Jewels of the Heart

Aaleyah had finished the book, and wrote herself a summary in both the old and ancient language. She was excited to prove to her father that he could not catch her off guard this time. But Aaleyah truly needed a break. Her brain cried out in horror at the thought of thinking more. Her body tearfully sobbed about its lack of sustenance. She had skipped out on breakfast not taking one step outside of her study, her hand still hurt; a reminder of her father's insistence that she study hard. 

Making her way throughout the manor she asked one of the servants to warm up food for her. After she filled her belly she would have to go study again, so it would be nice to see another living face in the meantime. The last she was aware of, Roset was playing in the garden, most likely growing rocks. Her mother may have left; if not she was making swords with Chiara and Amenah. The golden daughters. She had just made it to the door when Roset rushed in. His fingernails held the precious mud and dirt from his amazing scientific rock growing. He had taken off his shoes, and as a result his feet were the only clean things on the lower half of his body. 

"Ley Ley!" Roset rushed towards her pulling her away from the door with his dirty hands. As she moved she caught sight of the garden outside. 

"Roset, what were you doing?" she asked, horrified. Chiara was sure to throw a fit when she saw her destroyed flowers. Now that she is out of her room, she is sure to be pulled into this chaos. Although, having no younger siblings will be fine, it was nice having Roset but she could not take the fall for this. 

Roset waved his hand from Aaleyah to come closer. Once she had bent down far enough he whispered loudly, "I buried my treasure in the garden, but you must tell no one." His determined face bore into hers, "I told Asbed I grew rocks, Ley Ley," his voice dropped to a true whisper, "you are the only one who truly knows." he told her seriously.

Laughing lightly, "Only me?"she said with some odd sense of small sense of childish pride. "What treasure is it you are hiding?" she whispered back.

Roset shook his head with a toothy grin, "It is a secret." 

Aaleyah pretended to pout, "Well you ruined Chiara's crocus flowers to do this." she pointed out. Roset's little face crumpled and she pitched his cheek, "If we do not fix it, you may not live much longer with this secret," she shrugged.

Roset nibbled at his bottom lip, "What do I do?" he asked worriedly. 

Tired of bending down, Aaleyah kneeled in front of her brother, "Well," she said brushing off some of the dirt, but realizing they were inside she stopped not wishing to dirty the floor. "I happen to know there is a pot of crocus flowers inside. It is possible I can bring them here and plant them in the dirt before anyone finds out." she said with a wink. 

Roset's eyes opened wide and his mouth fell into an open smile, "Really?" he asked with glee. "And she will not know?" he bounced. 

Sucking in a breath, she tapped the top of Roset's nose, "I happened to ruin plenty of flowers when I was 7 Blue moons old as well." she chuckled, "I learned the perfect way of covering up my mistakes. Rising she extended her hand to Roset, "First we should clean you up so there is no proof you were in the garden." Patting her chest, "I will replant the flowers for you." she urged him to go up the stairs chuckling as he waddled trying not to track dirt throughout the manor.

As Roset waddled up the stairs he paused to give his sister a breathtaking smile, "Thank you Ley Ley, you will be the first to see my treasure." he vowed.

Smiling fondly at her brother she made her way away from the door to the place she saw the crocus flowers last. 

Asbed and Zale walked in through the back door, "She will be in the study." Zale told him and proceeded to make his way there when Asbed held him back. 

"Wait." his hand held on to the space just above Zale's elbow. "Have you thought about what to say to her?"

Zale returned his brother's question with a quizzical look and a question of his own, "What is that supposed to mean?" He shrugged his shoulders, "I am going to say grab your cloak Ley Ley, we are going." he said as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. He pulled his arm out of Asbed's grasp and made his way to Aaleyah's room. 

Rolling his eyes, "I mean that Ley Ley has been getting into trouble, and has been reprimanded by father more than normal." He sucked in a breath, "Maybe Ley Ley will be too afraid to leave." he hesitantly explained. 

Zale seemed to be deep in thought, his movements paused and his wide contemplative gold eyes sought out his brother's. Asbed was just about to breathe in relief that Zale understood when the annoying idiot burst into laughter. 

"Ley Ley is not afraid of anything." Zale fought to say through laughter. "Honestly, Asbed the things you say. Maybe you have been reading too much." He covered his mouth but it did not hide his laughter. "We are talking about Ley Ley, not you." he said while shaking his head. 

"I think you are the one who simply does not think enough. Have you not realized father is more stressed than usual." Asbed said as they trudged up the stairs. 

"I know," Zale gave his brother a look, "Which is why I said she needs to take a break and go riding, because she is so stressed." he scoffed. "You do not listen to anything I say." 

"I am listening." Asbed refuted. "Your logic simply does not make any sense." he muttered following Zale up the stairs. 

At the entrance to the estate Dharam scratched his head in thought. Mother and Father had already said that no one was to leave the estate, but he never had a chance to go to the Medes Armoury. Honestly, he understood the entire nobody leave spiel and he had every intention of following it. Possibly after he got at least 2 weapons to train with first. 

This morning he hoped to wake up before Herom left and ask him to grab him some but apparently Herom left before the inhabitants of the capital could awaken because he was gone, and Dharam woke up before sunrise. Pacing before the gate, Dharam thought about his options. The estate was pretty big and if he left and came back without any side quests it was highly possible no one would know. If Asbed found out he would definitely get into trouble because Asbed would tell immediately. Aaleyah was way too busy to think about others, Roset… who knows. If he was given a cool rock he would be distracted for hours. 

Dharam put his hand on the handle of the gate, then he stopped. Zale. He groaned and kicked the gate. Zale was the questionable one. Because if he is not with Aaleyah then he would not be distracted and that kid had eagle blood, nothing seemed to get past his eyes. He moved his hand away from the handle, what if he got Zale a new score to play? A smile grew on his face, that would work. 

As he moved away from the gate to find a music score in his father's office the gate slammed open and Servant Ahdu stumbled through. Without taking a second to catch his breath he turned and closed the gates locking them securely. The basket tied to his back looked like it was missing objects and as Dharam looked closer he saw small traces of blood on the edge of the basket. 

"Ahdu?" he took a calculative step forward, "Are you alright?"

Ahdu looked up, seeming to only just notice Dharam standing there. "3rd Lord Aljehni?" he called out in a soft voice. Then he jolted forward and pushed Dharam away from the gate, "You must stay inside. Do not go anywhere!" he yelled, his hands shaking as he held onto Dharam's sleeve. "Where is Lord and Lady Aljehni? I must speak to them." He pulled Dharam with him away from the gate, "It it it is it we must, do not go by the gate, I must speak to Lord and Lady Aljehni." he muttered to himself. 

Dharam let himself be dragged away. He really needed to stop lingering by the front gate. 

Aaleyah made her way to the backyard to fix the mess of a garden Roset created. His brother really just picked up the flowers by any angle and stuffed them into the dirt. The poor things were buried head first and covered in dirt. However, some of them were salvable. Saving the flowers she could, she switched out the destroyed ones for the ones she stole from the vase. She had just finished when Zale and Asbed walked outside. 

Zale crossed his arms looking like he was ready to complain. 

Aaleyah tossed the vase she stole into a hole she didn't and threw dirt on top. "Zale and Asbed?" she questioned, "What are you two doing together?" 

Zale walked down the steps stomping his feet loudly, "You are supposed to be studying, we searched for you forever!" 

Asbed snorted, "It was less than 10 minutes." 

"A long time when we are short on time." Zale argued. 

Aaleyah smirked, yep he was complaining. "I asked the servants for foo-" 

"Youngest Lady Aljehni, we have your food ready." a servant called out. 

Aaleyah nodded her thanks, "See, I am going to eat and then study." she danced her way towards the door walking around her brothers. 

Zale shook his head, "Please pack it to go." he asked the servant with a smile. 

"Go?" Aaleyah took a step back. "Go where? We are not supposed to leave the estate." she continued making her way to the door to go inside. 

Asbed smirked and rubbed at the spot between his eyebrows, "I told you." His comment was met with a light slap to the stomach. 

"Ley Ley, do not channel Asbed, get your cloak so we can go." Zale rolled his eyes with an easy smirk. 

"Channel Asbed?" Asbed turned to Zale with a threatening look that Zale was happy to return. 

Zale clapped his hands once, "We all know you do not enjoy having fun as much as the rest." he stated. 

"I have fun!" Asbed argued. 

"I never said you did not have fun, just that you do not enjoy it as much as others." Zale explained sarcastically. 

