Tales Of The Heart

(22)

The moon was shining brightly in the sky, casting an ethereal glow over the palace grounds. Prince Shahzaib met with his loyal companions Sahir, Sarim, and Harun, along with Zaid, who was instructed to summon them discreetly, at the stables.

The scent of hay and the soft sounds of horses surrounded them. The air was tense as Sahir was the first to speak, his concern evident in his voice.
"You asked for us, my prince?", his gaze flicked to Inaya and Eira, his worry increasing at their unexpected presence.

"Yes. Arrange for a Qazi. We are getting married tonight", Shahzaib said, his voice firm, leaving no room for doubt.

The statement stunned the men. They exchanged uneasy glances, caught off guard by the sudden decision. Sarim stepped forward, his brow furrowed with concern. "Is it a wise decision, my prince?", he asked, his tone reflecting the concern of what they were about to do.

"Yes, of course", Shahzaib replied, his voice steady, resolve unwavering.

"Think again, my prince. What if the Emperor becomes furious at this... stunt? He might make decisions that might be even more threatening", Harun couldn't help but to voice his concern.

Shahzaib paused for a moment, considering their words. His expression softened slightly, but his determination remained unshaken. "I am firm in my decision. I would appreciate it if you stand with me, but it is fine if you choose not to. I understand that you all might be held accountable for this", he said, starting to walk toward his stallion, Aqwa.

Sahir was quick to reach out and caught Shahzaib's arm.
"No, my prince. We vowed to stand by you till our last breath. It was just our concern for your royal position, nothing more", he said earnestly, trying to convey their loyalty.

"We are with you", Sarim declared, his voice firm with determination.
"No matter what, we will face it together", Harun added with a curt nod, sealing their commitment.

Shahzaib felt a gush of gratitude toward his companions.
"I will be forever grateful," he said sincerely, his voice filled with emotions.

"I can arrange for a trustworthy Qazi. We will stop by my home. It will be safer", Sahir offered a solution and the group quickly agreed.

As they prepared to leave, Shahzaib brought Aqwa, his beloved stallion, to Inaya. The massive white horse stood proud and majestic, a creature of strength and beauty.

"Have you ever ridden a horse, my lady?", Shahzaib asked softly. Inaya nodded, her fingers lightly brushing Aqwa's mane.
"Yes," she muttered, her affectionate eyes meeting the stallion's.
"Does he have a name?", she asked, her voice filled with curiosity.

"Aqwa", Shahzaib answered, smiling as he watched Aqwa and Inaya's bonding. The stallion leaned into her touch, a sign of affection that made Inaya giggle.

Shahzaib's heart warmed at the sight as he placed a stool beside Aqwa to help Inaya mount with ease.
"Thank you," she whispered as she gracefully took her place atop the stallion.
"Be good," Shahzaib murmured to Aqwa, patting the stallion's neck. Aqwa responded with a soft huff, as if understanding his master's words.

Harun couldn't resist the playful remark.
"It is the first time our prince has allowed anyone to ride his beloved stallion", he said, his words causing Inaya to blush and duck her head shyly. Shahzaib chuckled, shaking his head as he mounted another horse.

"I am surprised Aqwa is calm. He never lets even us to ride him", Sahir commented, pretending to be bitter about the unfairness.
"Exactly!" Sarim grumbled, joining in the banter.
"I still remember when he deliberately had me fall when I tried to mount him", he scoffed.