Prince of Persia
"Keeper of the Gods"
Chapter 1
Dastan holds out his hand to Tamina. She gently places her hand in his and looks into his eyes. "The People of Alamut have planned a celebration for tonight," she pauses and smiles. "To show our appreciation for sparing our city," she continues. "Would you be my guest, Prince Dastan?" she says slowly.
Dastan smiles, "I'd be honored."
He slowly pulls her hand closer and gently turns it upward. Then, he bows to kiss her palm. He thinks the intimate gesture might startle her but it doesn't. Instead, she cups her hand to his mouth. He lingers enjoying the kiss. Tamina closes her eyes taking pleasure in his touch. Dastan finally breaks the kiss and slowly stands. Tamina's eyes meet his gaze and they share more than a moment looking at each other. Finally, Tamina breaks the silence.
"Tonight then," she says in a voice just above a whisper. Dastan takes a moment to respond.
"Tonight," he says.
Tamina slowly retrieves her hand and turns. She leaves him to watch as she walks back into the Palace. His head is still spinning from all that has happen in the last few days or was it just moments. He isn't really sure. One minute his father, two brothers, and Tamina are gone. Just as suddenly, they are alive again. The magic of the dagger and the sand glass are truly incredible. He will stay at Alamut and protect these gifts and protect Tamina. He knows he will have to tell her about the Hassansins. The dagger and the location of the sand glass are too vulnerable now that the Hassansins have penetrated the Order.
From the far off hilltops, Alamut is on fire with light and sound. The celebration fills the streets. Persians and Alamutians share in the feeling of peace that has fallen on the city as suddenly as the violence of the night before.
Servants and nobles hurry about the Palace in anticipation of the banquet in honor of the Persian royal family. In her dressing chamber Tamina is visibly nervous. Her handmaidens lovingly giggle as they dress their mistress and try to take her mind off the anticipation of the evening. She is stunning. Her dark blue silk gown is adorned with gold embroidery and small pearls. Her hair hangs long and is separated into sections intertwined with more pearls and dark blue crystals. The soft scent of the magaria flower floats from her long dark locks and fills the air when she moves.
"You look beautiful. Princess," one of her handmaidens offers. Tamina turns and gives her a slight smile.
"You're very generous with your kind words," Tamina says.
"Prince Dastan will be pleased to see you," says another handmaiden.
Tamina laughs, "Come now, we've just met. I'm sure the great Prince of Persia has more things on his mind than a woman."
"Not really," a deep voice is heard to say. All the women turn to see Dastan standing in the doorway of the Princess's chamber. The women gasp at the sight of Dastan and then nervously giggle knowing they've been caught talking about the Prince. Tamina gathers her composure and walks to greet Dastan.
"Prince Dastan. I didn't realize one of your many skills includes covert espionage," she says.
"It's a useful gift, Princess" he offers, a devilish smile on his face. He holds out his arm to her. "Your Highness, if you're ready", he says. Tamina approaches and places her left arm on top of his, their hands gently touching. The warmth from his body moves through her body like a sip of wine. Dastan also notices the softness of her skin. He remembers this feeling from the first time they were alone in the desert and she tried to kill him. His mouth curls up at the memory.
"You're thoughts bring a smile to your face. Anything you care to share?" she asks.
"I … ah… no, not at all," he stumbles to say. "I'm … I just think you look lovely, beautiful, Princess," he finally says then starts to gently move her down the hallway. After a few steps, he stops and turns to face her.
"I want you to know I don't take for granted my good fortune, Princess," he says.
"What good fortune, Sir?" she asks.
"You, my Lady," he says with a smile. She returns the smile and he continues down the hallway with her on his arm.
They arrive at the doorway of the great hall. The room is full of food, wine, music and people partaking in all the celebration has to offer. A voice is heard from within the crowd of partiers.
"Dastan," it's his brother Tus calling to him. They move toward each other for a warm greeting. Tamina slowly follows.
"Tus," Dastan says. "I wasn't expecting you." "I thought you and Garsiv left to meet father." His brother Garsiv weaves through the crowd toward Dastan.
"I'm here brother," Garsiv hugs Dastan.
"Father sent word to stay in Alamut, that he will be here soon," Tus offers. Just out of ear shot of the Princess, Tus continues in a whisper.
"Father took the news of our Uncle's deception as well as could be expected but he's concerned about the Hassansins. Fears they might seek revenge on the family now their benefactor has been killed," Tus says. Dastan looks concerned.
"Nothing for you to worry about, little brother," Garsiv offers.
Tus steps back from Dastan to acknowledge Princess Tamina. "I see you've brought a beautiful flower, Dastan." Tus moves closer to greet Tamina. He holds out his hand. She places her hand on his and he gives her a gentle kiss.
"I didn't think it was possible for you to grow more beautiful but I was wrong, my Lady," Tus says.
Tamina smiles, "Thank you, Prince Tus."
"And thank you for this wonderful feast," Tus remarks. "Given the circumstances, it's far beyond what we deserve." Tamina smiles at him.
"What's important is our city is at peace now and we no longer fear Persia," she says.
Tus turns to add Dastan and Garsiv to the conversation. "With your union to my brother, we'll forever be at peace," Tus says as he slaps Dastan on the back.
Dastan looks at Tamina as she blushes at the reminder of their future marriage. It pleases him.
Tus continues, "And when will this union be held?"
Tamina jumps in with a quick response, "It's customary in our country for a six month courtship, my Lord." Dastan and Tus share a surprised look.
From across the room a voice is heard coming from the arched doorway of the great hall. "One week," the voice booms. The room goes silent and all turn to see King Sharaman surrounded by an entourage of soldiers. The brothers rush to their father's side.
"Father," Dastan offers first. He firmly puts his hand on his father's shoulders as they embrace.
"Dastan," the King says. "It pleases me to see you." Tus and Garsiv join them and embrace their father. The King offers to the crowd, "It' pleases me to see all of you." He walks over to Tamina. She bows to the King.
"Princess Tamina. I see the legend of your beauty is actually based in fact," the King greets her.
"King Sharaman," Tamina says as she rises from her bow.
"Dastan, I fear I shall never see you again," the King says.
"Father?" Dastan questions his father's words.
"No man is strong enough to leave this woman's side," the King offers as he smiles at Tamina.
Dastan moves beside Tamina and takes her hand, weaving his fingers between hers. "I believe you're right, Father," he says. "She's far better than I deserve," Dastan says. Tamina looks at their joined hands and then into Dastan's eyes. They share a warm smile.
"You shall be married in one week," the King proclaims. Tamina looks at the King but does not offer any resistance and neither does Dastan.
"Now, enough talk. Please. Let's enjoy Princess Tamina's hospitality." The king gestures about the room. The music and movement of guests begin again. Dastan holds on to Tamina's hand and their eyes meet again.
"We need to talk," Dastan turns serious. Tamina nods. He weaves her through the room but at the doorway she takes the lead.
"Come with me," she says and she moves down the hallway. Dastan follows.
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