"That is not-"

"Alright." Aaleyah cut off her brother, "Where are you going? I do not wish to go," she shook her head, "If mother and father find out I will die." She pointed to the flowers she fixed in the garden, "You can bury my soul in the ground so I can become a tree of stupidity." she stated sarcastically. 

Zale turned towards the sky and said a swift prayer for calmness, "Come on Ley Ley, Saan and I are going riding, you truly do not wish to come?" he asked with an urgent whine. 

Aaleyah held her hand up, "The ointment does not hide all the pain Zale." she pointed out. "I am not getting into any more trouble. Father is terrifying." a tremor escaped her voice showing her fear. 

Zale held his right hand up, "I am aware of your pain Ley Ley." he said obviously. "But come on, do you not need a break? Do you not feel like you have been studying too long? Does your brain not hurt? Do you truly not wish for fresh air and a relaxing ride?" he urged. 

Aaleyah could not voice her response right away. Her annoying twin was alright, and she always failed to see past his way of logic. 

"If it makes you feel better we will quiz you on the way so you are still studying." Asbed offered once he saw that Zale was getting to her. 

Aaleyah opened her mouth to speak but a servant returned with Aaleyah's packed food. Zale took it with a graceful smile and a lie about studying with no distractions. 

Once the door closed Zale and Asbed focused their attention on Aaleyah, "So?" Zale asked. 

Aaleyah ran her nails together, "We will be back before the sun is high in the sky." 

Zale smirked, "Yep, time for us to get our horses." 

Servant Ahdu dragged Dharam to the room next to the arsenal, inside was his twin, Chiara and his mother. Dharam let out an internal sigh of relief, if he really did leave while his mother was in the estate we would be dead.

Rushing inside, Ahdu bowed quickly, then not even lifting his head words fell out. "Lady Aljehni the market place. In the market the guards. Everyone was there, everyone was, even the children the kids were the guards said." Ahdu refused to take a breath. "The guards were I did not have time I did not know if I should- So many were arrested."

Aminah rose from her bench, her extended hand told her daughters to remain seated. "Ahdu lift your head and take a breath." she ordered, making her way around the table towards him. Her eyes glanced in Dharam's direction, "Were you with him?" she asked. 

Dharam waved his hands no, at least he tried; Ahdu was still clinging to the fabric of his sleeve, "Not at all he dragged me from the gate." he explained defending himself. 

Aminah nodded, her eyes sharp, "And what were you doing by the gate?" 

Dharam choked on his spit. "Servant Ahdu," he nudged for him to speak. 

Aminah's dark eyes stayed on her son, a threatening promise that they would talk later. Then she turned to Ahdu, "Tell me what happened from the beginning." she cooly commanded, her eyes catching the stained blood on his sleeve. 

Ahdu rose, the tears visible in his eyes. The guards in the market attacked the people." His hands shook. "The people refused to be searched once more, they all banded together blocking the path. They said, they," His eyes glanced in Amenah's direction, her shocked expression stopped his words. 

Understanding the situation, "Amenah, Chiara, and Dharam you are dismissed." 

The girls moved quickly and Dharam tried to follow but was yanked back by Ahdu's hold on him. 

Ahdu's hand shook, "No, you must stay safe. Do not go outside." he muttered. 

"Ahdu." Aminah's voice was melodic, "Dharam is safe now. Now you must tell me what happened so I can ensure everyone else's safety." 

Ahdu slowly released Dharam, and with a nod from his mother he rushed out the room. 

Aaleyah held onto the reins of her horse, "Your plan is to sneak out where?" she asked in disbelief. 

Asbed had his horse directly next to hers and they both exchanged confused looks. They were under the impression that Zale had a safe way to sneak out without getting caught.

Zale groaned, "How many times must I repeat myself?" he asked, annoyed. 

Aaleyah scratched her forehead, "You have us walking in the direction of a wall Zale." She sarcastically said, "Excuse me for asking how we go through cement." 

Pushing his fingers together Zale took a deep breath, "I already said there was a hole." 

"Big enough for a horse?" she asked skeptically. 

"Yes. Big enough for a horse." 

"Big enough for three?" she held 3 fingers up. 

"I hardly see how that makes a difference!" Zale exasperated. 

Asbed stayed silent, already regretting being a part of this escape plan. As they made it to the wall bordering the estate Zale hopped off his horse. 

Aaleyah watched him make his way to a bush, "I do not see a hole big enough for a horse." she huffed. 

Zale pushed the bush away causing his siblings eyes to bulge. "It is not connected to the ground?" Asbed said in shock. 

"How is the bush not dead?" Aaleyah asked, confused.

"I change it out for other bushes." Zale answered boredly. "Anyway," he motioned his hands to the hole. "Tadaa!" 

Aaleyah tilted her body to see through the other side, "There is something blocking the other side." she commented. 

Zale rolled his eyes. "You have no faith in me." He marched through the hole and pushed the other bush away. Then he came back through and pulled on his horse's reins. He led his horse slowly bowing his head to fit through the hole. Once he made it through he poked his head through, "Will you wait for us to get caught?" he asked, urging them to move quickly. 

Aaleyah and Asbed gave each other a look and slid off their horses. 

Aaleyah led her horse through the hole, but her angel did not like tight places and it took some gentle urging before she bowed her head and stepped through the hole to the other side. Asbed walked through with ease and both siblings watched Zale put the bushes back in their place covering the hole on both sides. 

Zale wiped the sweat from his forehead from moving the heavy bushes and grinned, "Shall we go?" 

Aaleyah mounted her horse, "Zale how long has that hole been there?" 

"And how many times have you used it?" Asbed asked.

Mounting his horse, "You are not asking the important question." he stated with a confident smirk. 

"Which is?" Asbed asked.

Holding the reins in his hands, "How did it get there?" he told Asbed. Then moving the heel of his feet he set off his carefree laughter in the wind.

Under Aminah's calm guidance Ahdu caught his breath. The poor older man was not one of the guards who was trained to fight. He was the cook, and went to the market to get the ingredients for the upcoming meal. He wore dark blue colors so no one would know he came from the Aljehni estate like he was told, but he did not truly understand the reasons for the fear. 

"Ahdu?" Aminah called, "Your breathing eased. Now, may you please tell me what you saw in the market?" she asked patiently. 

Ahdu clutched the string holding the basket on his back, "In the market the people fought back. They refused to let the guards," he shook his leg swiftly. "The people asked the guards why they were coming again? Why were they intent on destroying the stores?" His chest rose and fell, "They said that even the Aljehni's knew it was wrong. But the captain smiled at that comment." 

"Smiled?" Aminah sat next to Ahdu so they were on the same level, "Do you know what the person who first brought up the Aljehnis looked like?" 

Ahdu nodded, "It was a scholar he spoke up for everyone, the guards arrested him first. As they dragged him away he told the people not to give up. To stand up for their livelihood."

Aminah's eyes flashed with controlled anger Ahdu could not see. "And the captain? You said he smiled, did he say anything?" She placed a reassuring hand on his knee to stop him from shaking.

"The captain asked if it occurred to them that the reason the Aljehnis were not there was because they no longer stood by the people." His hands balled into small fists, "Some of the people hesitated to move, but from behind the guards the scholar yelled that it was not true. He yelled that the Aljehnis would always come." He turned to face Aminah, "Lady Aljehni, everyone fought and the guards began arresting everyone. It was chaos, children tried to run, parents fought guards, a son stood in front of his grandmother refusing to move and was hit in the side of the head." Ahdu bowed, "But I did nothing. I only ran." his body shook. "As I ran the captain shouted for everyone to be apprehended." 

Aminah rose from her seat, "I see." she answered in a clipped voice. "Ahdu I realize that this can be terrifying for you, but if it is any consolation you have done nothing wrong." Her brow arches and she wore a calm expression for the older man. "Have some rest, when you feel better do draw for me, please draw the soldiers you saw in the market." 

Seeing his Lady make her way to the door, "Where will you go?" he asked nervously. 

Turning her head slightly, Ahdu could see the rising anger in her eyes, "I am going to have a talk with the Duke." 

Dharam leisurely walked through the garden, the estate seemed oddly quiet. He glanced up on the roof and in the trees for his siblings. Surely Aaleyah and Zale were planning something. Stepping on a leaf he paused, "Ah. I forget they are studying." He moved his gaze to the window of Aaleyah's study, "No wonder it is so quiet here." he said to himself. 

Chiara stormed towards him, "Dharam!" her face was fuming.

"There goes the peace." Dharam muttered, scratching the back of his head. "What?" he asked louder. 

"Have you seen Roset and the evil twins!" she yelled making her way towards him. 

