The Coin & the Shadow

Prolouge

4 years ago...

Khalid watched as Sachi collapsed to the ground gasping for air. Her skin was almost pure white, the dawn blue lakes in her eyes broiled to a translucent grey.

Clutching her neck, the Rajput loosened the silk cord threaded around Sachi's throat. Khalid stood watching the young woman, who was desperately trying to drag one breath into her lungs.

Well, I mean- she did deserve to die. The words kept circling in Khalid's mind. A beautiful woman but- but not worthy of life. She was meant to die. Ye- no well, of course she did.

Although Sachi's eyes only caught a blurry glimpse, she could see the horror in his eyes. Even though Khalid had his nose held high.

With her weak and limp body, she tried to pull herself off the ground. Her arms locked. Sachi blinked, falling once more on her side. She managed to croak four words, only to have her lungs collapse inside her.

After she died, " the Rajput said "It's done sayyidi- just like you said." the words seemed to fold into a deep growl. The Caliph could see his throat rattle from his menacing croaking voice.

The Rajput forced the Calpih's hand by his hip and placed an object in his hand. The warmth slid off it and onto him body. The roughness in the center scraped his fingers. The smooth round edges brushed his palm. He opened up his hand... But clenched it back.

Staring down at his clenched fist, he tried to figure what to say. Then it was as if someone whispered in Khalid's ear. He rolled his eyes 'Well, I guess it'll satisfy"

The sun growled at the Caliph as it emerged from the horizon. Wind crawled along the ground and clawed up Khalid's trembling spine. He said grumbling "oh just shut up!"

He opened his fist revealing the small gold coin that was curled up in his fingers-

"Sayyidi-"

"What!"

Khalid jerked furiously, only to find that his maid Despina behind him. Her large plump hands were tucked behind her back, her cheeks, which made it seem as if she holding her breath, were the color of the sunset at the end of a long day.

"What is it Despina?" Khalid asked urging her to forget his irrational behavior.

"I am here to apologize for your wife's death" she replied sheepishly avoiding the two copper flames burning in Khalid's eyes. She paused. She glanced at the Rajput and started to walk away.

"After all, it was an elegant way to die..."