OSR SS- She hates me, she hates me not! Final pt6-Pg1 updated 21st Sep

PART 2 - To the forests

Jodha's Chamber

Having secured the long pearl chain dangling around the young queen's neck, the doting friend eventually made the final adjustments to the veil. Casting regular glances at the grand mirror in front, Mothi observed her mistress' reflection for an approval. No doubt, she looked ravishing - decked in jewellery befitting her status, yet just enough to be comfortable for an adventurous outing. However; while the regalia and the red ghagra complemented her royal aura, the same could not be said about the persistent sour expressions on Jodha's face.

'Jodha' Mothi spoke up, ceasing the awkward silence between them 'Rajasa and Kunwarsa also used to go hunting...didn't they?'

Bitterly looking away from her reflection, the queen quipped 'But they never forced me to do something against my wishes...' And anyway, that was the LEAST of her issues with this trip she'd been ordered to attend!

Sighing deeply, Mothi placed her hand on her friend's shoulder with a smile and helped her up 'Jodha, he is a strong-willed man...an emperor...it is in his nature to tame anyone that stands against him...do you ever wonder that the emperor possibly likes toying with your patience since you give him good reason to do so...'

Startled, the young queen looked up with an irked frown 'Mothi! What do you suggest? That I sacrifice all of my...'

'Jodha' Mothi interrupted her - she'd uttered more than she'd intended to 'Now, let's forget about all of this...its well past sunrise and the Shehenshah must be waiting for you!'

Gradually, she started guiding the disgruntled queen towards the entrance of their chamber 'Besides, even if you don't participate in the hunt...you can still enjoy the sights of the beautiful forests and the fresh air...furthermore, as we discussed yesterday, you're travelling North-Eastwards...so, you should be passing by the Sacred Temple of Bhagvati Mata which the Shehenshah should be able to take you to...'

Jodha was just about to leave her chamber when Mothi stepped forward and blocked her way 'Wait! You've forgotten one very very important thing!'

The puzzled queen looked at her friend, awaiting a reply.

'Your smile'

Taking a moment to overcome her disgruntlement, Jodha finally gave in to Mothi's antics and broke out into an endearing smile.

The forest

It was nearly noon and a good while since they'd left behind the familiar outskirts of Agra. Having barely stopped for rest since then meant that the group had already entered areas of woodlands that were markedly denser. Vast stretches of thick undergrowth had made travelling cumbersome, but thankfully the tall trees provided welcome respite from the mid-noon heat.

Though restricted within the confines of her palanquin, she'd been enjoying the sounds and smells of the trails so long - be it the rampant cries of the wildlife or the musty smells of damp foliage.

Regularly peeking through the drapes out of casual curiosity, Jodha observed the hunting procession. It was a grand affair indeed. The leading members of the procession were trotting quite far ahead. Yet, it took less than a moment for Jodha to recognize his lustrous turban and distinctive persona. She hadn't exchanged a single glance with him since their not-so-pleasant exchange the previous evening. 'Thank the Lord' she thought.

Led by a group of skilful local tribes the emperor marched towards the heart of the forest while soldiers on horses flanked him on all sides. The rest followed suit - elephants, palanquin bearers, footmen carrying luggage, chefs, attendants and even entertainers!

A thought suddenly struck her and she made a few swift computations with regards to their progress 'It has been more than half a day since we left Agra...we've travelled North Eastwards so long...so, we must be somewhere in the vicinity of Bhagwati Ma Mandir...'

Contemplating on the thought for a moment, the excited queen peeped out.

Quickly summoning one of her palanquin bearers, Jodha reconfirmed her presumption about their whereabouts. Once assured, she wasted no time in instructing him with a message 'I have a message for the Shehenshah that I would like you to convey personally...please let the Emperor know that I request his permission to be able to take a short detour to the Bhagwati Mata temple...it should be situated somewhere around here...I have long wanted to visit this Sacred place...'

Taking leave of the queen with a parting bow, the bearer hastened off to do as told.

**********

Twirling the ends of her veil within her fingers, the queen watched on - she'd been restlessly awaiting news for a while now. Growing up in Amer, she'd heard many beautiful things about the Goddess. Why, her dadisa had even recited many tales of how powerful and miraculous this deity was. Paying a visit to this temple had been a long-standing wish of hers. After all, this was the only feature of this expedition that she was enthused about!

Eventually noticing the attendant's re-emerging figure, Jodha eagerly parted the drapes of her palanquin - the anticipation on her face evident!

Stationing himself in front of her parked palanquin, the modest man bowed his head 'I apologize for my impudence Begum Sahiba... however I am only delivering the Shehenshah's words as he conveyed them to me...the Emperor has sternly refused to oblige your wishes...he has also requested you not to delay the progress of the group by making any further trivial requests along the way...I apologize once again Begum...'

She instantly felt her heart sink 'What?No...' she couldn't believe what she'd just heard.

It was not just a mere refusal, it was a rebuff! Taking a few moments to come to terms with the facts, Jodha's disappointment soon enough gave way to displeasure, which eventually amplified into bitter annoyance!

