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Episode 44: The Price of Power
Author: Davidwise
last update2025-03-04 05:48:28

Scene 1: Zafar’s Forbidden Discovery

The cottage is quiet, lit only by the glow of dying embers in the hearth. The night air seeps through the wooden walls, carrying the distant chirping of crickets.

Zafar, unable to sleep, moves through the dimly lit room. His mother is outside, finishing the last of her evening tasks. His restless fingers trail over the old wooden chest she keeps tucked away in the corner.

He isn’t looking for anything in particular—just something to distract his thoughts.

Then, he feels it.

His fingers brush against soft fabric. But this is different. Heavy. Luxurious.

Curious, he pulls it out. A robe.

Even in the dim light, he can see the intricate golden embroidery, the deep blue silk that seems untouched by time. The pattern is **unmistakably royal

Zafar’s breath catches in his throat.

Even as a child, he had seen royalty pass through the village square—their garments were unlike anything else. This robe, though tucked away and untouched for years, held the same
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