Amenah followed behind Chiara, her smile of amusement a stark comparison to Chiara who was channeling the sun's summer rage. "Chiara, how could he know? We all came from the same place." She managed to hide the smile just before Chiara turned to respond. 

"Before! He must have seen them before." She turned back to her older brother, "Roset ruined my flowers!"

Dharam pursed his lips, his smile fighting through all warriors to get out. "Are you sure it was Roset?" 

The look Chiara gave was backed up by the clouds rolling in front of the sun. "Aaleyah helped of course." She gritted out. "So where are they?" 

Amenah shook her head not attempting to hide her smile, "Aaleyah is studying, she does not have time to save your flowers."

Chiara scoffed, "Do not humour my intelligence with fantastical theories." she rolled her eyes. "Since when does Aaleyah always do as she is told?" she asked her elder siblings. 

Amenah pouted thoughtfully, her gaze moving from Chiara to Dharam. "She has been quite studious this past moon." she said, smiling at Dharam's nod of support. 

"So. Where are they?" Chiara asked again. 

"You are certain Aaleyah is involved?" Amenah twirled the tips of her hair around her finger, "If you interrupt Aaleyah while she is studying and father finds out you will be-"

"Punished greatly." Dharam finished.

Stomping on the ground, "Aaleyah thinks she is so smart, but those flowers she replanted are the ones I put in a vase yesterday. I recognize them. Now they are back in the dirt."

Tickling his nose, "I hardly see what the problem is. If you are correct Roset ruined the garden and Aaleyah fixed it." Dharam shrugged, "Why must you complain?" 

Herom walked from the direction of the stables, a distracted look on his face. Hearing his siblings he forced a smile on his face as he approached them. 

Amenah scrunched her nose, "Herom? Why are you back so early?" She looked towards the sky, the sun was not even at its highest point. 

Dharam agreed, "No hunting today?" he asked with a light smile as he made his way to him, happy to leave Chiara and her complaining. 

"Herom!" Chiara whined racing to him, her arms wrapping around him as she threw herself into his arms. 

Catching her, "Chiara? What is it?" he immediately focussed on her worries, his own tensions and concerns pushed away as he rubbed her hair.

Frowning, "Aaleyah and Roset ruined my flowers." she reported, happy to have someone listening. 

Glancing at Amenah and Dharam, "I was under the impression that Aaleyah would be studying?' Herom asked. 

Dharam sighed, "That is what we told her, but Chiara only wishes to find problems." he groaned. 

Chiara shook her head in her brother's chest, "That is not true." 

Amenah frowned. "Herom?" She took a step towards her older brother. His golden eyes were heavy and his shoulders sagged, "Is something wrong?" 

Hearing the concern in Amenah's voice, Dharam studied Herom. The smile on his face, now that he thought of it looked off. "Did something happen?" 

Chiara moved her face out of her brother's chest and looked up at his face. "Herom?"

Chuckling awkwardly, "There are no problems." he assured them, however none of his siblings seemed to agree. "Really," he added, giving Chiara a comforting pat on the back.

Amenah pulled Chiara away from Herom and stood before him. Studying his face for a moment she sighed, "Did you and Helan have a fight?" The moment the words left her lips Herom's face changed, and she knew she was right. "What happened?" 

Dharam's eyes widened, "You fought? Really?" he scratched his head, "I did not know that was possible." he said in awe. 

Herom took a step away from his sister, "We did not have a fight." he denied.

Amenah took a step closer, "What was it about?" she pushed.

Chiara's eyes dimmed. Here she was complaining about flowers to her older brother who was already upset. "I will prepare tea." she said before running away. 

Reaching out for her, "Chiara." he called out not wanting her to go. He closed his eyes to gather his emotions and opened them to Amenah who stood with her hands on her hips. 

"You two are so close, whatever you argued about can be rectified." Amenah promised with an affirmative nod.

Herom took another step back, "I already said we did not argue." 

"Then why do you keep stepping away?" she asked and reached out for his arm. "You can talk to me." she urged. 

Dharam made his way to a bench, "Have a seat." he said. "The faster you fess up the sooner she will let you go." he wisely advised. 

Moving his arm out of Amenah's reach, "It is nothing to sit down and talk about." he sighed, his smile leaving his face as a look of annoyance took over. 

Dharam smirked, "But it is something." he pointed out.

Herom glared at his brother but Amenah refused to be ignored.

"Herom." Amenah frowned, "Do not pretend to be annoyed at me." 

"Who said I was pretending?" was his sharp response as he returned his attention to her.. 

Dharam stood, " Should we guess what happened instead?" 

Glaring in Dharam's direction, "Must you two act like this? I already said nothing happened." 

"Then why are you so angry?" Amenah asked. 

Smiling angrily, "Maybe it is because you will not leave me alone." he snapped.

Amenah frowned, "Whenever we are sad and upset you are the first one to comfort us." she took a step back, "I just wish to do the same for you." she softly added. 

Herom dragged his hand over his hair, "Fine!" He took a deep breath, "Fine," he repeated softer. "I disassembled the group and told everyone that we should act in a more professional way." His eyes stung with anger, "I told everyone that unless it was for work we should stay away from each other. Helan did not agree-"

Dharam scoffed, "Obviously, he is your best friend." 

Amenah held her hands up, "Wait. Why would you do that?" 

Herom twirled the cuff on his wrist, "Helan's dream is to be a palace guard. He wishes to guard the young princes. With all the discord, if he wishes to achieve that dream he should stay away." he explained, trying to keep his tone flippant. 

Amenah dropped her arms, "But that is not what you told Helan was it?" she surmised. 

Dharam stood on the other side of Amenah, "Of course not. Helan would not accept it. If our brother truly wanted Helan to stay away he would have done something extreme." 

"So what was it?" Amenah asked. 

"I did nothing extreme." Herom denied. 

"What was it?" Dharam asked. 

Herom shook his head, "You do not get to corner me like this, Amenah you did the same thing with Kemal." he pointed out. 

Amenah pouted, he had her there. 

"Did you humiliate him, or argue with him? Or maybe you fought him publicly?" Dharam asked, shaking his head when Herom looked away. "Doing it publicly can show everyone that you are no longer tied together. Helan can apply for the palace guard position and the only reason he can be denied is because of his skills. He will not have the weight of the Aljehni name on his sword." 

Amenah's jaw dropped, "Herom." she chastised. 

"When did you become so smart?" Herom pushed Dharam's shoulder. 

"I did get into the top academy." Dharam said, rolling his eyes. 

Meanwhile Aminah dismounted her horse outside Duke Majidi's tent. Before she could head to the entrance Captain Enlil stopped her. 

"General Aljehni," he greeted, "What brings you here?" he asked with a smile so polite the hairs on the back of her neck rose. 

Aminah's cold eyes barely acknowledged him, "I am here to speak to Duke Majidi, is he inside?" she crisply said.

Captain Enlil stood at attention, "I am sorry General, but you just missed him." he told her, his smile somehow growing wider.

Her eyes squinted, "Where is he?" 

"Duke Majidi does not need to report to you," Captain Enlil crossed his arms behind his back leisurely, "general." he added with mock respect. 

Aminah dropped her head, a confident smile appearing on her face, "That may be true." She lifted her head, "But you, Captain Enlil will answer to me." She took a step towards him, "Now where is he?" she asked slowly. 

The smile on Captain Enlil's face faded away, "General Aljehni-"

"Yes, I am the general. So happy you remember." Aminah scanned her eyes over his face. "Have you forgotten your salute, captain?" 

Captain Enlil gritted his teeth, but still placed a fist over his chest and bowed his head. "General." he greeted. 

Aminah turned her head slightly to the guards around the tent and they immediately stopped what they were doing and greeted her. They were unable to lift their heads until she acknowledged them. 

Aminah was smaller than Captain Enlil, her build not as buff nor threatening as his. But at that moment there was no question who had more power. 

"Your general asked you a question." she wrapped her fingers on her staff. "Where is the duke?" she asked slowly. 

Lifting his head, "Duke Majidi-"

"I did not say you could rise." she interrupted.

Dropping his head, "Duke Majidi left on an assignment from the king, he will not be back for 3 days." Captain Enlil reported. 

"When did he leave?" Aminah asked. 

"Half an hour ago." 

Aminah returned the greeting and all the soldiers lifted their heads. "Thank you," her cold eyes froze the captain's body, "for your cooperation." she told him and swiftly returned to her horse and rode off. 

In the market place the people that remained were the elderly and the children. Everyone of age had been arrested. A grandfather lifted his walking stick and struggled to stand on his bruised and battered legs. "The guards have gone too far." he told the people around him. "They must be stopped."

