Post by Sabriyah bint Qasim al-Khalid on Apr 10, 2015 21:54:20 GMT -5
Once dismissed from their father's presence and his study, Sabriyah followed the orders as expected, informing her brother and sisters of the forthcoming journey and arrangements. Nabir was not overly disappointed to remain in Zahran with her, or so he assured his elder sister, though she suspected with a gentle smile to herself that he said so merely to reassure her. Their uncle Yusuf was on his way to join Qasim in the study when she stopped by his quarters to request his presence, then headed for her own chambers to retire for the night.
They were a haven of peace for her, kept scrupulously organized and tidy yet unmistakably feminine with subtle, luxuriant touches. Lacy carved, dark stained woods served as frames for rich, soft fabrics with panels of lace at the windows that belled and fluttered in the night's perfumed winds from the bay. Tapestries softened the stark walls, scenes of gardens and dancing ladies as colored glass oil lamps burned to provide light. The furnishings were not many but spoke of comfort for the occupant - a large bed with sheer curtains edged in beads, a pair of round, cushioned chairs before a cold hearth, and several free-standing armoires carved with vines and flowers, as well as a dainty lady's dressing table.
Relieved to enter her chamber, she gave quiet instructions to the attentive maid to draw her a bath and bring only a simple supper on a tray. She had much to do and intended to make an early night of it, rather than join in the evening's meal and socializing with their guests. Sending the woman out, Sabriyah seated herself at her dressing table, the better to remove her jewelry and brush out her long, dark hair, humming to herself. Finally, peace...
Bashir ibn Qasim al-Khalid