Post by Zara bint Siraj al-Faris on Aug 17, 2017 14:38:02 GMT -5
Barely a full day back in Rohari and Zara felt the tension, the worry, and the pressure that weighed on her in Bordelaix come tumbling off. She'd nearly danced her way through the day from the breakfast shared with Amirah in the princess's chambers, to fittings for new robes in the women's palace, to luxuriating in the bath redolent with scented oil. Even the evening meal's strict formality and intricate manners failed to dim her good mood. Now that the meal was over, she had a little freedom to wander the main palace before joining the other women in retiring for the evening.
Humming to herself, she wandered out to one of the many courtyards, drawn by the musical sound of a fountain splashing and the cool caress of the desert's night air. So far, Zara was the only one who sought to enjoy this particular courtyard, seating herself on the edge of the fountain's pool with a whisper of pale aqua silks. As per custom, a matching veil covered her hair, though there was no need for the sheer square to cover her face. While in the palace, the matron of the harem told her, there was no requirement to conceal their faces. Step one foot outside of the palace, however, and both veils were expected to be in place. Any female, whether hostage, guest, or family member to the Caliph, who failed to do so would find herself strictly disciplined for her shame.
Guided by her sister, Zara made certain she obeyed the old woman's dictates. The honor of the al-Faris rested somewhat on her slim shoulders, she knew. It was no different at home, really, she knew. Reaching down, her fingers drifted through the water, the veil and her hair falling to half-conceal her face while she lost herself in thought, savoring the familiar, heady scent of the night-blooming jasmine. She did not register any steps that suggested she was no longer alone.
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Rebel