**********************

Campsite - The Tent

'Begum Sahiba...' one of the maids had unwittingly informed her during their idle conversation sometime earlier 'On our hunting trips... its customary that whatever animals the Emperor's troupe returns with is used by the chef to prepare our night feast...it is a matter of pride for the King and for us...aren't we fortunate to be blessed with such an adventurous Emperor?'

'Animals? Night feast? Fortunate?' The very thought had killed her appetite!

Having travelled relentlessly, the party had finally found a suitable safe spot to set up camp only late at noon. However, the energetic young king hadn't squandered any time reposing in his tent. Refreshing himself in a jiffy, Jalal had set out on his hunt with the tribes soon after - returning only when it was dark! It'd been a while since he'd set foot in such dense jungles and the lure of the sport was just too tempting to resist!

However, she'd had little else to do. Staring through the tent apertures at the night sky, the lonely queen sat idly on her luxuriant couch.

'Oh! How I wish Mothi was here' she sighed unhappily casting a half-hearted gaze at the not-so-indulgent maids sitting near the entrance of her tent.

She was disheartened...bored...irked...fatigued...hungry...frustrated - you name it! Being cooped up in a makeshift tent from sunset till nightfall had taken its toll on her spirits. He hadn't consented to let her visit the temple then - and now, he wasn't permitting her to step out of the camp for a stroll.

During both instances she'd remembered her friend's words with unease 'It is in his nature to tame anyone that stands against him...do you ever wonder that the emperor possibly likes toying with your patience since you give him good reason to do so...'

******

'Mashallah!'

She woke up with a startle - the familiar voice appeared to come from close by.

Opening her eyes, the queen looked up - she hadn't expected to find herself greeted by his charming grin. Flustered, she swiftly studied her whereabouts - unbeknown to her, she'd just dozed off on the couch in her tent.

Instantly straightening herself, Jodha sat up and adjusted the veil on her head - trying to avert his gazes all through.

However, the unruffled Jalal had no reason to flinch. He casually continued from where he'd paused 'Mashallah! From where I'm standing, the moon does indeed appear very very alluring tonight...'

Taken aback, she stared at him. For a moment she didn't know how to react to the flirtatious remark - as though his presence was not unsettling enough! Much as she tried - she couldn't stop the flushed colour spreading to her cheeks. Worse; she could notice the maids giggling at her predicament, in the corner.

Observing Jodha's abashed frowns, Jalal hastily pointed to the beautiful spectacle in the dark sky 'What happened Begum...I was only referring to the full moon in the skies...' he broke out into a mischievous frown 'I hope you didn't assume something else...'

'W...w..what?' she was lost for words. He was having his fun at her expense and he was thoroughly enjoying it. She didn't know why she felt offended and THAT made her even more annoyed. Nevertheless, she deliberately continued evading his hypnotic gazes.

Smirking to himself, Jalal nonchalantly resumed their conversation 'I heard that you have not had your dinner yet...' he paused with authority 'Shehenshah Jalal would not even allow his guest to go to bed hungry... you are his Begum, after all'

'N...no...I ...am not...really...h..hungry' she protested - her unhappiness evident

Not minding her words, the Emperor proceeded to clap his hands as a signal. Thereafter, a bevy of attendants made their way into her tent with bowls of hot food, plates and goblets 'All of these items have been prepared exclusively for you...SEPARATELY... in special cauldrons that were only used to make VEGETARIAN dishes...'

She was compelled to look at him now. She didn't know whether she had to be grateful for this gesture of his or remain suspicious of his intentions - so, she just stayed quiet!

'I'll join you if you need company' he offered - barely hiding the mischief in his voice

She was quick to respond 'N...no that would not be necessary'

He watched her reluctance to proceed 'I have always respected your sentiments at Agra...why did you think it would be any different here on this instance?'

'Respect my sentiments?' she couldn't help but silently sneer at the irony.

However, her displeasure didn't go unnoticed.

'Takhliya' he ordered soon after, taking her by surprise

'What did he want now?' she wondered. Disguising her curiosity, Jodha watched on as the slew of maids and attendants left them to their privacy

He stepped closer to her - close enough that he could look directly into her eyes 'What is your gripe Begum Jodha?'

Sighing deeply, Jodha eventually overcame her reservations and returned the pleasure by staring back into his eyes 'Shehenshah...if you indeed respect my sentiments as you claim...' she paused -trying to choose her words carefully

'Pray continue...' he prodded on

'Shehenshah...then, why did you not permit me to step out for a stroll now...a short while ago?'

'For your safety...this is a forest...it was past sunset...' the proud king broke into a whisper 'MY begums don't go for recreational strolls past this hour...'

'Shehenshah...then, why did you not allow me to visit Bhagwati Mata Mandir earlier today?'

He studied her adorable temperament - his 'NO' had definitely offended her 'Again, for the sake of safety' he justified 'That area has been known to be the haunt of many-a-bandit'

Still unconvinced, she moved on to her next issue - there was no stopping her 'If you respect my sentiments... then, why did you throw that plate at my Kanha Mandir yesterday...you didn't even listen to what I had to say...'

