Zayd was worried about Lilyan. Her idea to talk to Rania about changing the rules was a good one. It was enough to raise even Zayd's spirits. Why hadn't he thought of that? However, he didn't want to give Lilyan false hope. The most likely outcome was that his aunt and mother would turn down the idea to avoid conflict with the Elders. The Elders were the ones Zayd would have to convince... somehow.
Zayd finished his food in silence, watching Lilyan's downcast expression. She was disappointed that her mother might not be able to make their wish come true. It had been a great idea, but it was likely to come to nothing. Still, they had to try.
“I'll persuade the Elders, little one,” Zayd told her as he cleaned up their breakfast dishes, “Don't worry.”
“I feel like that's even less likely t
