[center]
[color=red]FLASHBACK!![/color]
[h3]Sola 27, 1739 – Guest House[/h3]
A soft knock echoed through Shehzade Farim’s chambers early that morning. Standing at the door was Lady Miha,  dressed in a simple yet elegant burnt orange saree. A bright blue bindi adorned her forehead while intricate traditional henna designs swirled across her hands. Balanced in her palms was a golden tray, and at its center, a maroon-red envelope sealed with gold wax and their family crest.
When Farim opened the door, Lady Miha greeted him with a bow, reciting their native greeting in a smooth, practiced cadence. After he accepted the envelope, she bowed again, offering the customary farewells before hurrying back down the corridor toward Nahir’s chambers, ready to assist the Shehzadi in her preparations for the day.

[i][sub]
[color=732F35]Farim,
Good morning, dear cousin. I hope this letter finds you well. I’ve arranged for us to meet for tea at the Jasmin Nook Tea Room this morning. There are a few matters we must discuss, and it is best we do so without delay. I’ll await your arrival in two hours. It will be a good chance for us to catch up and talk.
Looking forward to it.
Nahir
[/color][/sub][/i]

[h3]Sola 27, 1739 – Jasmin Nook Tea Room[/h3]
Sunlight poured in through floor-to-ceiling windows, the morning light filtered by cascading vines of vibrant green, their white blooms a contrast against the glossy leaves. The windows framed the room, offering a serene view of the gardens beyond. Inside, the space was bathed in golden light, highlighting walls adorned with framed portraits of landscapes and figures dressed in intricate, high fashion. Potted plants sat perched on shelves and corners, bringing a touch of nature to the luxurious interior.

At the heart of the tea room, a grand piano gleamed beneath the light, its black lacquer finish polished to perfection. A man dressed in black tails, with slicked-back hair and an angelic, expressionless face, played softly. His fingers danced over the ivory keys, filling the air with a serene, classical melody. 

Nahir sat in a lush chair near one of the large windows, dressed in a maroon saree edged with delicate gold embroidery. Matching golden bangles adorned her wrists, and bright red henna swirled across her hands. Her hair had been carefully curled and pinned up, with a few loose tendrils framing her face, also sporting golden clips.


Beside her on a small table rested a half-drunk cup of tea, the steam still rising lazily from its surface. In her lap lay a book titled [i]The Incredible Adventures of Kalpana Chawla.[/i], its pages slightly worn from frequent reading. Nahir’s expression was calm, her golden gaze fixated on the man playing the grand piano.


At the entrance to the tea room, a shadow that quickly blended into the figure of Farim Kadir came into view. This morning he forewent the usual casual wear that he would partake in, knowing that such a place required something more refined. Atop his head was a soft-red and tightly wrapped satin cloth turban, with a single ruby adorning the front. A glorious fiery red feather was tucked just to the side of the gem. The flowing robes that flickered behind him were calmer colors, a gentle cream-like color to be easier on the eyes compared to the potent reds of his headdress. His hands were behind his back as he strode towards the table Nahir sat at.

[sub]note: words italicized and with quotes are spoken in Alidasht’s Golden Tongue[/sub]

[color=D2691E][i]“Good to see you, cousin. Ever the proficient choice in our meeting place. I do hope my attire is up to par with your radiant self.”[/i][/color] He smiled and moved to take a seat.

Nahir’s lips curved into a subtle smile as Farim approached, her golden eyes briefly taking in the fiery red feather stuck on his turban. She offered him a light nod of approval as he took his seat. [color=732F35]“Good morning, cousin.”[/color] she replied smoothly, switching seamlessly to their native tongue. [color=732F35]“[i]You honor me with your presence, and your attire does not disappoint. You look every bit the Shehzade you are.[/i]” [/color]She reached for her cup, her fingers steady as she took a small sip and a waiter came in and placed a filled tea cup and saucer. [color=732F35][i]”The tea here seems to lack in flavor.[/i][/color] She commented as she set her cup back down. 

[color=732F35][i]”How have you been finding Caesonia so far?”[/i][/color] Her words were gentle, almost testing, but the faintest flicker of something more urgent glimmered in her eyes. [color=732F35][i]”So far, it seems like you’ve been enjoying Sorian and it’s splendors.”[/i][/color] 

A grin came across his face at the compliment Nahir paid him, which continued into his pleasant demeanor as he waved his hand in the air. As if to physically showcase the erroneous nature of his stay thus far. [color=D2691E][i]“It is just about as intriguing as I would have hoped. There are many a treasures here to uncover - some political, some personal, and some of a whole other persuasion.”[/i][/color] He let the words hang in the air as he reached for the nearby cup and kettle to pour himself a cup of this “bland” tea his cousin had casually disregarded. A quick and purposeful sip and it is just as she spoke of, a rather calm blend of herbs that left little to be desired after it passed beyond his tongue.

