The Secret Pit
Far away, in the City of Overseers—known as Al-Raqeeb City—this ancient name goes back to the very first guy who ruled this huge city. Folks loved him so much they decided to name it after him.
Ghadeb Al-Assadi: The Chosen One
Long, long ago, there was this Arab guy everyone knew as Ghadeb Al-Assadi. He was famous for his presence, his chivalry, and his generosity. There was just nobody like him. He had Arab blood through and through—firm, intensely loyal, honest, and generous. But he also had a nasty streak of anger, a big part of his name. He hated slacking off, trickery, and deceit. He was straightforward and honest, with strict rules he laid down for everyone. His word was law and got executed instantly. He was used to giving orders, and nobody's word topped his. He ran the people and all the city's affairs; he was The Chosen One.
Even with all his flaws, he was tender and generous with his family. He was a mix of tenderness and harshness, anger and mercy. The good parts of his personality were the complete opposite of the less likable ones, which made him a man who couldn't be duplicated in the Al-Assadi family. You could never predict him. Everyone praised him, made exceptions for him, and valued him differently because he commanded respect. And because he was so strict, everyone was careful when dealing with him. Crossing The Chosen One was tough.
Behind him came Kian Al-Assadi, his cousin. Kian guarded him and handled his affairs. He was known for his good morals and integrity, and he was loyal to The Chosen One! He was great at reading people and faces, and he was a renowned poet and writer of that time.
Women's Lives and New Rules
Back in this era, women were hardworking and dedicated their lives to their husbands. They weren't exactly liberated, but they grew up with a more open approach to how they dressed. Inside, they were pure, but their clothes were less modest before the awareness campaigns and before Ghadeb Al-Assadi ruled their city and controlled its laws. He imposed modesty on them. As for the hijab, women wore it haphazardly, barely noticeable. Its presence was more like an ornament, and if a woman's hair spilled out from her headscarf all the way down her back, it meant she was alluring and captivating. The concept of the hijab wasn't clear to them. That's why the women of that time didn't secretly like The Chosen One, despite the outward respect they showed him. Even though many of them admitted his attractiveness and dominance, and even wished to be closer to him, many opposed this imposed law. Most homes were open to each other, not closed off. Their hearts were connected as if they were one big family with no boundaries. When The Chosen One arrived, things changed, and everyone had to obey him out of fear of his wrath!
Inside the White Palace
The White Palace was huge, surrounded by flowers on every side, with the scent of nature wafting from it. The maids did their best to please The Chosen One. Even though there were many of them, he refused to let his female relatives—his three sisters, his wife, and his brothers' wives—sit around. They had to help out with the maids, by his command. Everyone worked here; no one sat around or put their feet up. His mother initially thought it was tyrannical, but she later agreed with him to teach them responsibility and self-reliance, as they were heading into marriage and a different life that might not be as luxurious as it was now. She didn't want them to be forced into it but rather to be used to it, and that was her goal in making them work and participate. As for him, nobody was allowed to act superior to the servants or boss them around. The Chosen One forbade this behavior and would punish anyone who acted that way.
Kitchen Talk
Sumaya placed the vegetables on the flat cutting board their mother had designated. She started chopping with the help of a maid. Al-Afraa, The Chosen One's wife, sighed, "I've worked so hard to please him, and despite everything I do for his love, he's just not interested in me. He barely remembers I exist."
Hala smiled politely, "It's not that bad. He's never refused you anything. Tell me, what do you need?"
Hind said with a touch of envy, looking at her, "Thank God! Your husband doesn't neglect you. All your requests are met."
Al-Afraa turned to her, her tone clearly sharpened, "It's true that no one feels anything but their own shortcomings. Your husband doesn't abandon you for days; in fact, he can't do without you… Just because my requests are met, does that mean I'm happy? Does your husband leave you the way Ghadeb leaves me?"
Hind laughed, trying to provoke her anger, "That's for sure! Give me a reason for him to leave or abandon me! It's the woman who defines her relationship with her husband by her behavior and actions. She's the one who makes him distant or draws him closer."
Al-Afraa, now truly enraged, threw down what was in her hand and stormed out of the kitchen.
Hala looked at her other sister-in-law with reproach, "Why, Hind?"
