Gul’s own heart beat faster as she read his letter, alternatively indignant and blushing, she clutched it to herself, reading it again between the tedium of her duties. A week later, just as she was putting finishing touches upon her reply, news came that put all thoughts of frivolity out of her mind.
Her father had called her into his private parlor to tell her the news. “We have received news from the Empire, Anousheh, His Majesty was injured in an ambush upon the Vaishi Fortress of Shere. The maneuver was well planned, but somehow they got wind of his plans and had people lying in wait.”
“Wait, father, how is His Highness? It wasn’t serious, surely?” Gul interrupted. Her face pale from anxiousness.
“Nay, Emperor Mehmed merely suffered a flesh wound. However, several of his close advisors were also with him and one of them, a Duke Abdullah I believe was mortally wounded.” Explained her father.
“Oh, no, the poor soul, Mehmed must be devastated!” Even in this situation, though she felt sorry for his friend, Gul could only breathe a sigh of relief that Mehmed himself was safe and sound.
“Yes, yes, of course our felicitations must be sent, but more importantly, His Majesty has requested that your wedding day be moved up.” Continued Gul’s father.
“But why, father?” Gul asked, narrowing her eyes in confusion.
Her father’s shrewd eyes turned to her as he looked up from the pile of documents he was examining and explained. “He wants to quickly reaffirm our alliance and sign the new trade deals, my dear. Also, he fears the Vaishi would attack here -”
“Cutting off the Southern half of Ghayyur from their main supply of food, and spelled iron.” Gul concluded. “Due to the ambush, the skirmishes could devolve into open warfare and if supply routes are cut off it could put the Empire on the backfoot. The one who awaits defeat becomes the prey.” She murmured.
“I see those tutors His Royal Highness sent you are earning their keep,” said her Father, a warm look on his face. “That is good, my dear, you are going into an unknown situation, you should learn as much as you are able. On that note, I had another matter to discuss, have you finalized your retinue, the servants you shall be bringing with you to Ghayyur? I have a few knights I have handpicked to be sworn into your service.” He then rang a bell to ask a servant into the chambers.
“Ah, Parihan, please call for the Arand knight squad.” He instructed.
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