A child of only 12 Blue moons held his swollen wrist carefully, "They took my father." he sniffled. "Please help me get my father." he pleaded. 

A soft hearted granny held her arms out, "Come here child." As the child found solitude in her arms his tears fell. Patting his back, "There there, we will get your father back." 

"How?" the tea owner asked. "How are we to get them back, all those who could fight have been taken. What can we do?" 

"We go to the people who can do something." the bread merchant said. Standing in the middle of the crowd, "We have no power, but we can go to the ones that do." he stated confidently. 

An elderly woman shook her head. "No. The king will not listen to us." 

"I am not speaking about the king." the bread merchant replied. "We go to the man who always stood by the common people. We go to the one who has always aided us." With each word he said hope slowly grew on the people's face. 

A young girl crawled from under the flower cart, "The Aljehnis?" she asked. Her face broke into a smile as she thought of it, "The Aljehnis will help me get my brother back." she announced hopefully. 

The bread merchant nodded, "Yes, let us go to Scholar Aljehni. The academy will fix this injustice."

"Then no time to waste." The tea owner helped the grandfather walk, "Let us go to the Scholar's Sky." 

Everyone in the marketplace agreed and made their way to the Academy.

In the throne room King Saamun reread the letter from the Nevalvn King. "He dare threaten me?" he chuckled as his hand gripped the letter tighter. 

Eunuch Yosen stepped closer to the king, "Is there a problem your majesty?" 

Rubbing his knuckle over his nose, "King Valvn refuses my proposal for more trade from the mines. He dares to remind me of the agreement he made with Havil Aljehni." he chuckled angrily. "When those Aljehni's are dealt with there will be no more disobedience." 

EunuchYosen laughed and nodded happily, "Yes, if the Aljehni's are gone you will no longer need to honor that treaty and can do whatever you like." 

King Saamun froze and slowly turned, "If?" 

Eunuch Yosen dropped to the ground, "This one misspoke. This one apologizes to your majesty." he shivered nervously.

Leaning back in his throne, "Rise." he commanded. "Everything I do is for the kingdom, Yosen." he said. 

Eunuch Yosen no longer trusted his voice and nodded instead. 

"If not for Havil getting in the way, I would not have a limit on how much iron ore I could take from the mines. King Valvn thinks he has more power and continues to try my hand." he complained. "Once the Aljehnis are tried for treason using the iron ore the Nevalvn king gave, he will have no choice but to come to me for help." He snapped his fingers. "Despite knowing King Valvn's downfall is coming I still must punish him for his threats. He stood from his throne, "High Prince Niraj is still visiting friends in the Trivplah Kingdom correct?" 

Seeing the king's happy gaze on his Eunuch Yosen jumped to respond. "He was last seen fishing with friends in Tamateno city," he reported. 

Rising King Saamun nodded, "I heard the waters can be quite dangerous. It would be terrible if something were to happen to High Prince Niraj." he tilted his head in thought. "The Nevalvn King only has one son, the kingdom would be in danger without him." He clasped his hands, "Yosen," he beckoned him with his finger. 

"Yes, your majesty?" 

"Let us write a letter to our good friends in Tamateno." he swept his hair out of his face. "I wonder how King Valvn will react when he hears the news." 

Eunuch Yosen smiled and followed behind King Saamun to draft the letter. 

Asbed leaned his back against the tree, "How is riding relaxing if all you do is race?" he complained, as he tried to catch his breath.

Aaleyah crossed her arms, "You really should get out more Asbed." she shook her head, "Your riding is embarrassing." 

Zale snorted and tossed water into Asbed's hands, "Ley Ley you are too kind." he stood next to Asbed, "I see now why you do not have your own horse. The poor creature would live a life of sadness and solitude." Zale leaned down, "How many times have you ridden a horse?" 

Asbed kicked his foot out but missed Zale's leg. "Says the person who is still unable to speak the old Aljehni language." he shot back. 

Zale shrugged, "Having knowledge means nothing if you are unable to protect it." 

Aaleyah opened her food and ate, occasionally mumbling some of the things she had studied from the book. 

Zale eventually slid down the trunk of the tree to sit beside Asbed. He nudged his brother in the side with his elbow, "She does not look any better." he complained, a frown on his face. 

Asbed glanced in Aaleyah's direction. Her spoon hovered in front of her lips as she recited a passage from her studies, her forehead scrunched in concentration. "Zale," he wrapped an arm around his brother's shoulders, "Ley Ley will be alright. It is not horseriding that will help her feel better." 

"Then what is it?" Zale asked. "Whatever it is, I can acquire it." he confidently said.

Asbed snickered, "I do not know about that." he turned his gaze back to Aaleyah, "Until father has no more stress, Ley Ley will be unable to relax." Asbed frowned, "Sometimes I wonder if father will ever be able to relax again." he said worriedly. 

"Of course he will. Father is upset because of the king right?" Zale waited for Asbed's nod before continuing. "Then all he has to do is get the king's favor and everything will go back to the way it was before." he grinned. "It is simple. Everyone is just overthinking it." 

"I do not think it is that simple, Zale." Asbed disagreed. 

A bird landing on a tree branch captured Zale's attention so he did not respond. 

Zale retrieved the message and sent the bird away. Unrolling the message he frowned. 

Aaleyah finished her food and stood to read it, "What is it?" she asked, moving her twin's arm so she could read it easily. 

"Saan is not coming. Says that he is not allowed to leave the palace." he grumbled. "We are not allowed to leave either, but we still risked it." he complained. 

Aaleyah pursed her lips to not frown, "We should be heading back anyway." 

Asbed rose from his spot on the ground. "Yes the longer we stay out here the more of our luck we are pushing." 

Zale snorted, "It was never your luck that was in danger anyway." 

Rolling his eyes, "Must you always have a comment?" Asbed complained.

Zale's face broke into a wide grin as he shrugged, "It is too fun." 

Aaleyah mounted her horse, "We can discuss playful banter at home," she turned the horse to face the direction they came, "time to go."

The brothers agreed and mounted their horses. Zale walked his horse to stand at Aaleyah's side, "Shall we risk cutting through the market?" he asked teasingly.

Aaleyah glared, "And risk being seen by father?" She shook her head, "No way. We stay off the main roads, the same way we came." 

Zale chuckled and pretended to give her a military salute, "Yes, captain." 

Asbed and Zale noted how Aaleyah's face darkened, her eyes falling to the horse reins. She nodded a response and shot off. 

As they rode home Asbed sent a prayer to the sky that no one knew they left. 

Amenah sped down the stairs meeting Dharam and Chiara, "Nothing?" she asked anxiously. 

Chiara shook her head, "Roset is taking a nap in his room." she pursed her lips, "That is about it." 

Amenah turned to Dharam who only shook his head.

 Chiara frowned, "Will we be punished for not keeping watch?" It would be just her luck to be punished for the twins' actions. 

Dharam rolled his eyes and pushed Chiara's shoulder, "That is the least of our problems." he muttered. "Where would they go? We can only hope it was not the market." he said, turning to Amenah's direction knowing she would be anxious. 

Amenah began to pick at the skin near her nail, "Do we tell Herom?" she asked in a high pitched voice. 

Dharam shook his head no at the same time as Chiara nodded yes. 

Opening her arms, "What do you mean no?" she asked her brother. 

"Why would you say yes?" he questioned. "Are you a fool?" he insulted. 

Chiara huffed and crossed her arms, "You are asking why I think we should tell our older brother who is allowed to leave the estate to search for our siblings, that they are missing? Wow, I could not fathom why I think that would be a good idea." she articulated each word as if she was speaking to an idiot. 

"The same brother who is home early because he abandoned all his friends." Dharam reminded her, his arms opened in a similar motion, "I wonder why I would think it wise to give him space." 

"We do not have time to give space, we have no idea where they are!" Chiara argued. 

Rubbing the side of her temples, "Enough!" Amenah yelled. "Can you both stop! Just stop with the arguing now is not the time. Stop it." Seeing her brother open his mouth to speak, "Not a word," she moved her finger to point to Chiara, "from both of you. I am so serious, I refuse to deal with you two on top of this mess." he exclaimed. 

Chiara exhaled loudly but followed her sister's order and stayed silent. 

Dharam moved Amenah to the side and plopped down on the steps. "Did we really check everywhere? Maybe they snuck off to train?" he offered an idea.

Chiara leaned on the wall, "I checked the stables, 3 horses are missing." she said, twirling the bracelet on her wrist. 

The front door opened and the three students rushed to stand at attention nervous it was one of their parents. 