[color=D2691E][i]“Bit of a shame the tea is this…ordinary. Unlike your stay here, I imagine?”[/i][/color] Farim grinned mischievously. [color=D2691E][i]“What kind of trouble has the Golden Beauty of the Sands found herself in since arriving here, I wonder? Already have a Prince in your clutches? Or perhaps a few ladies-in-waiting to … tend to?”[/i][/color] He spoke boldly, knowing only the two of them would really understand the main body of their conversation. Yet in spite of the secrecy of the topic, the man spoke earnestly. If anything, he was merely teasing his cousin with what he had believed were mere rumors and heresy - if only to see how she would react to such claims.

[color=732F35][i]”Golden Beauty of the Sands,”[/i][/color] she mused, letting the title roll off her tongue with exaggerated elegance. She leaned back in her chair, swirling the remnants of her tea as though pondering his words before laughter broke her neutral expression. Like a chime of a bell carried on the desert breeze. [color=732F35][i]”Flattering, but you should know better, cousin. I don’t trap anyone in my clutches—they come willingly.”[/i][/color] The image of a certain curly-haired woman came into mind as she said that. 

[color=732F35][i]”Though,”[/i][/color] Nahir mused, [color=732F35][i]”I can’t say the same for everyone. The Prince, for instance. He is lovely company, but I cannot help but feel that there is… a certain lack of interest. Perhaps his tastes lie elsewhere.”[/i][/color] She shrugged, her expression feigning innocence as she picked up her teacup and sipped her tea. 

[color=732F35][i]”But let’s not talk about me. I saw how you handled the princess during that lordling’s name day. The Prince didn’t seem too keen on it. I do hope the earful you got was worth it.”[/i][/color] She arched her brow at him, a smirk returning to her features. [color=732F35][i]”How do you think she would handle Alidasht?”[/i][/color] Nahir’s tone remained light, but there was a glint in her eyes—sharp and knowing. [color=732F35][i]”Our royal court is not like Caesonia’s. We may share the grand balls and polite alliances, the daggers behind smiles and whispers in the dark—but there— back home… You’ve seen it, cousin. We’ve lived it. We know what it takes to survive. Do you think she would thrive in such a world?”[/i][/color] Nahir needed to know if Farim was really aware of the dangers of bringing a princess like Anastasia back home. The girl wasn’t the brightest— nor the sharpest. [color=732F35][i]”And if you are truly considering the sultan’s seat, there’s more to think about than her title and pretty smile. Could she endure being more than a wife? Could she bear sharing you with the concubines the court would insist upon?”[/i][/color] She set her teacup down, the soft clink filling the momentary silence as the piano player flipped through the music sheets to a new song. 

Farim placed his teacup down. What was a pleasant expression had transformed into one of concern - as if contemplative thought began to wrap around his mind. He took a nearby stirring rod and absent-mindedly ran it in circles within his tea - a mild facilitation to organize the thoughts that ran around in his mind before addressing his cousins well-placed statements. [color=D2691E][i]”Ours is a cruel world is it not? You know I spoke to my father last night? For the first time in ages. I have suspected him of many a nefarious deed - and finally sought to confront him. Instead of a bitter back and forth about one ideal versus the other, I was instead met with calmness and reassurance that it is all in my best interests.”[/i][/color] The man shuddered as he cast a sideways glance to the nearby window. [color=D2691E][i]”I am afraid I know far too well the cruelty our homeland is capable of - that man is one of the cornerstones of it. But he was not the first, nor do I suspect he will be the last, to continue the legacy of malevolent royalty.”[/i][/color]

