The Pearl That Broke Its Shell

King Habibullah was crowned two years before the cholera outbreak that killed Shekiba’s family. Because of her sheltered existence, Shekiba is terrified at the prospect of living in the palace. She becomes more desperate to get to the hakim. Shekiba sneaks into town early in the morning. Two men question why she is unchaperoned. She les, telling them Marjan is sick and she was sent to get medicine. One of the men, Muneer, offers to escort her; he will talk to Azizullah later. They go to a store and purchase medicine. Shekiba finally loses Muneer and his son after getting them to point out the hakim’s house. She fears she has gone too far.

Shekiba quickly explains her intent to the hakim: She has the deed to her father’s land and wants to inherit it. Azizullah is approaching, furious. The hakim is confused. Azizullah strikes Shekiba in the head, knocking her down. He curses the Bardari family for giving them Shekiba. He kicks her when the hakim tells him what is going on. Enraged, Shekiba tries to explain her feelings. The hakim says, “Girl, you know nothing of tradition” (123). He tears the deed into pieces.