Page 81 of The Moon's Daughter
Tahriq considered the future, and a sense of foreboding clung to his heart. More pain and heartache lay ahead for his son. The thought of Zarian enduring another loss weighed heavily on him, and he longed to protect his son from losing someone else he loved.
Tahriq’s contemplation was abruptly shattered as his adviser rushed in, his face taut with concern. “Your Highness, the three men we dispatched to Zephyria…they have not returned. Their delay is too long now.”
Tahriq’s brows drew together, worry settling deep. This was unexpected.
His son had surprised him.
With a steady, commanding voice, King Tahriq issued his orders. “Send as many men as we can spare to Alzahra City immediately. I pray it’s not too late.” The adviser nodded and hurried off to set the orders into motion.
In Alzahra City’s royal palace, the morning light cast shadows across the council members. Lord Ebrahim stood solemnly at the table’s head, thrust into the role of master of war.
“The situation is grim. We are heavily outnumbered.” He paused, letting the weight of his words settle. “However, our men are holding them at bay on the southeast front, for now. At this juncture, we are heavily reliant on Baysaht’s timely arrival to assist on the northeast border.”
Layna maintained a composed exterior, but her hands, folded neatly on the table, clenched slightly at the mention of Baysaht.
Lord Ebrahim continued, “The medicinal plants have aided tremendously in treating our wounded and preventing infections. We are simply overwhelmed by the sheer number of injuries.”
King Khahleel nodded. “Thank you, Ebrahim.” Rising to signal the meeting’s end, he added, “Let us prepare as best we can. Our unity and resolve will be our greatest strength.” His words, though meant to inspire, felt hollow.
As the council members dispersed, Layna caught Zarian’s arm, pulling him aside. “You didn’t visit last night,” she said quietly.
Zarian stiffened and his eyes darted to the floor. “I’m sorry, Layna. I was…preoccupied in the dungeon.” He took a deep breath before meeting her gaze. “Are you alright?”
Layna’s chin quivered. “I’m afraid,” she confessed, her voice low as she worried her lip between her teeth. “About the war, but also about the eclipse tomorrow. I can’t believe the time is here.”
The vulnerability in her voice drew Zarian closer. He wrapped an arm around her and pulled her against his chest, aware of the disapproving eyes on them yet finding it difficult to care. “We’ll make it through, Layna. You’re strong,” he assured her. He pressed a kiss against her forehead. “I’ll be with you the entire time.” Her posture relaxed slightly as his soothing voice eased the edges of her anxiety.
Layna looked up, her eyes searching his. “Will you come tonight? I don’t want to be alone,” she whispered.
“I will,” he promised, tracing his thumb along her chin.
As Layna turned to leave, Zarian stood a moment longer, his promise echoing in his heart, before following her out.
Layna found bittersweet solace in the palace gardens, surrounded by colorful blooms that reminded her of Soraya. The gardens, filled with memories of her sister, offered a pale semblance of the companionship she deeply missed.
The rustling leaves whispered softly, and the sweet aroma of jasmine enveloped her, yet offered little comfort. Her thoughts were consumed with uncertainty about the eclipse. She feared for her people and her loved ones.
She feared for her own fate.
In this tranquil refuge, her parents found her, faces etched with equal parts love and concern.
Sitting beside her, her mother spoke tenderly. “I wish I had the words to ease your burdens, my child,” she said softly. “The eclipse weighs heavily on us all, but naturally, your fire seems dimmer. Remember, you were born for this. Tomorrow will come and go, and the sun will shine upon us all again. Together.”
Layna offered a weary smile. “I’m afraid, Mama,” she admitted quietly.
Khahleel placed a gentle hand on her head. “Worry not. You have always been our shining light. And you will remain just as bright tomorrow, and the next day, and the next. I know it in my heart.” He paused and gathered his thoughts. “I realize I have not said this nearly enough, but I am immeasurably proud of you—not just for your skills and intelligence, but for your compassion and kindness. You will be an incredible queen.”
Layna opened her mouth to voice her fears, the what-ifs that haunted her thoughts, “Baba, if anything should happen to me—”
“None of that,” Khahleel interrupted. “Nothing will happen to you.”
The trio sat in comfortable silence for a beat before Hadiyah asked, “Have you heard from Soraya? I have been missing her even more lately.”
Layna smiled softly. “She’s doing well, keeping busy as always. She misses us, of course, but she’s mostly happy. Apparently, she’s convinced King Tahriq to let her oversee the agriculture there.”
King Khahleel chuckled, eyes twinkling with pride. “I would expect nothing less from her, that stubborn girl. Always blooming no matter where she’s planted.”
After a brief silence, her father broached the subject she had been dreading. “Layna, about you and Zarian,” he began hesitantly. “The council members have expressed concerns regarding your—relationship. They fear it will undermine potential alliances, ones that could offer Alzahra significant advantages in these times.”