Stepping inside Herom was greeted by 6 eyes staring at him. "What is going on?" he asked, noting their stiff postures. 

"Nothing." Dharam said quickly. He reached out to pull Chiara knowing she was always the one to break first. 

"I see." Herom slowly closed the door behind him. All the while his sibling watched his every move. He smirked, "What is it?" he asked. Knowing the twins would stay silent his eyes fell on Chiara, but Dharam moved to stand in front of her. 

"Did you eat?" Amenah asked sweetly, "Shall I ask for food to be warmed up for you?"

Herom laughed, "Whatever it is your 3 are plotting, just remember that nothing stays a secret here. So if there is a problem it is wise to fess up early." he advised. 

Dharam nodded, "Mei Mei lost your book." he pretended to admit. 

Amenah glared in Dharam's direction, "Excuse me?" she asked, shocked that he would ditch her. 

Catching her glare Dharam's jaw dropped, he did not know that she really did lose the book. He shook his head slightly. 

"Is that what has you three standing awkwardly?" Herom questioned. Then with a shake of his head, "She did not lose it. I saw it in the library and took it back."

Dharam chuckled, "Ah well, glad that is settled then. We will be going." he said, nudging Chiara along. 

"We?" Herom questioned. He made eye contact with his little sister, "Chiara?" he called in a singsong voice.

Chiara broke, "The twins and Asbed are missing, I checked the stable and the horses are gone." she admitted. 

Dharam slapped his forehead. "You could not just walk away?" he gritted.

"What?" Herom's smile dropped, "What do you mean they are missing? How long have they been gone? When did you realize? What places did you check?" He asked quickly. Raising his voice he called out, "Pouyen!" 

The older head servant appeared moments later, "Herom?" he questioned, "What is it? 

Herom rushed to Pouyen, "When was the last time you saw Zale, Aaleyah, and Asbed?" 

"Aaleyah had asked for food not too long ago, Zale had it packed up so she could study undisturbed." he took in the children's expression, "I see that she is not studying." he sighed. "I did wonder why it was so quiet here." 

"Have everyone be on the lookout for them please," he ordered. Turning to Chiara, "Who was the last person to see them? Do you know?" 

"I think it was Roset. Aaleyah fixed the flowers." she softly answered. 

"Good, wake him up and ask him." Herom said, he nodded as Pouyen left to send out the order. "The three of you," he pointed at them one by one, "do not step one foot out of this manor." 

Chiara fidgeted with her bracelet not used to her older brother being so serious. 

"Herom, I can help look." Dharam offered. 

"You wished to keep this a secret." Herom replied with angry eyes. "I do not need that kind of help." 

"Dharam did not wish to stress you-" Amenah defended her twin.

"Stress me?" Herom ran a hand over his eye. "Do you have any idea how dangerous the capital is becoming?" He motioned to Amenah, "Especially you, were you not in the market and able to see first hand the troubles that are only growing?" His fingers tightened into a fist, "If we do not find them in 20 minutes ring the bell." he told them rushing away. 

Meanwhile Havil was forced to stop his lecture because of the crowd that was growing outside of the academy entrance. As he made his way he realized it was the children and elderly from the market, most of them injured. He rushed to the gate to open it but one of his fellow scholars stopped him. 

Scholar Shah whispered, "They are filled with anger, I do not think it is wise to open the gate and let them all in." he advised. 

"Scholar Aljehni!" The people yelled. The ones close to the gate pushed their hands through the gaps reaching out to him. "You must help us." they cried. 

Havil took a step closer, "What is it? What has happened, why are you injured?" he calmly asked. 

A child tried to push himself through the gaps of the gate, "Scholar Aljehni," he cried pitifully, "my mother, help my mother." 

Havil wished to stop the kid from pushing himself through the gaps, it looked painful, and the child already had cuts on his face. 

Scholar Shah stepped in front of Havil, "Child you will harm yourself, stop it." he ordered authoritatively, and somehow the child listened. "Everyone," he called, his hand out to silence them. "May one person step forward and explain what has happened?"

The bread merchant spoke up first. His voice loud and clear, his words coated with injustice that commanded the crowd. "The guards came to the marketplace and demanded to search our homes and businesses again. Every time they search they break and destroy things. Thus we had enough!" 

The people in the crowd agreed, nodding and shouting yeah at the appropriate times. 

He pointed at Havil, "Previously your daughter stood up for us. She told the guards that what they were doing was wrong. She told them there was no logic to their actions." He smiled gratefully, "Thus knowing that the Aljehnis supported us, today when the soldiers came we refused."

The people yelled in agreement. An elderly grandmother taking over, "Our children, our strong youth stood up to the guards. They spoke the same words your daughter spoke, but the guards reacted violently. They arrested everyone, leaving just us left. We have our children who are too young to act, and we have us whose frail bones can do nothing." she croaked.

"But Scholar Aljehni, your family stood up for us once before." the bread merchant said, taking over the conversation, as he stood at the grandmother's side. "We ask you to do so again. Demand they release our children from imprisonment!" 

The young boy by the gate cried, "Help me get my mother back!" 

His cries incited the crowd who all began asking for their family that was imprisoned. 

"Help me get my son!"

"Help me get my husband!" 

"Get my brother back!" 

Scholar Shah turns, his gaze matching Havil, they share a look of understanding before he faces the crowd once more. "The academy has no power over unfair imprisonments. It is recommended that you go to the minister of justice, and seek a commissioner." he calmly stated. 

An elderly man hobbled towards the gate, his hair no longer in a proper braid and a mess over his face, "The minister! That will take weeks." he cried. "Who knows what will happen to our children the longer they are left there." 

The crowd agreed and shouted for Havil, "Scholar Aljehni, please help us. They will listen to you." 

A child kneeled on the ground, "Please help my brother." she cried.

Everyone followed and kneeled on the ground. "Scholar Aljehni, please seek justice for us.

Scholar Shah shook his head slightly, "It is too dangerous, Havil." He stepped back to stand at his side. "If you do this, you will make an enemy, I need not tell you who it will be." 

Havil took in the people kneeling, "There has to be something I can do Arman." He motioned his hand towards the people, "I am not able to just abandon them like this." 

Scholar Shah spared a glance at the crowd, and then went back to Havil. "This is a path I will be unable to follow you down. This is a path that will only end painfully, use this moment to show the people where your power ends." He shook his head, "Do not feed into their gaze that you are all powerful." 

Havil patted Scholar Shah on the back. "I would not ask for you to follow my path." He left Shah's side and made his way towards the gate. "Scholar Shah is right. The academy is unable to aid you." He held his hand up to quiet down the crowd, "However, let us go to the Department of Justice and plead your case." 

Scholar Shah watched Havil open the gate and leave with the crowd. After some time he turned to the students, "The academy is closed for the rest of the day, return home." 

Once all the students had packed and left, Scholar Shah locked the gate behind him and went home as well. 

In Aminah's tent she closed the letter and sealed it shut with her stamp. "Bijan." 

Stepping into the tent, the soldier saluted her. 

Placing the letter into his hand, "Please send this to the palace, if possible insure that it goes to Concubine Megera's hands personally.

"Yes, General Aljehni." He walked towards the exit and paused, "General Aljehni?"

Glancing up from the papers on her desk, "What is it?" 

"If asked, do I say I came on your orders? Or shall I be discreet?" he asked. 

"Be discreet, but if caught, do not risk your life." 

Bowing, Bijan left the tent.

In the palace High Prince Hammaan kneeled before the king. "Your majesty, please release our people from the prison. They have been unfairly placed there." he told his father in a neutral tone. 

King Saamun relaxed in his throne, his legs spread as he twirled a blade in his hand. "You learned of this faster than I thought you would. Good job." he grunted. 

Standing, "Your majesty, the unrest is only growing in the capital, punishing the innocent will only add straw to the flames."

"Yes, I agree." the king answered lazily. "Once the Stilits are apprehended everything will go back to the way it should." 

"It is not just the Stilits that pose a problem." Hammaan pointed out. "The people are losing faith in the government. It is starting in the capital, if we can stop it before it spreads throughout the kingdom that would be for the best. A kingdom runs on the faith of the people." 

King Saamun scoffed, "That is where you are wrong son." He crossed his ankle over his knee, "The kingdom runs on the strength of the king. If the king is strong the people will not waiver." He sat the blade down. "Think of a pack of wolves: one pack has a weak leader that follows the orders of the wolves. The other is an alpha that leads by example. In the wild which pack will survive? Is it not the strong alpha that guides, and is not guided?" Standing from his throne, "How long must I tell this Hammaan? The kingdom does not rule you, you rule the kingdom. Life does not move you, you move life." he made his way to his son, "You are to be king. A king is a ruler," he adjusted the jacket on his son, "stop longing for a commoner's role."