Hind, dismissively, "She deserves it. May God curse her; she's like a snake, not to be trusted. Her presence has become unsettling for everyone."
Sumaya, annoyed, "How long are you two going to keep this up? Every day there's a problem. Do you really love arguing and problems this much? For God's sake, stop!"
Hala nodded in agreement, "May God help us. We don't know if we're The Chosen One's sisters or just here to solve family problems. We don't really know our place."
Layla chuckled softly, "Aren't they our brothers' wives, and we live with them? We have to endure."
Hind interjected, "What do you mean? Are we a burden on you?"
Layla clarified, "Not exactly, but I wish you'd stop. This is enough. Everyone is trying to avoid being with you."
Hind, agitated, "Who do you mean by 'everyone'? Do you mean your other sister-in-law, Khaleeda?! She already avoids sitting with us and joining our conversations... She'll die of loneliness; she doesn't like participating in anything. She avoids..."
Sumaya cut her off, "Don't speak ill of her. She hasn't harmed anyone since she came to this palace, and she's a quiet, kind person. At least she's shown us kindness and good manners. That's enough for us."
Hind fell silent, feeling rage course through her because of this family! How could they be so calm, accepting everything with open arms, when she got angry so easily! She could never argue with them and win even once!
Sisterly Confessions
When the sisters gathered in their eldest sister Layla's room, they spoke with more ease.
Hala lay on her sister's bed, "Ever since my brother Mueen left for Al-Rasheed City, his wife Khaleeda has been holed up in her room. Even my quiet mother has started complaining and grumbling about her isolation."
Layla, with a sigh, "And what's that to us? It's not our problem."
Sumaya, worried, "The problem isn't just her staying in. If my brother Ghadeb finds out she's not helping in the kitchen or with the chores, he'll be furious, and you know what that means when he gets angry. In the palace rules, no one sits idle."
Hala, grumbling, "The problem isn't just her seclusion. As women, we can't force her to socialize... Honestly, I don't want to bother her. She's so kind and seems innocent compared to our other brothers' wives."
Sumaya laughed, "Yeah, you can't even compare her to them... Demanding Afraa and angry Hind. Where would Khaleeda fit in among them, huh? What a poor thing."
Khaleeda's Solitude
In Mueen's home, Khaleeda was brushing her hair with a sigh, looking into the mirror with sadness and helplessness. She felt lonely, spending her entire day without sharing it with anyone. She couldn't explain her actions. The truth was, she loved everyone in the palace and wished them nothing but good, deep down. But she felt she was made this way—unable to adapt to people easily, and unable to consistently participate. She found it hard to participate! It wasn't just because she was shy; she always managed to control it when she was around people. But she couldn't always be present and often spent time by herself.
Isaf: A Daughter of Two Worlds
Far away, in Al-Rasheed City, she was looking at the sky. Despite the heat, they were used to these conditions. She had a strong personality, despite her transparent spirit and innocence; she was never weak. She could make herself an important person in the life of anyone she wanted to build a strong relationship with. That's how she was—she drew people to her with her kindness and obvious beauty. She was beautiful; her body wasn't ideal back then, as they preferred plump or full-figured women over slender ones, but she captivated everyone. She was unique with her silky, flowing hair and eyes the color of grass. She was fair-skinned with a flawless complexion, just like her mother, Maria, who wasn't Arab. She was a non-Arab, doll-like in her extreme beauty, even surpassing her daughter.
She was her father's companion, accompanying him everywhere. He couldn't do without her. This love her father gave her made her strong and confident. He often boosted her self-esteem. And the truth is, she was special because she grew up between kind parents who showered her with affection and warmth.
Her mother, Maryam, was kind and sweet-tempered. She spent her entire life teaching poor children and helping them accept life, giving them everything she had. She was tender and helpful. She wasn't Muslim, but she embodied Islam through her ethics. She married an Arab Muslim man who didn't acknowledge her religion but respected her faith and never thought of changing it. His name was Shareef. He was kind too, if not for his intense love for unnecessary customs and traditions! He truly revered them as much as his own religion, and women, in his view, were like maidservants given to their husbands. Many men thought like him back then. A married woman, in their view, should dedicate her entire life to her husband. And it was fine if the father chose the husband who would share his daughter's life without consulting her.
