Episode Two

The sun had begun to set, and despite Lenyang's and Zarik's best efforts, neither of them had gained the upper hand. Their skills and experience evenly matched that their fight went on forever.

From behind the tree, Hinaa remained spellbound, not taking her eyes off Lenyang since she began watching the duel, admiring how he dodged and parried Zarik's attacks with ease, never losing balance or composure. The setting of the sunbathing him in a gentle radiance making him look  like a celestial being brought to life in his simple yet elegant kafhun. 

Feeling a warm sensation in her mouth, she realised she was drooling and quickly wiped her lips with her white cloth. Embarrassed by her lack of control, but she couldn't help herself. He was too irresistible, too captivating, too perfect. A sight to behold. A masterpiece of flawless features that left her breathless. 

His captivating presence enhanced by his striking eyes, which never seemed to look directly at her, had a mesmerizing depth that stirred her curiosity, as if they hid the secrets of a thousand worlds. And she longed for the day  he would turn his gaze her way, exploring them. His lips, oh those lips, were full and soft, an irresistible temptation that she found herself daydreaming about. She often pondered how they would feel when pressed against hers, their warmth and tenderness intermingling in a passionate kiss. The mere thought sent a shiver down her spine, igniting a fire within her that yearned for his affection.

His body, strong and lean held a magnetic allure that drew her in. She longed to wrap her arms around him, to feel the solid warmth of his embrace. It was a desire that whispered in her heart, an ache that craved the intimate connection she wished existed between them.

And then there was his strong jawline, chiselled and defined, a symbol of masculinity that captivated her attention.  Paired with his high cheekbones, which added a touch of elegance and structure to his face, he was the embodiment of masculine charm, a sight that could render anyone weak in the knees.

But for now, she could only dream and wonder, captivated by the allure of his flawless features, striking eyes,  sharp nose, inviting lips, and strong, lean body. Each day, her heart filled with the anticipation of what could be, longing for the day when they would finally get married and have the chance to explore the depths of his captivating presence.

  As if by mutual agreement, Lenyang and Zarik suddenly stopped, sheathed their swords and joined Leo and Zarik at the stone table. Hinna like a shadow, blending in with the surroundings leaving too, not wanting Lenyang to see her.

Malu sneering as he watched Lenyang pouring himself his bitter tea.

"Always with the bitter tea," he scoffed when Lenyang sipped it.

"No wonder you never smile, Lenyang. How can anyone enjoy life with such a sour taste in their mouth?"

  Lenyang didn't respond, and Malu took that as a cue to shut up.

Just when Lenyang thought he could finally enjoy his tea, Leo clenched his hands around his arm.

"Please, Lenyang. You have to go with me to Prince Parad's birthday party."

"No," he replied, trying to pull his arm away, but Leo held it tighter.

"Please, Lenyang."

His face masked with a cold of indifference, Zarik replied, "He can't go to Picha with you. His Majesty has ordered us to go to Hua and deal with the Xho's remnants."

—Xho was a man from a humble background, born to a family of farmers who used his natural charisma and charm to convince gullible young men from lower backgrounds that the ruling elite were greedy and selfish, oppressing them and that they also deserved a better life like those from the noble families. And shouldn't accept being held back by their humble origins, making them believe it was their duty to rise and take what was rightfully theirs. —

"I thought you and Lenyang killed that man?" Malu asked.

"We did, but his devoted followers are driven by fierce loyalty and determined to fulfil his goal," Zarik replied.

Malu scoffed. "They are so stupid to think they can take over Kirania. Do they think it's as easy as taking a kite from a child? Or that his majesty will just hand over the country?"

Zaril clenched his fists. "Don't worry. I will crash their madness once and for all," 

Leo, not ready to give up, pulled out the negotiation card. "What if Zarik goes with Malu?"

"No." He switched to the power card. "Lenyang, the crown prince, commands you to go with him to Picha?"

"Serving the country comes first."

"Fine!" Leo freed his arm, giving up. He knew there was a zero chance he would agree,  as nothing mattered more to him than serving the country, but he had to try anyway. 

"Enough with boring stuff. Have you heard the latest gossip?"

None of them responded or showed interest, but Malu blurted out anyway.

"I heard that one of the County magistrate's twin daughters tried to seduce Shomari, their eldest brother. And when he refused to sleep with her, she tried to kill herself."

  Leo frowned. "I doubt Zara would do such a thing,"

"Not her, the stammerer."