Eunuch Yosen rushed inside, "Your majesty!" he huffed tired from running up the steps, "Your majesty." he called. 

"Scholar Aljehi is outside the Department of justice with a herd of people demanding to be heard!" Eunuch Yosen reported. 

High Prince Hammuun studied his father confused on why he was holding back a smile. His father's eyes glistened with joy that his lips barely contained. 

A face of mock shock, "And what of the academy?" he asked, concerned. 

"Ah." King Saamun held a fist against his mouth, "High Prince," he patted his son on the shoulder, "would you like to deal with this?" 

Hammaan's eyes were filled with questions he could not ask. 

"You can tell the people that by order of the king, and in honor of the Aljehni family, the people will be released tomorrow at noon." 

The king tolted his head, a soft smile on his lips, "What is it? I was sure you would be happy to see your friend." 

Hammaan could only stand silently, something was happening he just did not know what it was. Thus with a motion to leave he turned and forced his feet to leave the hall. 

Once his son had left the hall the king's smile grew wider. "Prepare the weapons." he ordered Eunuch Yosen. 

"Right away, your majesty." Eunuch Yosen bowed and rushed to have the guards transport the weapons. 

Zale moved the bush and once Aaleyah finally managed to convince her horse to walk through the hole. He brushed the dirt from his hands, "There, step one complete." he announced happily. 

"You can gloat later, we need to return the horses." Asbed said walking past Zale, his hands tightly holding onto the reins. 

As they made their way back to the stables Aaleyah recited the passages from her studies. 

Zale smiled, "See Ley Ley, now you will be able to study at a greater speed than before. I told you you needed a break." he said cockily. 

Reaching the stables Asbed opened the door as Aaleyah responded. 

"As long as no one finds out, you will not hear a complaint from me." she smiled before bumping into Asbed. "Asbed!" she whisper yelled. "Why did you stop?" 

Asbed's throat went dry, "It was not my idea." he said, shaking his hands. 

The twins froze, their hands releasing the horse reins as they stared at Herom. 

The early autumn weather froze over as they met Herom's cold gaze. There was no smile, no notion that everything was okay, no peaceful fun loving brother in sight. "Do you have any idea how worried we were?" 

Aaleyah stepped behind Zale attempting to hide herself. Herom did not raise his voice, did not yell at all. His voice was so calm that Aaleyah could feel all the blood in her body grow cold. 

Herom took a step towards them, "Put the horses away." he ordered.

Herom's calm demeanor was scaring Aaleyah so much she could feel the tears filling her eyes, "Herom it was-" 

Herom cut Aaleyah off, "Put. The. Horses. Away." he repeated. 

Asbed rushed into action taking his horses and undoing the saddle, he hesitated on brushing the horse down, his hand hovering over it, too afraid to ask. 

"The stablemen will do it." Herom said, his gaze locked with Zale's. 

Asbed put the horse in its stall and closed the gate. While doing all of this the twins had not moved. 

Aaleyah's hand clutched the back of Zale's sleeve. "Herom, I did not intend to worry anyone." she whispered, her words hardly audible because her face was hidden in Zale's shoulder. 

"Did you not hear me?" Herom asked. 

Zale finally moved, but Aaleyah refused to let go, thus he put away his and Aaleyah's horse. The entire time Aaleyah clutched to his sleeve. 

Once the siblings were standing in front of him Herom had them wait in silence. 

Asbed was fidgeting nervously and snuck glances in Zale and Aaleyah's direction. 

Finally, Herom spoke, "Whose idea was it?" 

Aaleyah lifted her head, "I take responsibility, it was my idea." she told her brother, her fingers tightening around Zale's clothes. 

Herom exhaled, "So it was Zale's idea." he surmised. His gaze moved to Asbed, "And you? Why did you indulge?" 

Asbed swallowed, his fingers scratching his neck, "We did not mean any harm." he whispered. 

Aaleyah took a small step forward. "It was because of me." Her chin trembled, "It was my fault. They only wanted to to to, it does not really matter what they wanted. All their actions are because of me, so I will take the punishment." she defended nervously. 

Zale refused to allow his twin to take the blame, "No." He took a step forward to stand at Aaleyah's side. "You are right. It was my idea. I convinced Asbed and Ley Ley to go along with it. I should be the one to take the punishment." 

Herom's eyes flashed with an unnamed emotion. "You will all take the punishment." he made his way towards them. "Aaleyah and Zale you will go to your separate rooms and you will study, and if you leave for anything other than the bathroom," he bent so his face was at the same level as Zale's, "you will not have to worry about father punishing you." He moved his gaze to Aaleyah, "You will answer to me. So I suggest you study, and you study hard, else you disappoint me again." Then he moved to Asbed, "And you will train your sword. I will hear no complaints." He grimaced, "Do you know of the stress you could have caused mother and father if they heard of this? Have you not noticed the weight your parents have been carrying? Are you only capable of causing trouble?" 

Asbed dropped his head in shame, "I am sorry. I promise to not cause anymore trouble." he said before rushing off to go train. 

Zale watched his sister's tears drop and stepped in front of her, "Herom, you do not need to speak to Ley Ley like this. It is all my fault, I am the one responsible." 

Herom shook his head, "No, you are not the one solely responsible. It takes two to cause trouble." He crossed his arms, "Aaleyah you have disappointed me." He motioned his head to the door, "Go." 

No sooner had the words left his mouth had Aaleyah ran away as fast as she could. Zale did not stand a chance in catching up to her. 

Zale swallowed his tears down, "Herom, it really was not Ley Ley's fault." he whispered. "I just wished to help her feel happy because she has been so stressed. I did not mean to cause trouble." A tear escaped his eye. "I wished for her to feel better, but instead she feels worse." 

Herom's cold demeanor broke and he hugged Zale. "You need to learn how to help your sister while following the rules, Zale." he advised gently. Then with a pat on his back, "Go study, I was serious." 

Outside the entrance of the Department of Justice High Prince Hammaan entered with his entourage of guards behind him. 

The crowd parted as he made his way to stand at Havil's side. "Scholar Aljehni," he greeted. 

Bowing, "How grateful I am for your presence at this moment." 

High Prince Hammaan nodded once and addressed the crowd. "We have heard your grievances. In respect for our people we will be releasing those arrested today at noon tomorrow." 

Immediately his words were met with complaints. 

"Why the long wait?" 

"Why can they not be released today?" 

"They were unfairly arrested and even though you know that you will still keep them? That is unfair!" 

Guard Izad had enough, "You will address the high prince of our kingdom with respect." he ordered, his hand on the hilt of his sword. 

Hearing the warning many of the people in the crowd took a visible step back. The boy from earlier that tried to push his head through the gates of the academy walks towards the high prince. "Your majesty, my mother was arrested. Please do not make me go home without her." he pled. 

High Prince Hammaan knelt on one knee to speak to the child, at his action everyone knelt as well. "Child, is there nowhere you can go for the night?" he asked, then looking up at the crowd, "Everyone it is just one night, it will take time to speak to all of them, and we must follow all procedures. Please understand." 

A teenager reached his hand out to the boy, "Zaki." The tearful boy turned at the sound of his name. "Come, I will watch over you." he opened his arms to the child.

The tea shop owner crossed his arms, "High Prince Hammaan," he bowed, "Scholar Aljehni," he bowed again, "Do we have your word that our family members will be safe for the night. Also, will this be eliminated from their records?" 

High Prince Hammaan pinches the bridge of his noise while saying, "I assure you by law, if everyone is proven-" 

"When everyone is proven innocent," Havil quickly corrects, already sensing the insult in the people's faces.

"Yes," High Prince Hammaan gave Havil a grateful smile, "when everyone is proven innocent and released, there will be no crimes on their records. If in the future they wish to open businesses, apply to become a scholar, or even a palace guard; this situation will not hold them back." he vowed. 

The people seem to accept the promises and begin to disburse. Children following the calls of the elderly, or teens who will be watching them for the night.

Soon everyone is gone but Havil, the high prince, and his guards. High Prince Hammaan waved a hand to Izad, "Scholar Aljehni and I will speak, no one is to come inside." he said as he led Havil inside the Department of Justice. 

Izad bowed before ordering the other guards to their places. 

Havil followed the high prince inside. "Is it safe to speak here?" he asked softly in case there were listening ears. 