Farim stopped stirring, and turned his head towards his cousin and leaned his elbow onto the table. His jaw rested comfortably against his palm while he spoke, yet his eyes seemed to stare beyond Nahir’s physical form. As if to scope something beyond just her physical reaction. [color=D2691E][i]”Allow me to break it down for you, if you would indulge me. Firstly, why is it you seek the throne? Is it fame? Notoriety? To continue the legacy of your Father…my Uncle?”[/i][/color] A brief pause ensued as he lifted the teacup to his lips for a slow sip of the still warm tea. [color=D2691e][i]”If I may speak plainly for a moment. My goal is to change the nation. Something that is not done in a day, week, year, or even a lifetime. But I seek to usher the tides of change. One where you and I do not have to worry if those we hold close will make it to next week. A nation that thrives on community and the enrichment that everyone can provide. Is it not the ways of our gods to bless all who walk their path? So too, must we grant such blessings.”[/i][/color] 

Setting the teacup backdown, Farim shifted his posture and moved from his hand, which now twirled and gestured as he spoke - mirroring his own growing enthusiasm in the moment. [color=D2691e][i]”All of this is idealistic thinking of course. No nation is perfect. But there are ways we could be better! Ways that we could improve and thrive for the benefit of all who are under the Sun Gods radiance!”[/i][/color] Taking a breath, Farim circled the conversation back to the original question. [color=D2691e][i]”You say the princess is more than just a title and a smile. You are right about this. For I see in her the hope that I see in myself - to make things better beyond just the veil of parties and balls. I saw the way she stood up for the common stableboy - the one who was found murdered merely hours later. I have even seen the way it has affected her. That is not a woman who simply lives for the thrill, even if she uses it to escape her current woes. She has a kind heart - something I do not think I have seen for quite some time. So you could say I am a bit sentimental when it comes to her.”[/i][/color]

The man pointed at Nahir, a smirk on his face. One that was not gauding or taunting, but of confidence. [color=d2691e][i]”I imagine anyone who messes with anyone that I am close with - is willing to deal with someone who shares the blood of a man as foul as the Grand Vizier. Anyone who tests this is either a fool, or has a death wish. Neither of which will live to see the day they take anyone else close from me. I refuse to lose anymore of my loved ones.”[/i][/color] He bit his lip, stifling his rage for a moment before exhaling slowly. It was as if he pushed his momentary frustration out through his lungs. [color=d2691e][i]”Apologies. I try not to get too heated but I cannot help myself. I believe before my rant I had asked you what you planned to do should you succeed the throne?”[/i][/color]

[color=732F35][i]”You speak with such passion, cousin,”[/i][/color] Nahir said softly, her golden gaze fixed on Farim. The fire behind his words lingered in her mind—how deeply his father’s cruelty had carved into him, much it had like to her—a shared wound they both carried. [color=732F35][i]”And for that, I commend you. I know well the weight of the burdens you speak of. The cruelty of men in power. The fires that consume more than just bodies, but entire bloodlines and futures.[/i][/color] Her voice grew quieter, more measured as if confessing to the ghosts lingering in the room. [color=732F35][i]”Yoy remember my brothers, don’t you? You grew alongside them. Their deaths were ruled accidents, yet I’ve never believed that fire was anything but deliberate. That is the world we come from, Farim. A place where ambition is met with ‘misfortune’ and any dissent is silence in smoke and ash.”[/i][/color]

Flashbacks ran through the Shehzade’s mind. Reflections of memories long passed played in his mind’s eye in rapid succession. The flames that rose high above the buildings, the blanket of smoke that choked the very sky, and the aching loss of his cousins. Farim had never had the thought to put two and two together like this, but the thinning of his Uncle’s progenies….could it really his father’s doing?
She paused, pouring more of that mild tea into her cup before her eyes returned to him. Sharp. Critical. [color=732F35][i]”So forgive me if I take offense to your assumption that I seek the throne for something as trivial as fame or legacy.”[/i][/color] Her eyes softened. [color=732F35][i]”But I cannot blame you for thinking it.”[/i][/color] Nahir had always been distant from the rest of the family. The spirited little girl who once trailed her brothers’ every step had vanished, leaving only a shadow of herself—silent, distant, and untouchable. She grew into a woman who sought solace in fleeting desires and the hollow warmth of superficial passions. Nahir was tired of it. [color=732F35][i]”I’ve learned to keep my true desires close to my heart, or even whispers in Alidasht can be dangerous. I will not see my fate mirror theirs.”[/i][/color]

Nahir leaned forward slightly, her tone firm and steady. [color=732F35][i]”You call me Golden Beauty, but you know better than most how sharp gold must become to survive.”[/i][/color] She held his gaze, the weight of her next words filling the space between them. [color=732F35][i]”I want what you want—a better Alidasht. One that thrives, one that lifts and inspires its people instead of crushing them. But I am no idealist, Farim. You are right: change will not come in a year, or a decade. It will not come with ideas alone. The men and women who hold power back home—they hunger. For more gold, more power, more control. Draining the sands and jungles and everything they can until nothing is left for the people. It is a struggle as old as time, and ideas will not win against greed without force.”[/i][/color] She reclined back in her seat, allowing him to absorb her words before continuing. 

