‘Welcome to Khorasan Palace, Your Highness.’ Lilah wasted no time. ‘How was the journey here?’
His eyebrows knitted together. ‘Challenging.’ He looked at Aisha, whose turn it was to say something. Instead, Omar beat her to it.
‘Is it true that if I were born in Gruisea, I would already be considered a man?’
Tariq assessed him. ‘That depends on how old you are.’
‘Twelve.’
The corners of Tariq’s eyes creased. ‘Not quite.’
‘At what age can a man marry?’
‘Certainly not at twelve.’
Aisha placed a hand on Omar’s shoulder, silencing him. ‘I understand this is your first time in Avanid. What are your thoughts so far?’
When he looked at her, it was like staring into a rich forest.
‘It appears to be a very well-organised kingdom,’ he replied.
Clearly, he was trying to be polite.
‘I hear the scenery in Gruisea is breathtaking,’ Lilah said.
‘It’s a little more rugged than Avanid.’
‘I can’t even remember the scenery outside,’ Yasmin said, looking off in the direction of the wall.
An awkward silence followed.
Aisha cleared her throat. ‘Shall we head to the garden and see if the king has arrived yet?’
Tariq gestured for them to lead the way, but Lilah walked at his side while the others walked behind them, watching. His party of guards followed at a distance.
‘How long have holy warriors been posted inside your borders?’ Tariq asked Lilah.
She kept her eyes on the ground in front of her. ‘Almost a year now. What remained of our army moved inside the walls.’
He looked around. ‘I see.’
Lilah went for a subject change. ‘Do you sail often?’
Aisha pretended she wasn’t listening to every word exchanged.
‘It’s enjoyable when the seas are calm,’ he said.
‘And when they’re not?’
A frown settled on his face. ‘Less enjoyable.’
Zara and their father appeared ahead, Zara’s emerald dress trailing behind her as she walked. The king walked with a slight limp, a symptom of his sedentary life. He left his quarters only when forced.
Tariq stopped before King Bilal, bowing. ‘Your Majesty.’
‘Your Highness,’ Bilal said, finding a shaky smile for their visitor. ‘Welcome.’
‘Thank you.’
