The Queen And The Eighth Rebel by Tarik Bouchnayf

Author:Tarik Bouchnayf [Bouchnayf, Tarik]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: anonymous
Published: 2023-06-25T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 19

Nisay was seated in his cell, counting down the final minutes of his life. King Hosni had presented him with an escape route, but Nisay would never betray his leader, Ali.

He couldn't recall the first time he had heard Ali's name, but he had grown up listening to tales of Ali's exploits. From the age of twelve, Nisay had aspired to become like Ali, dedicating his life to the sword. His village was renowned for producing the finest fighters in Turba, if not the entire world.

When Ali had departed from the empire and started hunting down its soldiers, Nisay had felt disillusioned with his idol. He couldn't comprehend why Ali had forsaken the glory of his former life to hide in the woods, living in caves and consorting with outlaws.

After several months of soul-searching, Nisay had made up his mind to broach a subject he knew his parents would vehemently oppose.

A few months later, Nisay realized that everything he had grown up hearing about the Empire was true. He heeded his father's counsel and fled from the empire, ultimately becoming one of the most wanted men.

Nisay heard approaching footsteps while he was lost in his memories, realizing that his time had come. His sole wish was to catch a final glimpse of Nora.

Surprisingly, the soldiers didn't escort him to the execution yard; instead, they led him to the council room. Nisay could hardly believe his eyes as he entered. Arsalan stood there before King Hosni.

The Turban rebel remained silent as King Hosni rose and began to speak. "You're a fortunate man, and I recommend naming your first son Siraj, after this man," the king gestured towards Arsalan.

Nisay was overcome with shock. Even though his life had been spared, he sensed that something far more perilous was unfolding. The king confirmed his suspicions. "This man has pledged to deliver your leader, Ali, in exchange for your freedom."

Nisay quickly grasped Arsalan's scheme, but he dared not speak out, for doing so would spell certain execution for both him and Arsalan. However, he couldn't allow Arsalan to carry out his plan unopposed.

"I don't know this man; he's nothing but an impostor."

"He has offered his life if we fail to apprehend Ali," the king responded.

"You'll be forfeiting a rebel for a deceiver!" Nisay retorted.

The king chuckled. "It's a risk I'm willing to take, and it's certainly worthwhile. Besides, one way or another, you will return here soon."

Nisay realized that the moment he left the castle, Arsalan would reveal himself, and he felt as though his options were rapidly dwindling.

Upon his return, the exuberant screams and cheers of his friends failed to lift Nisay's spirits, even when he saw Nora's face and his parents. Fatima, overjoyed to have her son back, couldn't contain her happiness, and his father embraced him warmly. However, Nora's lack of emotion stood out, and she remarked, "You don't seem happy for a man whose life has just been spared."

Nisay met her gaze and replied softly, "Arsalan traded himself for me.

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