Chapter 16: The Legend of Atluri
Jafar al-Sharif slept for two full days following his ritual to save the lives of Umar and Leila. He was unwakable during that interval, the only signs of life being his regular breathing and occasional snores. During this time he was attended constantly by the Jann Cari, who sat beside him and bathed his forehead with a wet cloth. Selima also spent much time by her father’s side; although she was of little physical help, she and Cari both agreed that her presence could only improve Jafar’s spiritual well being.
When Jafar finally did open his eyes, it was nighttime down in the hold, and all was dark except for the lamps that were kept constantly burning. Through half-opened lids he looked up and saw Cari’s face gazing down at him, and her gentle scent of