Her mother, who was cooking despite the scorching sun, called out, "Isaf, where are you? Come help me!"
She casually tied up her hair and headed toward her mother, "Okay, Mom, I'm coming. Has Dad not come back yet?"
Her mother sighed, "No, my daughter. He told me there's been some trouble between the men of Al-Raqeeb and our men."
She sat near her mother, "Haven't their problems ended yet? And what does Dad have to do with all this?"
Maryam replied, "He's going with them to ask for reconciliation."
She nodded thoughtfully to her mother, "That's good... I wish he'd taken me with him. It would have made things a lot easier for him."
Her mother laughed, "I've never met anyone with your confidence in my whole life. Do you know who he's going to meet?"
She laughed back, joining her mother, "Hehehe, how ironic... Mom, why are you making fun of me? Dad always urges me to be strong and face everything, and you're the complete opposite; you're afraid for me about everything!"
Her mother put down what she was doing and approached her young daughter, "My dear, I don't want you to live beyond your years... Don't waste your life trying to live like an old woman; that's not right... Enjoy yourself, and let your father live his life too. Don't interfere in his affairs; I'm afraid for you."
She sighed impatiently, then added, "Why, Mom? What's scary?! Nothing... Anyway, what can I help you with?"
Journey to Al-Raqeeb
Her father's entrance interrupted her. As soon as she saw him, she ran to him, agitated. Her father laughed at her sweetness. His beautiful daughter clung to him every time he walked through the door, as if she were five years old. "Dad, did you go to Al-Raqeeb City?"
Shareef said, "No, my daughter, not yet. My traveling companion, the others, and I are going to get ready... Would you like to come?"
She jumped with joy, saying, "Hehe, yes, of course! They say Al-Raqeeb City is beautiful and more civilized than our city. I'd love to see it..."
Shareef nodded with a smile, "Yes, it's more splendid and developed, because its ruler is The Chosen One."
She furrowed her eyebrows in question, "And who is The Chosen One?"
Shareef quickly replied, "You'll meet him... Now, hurry up! I don't want us to be late; the distance is a bit far."
He heard his displeased wife say with dissatisfaction, "Why are you taking her with you? What if something happens? She's still too young to handle anything... She's not a man."
Shareef's face hardened, "I don't want you to interfere. Yes, I love you, and you are precious to me, but you didn't bear me a son. She's my only one; let her join me and keep me company."
She fell silent, feeling a lump in her throat. He had truly hurt her. He refused her involvement. Wasn't she her daughter as much as his? Why did he exclude her? Oh, she hadn't been able to bear him a son; it wasn't within her power. A tear betrayed her and ran down her eye, so she quickly wiped it away fiercely. Nothing was worth it!
Mueen's Return
Two days later, Mueen returned home. He entered to his wife, Khaleeda, the apple of his eye. As soon as she saw him, she threw herself at him, embracing him. "Mueen, you're back! I missed you so much!" He gently stroked her head. "Yes, my love, I'm back. What have you been doing?"
She sat down, and he sat near her, asking, "What do you do all the time?"
She lowered her head, feeling distressed about what she was about to tell him. "I've been sitting alone, waiting for you."
He sighed tiredly but didn't tell her that this bothered him and that he had been thinking about it. "My love, how long will you keep yourself confined to your home? Everyone here loves you and wants to be close to you... You'll spend your whole life in this room."
She couldn't respond. How could she tell him it was hard for her to go out? Everyone just said she was isolated and introverted, but they didn't know she wished she wasn't like that. She took his hand in hers. "I'm sorry... I'll try to change. Just be on my side. Don't tell The Chosen One about this."
He quickly laughed at her fear of his brother. "Don't be afraid. He doesn't harm the weak. Besides, he can't, because I'll stand up to him... Know this: no one can touch a woman whom her husband loves."
She smiled at him joyfully, feeling his sincerity. He was loving and tender. She had never witnessed such compassion in her life. Thank God, this was a blessing from God.
Arrival at Al-Raqeeb
Someone shouted, halting his horse. He yelled loudly, "People of Al-Rasheed, we've reached the borders... Thank God for your safety!"
Happiness beamed on her face, and she was excited to enter this city. It was amazing even from the outside. What would it be like once she entered its heart? This was truly astounding!
