Morning Walk

Azim stepped into the throne room and was immediately drawn to the ornately decorated throne, atop which sat his father, King Nashir. He radiated a regal air, with a crown of gold leaves fastened firmly on his head and a luxurious cloak draped over his shoulders. As Azim approached, a broad smile broke across the King’s face, and he quickly rose from his seat, throwing open his arms and pulling Azim into an embrace. His skin was warm and soft like velvet, and he patted Azim’s back gently as he said, “Welcome back, my son.”

Thank you, Father,” Azim reluctantly stepped back from his father’s firm hug and said, “It’s good to be back.” His eyes swept the room until they landed on his brother, Wren. His dark brows were knitted together, and his arms were firmly crossed, clearly indicating his displeasure.

King Nashir let out a loud, triumphant roar that echoed through the throne room. He grabbed Azim by the shoulders and shook him with enthusiasm, “The kingdom is better for it,” he proclaimed, a smile brightening his face. “The war is won with my son leading the charge!” He raised his arms to the sky, roaring with pride and joy as he spoke of his son’s heroic actions.

“Wren,” Azim smiled wide and opened his arms, eager to embrace his brother as soon as he emerged and walked over, finally deciding to join in on the reunion, “Good to see you.”

“Is it truly?” Wren responded dryly.

“Don’t be that way, Wren,” Nashir slowly made his way back to his opulent marble throne, a heavy weight of somberness in his heart. He looked upon his sons, Wren and Azim, who stood before him, “I finally have both of my sons in the palace,” his voice was filled with admiration as he looked upon his two sons. “Ten years ago, I was unable to choose a successor to the throne because you are twins, and thus I started the competition for the kingship in order to win favor among both the Royals and the people.”

Wren’s smile grew wider as he confidently proclaimed, “Yes, I’ve been here for years now, working tirelessly to get ahead.” He looked into his brother’s eyes, “I’ve charmed the court and now possess almost all the necessary favor for the Royals to crown me King.”

“And Azim has gained the people’s favor as a war hero to be King,” Nashir stated, his voice leisurely and confident. Wren’s smile faded, and his lips turned down into a deep frown. “It seems you still have work cut out for the both of you. In the meantime, a ball shall be held in a few days to honor Prince Azim’s triumphant return.”

“Great,” Wren said sarcastically, his eyes blazing. He bowed mockingly before the throne and spun on his heel. “I’ll be sure to let the people know their great hero has returned.” He ended before storming through the ornate doors of the throne room and slamming them shut with a loud crash that echoed through the corridor.

Azim watched Wren walk away, his steps heavy and forceful. When he was out of sight, Azim turned back to his father, bowed his head, and clasped his hands together to show respect. “I’ll be sure to attend, Father.”

Nashir reclined and rested his hands on the ornately carved armrests. He gave a single nod and curtly said, “Good. You’re dismissed.”

Azim felt an icy emptiness in his chest as he turned, exiting the throne room door, unable to shake the feeling of heartbreak. Was this really the same brother he had grown up with, or just a cruel replica? What happened to the loving brother I once knew?

* * *

The pale light of the rising sun illuminated the still-sleeping kingdom as Azim breathed in the morning air. His body was still sluggish, but he was determined to get back into a routine. He had been home for days and was still adjusting, but he had to admit it was nice to be back among the towering trees that lined the pathway to the palace. Just as he started to wrap up his run, Azim spotted Khari walking off the path through the thick foliage and towards the distant forest. He stopped, watching her go and curious about what she was doing. Forced by intrigue, Azim followed her.

He followed the sound of her humming, which seemed to come from the depths of her chest. He could make out the notes of a beautiful melody but couldn’t name it. He hung back, not wanting to startle her, and watched as she moved further into the woods, stopping in a small clearing. As he crept closer, his heart skipped a beat at the sight of her standing there, silhouetted against the sunrays piercing through the canopy above her. She looked like an angel amidst tall trees, her skin glowing in soft light and her hair dancing with a gentle breeze. “Who’s there?” she called out suddenly.

He stepped closer, and his breath caught in his chest. Her face looked so different, pure and natural, without the application of makeup. To him, she looked more beautiful than ever. He took a deep breath and spoke, “It’s me. General…Prince Azim.”

The air suddenly seemed to thin at his majesty’s arrival, “Prince Azim!” Her mouth dropped open, and she quickly bowed her head in respect, her hands trembling as they clasped together in reverence.

He moved quickly across the forest floor, closing the space between them in a few strides. She could feel his large hands encircling hers as he pulled her up into a standing position. His eyes were gentle and kind as he looked down at her, “You don’t have to do that,” he murmured reassuringly.

Confusion contorted her face. “But you are the Prince,” she said with a measure of deference. “Everyone knows that a bow is due to greet you.” Her hands clasped nervously in front of her as if to demonstrate the gesture.

His eyes crinkled with mirth, and the corners of his lips tipped up in a smile. “While that’s true when it’s just us, I prefer you not to,” he raised an eyebrow in question. “Can you do that?”