High Prince Hammun led Havil to a back room. Once inside he closed the door and poured water on a bamboo stick to start a fountain, the loud noise drowning out his whispers. "Havil." he squeezed his friend's shoulder. "I once told you to leave." 

Havil nodded, "Am I out of time?" he smiled sadly. 

"I have been speaking to King Ion," he dropped his hand from Havil's shoulder. "I will use the Military Army token to move the Black Leaf Branch to help escort you and your family to the borders of Aidkjeen. There you will be met with special forces from the Heahnian king." 

Havil shook his head, "This game of Senet," he exhaled a sad laugh, "it will not be I who is the winner. If you attempt to aid you will endanger yourself." he warned. 

"You are my friend! I will not abandon you." Hammaan was resolute in his words. "Especially when the danger comes from my own blood," he frowned. "Leave this kingdom, you will be safe in Heahnian, the people there adore the Aljehnis and respect you the way you deserve to be respected." 

"When the king finds out you will be in danger." Havil warned. 

"You are in danger now." Hammaan argued back. 

"Think of your children." Havil shook his head, "There is no one who is exempt from punishments. I will go to Heahnian, I will take my family, but you must have nothing to do with it." 

"My sons will be safe, as the future king of the kingdom it is my duty to save my people. I will save you and your family." Hammaan vowed. 

Havil shook his head. "I appreciate your assistance. But we are not friends, you are the high prince, and I am the head of the family threatening you. You must stand strong with your father," he took a step away. "From the scriptures of Thoth-" 

Hammaan rolled his eyes, "You do not believe in the old gods, and neither do I." he pointed out not amused.

"Still." Havil said his lips upturned. "'A leader is not questioned, all are aware of who stands tall.'" he quoted. "In this kingdom the king feels that his position is being questioned. That is not a safe position for a king. As a leader he is doing what he must to aid his family, and his kingdom." he told Hammaan. 

Hammaan scoffed, "You defend my father? You defend his actions?" he stared at Havil's face, disbelief swimming in his eyes. "Shall I point out what he has done? He has been playing this game of Senet for years, and we have only just realized." he told him earnestly. "General Nubian is gone."

Havil's eyes shuddered shut. 

"The Medes family was forced to leave." Hammaan whispered with a haunted expression. "My father has cut at your family's military power. "General Aljehni's troops are slowly being taken out." he ran a hand over his face. "Not to mention that display of support by the people in and outside of the capital with the Aljehni insignia painted on their body."

Havil paused, his eyes opened, "Wait, what do you mean Aminah's troops are slowly being taken out?" 

Hammaan inspected Havil's confused face. "You did not know?" he asked quizzically. 

Outside of the academy troops wearing a yellow dot on their left sleeve made their way to the gates. Horses pulled a carriage that moved slowly under the heavy weight. The yellow dot showed that they were troops under General Aljehni's command, thus not one glanced twice at the guards entering the academy. No one thought it out of the ordinary for them to enter.

The horses were led inside and behind the main building; the troops worked quickly to unload the items and hide them in the library's back room. No one said a word, some soldiers seemed to flinch as they worked, occasionally hitting the side of their head with their fist. 

The agonized soldiers eventually finished unloading, closed the door and left the academy as quietly as they came. 

The next morning Scholar Shah woke early to place a message at the academy door. He thought it wise to close the academy for a couple days until the emotions of the people were more leveled. 

Reaching the academy the gate is not visible due to the entourage of guards that seemed to be waiting for him. The guards parted like the Red Sea and Captain Enlil stepped forward to greet him. 

"Scholar Shah, how fortunate to see you so early." he stated out of respect. His orders did not involve harming Scholar Shah. 

Scholar Shah greeted back, "How kind, I wish I could say the same." He scanned the amount of guards behind the captain. About 18 men were with him.

A boisterous laugh erupted from Captain Enlil's mouth, "Such a statement like this is understood." he motioned to his guards, "We were hoping you could allow us entrance inside the academy."

Scholar Shah stuck his hands in his sleeves, "To search the academy," he took the time to glance at the sun shining its golden light in the sky, "surely Scholar Aljehni should be present." he suggested. 

Captain Enlil's right eye twitched in irritation, "Scholar Shah, we have been ordered to search the capital, will you interfere?"

Resting his connected sleeves over his waist belt, "Scholar Aljehni is the head of this academy, he will be able to provide much help in whatever it is you are looking for."

Captain Enlil held back his scoff, "Scholar Shah holds a high position at the academy, with you here there shall be no problems." He pointed at the gate, "Please allow us entrance." 

 Scholar Shah made his way through the guards so he could open the gate. Pulling the key from his sleeve he paused and turned to the captain. "Establishments that specialize in education are usually warned before searches to ensure the safety of the students as well as the works. May I see your order?"

As if he was expecting it, Capital Enlil pulled out a rolled paper with the king's stamp. "Apologies for the lack of warning, there was a tip." 

Recognizing the king's stamp, Scholar Shah had no choice but to open the gate. The moment the click of the gate sounded the guards were inside the academy searching everything. Books were upturned, scrolls and were paintings shoved to the side.

Scholar Shah watched the guards rush inside and grimaced. Pulling out a paper telling the students that the academy was closed he posted it to the gate. Once the notice was hung up properly he slowly made his way through the grounds of the academy. Many students were studying for their tests, and their scrolls that they had placed in perfect chaos on their tables were now scattered through the floor. 

The guards no longer seemed to care or need the scholar's presence. They ran past him to search behind the painting, under bookshelves, under floorboards, the chaos getting louder as the sun continued to rise higher. 

From the noise a call came from guards in the back of the small library pavilion, "I found them! The missing weapons!" 

The noise seemed to stop, and the young guard called out again, "The weapons stolen by the Stilits, they are all here!" 

Scholar Shah's back shivered in the path aligning his spine. "That is impossible," he said to himself. His feet followed the guards to the library. He stepped over thrown tables, and pillow cushions, "That is impossible." he repeated, but the words only gave him comfort for a breath. When desperate, jealous, or raged; the impossible can be made possible. 

Reaching the library he stared in a daze at the chests of blades, knives, spears, and shields. The weapons the Stilits had stolen, the cause of so many people's demise; he exhaled cold air. They were really here.

His eyes could clearly see it, but his feet still stumbled forward. Reaching down he touched the metal, pure from the Nevalvn Mines. They really were the weapons. His eyes may refuse to believe but his finger running over the smooth cold metal could not pretend. "This," his finger was sliced by the blade he was touching but he did not move away. '"As the wolf grows strong, nature creates a fall.'" he quoted.

Captain Enlil made his way inside the library pavilion and bit back his smirk. "Scholar Shah, a man as wise as you," he opened another box to admire the weapons before moving his attention back to Scholar Shah, "will allow us to take you in for questioning?" he pretended to ask. 

The responding stark gaze was something that was not normally seen from the kind scholar. Scholar Shah stayed out of trouble, steered away from society practically. He was reclusive, his mind only caring for the knowledge the world had to offer. His eyes were usually bored, his mouth a painted line of indifference when he was forced to stand in public. Being in the academy was a perfect fit for him. To be surrounded by like minds seeking the answers of the universe. Yet, as the captain questioned him with that bitten smirk, Scholar Shah's indifference broke, his thin line was a clenched jaw. His bored eyes burned with unspoken words.

"This academy has nothing to hide. Justice will prevail for the innocent." he told the captain as he led the way out of the academy to get questioned. As he stepped over the threshold to leave the academy he covered his hesitation with a cough. His glanced back at Scholar's Sky, somehow he had the feeling this would be the last time he would set foot on those grounds again. 

By breakfast everyone in the capital heard. The news of the academy crimes had spread faster than a fire on a dry windy day. Somehow it was already written and people were crowding the poor messenger boys to buy the latest issue. 

"The Stilit weapons were found!"

"The academy was hiding it all along!" 

"The academy is closed until further notice." 

"Scholar Shah was taken in. Was he arrested? Did he go willingly?" 

The news was the most shocking revelation for only a candle's time. Then the next announcement sparked anger, the shock fading away swiftly. 

The post was nailed to the board capturing everyone's attention. "Due to shocking revelations, and finding of the lost weapons; all those arrested will not be released." The post went on to say that they would be questioned further. 

The children and elderly who were excitedly looking forward to being reunited with their family had their expectations dropped.

The youth had followed the actions of the world around them. They had painted the Aljehni insignia on their body. Their arms, cheeks, necks, legs, wrist, ankles; anyone you saw had the image of a 2 part stone on their body somewhere. You could see no teen without one. 