Is there anything else you'd like me to translate, or perhaps a different aspect of this novel you'd like to discuss?
A Glimpse of the Leader
He was strolling through the city's farms, surveying everything with an air of superiority. He wasn't arrogant, but his gestures often suggested he was a proud man, lording over people. The truth was, he wasn't like that at all.
One of his men approached him, panting, clearly exhausted. The Chosen One narrowed his eyes, observing his state. "What's going on?"
The man gasped, "The people of Al-Rasheed are here; they want to see you."
He smiled tightly, a clear hint of sarcasm on his stoic features. He had expected this, and specifically today. In a deep voice, which never lost its edge even in the best of times, he replied, "Al-Rasheed? What brings them to my city?"
Negotiations and a Runaway Girl
They finally entered with The Chosen One's permission. They began to scout the city, looking for a safe spot to leave their belongings and animals and set up their tents.
One of the men said, "Today, we are obligated to apologize to The Chosen One for what happened before. The two cities must return to how they were. As you know, nothing funds our town now... We'll starve if this conflict continues. Do whatever it takes."
Another retorted, "Do you want us to grovel in the dirt just to please The Chosen One? Listen, folks... I'll offer him my apology, but if he refuses to resolve this conflict, I won't do anything more. I don't want to lose my dignity."
Some agreed, while others insisted on appeasing The Chosen One so their businesses could return to normal.
Isaf's Adventure and a Dire Situation
During these conversations, which didn't interest her, Isaf slipped away and mounted her horse. She began to wander around, her face alight with wonder. She whispered, "I never imagined their city would be this beautiful; it's much bigger than I thought."
She spotted some fluffy white rabbits and smiled happily, moving toward them until she dismounted her horse. She intended to chase them, her laughter loud and unrestrained as she ran after the creatures. Until she tumbled down into a deep, dark pit where nothing could be seen. She screamed at the top of her lungs, pain wracking her body, "Ahhhhh, Dad! Dad!"
When she realized she was truly in trouble, she started to cry loudly, fear overwhelming her. She kept crying until she passed out.
An hour passed, and they were still searching. Shareef was in a terrible state; he was exhausted from looking for her. Everything seemed dark to him. "Please, don't let this day pass! Search for her with all your might, please. She's all I have."
Everyone seemed worried about the situation until someone angrily spoke up, "You're wrong! How could you bring her with us? She's still a child to accompany you. Did you see us bring our little ones? In a situation like this, you should have thought and left her to enjoy herself with her mother. She's a girl, man!"
Shareef cried out, his heart tearing with pain, "Silence, you! Silence!"
The other man stayed quiet, controlling his temper to avoid a bigger problem.
Someone suggested, "Shareef, we can go to The Chosen One's government and file a complaint. Maybe someone kidnapped her or something similar. In that case, The Chosen One's men will help us; I trust that."
Shareef urged, "Let's go... I don't want to be late for my daughter, the apple of my eye."
A Desperate Plea and a Harsh Truth
They all went to The Chosen One's designated headquarters, where the law resided. It was organized, and his men guarded the area strictly everywhere.
One of them shouted, "Overseers, help us! The daughter of one of our men is lost, and it's possible someone kidnapped her!"
One of The Chosen One's men stepped forward. "Who are you?" (He looked at their clothes). "And from what lands have you come?"
Someone replied, "From Al-Rasheed."
The man said, "We only provide this service for the people of this city, respectfully."
Shareef said with intense sorrow and pleading, "Sir, I ask you, fear has overcome me. My daughter is lost. Please understand my situation! I can't go back without her."
The Secret Pit's Discovery
Meanwhile, The Chosen One had reached his destination. The pit was a secret, containing the key to the city's special storehouse, which held many important things. He could have hidden it anywhere else, but he always did the unexpected to monitor his enemies. This place was often under surveillance! But...
He raised his voice gruffly, "Where is Ismail?"
When no one answered, his voice dropped, "Where is he!?"
Everyone knew that when he spoke in that tone, it was like the calm before the storm, meaning they'd spend the rest of their lives in prison.
One of them stammered, "S-s-sir... we don't know where he is."
He cut him off, shouting, "You imbeciles! You can't even guard a trust? What kind of people are you?! I ordered you to stay here until my return in a week! One week, and you couldn't stay by a pit! Damn you!"
