Page 12 of The Moon's Daughter
The mirsham fruit, resembling a small sun with its bright yellow skin, was a marvel of the Alzahran desert. It grew on the resilient Dhara tree, which had adapted to the harsh climate, drawing sustenance from underground water reserves.
The fruit also held medicinal properties, used by locals in revitalizing drinks and healing concoctions. During the sweltering summer months, mirsham juice, served with a dash of spices, was a traditional and popular refreshment.
Layna addressed the farmer by his name. “Khaleeb, I understand your concerns. The mirsham fruit is vital to Alzahra’s trade.” She paused to gather her thoughts. “Let us explore sustainable farming practices and see how Princess Soraya and the royal agronomists can assist. Alzahra’s prosperity is tied to your success.”
The farmer bowed deeply. “Thank you, Princess. Your support means everything.”
Next, a tall, lean merchant stepped forward. He bowed respectfully. “Your Majesty, recently I’ve spotted several unfamiliar figures near the city outskirts. Their cloaks are too heavy for our climate, and they conceal their faces. Their behavior is suspicious. They could be Zephyrians.”
Layna’s eyes narrowed slightly. “I appreciate your vigilance. We will look into this immediately. Alzahra’s security is our highest priority.”
She caught the eye of a palace guard at the back of the hall. He stepped forward, quickly jotting down details with a grave expression.
Layna thanked the merchant with a grateful smile. “We rely on the eyes and ears of our people. You have done a great service to Alzahra today.” The merchant straightened, his chest puffing with pride, and returned to his seat.
The meeting continued with Layna addressing a variety of issues, from market regulations to festival preparations. Each concern was met with empathy, intelligence, and a deep understanding of her people’s needs.
However, the atmosphere shifted when a foreigner approached. He stood out among the local Alzahrans with his attire—a long, dark coat over a fitted vest and slim trousers, distinctly Minhypan in style.
He was tall and imposing, with a stern countenance that seemed out of place in the congenial gathering. His black hair was neatly slicked back into a tight bun, revealing sharp, angular features. Shrewd gray eyes surveyed the room with an air of superiority.
Though his voice was thick with the Minhypan accent, a distinct edge of displeasure was apparent. “I am visiting Az-Zahra on business. I heard this kingdom to bebohat khoob, magnificent.Liken, it did not live up to its reputation,” he said, waving a dismissive hand. A murmur rippled through the hall, attendees exchanging glances, their expressions ranging from surprise to displeasure at his blunt assessment.
Layna bristled at his insult but maintained her composure. “I am here to listen and address any concerns you might have,” she stated firmly. Zarian caught a fleeting glimmer of anger in her eyes, but it vanished quickly.
“To start, the market district is completelyjaahil. The stalls are poorly arranged, causing unnecessary congestion. Where is the orderly structure? We pride ourselves on this in Minhypas,” the man boasted.
Zarian scowled. The foreigner’s attitude grated on his nerves. His fingers flexed for his sword, but he clenched his fists tightly instead.
Layna listened attentively, her features schooled with practiced neutrality. “I appreciate your feedback. We value the organic growth of our markets, but I’ll certainly consider your suggestions for improvement.”
Undeterred, the foreigner continued, “Aur, the public water fountains are not well maintained. In Minhypas, public amenities are a symbol of the city’s health. Here, they arenazar andaaz, orkaise—uh, neglected.”
“I’ll ensure our maintenance teams give them the attention they deserve,” Layna replied.
The Minhypan man grew increasingly agitated. “Upon my arrival, I was subjected to an excessive inspection at the city entrance.Bakwaas! Such treatment for visitors—bohatunusualhai aurinsultingbhi hai.”
“Given the current political climate, we’ve implemented heightened security measures at all entry points. It’s a necessary step to ensure the safety of Alzahra City and its visitors,” Layna explained calmly.
The man’s expression soured further. “I can understand the need for security,liken itniscrutiny seems too much.Aur ab, I find it hard to believe that anaurat, a woman,” he sneered, “will be able to address my concerns.”
At this last insult, Zarian, who had been simmering quietly, finally let his anger boil over. His jaw tightened, a familiar sense of duty stirring within him. Before Layna could respond, Zarian stepped forward angrily. “Such disrespect will not be tolerated,” he rebuked, eyes blazing with icy rage.
The Minhypan man’s eyes widened, and he stepped back hesitantly. Before he could protest, Zarian gestured to the palace guards and had the man escorted out of the hall.
Layna watched the scene unfold, lips pressed into a thin line and fingers drumming impatiently on her tightly crossed arms, though she remained silent.
The assembly continued, but the earlier warmth had evaporated. Attendees exchanged uneasy glances and shifted in their seats. Layna handled the remaining queries with grace, but the incident had clearly affected the mood in the hall.
Once the session concluded, Layna quickly sought out Zarian, her jaw clenched and fists tightening with each step. “Prince Zarian,” she snapped, fire burning in her eyes, “your actions were unacceptable. You undermined my authority and made me appear weak in front of my people.”
Zarian was taken aback. Despite being a full head shorter than him, Layna was somehow still intimidating with her blazing eyes and accusatory finger pointed at his chest. “Princess, I didn’t mean to offend you. I only intended to protect your honor,” he explained.
“That’s not your decision to make, nor is it your honor to protect! I’m perfectly capable of handling such situations myself. I don’t need your protection.”
Zarian was silent for several heartbeats as he carefully assessed the princess. He finally spoke, “I apologize. I overstepped. I’m not accustomed to princesses being such formidable figures. It won’t happen again.”
Layna observed him closely. Her eyes softened slightly at his apology, though he could still see her lingering frustration in her stiff posture. “Ensure that it doesn’t. As future queen, it’s crucial that I’m seen as a strong leader, not a defenseless damsel.”