Book 2 of: Whispers Of Desires.
In the kingdoms of Niameda, Althea, and Ivamis, trade ships are mysteriously vanishing without a trace. When Kazi, the General of Niameda, risks her life to save the King of Althea from an assassination attempt, he of...
The salty sea air filled Kazi's lungs as the ship finally pulled into the bustling harbour of Althea. Weeks at sea had left her body craving the feel of solid ground beneath her feet. Disguised as a young man named "K," nephew to Queen Nia and General Kazi, she stepped off the boat, careful to maintain her low profile.
As the ship docked, a tall figure with striking blue eyes walked towards her. Kazi's breath hitched in her throat as she recognized the person. It was Seraphinael...
"Greetings," Seraphinael addressed K. "You must be K, nephew of Queen Nia and General Kazi. We have been expecting you."
Relief washed over Kazi. He had not recognized her! She extended her hand, the voice she had been practicing for weeks coming out smoothly, "Indeed, Seraphinael. Thank you for having me."
Seraphinael, however, simply stared at her outstretched hand, his expression unreadable. "We do not shake hands in Althea," he said, his voice cool. "It is not our custom."
Kazi cursed inwardly. She had forgotten the Althean customs. Quickly, she bowed her head in respect. "Forgive my rudeness. I am unused to your customs. I will remember from now on."
Seraphinael gave a small nod before walking towards the waiting carriage and Kazi followed suit. As they made their way through the bustling streets of Althea, she pretended to be fascinated by the sights and sounds around her, all the while studying Seraphinael from the corner of her eye. He seemed to be studying her just as closely. She wondered if he had any idea who she really was.
Breaking the silence Kazi spoke, "Your kingdom is truly beautiful." She had to keep the conversation going or Seraphinael might grow suspicious.
"Beautiful, is it not? The architecture, the white and pristine buildings, it is all designed to reflect the purity of the goddess Althea, our patron deity," Seraphinael explained, his expression proud. "We take great care to preserve our heritage and culture, ensuring that it remains untarnished by the influences of other kingdoms."
Kazi glanced around, trying to mask her true feelings. The blinding white buildings, the marble streets, and the people dressed in their pure white clothing all made her feel uncomfortable. She was black, she had short curly hair, and she did not fit in. "It is...certainly unique," she managed.
"Unique, perhaps," Seraphinael replied, his voice tinged with a hint of defensiveness. "But It is also a testament to our devotion to Althea and her teachings. You will get used to it in time, K."
Kazi gave a small, forced laugh, trying to hide her discomfort. "I am sure I will, Seraphinael..." she trailed off, glancing out the window of the carriage.
"You know, you remind me a lot of your aunt, General Kazi." Seraphinael said, surprising her.
Kazi's heart thumped against her ribs. "Really?" she managed to say, hoping her voice did not betray her surprise.
"Yes," Seraphinael said, his gaze lingering on her. "There is a certain... intensity in your eyes, a determination that reminds me of her."
Kazi desperately wanted to disappear. This conversation was turning dangerous. "Perhaps," she managed, forcing a laugh. "It must be the 'K' name. People always say we look alike, Auntie Kazi and I."
Seraphinael raised an eyebrow. "Perhaps," he said.
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