His men trembled with fear. The Chosen One didn't usually shout; he got angry and punished immediately. This meant a disaster was about to befall them later. He glared at them, a sharp, cutting look that encompassed them all, making them lower their heads. He continued his speech with a threat, "It will take me a lot of time to re-educate you. This is a job for men, and you are not men."
"Search the pit quickly! I have no time to waste with you."
Three of them went inside to ensure the key was in its place.
One of them emerged, sweat pouring down his forehead, agitated. "S-s-s-sir, we found a woman... Her face wasn't clear inside, but the key is still in its place."
His eyebrows furrowed, anger still evident on his face. "Get her out. She might be a spy."
They brought her out, and he approached to examine her face, smudged with dirt. He took out the cloth he kept and began to wipe the dust from her face, revealing her identity. Her luminous face looked wonderful despite the injuries. She was beautiful and young. He turned to them and found their curious eyes looking at her, so he ordered them to move away.
He looked at her for a moment. "This girl might be a spy, sent by the men of Al-Rasheed to get to us... But not a chance."
Someone asked, "Shall I lift her, sir?"
The Chosen One sharply replied, "Shame on you! I will carry her. You all stay here... Only Najeeb and Mahfouz, come with me."
A Mysterious Burden
He rode his horse, glimpsing her in his lap every minute. The sun was scorching, yet this little one was still asleep and comfortable. He supported her with his body. He was puzzled by her appearance; she didn't look like a spy or anything of the sort; she was a child. And this task required a man, not a small, fragile girl like her. He noticed her trying to open her eyes with difficulty, sweat pouring from her.
He said, "Stop! She's waking up."
Najeeb offered, "Sir, let me take her from you... You shouldn't bother yourself. I'll take care of her."
He shook his head, refusing. "Leave her... We're close to the public square."
Mahfouzz, shocked, "The square? What will we do at the square, sir?"
He said cryptically, "We will solve this problem in my hands, and then everything will return to normal."
Mahfouzz wanted to ask, but The Chosen One gave him no chance, his answer seeming to say, Stop asking, this doesn't concern you!
Public Announcement and a Shocking Demand
The people of Al-Rasheed were by the public square. The armed man had brought them there and told them to ask for help from the city's residents. If anyone saw her, they would help them go to the location, even if she was kidnapped.
Some were wandering here and there, some searching, others asking. Shareef's face had turned pale, and he sat as if carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.
They heard the neighing of horses and the sound of people calling The Chosen One's name. "The Chosen One, Ghadeb Al-Assadi, has arrived!"
Everyone began to call his name and salute him! Some wondered who their master was holding in his arms, a girl or a boy? Her face was covered!
Shareef ran toward him. "The Chosen One... The Chosen One!"
The crowd stopped him. It would be bad to approach such a figure in that state.
But The Chosen One turned to him, raising an eyebrow in question. "Who is this man?"
One of the armed men bowed his head. "Sir, he is from Al-Rasheed, distraught, looking for his daughter."
The Chosen One hid his smile, then said in his sharp voice, "Come here, man... What did you say his name was?"
The man replied, "His name is Shareef, sir."
He raised his voice again, "Shareef from Al-Rasheed City, come here!"
Shareef approached, anxiety consuming him. What did The Chosen One specifically want from him? He advanced in his tired state.
The Chosen One spoke, looking him over from head to toe. "Are you looking for your daughter, man?"
Shareef wiped his forehead, sadness returning to his features. "I will give you everything I own, and if it takes being a slave, I will."
The Chosen One nodded, with a touch of arrogance. "Your lost item is with me, man, but I don't give it for free... You are from Al-Rasheed. How do I know you didn't send her to do her deed?"
Shareef's color drained. "Why? Where exactly did you find her? And where is she, please?"
Mahfouzz brought her, walking weakly, unable to move. A woman in her forties was supporting her, by Ghadeb's order.
Shareef couldn't bear to see her like that. He moved to approach her. "My daughter!"
But he heard that harsh, gruff voice, "Stop right there! This girl will not return with you."
She turned, weariness evident on her innocent features. "Don't talk to my father that way! I won't allow you!"
