Page 32 of The Moon's Fury

The stubborn boy followed her, calling her name.

“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry,” he panted. “Come to the solstice festival. Let me make this right.” His dark eyes were earnest as he pleaded with her.

She said nothing.

After the horrific incident in Ebrahim’s chambers, the days passed in a blur, fear and guilt taking turns battering her conscience. Layna remained sequestered in her chambers, refusing to see anyone except Soraya. Ebrahim stopped by at least twice a day, reassuring her through the door that he was all right, but she ignored his knocking until he eventually left.

Her mother had also tried to speak to her, but again, she refused to open the door.

Something had changed inside her.

She could feel it constantly, the power humming beneath her skin. There had been no further incident since that day in Ebrahim’s office, but she felt different. There was no denying it now—the powers the moon had bestowed upon her had returned.

Perhaps, they had never left.

The thought sent shivers skittering down her spine.

There was a loud rapping on her door.

“Layna?” Soraya’s muffled voice called. “It’s me.”

She crossed the room and opened the door. Soraya tumbled in with a tray of food balanced on one hand and several scrolls tucked under her arm. She set the tray down on a small table and plopped on the divan.

Layna’s mouth watered at the delicious aroma: hearty lamb stew paired with crusty bread and roasted potatoes. She sat on the floor and began shoveling spoonfuls into her mouth.

“Any developments?” she asked, her mouth full of potato.

“The council still believes you are unwell. For now, Lord Saldeen will continue hosting your assemblies.” Soraya placed a finger on her chin, thinking. “Oh, they have three candidates for a new master of war. And…” She trailed off. “They’re still grumpy about the treaty with Baysaht.” A shrug. “Not much they can do about it now that it’s signed and Nizam is gone. I bid him farewell on your behalf, by the way.”

Layna sighed heavily. “How is Mama? And Ebrahim?”

“Worried about you, naturally. How long will you avoid them?”

“You didn’t see their faces, Soraya. They were terrified of me, like I was some kind of monster. What if I lose control again? Even now, I can feel it, the moon’s power thrumming beneath my skin. It’s constantly buzzing in my ears. I can’t escape it. I’m always on edge.”

Soraya was silent for a moment, regarding her sister. “I brought the scrolls you asked for. I didn’t see anything useful in them, though. Maybe Zarian can help when he’s back?”

“Maybe,” she said quietly, glancing away. Soraya joined her on the floor.

“Everyone fights occasionally, dear sister,” Soraya said. “Zarian will return soon, and you can set things right. He loves you. And he’s had time to cool off.”

Layna’s lips curled into a soft smile. “Wise, as always. Sometimes I forget which one of us is the older sister.”

“The one with the crown, of course! Along with all its burdens.” Soraya gave her a cheeky smile, and they shared a laugh.

“Tell me of Almeer. How is he?”

A shadow passed over Soraya’s bright face, and it tugged at her heart.

“I received a letter from him yesterday. He was supposed to visit in a few weeks, but he’s postponed it. His letter was cryptic, blaming his work as a diplomat, but I know it’s because of his family. The situation between Alzahra and Zephyria.” She exhaled shakily. “I don’t know what to do.”

Layna squeezed her hand. “What do youwantto do?”

“Wait, I suppose.” Soraya glanced at her lap. “For things to get better. And if they don’t…” She sucked in a shaky breath. “I’ll climb that dune when I have to.”

Layna pulled her into a tight embrace, both sisters sniffling. When they finally pulled back, Layna said, “Let’s playronda.”

After three rounds that saw Layna as the victor, Soraya groaned and tossed down her cards. “That’s it! Time for bed.” She rose and stretched out her limbs. Layna laughed, extending an arm in a bid for Soraya to haul her up.