Fickle

Chapter 31

Othman and General Mustapha met in a secluded chamber of the royal palace, the faint glow of lanterns casting long shadows on the walls. Kulthum’s plan to infiltrate Hanifah’s inner circle had ignited a fire within both men, but they knew the stakes were dangerously high.

"We’ve identified three potential candidates," Mustapha began, spreading a list across the table. "All of them are close to Hanifah, but each has a vulnerability we can exploit."

Othman leaned forward, his sharp eyes scanning the names. "We need someone who is not just vulnerable, but also capable of feeding us consistent, accurate information without raising suspicion. Who’s our strongest option?"

Mustapha tapped a name on the list: Ruqayyah.

---

Ruqayyah had been Hanifah’s loyal assistant for years, managing her correspondence and acting as a confidant. But recent financial troubles—hidden from everyone except a few discreet palace auditors—made her an ideal target. She had a younger brother who had racked up significant debts, debts Hanifah had begun to leverage to ensure Ruqayyah’s loyalty.

Othman saw an opportunity. "She’s under pressure from Hanifah, but that also means she’s motivated to protect herself and her family. If we offer her a way out, she might take it."

Mustapha nodded. "The key is to approach her without making her feel cornered. If she suspects a trap, she’ll report us to Hanifah."

The plan to approach Ruqayyah unfolded with precision. A trusted intermediary—a servant in the palace kitchens who often delivered tea to Hanifah’s quarters—was tasked with slipping a discreet note into Ruqayyah’s hand.

The note read:

"We know about your troubles. If you want a way out, meet in the west courtyard at midnight. Come alone."

Ruqayyah found the note later that evening, her heart pounding as she read it. Fear and curiosity warred within her. She knew the risks of ignoring the summons, but she also knew the dangers of complying.

That night, as the palace quieted, she slipped into the shadows of the west courtyard, her footsteps silent against the stone.

Waiting for her was General Mustapha, his imposing figure shrouded in a dark cloak. He stepped forward as she approached, his voice calm but firm.

"Ruqayyah, you don’t need to be afraid. I’m here to offer you a choice."

She hesitated, her eyes darting around. "What kind of choice?"

"Freedom," Mustapha said simply. "Hanifah is using your brother’s debts to control you. We can make those debts disappear. In return, all we ask is that you tell us what you know about her plans—and keep us informed of her moves."

Ruqayyah’s hands trembled. "If she finds out, she’ll destroy me."

"She won’t find out," Mustapha assured her. "We’ll ensure your safety. But this is your chance to break free. Think about your brother. Think about yourself."

After a long silence, Ruqayyah nodded. "What do you need me to do?"

---

Ruqayyah’s first task was simple: monitor Hanifah’s private meetings and report back on the topics discussed. She was careful, never lingering too long or asking unnecessary questions, but her access gave her insights others could only guess at.

Within days, she delivered her first piece of intelligence: Hanifah and Neil were planning to bribe two influential council members to secure their support in the coming weeks.