Leo slapped the back of his head. " Aira is a sweet, sensible girl. Don't go around ruining her reputation.

"But it's true. Her stepmother was the one who told my mother."

"Shut your…" Noir, Lenyang's right-hand man, interrupted Leo. "Young master, Miss Hinaa is here to see you."

Lenyang acknowledged Noir's words with a nod, and together they made their way to the main hall. The grand space a testament to Lenyang's refined taste, a masterful blend of simplicity and sophistication. Standing at the centre of the hall was Hinaa, her elegant posture exuding grace and composure. Her back was straight, her shoulders relaxed, and her hands delicately clasped in front of her. Beside her stood her loyal maid, a silent pillar of support.

Seeing Lenyang approaching with grace and poise with his hands behind his back, her heart started racing as she struggled to hold in her smile. He looked like a prince from a fairy tale but also so cold and distant.

"Good evening, Miss Hinaa," Lenyang greeted her, his voice steady and composed. "How can I help you?"

"Hello, General Lenyang," she replied with a slight bow. "My father informed me you will leave for Hua in two days, and considering the cold weather there, I have made you a Zafir to keep you warm."

She gestured to her maid, who handed over a bundle of cloth to Noir, who unwrapped, revealing it. It was white and matched Lenyang's khafun with intricate patterns of silver thread resembling stars and snowflakes. A beautiful and practical gift that Hinaa had spent many nights working on. 

  "Thank you," Lenyang replied, his face set in a stoic expression. Hinaa felt a pang of disappointment when he didn't even bother to look at it. She had hoped that he would like her gift, that he would smile at her, that he would thank her sincerely. She had hoped that he would see how much she cared for him, how much she wanted him to be happy and safe. She had hoped that he would feel something for her. Trying to hide her hurt, she smiled at him warmly.

"Is there anything else you need for the journey? I could prepare it for you." 

"No need! I am well prepared." Lenyang answered curtly, not wanting to prolong the conversation. He had nothing else to say to her or ask from her. He had no need for her company or assistance. He had no desire for her affection or her attention. 

"Well then…please take care of yourself and be safe. I shall be waiting for your return."

He turned his attention to Noir, who nodded discreetly. "Make sure they get home safely." 

A veil of sadness draped over Hinaa's delicate features, her eyes holding a glimmer of unshed tears when she realised Lenyang was dismissing her. She had hoped to talk to him more. She had hoped he would ask her to have some tea with him or stay for dinner, but he didn't.  Bowing to him again, she followed her maid and Noir to the door. Looking back at him one last time,  she hoped he would look at her and say something or stop her from leaving. But he didn't. He just stood there, his face expressionless. 

As Noir escorted them to the gate, helping them into the awaiting carriage, Hinaa questioned herself, trying to make sense of the unspoken ache that tugged at her core.

Why am I feeling sad? Many girls wanted to marry Lenyang, but he rejected them, choosing me. Shouldn't I be content even though our marriage will be based on duty and not love? At least I was able to claim him, making him mine.

A sense of possessiveness stirring within her mingled with a flicker of defiance, a tender smile curving on her lips, a glimmer of satisfaction dancing in her eyes.

"You are only mine, Lenyang."

◼◼◼◼

After Noir returned from escorting Hinaa and her maid to their carriage, he found Lenyang waiting for him outside the main hall. 

"Noir, I have a request for you. Please arrange for a dress to be made for Miss Hinaa and delivered to her residence."

"Yes, young master."

Getting back to his friends, he found them in the middle of a conversation.

"Why do you say they are incompatible? Don't you think since they both have calm, reserved temperaments, they will balance each other out?" Leo asked Malu.

Malu shook his head. "I understand what you are saying. But people with opposite temperaments balance each other out better. And with their temperaments, I am afraid their marriage would be a bit…boring."

"How?"

" There won't be any excitement or spark in their marriage, like they can't even play or tease each other. They're both too composed to make their marriage fun and adventurous, keeping things interesting. One month to their wedding, they still address each other as Miss Hinaa and General Lenyang. How boring is that?"

Leo frowned. "But isn't compatibility more important than having fun? They both respect each other, and that's what matters. Or what do you think, Zarik?"

"You two should stop discussing Lenyang's choice of woman and his marriage in front of him. He is the only one who knows if Miss Hinaa is the perfect woman for him."

Malu and Leo turned, and saw Lenyang standing on the other side of the table.

