Silk and Light

[Salihah]

A door opened to spill warmth, light, and laughter into the darkened streets of Cadentia, only to be blocked momentarily by a slim figure in rich reds and golds, moving with an almost otherworldly grace, seeming to float down the low marble steps decorated with geometric mosaics. A diaphanous veil covered the lower half of a terracotta face. Dark eyes like onyx were lined with a dark kohl, and a shimmer of golden powder lay upon lids that lowered demurely as she turned to bow slightly, slender hands going out before her to gently rest upon another pair. A soft murmur was spoken, and she stepped back as the door closed. After a moment, her eyes raised, and two younger women joined her at her side, each wearing white robes that hung from their lithe frames.

A metallic jingle sounded as she lifted rich fabric, protecting it from the dust of the road as she moved down the road. One of the girls spoke up, her voice like chimes in the warm air of the night. "Has he sent gifts with you tonight? Will we see fine silks?" The woman gave a gentle laugh, and laid her hand upon the girl with shining eyes, bright as stars with curiosity and excitement.

"My dearest Akilah, he has sent such pretty things for you and our sisters to look upon. But for now, run ahead, and have tea prepared. I am quite thirsty." Her voice was as smooth as the silk she wore, dulcet tones barely a whisper on the desert breeze.(edited)

Down the road the girl ran, and there was a gentle tilt of the woman's head as she watched, walking alongside her remaining attendant, an older young woman with serious features.

"Such a playful thing. May she keep that light."

"A shame she is so terrible at her studies." the other replied, keeping pace beside her. "She is like a lantern without a cover. Her flame is untamed." A gentle laugh came from the woman as they made their way after the youngest, and she looked down at her attendant with a hidden smile.

"Those are the ones that burn the world, Nabila. She will blaze bright as the sun, and no shadow will touch her." She strode easily, and the attendant fell quiet, nearly losing the pace as she went into thought as they disappeared into the darkness.