Glossary (Will Keep Updating )

CHAPTER-1

Abbasid Caliphate – A major Islamic empire that ruled much of the Middle East from 750 to 1258 before being destroyed by the Mongols.

Caravanserai – A roadside inn or fortress where travelers, especially merchants and their caravans, could rest and resupply during long journeys across trade routes.

Frankincense – A fragrant resin obtained from trees, often burned as incense and used in religious rituals and trade.

Hooves – The hard, protective coverings on the feet of horses, camels, and other animals.

Manuscript – A handwritten book or document, often rare and valuable in historical settings.

Mongol warrior – A soldier from the Mongol Empire, which was known for its skilled horsemen and brutal military campaigns in the 13th century.

Porcelain – A fine, delicate type of ceramic, often used to make luxury goods such as plates, vases, and cups, highly prized in trade.

Steppe – A vast, grassy plain without trees, commonly found in Central Asia, where Mongol horsemen thrived.

Scribe – A person who copies, writes, or records important documents, often playing a key role in preserving history and knowledge.

Veiled woman – A woman wearing a face covering or headscarf, often for cultural, religious, or personal reasons.

Bukhara – A historic city in present-day Uzbekistan, an important center of trade, learning, and culture on the Silk Road.

Saffron – A valuable spice derived from a flower, used in cooking, medicine, and trade.

Curved blade – A weapon with a slightly bent shape, commonly used by Mongols and other warriors for slashing attacks in battle.

Recognition – The act of realizing that you have seen or met someone before.

Foaming at the mouth – A phrase used to describe a horse that is exhausted or has been ridden hard without rest.

Trudge – To walk slowly and with effort, especially when tired or carrying a heavy load.

CHAPTER-2

Ripples of unease – A phrase meaning a growing sense of worry or fear spreading through a group of people, like ripples in water.

Whispers spread like wildfire – A metaphor meaning rumors or information spread very quickly.

Manuscript – A handwritten book or document, often valuable and containing important knowledge.

Pressed against his chest, heavier than gold – A figurative way to say that the knowledge Sayid carries is extremely valuable and burdensome.

Smirked – A slight, often teasing or sarcastic smile.

Gust of wind – A sudden, strong rush of air.

Desert night had swallowed the last remnants of daylight – A poetic way of saying that night had fully arrived.

Painted with blood – A dramatic phrase suggesting that violence and death will soon cover the land.

Flickered – A brief, quick movement, often describing light or glances.

Masked his surprise – A phrase meaning he hid his reaction so others wouldn't notice.

Tensed – Became stiff or alert due to stress or danger.

Burst open – Opened suddenly and forcefully, often in a dramatic or urgent way.

Cloaks tattered from the desert wind – Describes their worn-out cloaks, showing they have traveled a long way through harsh conditions.

Surveyed – Looked around carefully, analyzing the situation.

Cold, calculating eyes – A phrase describing someone as emotionless and strategic, likely dangerous.

Fugitive – A person who is running from the law or authorities.

Forbidden manuscript – A book or document that is illegal or dangerous to possess.

Pulse quicken – A phrase meaning his heartbeat sped up, usually from fear or adrenaline.

Resting on the hilt of a hidden dagger – Describes someone ready to fight, with their hand near their weapon.

Chapter 3

Scimitar – A curved, single-edged sword commonly used in the Middle East and Central Asia.

Satchel – A small bag, often used for carrying books, scrolls, or essentials while traveling.

Backhanded Strike – A slap or hit using the back of the hand, often meant to humiliate or assert dominance.

Example: "The merchant protested, but a backhanded strike silenced him."

Imperial Courtroom – A place where legal matters are judged under the authority of the empire, often associated with strict laws and severe punishments.

Lingered – To stay in a place longer than necessary, often with hesitation or suspicion.

Hoofbeats – The rhythmic sound made by the hooves of a galloping horse, often signaling movement or urgency.

CHAPTER-4

Hounds (Empire's Hounds) – A metaphor referring to soldiers or enforcers of the Empire who relentlessly track down fugitives.

Dry Laugh – A laugh without humor, often sarcastic or bitter.

Bruised Face – A face marked with discoloration and swelling due to being struck.

Death Wish – A reckless disregard for danger or one's own life.

Main Routes – The primary roads or paths used for travel, often monitored by authorities.

Strap (Satchel Strap) – A band or belt used to secure or carry a satchel.

Ruins of Al-Qasr – A once-thriving city now abandoned and in decay.

Disappear – To vanish or go into hiding to avoid being found.

Endless Sea (Metaphor) – A poetic description of the vast and seemingly infinite desert.