Squinting her eyes, Jaliyah tried to see whether there was a trick to the floating bundle of wood. She could detect none. Strange! It must be some kind of magic. she thought and closed her tired eyes.

“Your raft awaits, your highness.” an unfamiliar voice spoke softly.

Jaliyah ripped open her eyes and through gossamer curtains, she could just discern the shape of a boat. She looked down at herself. The white gown was embroidered with colorful birds, leaping gazelles, roaring lions and other unfamiliar mythical beasts.

The curtains parted. A mass of rippling, muscled, ebony flesh greeted her.

I died and went to heaven she thought as her heart beat faster.

She clasped the offered hand and alighted from the carrying chair with unaccustomed grace.

An unintelligible roar escaped the crowd.

Then she was led down some mossy steps to the boat while the masses shouted her name. A slave indicated her place on a divan, again embroidered with similar design as her dress.

I like it. I could get used to this!