" I am sorry, Lenyang,'Malu apologised. "I was just speaking my mind. It's bad enough that you are not marrying out of love, but to put yourself through the torture of spending the rest of your life in a marriage devoid of life and vitality is extreme." But he wasn't really sorry for discussing his future wife. Not only didn't he like her, but he didn't see her worthy of Lenyang, and he hated that his majesty  compelled Lenyang to marry Hinaa as gift to her father for solving the counterfeit currency case, even though the old man was just lucky, and anyone could have solved that case. 

Lenyang didn't respond to Malu, sitting down and pouring another cup of tea.

"Love isn't everything, Malu," Leo said.

  "That's cheap coming from you when your mother has his majesty wrapped around her finger because of love. Or do you really think he made you the crown prince just because you are capable?"

Leo grabbed Malu by the collar. "Are you saying I am not capable? And that I don't deserve the crown prince's position?"

Malu pulled his hands away, smoothing out his collar.

"I am not saying you don't deserve it, Leo. But let's face it, his love for your mother played a huge role. Else, he wouldn't have changed the rules, making the youngest son of his consort the crown prince. Call it the power of love."

"How is that related to Lenyang's marriage?"

"Your mother brings out the best in his majesty. And even when the country feels heavy on his shoulders, he has someone who makes it bearable. Why? She is more than his wife. She is a partner and a friend. Or do you think we don't know how they play at night in the garden like little children?"

"Shut your mouth!" Leo yelled, his cheeks tomato red as he reminisced his father's playful antics, where he would carry his mother on all fours, neighing like a horse while she pulled his ears in front of everyone, even the servants.

"Whatever! Anyway, I am heading out now. I have an important place to be."

  "Liar, I know you are going to the Lotus Lounge."

"Hmmm!" Malu nodded. "I miss my little Hoyam. Plus, the girls in the capital are way hotter than those in the border. No offense, Zarik." He winked at him and stood from his chair. He chugged the remaining wine and burped loudly. He turned to Zarik and Lenyang and joked, "You better not die in Hua, or I'll haunt you in the afterlife and make fun of you endlessly."

He reached for his sword resting on the table and sheathed it on his belt.  "If anyone needs me, I'll be at the Lotus lounge. Don't wait up for me."

■■■■

The land dotted with twisted, gnarled trees, their branches gnarled and twisted like the bony fingers of skeletal hands. Jagged rocks jutted out of the ground with dusty gusts of wind carrying the scent of sand and sun-baked rocks.

The sun beating down on Lenyang mercilessly, he tried to outrun the Lion that was hot on his heels, his breath coming out in ragged gasps. Hearing its heavy panting and the sound of its claws digging into the dry earth closing in, he tried to put some distance between himself and the predator with a sudden burst of speed. But in haste, he failed to notice a large rock jutting from the ground, tripping and falling with a thud. Before he could get up, the lion pounced on him, its sharp claws raking across his face and eyes. Pain shooting from his body, he struggled to push it away as he felt his blood pouring down his face, but he was no match for it. The predator, still thirsting for his blood, attempted to sink its teeth into his neck, but a white, blinding light flashed before them and before Lenyang could shield his eyes, the light disappeared. The lifeless body of the lion lay beside him. Then, suddenly everything was swallowed by an all-encompassing darkness.

****

Lenyang opened his eyes and took a deep breath, his calm exterior in contrast with the turmoil inside him. His heart racing, and body covered in a cold sweat, struggling to shake off the dream as the images kept replaying in his mind.

  Getting off the bed, he made his way to the window and opened it, letting in the chill air of the night. After closing his eyes, he took another deep breath, but still felt like he was walking on an almost-snapping thread that would soon snap and throw him into the fire. The same feeling he had the day his parents died. And he hated it.

DESCRIPTIONS CORNER

~Zafir~ An outerwear made from silk and cotton with layers of cotton inside for warmth. Usually an ankle-length with long sleeves and a high collar fastened with ties.

  ~Kafhun~ a long, loose-fitted garment made of silk or cotton with v-collar, long wide sleeves usually an ankle length and can be fastened at the waist with a sash, belt, silk knot

  ~Hida~ A free-flowing, long sleeve dress made from silk, cotton, hemp and ramie. And may feature intricate embroidery or beading. Colours and patterns varying depending on the wearer's social status, age and occasion.

~The lotus lounge~ It was an establishment where women entertained men through various forms such as music, dance, poetry and engaging conversations, keeping them company as they enjoyed themselves. And sometimes also providing sexual services.