The elders on the other hand were taking out their betrayal on the children. "Erase that insignia! Did you not hear the news? The Aljehni's are the reason your mother is not released." A grandfather told a child who was running the streets dressed in yellow. 

"The weapons being in the academy does not mean that Scholar Aljehni betrayed us." the teen who had taken in Zaki said. On his neck painted in yellow and blue was the Aljehni insignia. "My father said we can always trust the Aljehnis to aid us. They have always defended us, why do we abandon them so quickly?" he argued back. 

The grandfather could only huff at the disrespect the children had these days. 

Conversations like this were happening throughout the capital. As farmers and merchants left the capital walls to trade and gather they spread the information with them. For in life gossip spreads as fast as dust in the wind. 

With such a shocking reveal of news you would think that with the Aljehni estate this would be the main topic of discussion. However the entire family sat at the table as their mother held a letter in her hand. 

As the capital erupted and made their divide on if the Aljehnis were truly trustworthy or not, the letter that the Aljehnis received was a blow so big the only one who seemed to react was Roset. His tears cascading down his baby cheeks. His cries for his grandmother echoing throughout the room. No one moved to help him. The rest of the family seemed frozen. 

Dharam stared at the lines of the wooden table, his eyes stung and he held his breath to control his pain. 

Zale squeezed his twin's hand, the only action he knew to do to help her. 

Herom was the first to speak, "May I read it myself?" his voice was thick and he cleared his throat as he reached out for the letter. 

His mother tilted the letter in her son's direction before standing and leaving the table. She stumbled as she left but a shake of her head told Havil not to follow her. 

Herom stared at the letter in his hinds, his fingers holding so tightly his nails dug into it. As he read and reread the words his body shook. 

Chiara wiped her cheek, "Uncle Hakim," she hiccuped and the tears rolled down her cheeks once more, spilling onto the wooden table. 

Asbed curled in on himself, "Uncle Hamdi said he would come back." he held back his sob with red eyes. 

Dharam kicked at the leg of the table, "This could not have been an accident! This was one purpose." he kicked at the table again accepting the pain. He kicked again and again until the tears rolled and his foot turned red. 

Havil did not scold his son, he only told one of the servants to prepare medicine for his wounds. 

Amenah reached out for Dharam's arm. It took two attempts before he stopped to face her, his face red and soaked in tears. Through his watery eyes he could see his own twin sobbing silently. "I was going to train. I was going to get stronger. I was going to beat him. I was going to-" 

Amenah pulled Dharam to rest his face in the crook of her neck. Her hand patted his head. "I know." she tearfully told him. "I know." 

Zale watched his older brother break and without realizing it tears fell from his golden eyes. Turning to Herom, "Are they really all gone?" he asked, somehow needing confirmation. Somehow still hoping that it can be wrong. 

Herom pushed his fist on the table, "There was a landslide at the Ridge of Antingree." he stated. "Duke Majidi believed Stilits to be moving on the path and took out the path not realizing that the Medes were traveling west. They-" he breath caught, "The Medes family was caught unaware," he swallowed. "There were no survivors." 

Dharam sniffled and left the room with Amenah following behind him. 

Havil cleared his throat and stood, "We will make the preparations tomorrow, for today take the time you need." he told them with a grave face. He locked eyes with his eldest, "Herom, I suggest you stay at the estate today." he advised with a heavy hand on Herom's shoulder. 

Herom nodded, his hand finally releasing the paper allowing the letter to drop to the table.

Havil lifted Roset who was still sobbing into his arms. Roset wrapped his arms around his father's neck, his tears soaking the fabric of his clothes. "Grandmother." he whimpered. 

Patting his son's back Havil left the room. As Roset's sobs faded the room the silence became so loud that the sound of teardrops hitting the wood was easily heard. 

Chiara slid out of her chair to climb onto Herom's lap hiding her face into his chest. "'In the eyes of family we can break, we just have to make sure we stay strong when we leave.'" she quoted. 

Herom's lips turned up at the words. "Yes. A wolf is only overcome by sheep when it loses its faith in the pack." 

Chiara nodded, "And we have faith, even if our pack is injured, and attacked we have faith." 

Asbed lifted his gaze, "So we shall make this pack too strong for the sheep to find a stand." he vowed. 

"For together we will never get hurt again." Zale added.

At the palace Duke Majidi kneeled before the king. "Your majesty I have returned from my mission." 

King Saamun clapped slowly and loudly, "Yes and what a successful mission it was. I am very pleased." He rubbed at his chin with his knuckle, "The entire Medes family killed in one sweep. And made it seem like an accident, what skill." he complimented. 

Duke Majidi lifted his head, "Anything for his majesty." he replied obediently. 

King Saamun chuckled, "I know what it is you want. You and your sister will depart on a trip in 4 days time." 

"Thank you, your majesty. Might I-" 

"No." King Saamun cut him off. "You will also see your sister in 4 days time. She is quite busy these days, reading letters and trying to send some out."

Duke Majidi's stomach dropped, "Reading letters?" 

"Yes of course," he folded his hands together. "You were not aware because you were out, but General Aljehni herself stood outside your tent to speak to you. Because you were away she sent a letter to your sister instead." He shrugged with a teasing smile, "I have the faintest idea what she would wish to say to a friend she has not spoken to in almost 2 Red moons, but nonetheless the letter was received."

Duke Majidi squeezed his knee, "Might his majesty tell me of Concubine Megera's emotions after she read the letter?" he asked bracing himself for the answer. 

King Saamun crossed his ankle over his knee, "She seemed so disappointed." he said with mock care.

Outside the palace the people made their way to the prison to demand for their loved ones back. After all Scholar Shah was released after being questioned for only a morning, why must their family remain inside for a day? 

The guards of the prison did not share the same thoughts and threatened for the people to step back. 

An elderly man lifted his cane at the guard, "Will you arrest us?" he scoffed. "There is no justice in this capital. You harm our loved ones and provide bias towards the rich. If you do not release my son I will go in there and get him myself. 

The guards pulled out their swords, "The crime of breaking into a prison is punishable by death. This is your last warning." 

Megera stood in her chambers, her wide eyes staring at the letters in shock. One letter was from Aminah. Aminah Aljehni, her best friend who had stopped reaching out to her a long time ago. The letter pleaded for Megera to talk to her brother, to ask him to stop. The other letter was the one she had written and sent out to her brother 2 days ago. Returning to her meant that he never received it, and she worried that something terrible had happened. 

Duke Majidi made his way to the prison to relay the order to release the people arrested yesterday. Reaching the top of the hill it was only his training that stopped him from faltering. Numerous bodies lay on the ground. Some cried as they bled, clinging to their wounds, others did not move at all a sign they were dead. Guards seemed to be injured as well, their bodies also on the ground. Children were littered outside the prison crying for mercy. 

"Stop!" he ordered as a guard lifted his blade to attack a child. "By order of King Sammun we are to release the people in custody. They are not to be punished for the Aljehni's mistakes. 

The guard sheathed his sword, greeted the duke and moved to follow the order. 

Soon the adults stumbled out of the prison and the children who were not too injured rushed to their loved ones.

Duke Majidi gritted his teeth and reminded himself that he and his sister would escape soon. "Everyone who was just released, the people were attacked because they attempted to break into the prison. They placed their faith in the Aljehnis and this is what has become of them." He scanned the adults who were clutching their children, siblings, and parents, "The king asks for you to give careful thought to who you place your faith in." He shuddered, "Otherwise I would hate to see more blood spilled."

The people nodded and made their way down the hill. The adults who were just released held the elderly by by their arms helping them down. Some adults grieved the loss of the bodies who lay on the ground. 

The scholar who was released made eye contact with Duke Majidi and nodded, "The Aljehnis would not betray us. They would not let this happen." he shook his head. 

An older man held his grandson's dead body in his arms, "Do you see any of them here!" he yelled. "You were in prison so you do not know. The weapons that were missing for almost 2 moons were found in the academy! The Aljehnis were behind it the entire time. They had the weapons but let our homes and shops be raided. How dare you continue to stand by their side!" 

The scholar shook his head, "That can not be true, it is not true." he staggered back. He turned to Duke Majidi, "It cannot be true." 

Duke Majidi's face was grave, "The weapons were found in the academy, the Stilits even caused the death of the Medes family. It is not difficult to see that the Aljehnis are only looking out for themselves. 

The faces of the people turned ashen. To be betrayed like this was one thing, but to hear that they even betrayed the Medes family was another. So the next day when the king sent out a notice pleading for the Aljehnis to stop their plans of violence everyone agreed and pled as well. Whatever the Aljehnis were planning for the sake of the kingdom, everyone hoped they would stop.