Shadow Seer [18+]

~ Thirty Six ~

Despite their fight before she'd left into Hal-Bahsin, Sanaa clung to Amir as he guided them through the city towards their new lodgings. She didn't question why he had found them somewhere else to stay, simply thankful that they didnt have to stay in that awful place. They walked in silence, Amir's murder of her attacker almost completely forgotten. It still shocked her how easily he could take life but in this instance, he had done it to protect her and she couldn't be mad at him for that. Especially now that she knew that she would lose him. Sooner rather than later if her vision of Ghassan and Khalar coming for them was any indication of the future. Which it was.

The mid morning air clung to them like a shroud as Amir and Sanaa navigated the narrow, winding streets of Hal-Bahsin. The distant echo of their footsteps reverberated against the aged desert stone walls until they finally came upon an inn. It was a beacon of flickering candlelight, its wooden door flung open in anticipation of new arrivals. It stood proudly amidst the bustling crowds, its exterior reflecting a blend of traditional Cotaini architecture and practical designs for the floods of people that would occupy it at any one time. The facade was weathered by the relentless desert sun, boasting warm earthy tones that blended with the surrounding city. The walls were painted in hues of sandstone and terracotta, exuding a timeless charm that Sanaa had to marvel at as they approached, even if she was still shaken up from her ordeal.

Above the entrance, a weathered wooden sign swung gently bearing the words Desert's Dream in intricately carved letters painted in faded gold. A narrow, arched doorway adorned with ornate ironwork welcomed guests into the cool respite within. Sturdy wooden shutters, partially closed to shield against the sun lined the windows. As they entered what appeared to be an inner courtyard of the inn, Sanaa took in the merchants who were placed there, with vibrant fabrics and spices spread out in front of them, creating a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and purples that contrasted against the muted tones of the building. Locals in flowing robes and turbans navigated through the small crowd, their movements purposeful as they shopped. Children darted between the legs of adults, their laughter echoing against the sturdy outer walls of the inn. A caravan of camels at the rear, laden with goods, added a touch of exotic allure to the whole scene that Sanaa found invigorating.

As the couple finally stepped into the establishment, the scent of spices wafted through the air, mingling with the distant aroma of cooking fires. They were enveloped in a warm embrace of muted light and cosy ambiance while the low hum of conversation provided a soothing backdrop as they navigated through the sea of wooden tables and chairs. Soft, patterned rugs covered the worn stone floor while plush mismatched cushions were scattered across sturdy wooden benches, inviting patrons to linger. The crackling fireplace casted a dancing glow and shadows on the exposed beams overhead.

Sanaa stood wide-eyed as the patrons turned to stare at them. The innkeeper, a portly man with a greying beard, shot them an amused look.

"Back already?" he called out, polishing a tankard behind the worn counter. Ignoring the onlookers, Amir replied,

"Is our room ready yet? My wife and I wish to get settled."

The innkeeper nodded and threw a key in Amir's direction. He caught it one handed in the air, reached out for Sanaa's hand and led her to a staircase at the back of the taproom. They climbed the small flight of stairs, Amir found the number of the door that matched the number on his key and unlocked it.

The room exuded a rustic elegance, with its walls fashioned from the same warm sandstone and clay that characterised the city. The bathing room, tucked into an alcove, featured a large basin and products for them both to use. A generously sized bed commanded the centre of attention, its bedding, a medley of soft creams and desert-inspired tones. Plush throw pillows, intricately embroidered, were scattered on top of it that made Sanaa desperate to climb on top and sleep for a thousand years.