Everyone fell silent at that moment. Everyone expected the worst events, for who would dare to confront The Chosen One or speak to him in such a common way? What had just happened had never happened before... He spoke without caring or bothering to reply to her. "Amina, take her from here. My words are not with her."
Amina took her, as Isaf screamed and violently pushed her hands away.
He ignored it. Shareef looked at the situation with pain and shock from The Chosen One. These were not his manners; they had never known him like this! What had happened to him? He was acting tyrannically.
But he finally broke the silence, looking at Shareef, in whose eyes he saw pleading. He said haughtily, "Man, your name is Shareef, and I hope you are honorable."
Shareef swallowed this insult, not out of deference to him, but as a sacrifice for his daughter. If his behavior worsened, nothing would bring his beloved child back.
The Chosen One continued, advancing toward him, "Have you come to make peace?"
Shareef nodded to him. Then The Chosen One raised his voice loudly so everyone could hear, "Let everyone hear! There is no conflict between me and the people of Al-Rasheed! Peace has been made!"
The people of Al-Rasheed smiled at such news. They hadn't expected him to agree so easily and quickly. He hadn't even debated them or belittled them as he did with his enemies.
...He interrupted these smiles, "But wait a moment... Shareef, I have another matter to discuss with you... Because of this little one, I agree to settle all the disputes that have lasted between us for years... I didn't find your lost item just to return her to you. Either she becomes a servant to serve me in my palace, or you leave, and there will be no peace between us. In either case, I will not give you this girl! She has gained my approval."
Gasps rose from the women. What did he want with this girl? She was too young, and he wouldn't gain anything from her.
A hot, repressed tear flowed from Shareef's eye. "My lord, The Chosen One, we never knew you like this... What if she were your daughter?"
The Chosen One replied, feigning indifference, though inwardly, he was saying something else. He quickly added, "But she is not. And if you are upset that she will be a servant, then fine, let her be my wife... and I will allow you to visit her. I will not prevent her from communicating."
Shareef was silent for a moment... until he said, "I agree... But she is not a servant; she is a wife. I agree to marry her to you."
The Chosen One nodded to him, smiling mysteriously, with much going on inside him.
All the townspeople were surprised, first by The Chosen One's actions! And second, by his choice of this little girl as a wife. The strange thing was that The Chosen One wouldn't have married if Al-Afraa hadn't been a gift from her father to please him. An event like this meant a miracle had occurred in the city: a young girl had pleased The Chosen One and from Al-Rasheed City! And the amazing thing was that he had married her!
He took her by force. She cried bitterly the whole way. What about her mother? She came to hate the sight of this city and its heritage. Nothing sparkled in her eyes anymore like it used to. Everything seemed dull and dark, where she would now experience her enslavement and imprisonment.
She didn't look at him for a moment, even though they shared the same carriage. He wasn't interested, anyway; he was stoic, his gaze fixed on the road. She described him as a 'deaf stone' inside her heart. He could hear her muffled sobs the entire journey and noticed the redness in her face. Her condition wasn't pleasing even to an enemy. He chose not to speak to her or even meet her gaze. He knew she was hurt by this decision and that she had nothing to do with any past or present conflict. The truth was, he exploited it. If it had been anyone else, he would have handed her over immediately after investigating her presence in the pit. His intention wasn't to enslave her, absolutely not; he didn't like enslaving people. But he truly wanted her, and the proof was that he married her according to the laws of God and His Messenger. He just wanted her for himself and plucked her like that.
Confrontation and Harsh Words
She wiped away a hot tear and spoke in a tearful voice, "Why did you take me with you? What do you want from me?"
He took his time. He didn't want to talk to her, not because he was incapable, but because he genuinely didn't want to engage in conversation. He was a man of few words and didn't discuss any topic he didn't want to delve into. And this young girl was truly no match for him in anything! Not in his intellect nor his position.
Because of her sharp intelligence, she understood his silence. As soon as she realized he was indifferent and uninterested in replying, she burst out angrily, "Are you too good to talk to me? If you don't want to speak to me because I'm young, why did you marry me?"
A smile, whose meaning she couldn't grasp but resembled sarcasm, flickered on his lips. He answered, his voice piercing her ears with its sharpness, "I wanted you, and I took you. That's all."
She sighed to calm herself down. He was getting on her nerves. How could he be so stoic? "Hey, mister! I can't even say your name! And do you see me as something bought from the market? I'm a human being here, of flesh and blood."
