privilege. But what was expected of him, someone who had been given little except his duties? It didn’t seem fair.
The sound of footsteps echoed down the corridor, and Marcus knew his time had come. Without thinking, he turned away from the door and made his decision. He would not deliver the water. Not today.
The hours passed. Marcus could hear the muffled sound of Lord Alistair’s voice growing more frustrated as the day went on. The bell chimed again, signaling another hour gone by without the task being fulfilled. But Marcus remained in his small quarters, wrestling with his choice.
By evening, the punishment came, as he had expected. Lord Alistair summoned him to the grand hall, his voice icy with authority.
“Marcus, you know your duty. I demand to know why you failed to complete it.”
Marcus met his master’s gaze, his voice steady but quiet. “I did not perform my duty, Lord Alistair, because I believe that much is expected of those to whom much is given. And yet, in my own life, I have received very little. If I am to give everything, I must at least be given something in return.”
There was a silence that stretched between them before Lord Alistair spoke again. “You have much to learn, Marcus. Much more.”