He sighed, and took the time to gather his thoughts amidst her descriptive tapestry that told the story of their homeland. [color=D2691E][i]“It would seem ours is a history of conflict and strife to achieve what we want for our people. Such is the price, and such is our duty.”[/i][/color]

[color=732F35][i]”Perhaps we should not tear one another down in our pursuit of this vision.”[/i][/color] A faint, sly smile crept into her lips. [color=732F35][i]”If we seek the throne, let us promise this: whoever succeeds, the other will stand as an ally. Change cannot begin on foundations built from betrayal and bloodshed. We will be no better than those we wish to replace.”[/i][/color] She sipped her tea, her nose scrunching up as the hot liquid touched her tongue.

Farim leaned back into his chair, a smile on his face that was ripe with satisfaction. [color=D2691E][i]“If the Fates would have you lead our people - then someone is going to need to keep the Viper busy. What better person than his own son? Figuratively speaking, of course.”[/i][/color] He grinned, with all the mischief in his voice practically dripping as he thought of ways he could usurp the role of Grand Vizier if need be. He composed himself, yet kept his relaxed posture in his seat. [color=D2691E][i]“Your words lift a weight off my shoulders and my heart, Nahir. Should you become the new Sultan, you will have enough coin to fill a thousand vaults and still have some to claim whatever your heart desires.”[/i][/color] He gently waved his cup in circles before taking another long sip of his tea, and exhaled softly.

Placing the cup down, she continued, her tone softening ever so slightly. [color=732F35][i]“And as for the princess... you must prepare her, Farim. Alidasht is no fairytale kingdom, and if she is to face what lies ahead, she will need the will of an iron sword. It will test her—break her, even—if she’s not ready.”[/i][/color] Nahir’s golden gaze flickered with a rare hint of warmth, and she exhaled a quiet laugh, as though amused by her own thoughts. [color=732F35][i]“Though I must admit, she may be growing on me. There’s a fire in her, small as it is now, and I find myself curious to see if it will burn bright enough to endure.”[/i][/color]

She leaned back, fingers trailing idly along the rim of her cup, her expression unreadable yet tinged with something almost... hopeful. [color=732F35][i]“But that, cousin, is for her to prove—and for you to nurture.”[/i][/color]

[color=D2691E][i]“It almost seems too good to be true, my cousin.”[/i][/color] Farim’s voice lowered, a long pause sticking between the words he just spoke and what was to follow. [color=D2691E][i]“I was truthfully concerned about how our rivalry would affect us - who we are. It feels like we are the last ones who have a chance in this cruel game of politics. To clash against one another felt wrong. Foolish even.”[/i][/color] He clacked his cup onto the table and retrieved a nearby spoon to idly stir while he resumed talking. [color=D2691E][i]“That woman is like a diamond in the rough. Even while being crushed by the weight of what is around her - she still shines beautifully with a luster that would make our elders jealous.”[/i][/color] Farim laughed and laughed, his chuckling almost drawing some extra attention their way before he settled down.

[color=D2691E][i]“I suppose that would make us a team then? At least in some unofficial capacity.”[/i][/color] He raised his cup towards Nahir with the intentions of gently clinking their cups together. [color=D2691E][i]“To better times, and to a better Alidasht.”[/i][/color]
For a moment, her gaze lingered on her cousin, the smirk fading into something softer, more reflective. Nahir’s lips curved into a smile as she leaned forward, her golden bangles chiming softly with the movement. [color=732F35][i]“To better times,”[/i][/color] she echoed, lifting her cup to meet Farim’s in a delicate clink, the faint sound sealing their agreement. [color=732F35][i]“And to an Alidasht we can both be proud of.”[/i][/color] 

For a moment, her gaze lingered on her cousin, the smirk fading into something softer, more reflective. Nahir’s lips curved into a smile as she leaned forward, her golden bangles chiming softly with the movement. [color=732F35][i]“To better times,”[/i][/color] she echoed, lifting her cup to meet Farim’s in a delicate clink, the faint sound sealing their agreement. [color=732F35][i]“And to an Alidasht we can both be proud of.”[/i][/color] 
[/center]