He closed his eyes for a moment. She recoiled. The Chosen One was never an ordinary person. Whenever one looked at him, they felt his aura of authority, and his cold reactions clearly preceded his anger. She saw how powerful he was in his demeanor; it wasn't easy to confront someone like Ghadeb Al-Assadi. She saw the warning in people's frightened eyes. It was better to respect his wish now and be silent for fear that something bad would happen to her before she even set foot in his palace.
Arrival at the Palace
They arrived at the palace. She didn't feel anything until the maid who had supported her at the public square dragged her, just as she had been dragged away from seeing her father.
The maid instructed, "Little one, you will now enter the palace. Step in with your right foot and say, 'Bismillah' (In the name of God)."
Isaf looked at her angrily, "I won't! And why should I obey you?"
The maid wasn't surprised by her reaction. This young girl had been agitated the whole time and seemed like she would bring them trouble, as Ghadeb was not a patient man who tolerated stubbornness and disobedience. She swallowed, staring at the palace. It was massive and unmatched in beauty. She had never seen anything so beautiful. She quickly wiped that expression from her face; she didn't want them to notice her admiration for their palace.
A Shocking Introduction
She entered, looking at the women gathered around her with questioning gazes. She was bold enough to throw the shocking truth at them: "What are you staring at? Your esteemed son, the great Chosen One, married me by force and brought me here against my will!"
The biggest shock hit Al-Afraa, who nearly fainted. "He did it! Oh, he did it and married someone else! Didn't I tell you?"
Layla, trying to calm her down, said, "Calm down, there's nothing worth this, Al-Afraa. Be patient until we understand the matter from The Chosen One."
Isaf turned to Al-Afraa, pointing her finger, "And are you his wife?"
Al-Afraa violently swatted her pointing finger away. "You must improve your manners, you ignorant girl!"
Isaf rubbed her finger, her eyebrow furrowed in pain. "Ouch! You hurt me, old woman! Where did he find you, and was he even sane to take you as his wife? You're ugly!"
Al-Afraa swallowed her intense rage, while Hind suppressed her triumphant smile. She had never tolerated Al-Afraa at all. It seemed she would enjoy this little one; she had a sharp tongue.
At this moment, Mother Nafeesa became angry. "Silence, little one! You must not be ill-mannered in my presence!"
Isaf looked at her for a moment, noticing her presence. She nodded silently with a stoic expression. She had been an example of good manners in her father's care; everyone attested to her intelligence and good conduct. But now, she didn't know what had happened with all of this. She felt she had lost herself, and this man had brought out all her flaws. But no, she must not surrender. Her plan wasn't to be good so they would return her to her family. She had to be a bad girl, or a troublemaker. She had to choose the most suitable option between the two.
The Chosen One's Rule
The Chosen One entered the palace, determined to introduce her to his first rule. Everyone in the palace bowed to him in reverence. "Stop that! You are my family; I don't like this worship from you."
His mother smiled at him happily. "Welcome, my son. Please, sit down."
He nodded silently, then stepped forward and sat. As for her, she was deep in thought. What was the secret of this man? As soon as he entered a place, he filled it with his presence. Why was he so imposing? "Let's see what he's got!"
He noticed her lost in thought and spoke immediately, without preamble, in his sharp tone. "I have taken this girl as my wife. Let everyone know about her. And she will help you with the palace affairs."
The words burst from her mouth. "Who said that? Isn't it enough that I'm forced into this marriage? You can't force me to serve you! I'm not a servant!"
He narrowed his eyes, feigning thought, then stood up in his imposing stature and towering height. "Amina... come here."
The maid rushed over. "Yes, sir. Command me."
Ghadeb asked, "Would you mind reminding everyone how The Chosen One punishes those who disobey his orders?"
She stammered, afraid she had made a mistake, "W-w-whoever d-d-disobeys an order from The Chosen One is flogged fifty times and remains a submissive slave, with no right to go outside or see the sun for three years, sir."
