Konrad and Alexandra (pdf) - Rolf Gross

After the dance ended, a deep silence fell onto the assembly. One by one the dancers
bowed in front of the sheik. Persephone concluded the sema with a short prayer and soon
most people had gone. Henri waited until only the three of them remained to formally introduce
Alexandra and Konrad to Persephone.
Of swarthy complexion, a haggard eagle nose, an indication of a mustache over full lips
which belied her advanced age, Persephone would have appeared like the Oriental witch
Konrad had envisioned, had it not been for her large, guileless, Byzantine eyes, which with
almost motherly concern sustained his gaze.
"Welcome, Alexandra, daughter of Tamara. I am delighted to finally meet you in person.
Your mother has often spoken of you." And with an unexpectedly warm smile she turned to
Konrad. "Is this the wonderful necklace Henri told me of? The one you made for Alexandra? It
is magnificent. A true Sufi necklace. Konrad, persevere in your love and skills, this woman is
worth all your efforts."
Konrad bowed. How much more civilized this woman was than he had imagined.
Embracing and kissing Persephone they took their leave, and the tune of the neys singing in
their ears wandered out into the night.
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