In a city with a Middle Eastern atmosphere stood magnificent stone houses. Despite the hot weather, the residents remained busy carrying out economic activities. The name of the city is Salamiah City. A young man wearing a white robe covered in sand and dust walked casually, observing the surroundings. He had a thin beard and mustache but still looked young, around his 20s
A slightly older man with a thick beard ran and called out to the young man loudly. "Hey Jabr! I received a letter saying that you have been accepted into Aduyn University!". The old man was panting after delivering the news with great enthusiasm.
The young man remained calm and exhaled; in his heart, there was pride and joy, yet his face appeared nonchalant. However, in reality, he looked more like a shy cat. "Is it true, Uncle? Are you sure it's not a fake letter?". Jabr was a rational and wise young man; he always ensured that all information received was not false. This was especially true regarding Aduyn University, which is the best university in the Zalawi Kingdom. The majority of students there are from the nobility and royal families.
He looked at the old man, who was actually his uncle named Abbas. Abbas, with a disappointed expression like a small child, replied, "Of course it's an authentic letter, Jabr! It has the special government seal on it!". He took a breath, and a wide smile etched across his wrinkled face. "Jabr, you are very great! Uncle is very proud to have a nephew as wise as you!". He took Jabr's hand and shook it as if meeting a wealthy landowner.
Jabr could only raise his eyebrows in bewilderment. "Al... alright... but it's not like I have the money to go there...".
"You fool!!!". Abbas shouted, scolding Jabr even though he had just praised him moments ago. "Of course your tuition fees are fully covered by the government," said Abbas while crossing his arms. Jabr immediately countered, " Uncle Abbas! The tuition is covered, but what will I eat there if I have no money?". Abbas's expression instantly turned to confusion as he realized the reality of the situation; they certainly did not have enough money to support Jabr's life there.
Aduyn University is located in the middle of the capital of the Zalawi Kingdom, called Ajaxandria. The Zalawi Kingdom is a strategic realm situated on the border of the Eastern World and the Western World, controlling the world's trade routes at the Strait of Basphar.
The Zalawi Kingdom is divided into two large main regions known as the Western Region and the Eastern Region. The Zalawi Kingdom is a small part of the island-filled European world, while the Arab world is a single large continent. The Strait of Basphar is a very important strait serving as the separation between the Arab World and the European World. There are two other worlds: the Chinese World in the North and the Malay World in the South.
Abbas was still mumbling, thinking of a strategy to help his nephew's finances. "Jabr, I am sure our tribe, the famous Lisan Tribe, will help Al-Hakim son of Al-Basir!" Abbas said with a smile, as if the problem were already solved. Jabr remained silently doubtful; he knew that while contributions from the Lisan tribe members might help, he wasn't sure if it would be worth it. Jabr seemed to be thinking of another alternative.
"O my uncle, perhaps I can ask for a small contribution from the Governor of Salamiah. I feel he will help me..." Jabr was somewhat hesitant with his statement, but he felt there was a chance. "You are right! You have solved many problems in this city. I am sure the governor will help you," said Abbas confidently.
They then headed back to Jabr's family home. During the journey back, the lively atmosphere of the market warmed the city's main street. A merchant from Bani Tajir selling spices waved his hand toward Jabr and Abbas. Not far from there, a family from Bani Sanie was busy displaying brightly colored woven fabrics hanging in front of their stall. Several men from Bani Dalil led camels laden with trade goods, followed by a caravan (merchants) from Jazir that had just arrived at the Akazr Market. Jabr bowed in respect to the market guards from Bani Ra'id, who constantly maintained peace at the Akazr Market. Although they came from different clans (Bani), they all resided under one great name: the Lisan Tribe. Jabr and Abbas themselves were not outsiders; they came from Bani Amr, a small clan within the Lisan Tribe known for its love of knowledge.
As they nearly reached Jabr's family home, Abbas turned his aged face toward Jabr with a gentle smile while continuing to walk. "Jabr, what is your ambition after graduating from there? What kind of life do you want to lead, O son of Al-Basir?".
Jabr fell silent, thinking of an answer. "I don't know... maybe I will find out later," he said softly.