He nodded at her, then raised his sharp voice in warning. "Well done, Amina. Let everyone in the palace know that I will not be lenient with anyone, even if it is my wife." And he left without caring about what he had said or implied! She didn't know why she felt afraid. He didn't seem easy-going. He had been silent the whole way and hadn't reprimanded her or even gotten angry with her or spoken to her. This would make her more cautious when she met him. She wasn't stupid enough not to figure him out; he didn't seem easy at all. A man who hides his anger frightens her more than one who displays it. But this one seemed like he was preparing something for her. She was far too weak to confront him.
Aftermath and A Father's Grief
As soon as Ghadeb Al-Assadi left, Hind laughed, looking at her. "Who are you? And what did you do to him that he would bring you here? Hmm," (she looked at her assessingly) "Is it because of your beauty, I wonder?"
This stirred Al-Afraa, who looked at Isaf with clear malice. "What beauty are you talking about? She's skinny, not related to beauty at all... Besides, she's narrow-minded. There's no compatibility between them."
Her voice rose. "Don't speak ill, old woman! Haven't you seen yourself? Where are you compared to me? You call me skinny? Look at my beauty!" (she said, feigning arrogance) "I look like a freshly opened rose."
The mother smiled despite herself; sometimes, the worst misfortune is what makes you laugh. This sharp-tongued little one would soon finish off Al-Afraa.
Finally, Hala, The Chosen One's sister, spoke up, "What's wrong with you all? Why are you creating problems at your first meeting... Courtesy won't harm you."
Isaf sighed. "Madam, I don't know you, nor do I know who you are, but you seem like a good person. And I truly cannot insult anyone who speaks to me with respect, even if I'm angry."
Layla, the eldest sister, said, "It seems your mother raised you well. Don't be ill-mannered, lest you dishonor your parents. You must be more careful in showing respect to your elders, my dear."
Isaf nodded shyly at this lady, who was clearly kind. She truly couldn't disrespect her. "Okay, Madam."
Here, Al-Afraa exploded in anger. "I have been here for seven years, and none of you valued me, and now the day you wished for has come. The Chosen One has married, and his esteemed wife, you are now flattering her with your words..." She ran off to her room.
As for Hind, Hamed's wife, she wasn't surprised by Al-Afraa's reaction. She always did this... Ever since she entered this palace, she had played the role of the poor victim who was mistreated by everyone in the palace.
A Bitter Return Home
Two days later, the people of Al-Rasheed returned to their homes. Some of them were content with what had happened, as peace had been made, meaning the city's conditions would improve from today onwards. Others were displeased with Shareef's situation; he had been sad the whole way. They weren't selfish enough to display joy over others' wounds, for his daughter Isaf had fallen victim to this conflict.
He returned home empty-handed. He knocked on the door and entered to his wife, head bowed. She rushed up, standing fearfully, looking at his state. "Shareef! What happened?" She looked around, searching for her daughter. "Where is Isaf? What happened?"
When she saw his eyes filled with tears, her heart clenched in fear. "Shareef! I swear to God, tell me what disaster has befallen us! Why are you bowing your head?"
He wiped his tear and straightened his body. "The Chosen One took her as his wife."
She stared at him for a moment. "D-d-do you mean my little daughter, they t-t-took her?"
He nodded, collapsing, unable to bear any outburst from her.
But Maryam didn't care; she struck his chest, tears streaming from her eyes. "And how could you leave her? How could your heart allow it? I asked you repeatedly not to involve my daughter among men and not to take her with you in men's affairs... She's fragile! She's so little!" She sat down, weeping bitterly. "May God curse you, Shareef! I will never forgive you for selling her to this man!"
Shareef, regretfully, "Don't worry, s-"
She interrupted him, screaming, "Tell me a reason why I should be at ease about her! You always told me about his cruelty, that he's hard-hearted, even if he believes in your God and has his principles. Isaf, my daughter, is too weak to face a man like him... Damn you, Shareef, damn you! You lost her! How could your heart allow it?" She continued crying. "Did he take her to make peace between you? Was my little girl the victim of this conflict?"
He swallowed that wound in his heart. His wife had accused him of selling her, but... he wouldn't be able to speak. He just nodded to her, confirming it, even though he knew the truth was not like that.
And here ends the second part of the novel, "The Chosen One's Wife."
I hope you enjoyed it! If you liked this part, please don't forget to vote. I'll be very sad if I don't find any encouragement, as the number of views is increasing somewhat, but I don't see any votes or comments from you.
