Zanzibar The Magician - Uncovered

8 || 'THE GREAT'

'MISS' Zanzibar and Jim stepped out of the portal onto a stone terrace adorned with built-up flower beds. The heady scent of roses, acacia and jasmine filled the air, their fragrances carried on a soft breeze around the walled enclosure. The sun was high, hot, agreeable, in stark contrast to the crisp winter chill of New York City.

Jim wobbled slightly at Zanzibar's side, somewhat disorientated from their cosmic journey. The passage through took a little longer than he'd anticipated.

Reading the young man's expression, Zanzibar smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry, it took me a few minutes to pinpoint Yarko's location. The good news though, is that I haven't lost the knack of creating portals."

"Yeah, sure," Jim replied, rubbing the back of his neck to ease a dull pain. "I just don't like being stuck in those things for long; they kinda mess up my bearings."

"Well, that's understandable for one who does not possess the ability." Without allowing Jim a chance to respond, Zanzibar walked on ahead. She moved between the flowerbeds, her heels clicking on the stone slabs. As she passed the roses she inhaled their scent and smiled, appreciative of the fragrance.

Jim moved into step with the magician, his eyes scanning their surroundings. "Okay, so how did you know where to find 'The Great'?" he asked.

A small smile played on Zanzibar's lips before she answered. "We both underwent training in the City of Flames. There we honed our craft under the tutelage of the lamas. As conjurers, wizards - whatever you wish to call us - we have developed a link, a connection, through our magical abilities."

"Kinda like what they say about twins, then?" Jim volunteered, nodding, pleased with his analogy.

Zanzibar grinned. "Something like that, yes."

They approached a series of arches running perpendicular to the northern wall. Stretching beyond the arcade were windows and a large open doorway. Arabesque drapes rippled lightly affording the approaching men an occasional glimpse of a sumptuous interior. 

With only a few steps remaining, the fabric swept aside, and a turbaned gent stood before them. He looked upon Jim with intense eyes, their depths unfathomable, but remaining friendly.

 Then they rested on Zanzibar. 

At first, The Great seemed a little hesitant but quickly his mouth curved into a warm, welcoming smile. "My friend," he said, his voice deep, soothing. "Ah knew you would come."

"Yarko," Zanzibar replied, a slight tremor in her voice. She offered a handshake - her host cordially accepted.

"Welcome, both of you. Do come in." The sorcerer stepped aside, allowing his visitors entry. 

Jim's eyes widened as he took in the opulent furnishings. The terracotta decor was resplendent with tapestries and soft furnishings in shades of saffron, plum, turquoise and blue. Brass ornate light fittings hung low from the ceiling; their artful designs complex, delicate. 

His eyes then drifted to the right where a large, glass-fronted cabinet commanded his attention. He meandered over while the two sorcerers exchanged more polite greetings.

The cabinet was a treasure trove. Behind the glass, placed on decorative mounts were jewelled daggers of various sizes; trinkets -all shapes, origin and artistry- priceless; rings, equally exorbitant with a myriad of gems and intricate designs. 

But, in the very centre was the most beautiful thing of all - a ruby.  Almost half the size of Jim's palm, the multifaceted jewel was cut to precision; in a word, exquisite. An involuntary "Wow!" escaped Jim as he gaped at the gem.