The Kebur Zabagna are the elite Ethiopian Imperial Guard, dedicated to providing security for the Emperor of Ethiopia. It was headed by the aristocrat Mengistu Neway, a man largely known for his affiliation with reforms attributed to the Moja clan. Well, this man was exactly who Abiye Abebe had to meet with as soon as possible. Within the Great Ghebbi Neway sat in the Imperial Guard Offices poring over paperwork before hearing a knock at the door.

"Mengistu, it is Lij Abiye. I must speak with you."

Neway got up and opened the door, bowing slightly for the noble Viceroy. "What do I owe this pleasure Lij?" he said cautiously.

Abiye walked past him in the doorway and sat down in Mengistu's chair.

"I know you want reforms within the palace. Do not try and hide it, you and your brother are rabble rousers. But, it doesn't have to be like that. We can figure out a solution that works for both of us."

Mengistu looked at him trying to hide the shock on his face, his lips never felt so dry and his throat was tightening up.

"What do you have in mind?" he responded after a minute of silence.

"I will help you push through minor reforms, land redistribution, more appointments of Mekwanint, that sort. And in return, you will stay loyal to the Emperor. If you do not we will have a problem. As Lij I have more soldiers than you ever will, do not test the Emperor's might. Understand?"

Mengistu stood awkwardly after hearing his position be reduced to nothing but a servant of Abiye. He was right though, the Imperial Army was much larger than the size of the Kebur Zabagna. Two could play at this game though, Mengistu thought. All he had to do was get close to the Emperor, or his son Crown Prince Asfaw. He could build the power of the Kebur Zabagna to levels that even the Imperial Army wouldn't be able to stop.

"I understand, Lij."

Abiye smiled and stood up from Mengistu's desk, walking over to him and clapping him on the back. "I'm happy this worked out Mengistu." As he walked out Mengistu stared daggers at his back. It wouldn't be long before there would be trouble in the palace once more.