Though only for a moment, it was HIS turn to avert HER gaze now. His teasing smiles had given way to a momentary frown. She had a point. He shruged his shoulder subtly- his pride not allowing him to mete a proper apology 'I was angry...I realize I acted impulsively...it was not meant to be a slight against your place of worship...'

He redirected his gazes towards her again - realizing soon enough that she was not one to be impressed by his large ego!

'Shehenshah...why did you force me to come here when you are aware that I do not enjoy hunting?'

Amused by her perseverance, Jalal couldn't help but erupt into the slightest smile 'Mashallah! You do have a long list of gripes against me, don't you?'

However, he didn't reply this time - he waited for her to study his expressions instead.

Just as he'd hoped, Jodha derived her answer from his impish grins 'It is in his nature to tame anyone that stands against him...the emperor possibly likes toying with your patience since you give him good reason to do so...'

The discomforting thought gnawed at her. Suddenly reminded of the fact that the couple had been gazing at each other for longer than necessary, she broke away from his sight. Hassled, she decided to bring their tense exchanges to an end 'Fine Shehenshah...I shall go out for a stroll tomorrow morning then...and thank you for the meal now...'

There! She'd conceded to all his orders, so he shouldn't have a problem with her final request - or so she thought!

Following a brief pause, he smoothly reverted with a caution 'Not beyond the camp-site...'

'W...what! But why...' She couldn't believe her ears 'I've come all this way...only to...'

'I...said...no...you...shall...NOT Begum Jodha!' his tone was more assertive this time

His mind-games had already rattled her enough- and now this! Jodha questioned the Emperor in desperation 'Shehenshah! Then, what am I supposed to do here?'

Pausing to 'tut-tut' with mock empathy, he reminded her of why he'd brought her along 'If you like, you can come hunting with me tomorrow morning in order to give me company...'

Mischievously winking at his speechless queen, the spirited Emperor then offered Jodha a final salutation before leaving her presence for the night.

The end😳

Part 3 - The forest spells trouble...

At a clearing, a considerable distance from the camp

'Wow look there' Jodha pointed to a grey langur feasting on an oddly-shaped fruit on a tall tree. Transfixed, Jodha stood back watching the animal - her face showing no signs of the previous day's disappointments.

She couldn't understand why the king wouldn't permit her to enjoy such a beautiful setting 'Possibly another one of his sadistic ploys to annoy me' she thought

Needless to say, she'd politely turned down his offer that morning - refusing to accompany him 'Nature and all of its forms is to be explored' she'd reminded him 'Not to be hunted down!'

Once Jalal had set out on his expedition, the restless queen had decided to step out for a breath of fresh air. She didn't want to remain cooped in her tent for the rest of the day like a glorified slave. Initially, she'd meant to restrict her outing within the vicinity of their site. However; smitten by her glorious surroundings, Jodha had gradually and steadily breached her boundaries. The further she wandered - the more natural wonders she discovered!

'Begum Sahiba'

The voice drew her out of her trance.

'I think we have drifted a considerable distance from our tents' the maid anxiously studied their environment 'I am concerned for our safety'

'Safety?' Jodha turned back to check on the two armed guards who'd been loyally trailing behind their group of three 'We are safe, don't worry...'

'We've been away for a while now ...' the other maid added 'Others might be worried now...besides, if the Emperor unexpectedly returns before us and finds us absent...'

Sigh! How she wished she didn't have to - the very thought felt depressing. However, she knew better than to provoke the king's temper . Letting out a deep sigh, Jodha relented 'Fine...let's leave otherwise...' she paused - something had caught her attention.

The grey langur that'd been perched on the tree so long had now scampered down and was rushing along to join its family some distance away - a large family made up of all sorts, sizes and kinds of langurs!

'Look there' Jodha indicated to the reunion excitedly. She HAD to see this for herself.

'B...but Begum Sahiba...p...please wait...'

Too late! The queen was already on her way to observe the sight.

**********

The dense wilderness

They'd had a very good session so long. He'd managed to come across a good variety of game and animals. Capturing this particularly evasive doe would be another feather on his cap. His men waited with bated breath as Jalal drew his bow.

Perched on his magnificent horse, the emperor's entire concentration lay on the tip of his arrow. Handsomely athletic by form, his face looked even more charming - what with him thoroughly enjoying the sweet thrill of his sport. Then, an unexpected gentle gust of wind ruffled his brown hair - the very breeze that'd seemed to somehow alert the animal of his presence.

The doe turned around. Fortunately for her, she'd spotted him. Jalal didn't move. He was just about to let go of his arrow when for some reason - unbeknown to him - he observes the deer's long brown eyes. The captivating gaze seemed to remind him of someone 'Nature and all of its forms is to be explored, not to be hunted down!'

He instantly shot the arrow off. TWANG!

The arrow had missed its mark letting the lucky doe disappear into the thickets in a flash. His concentration had floundered for a moment there. He hated being beaten at his own game. Gritting his teeth, Jalal silently cursed himself - after all, he had none else to blame.

However, his anger was short-lived.

He'd detected something odd a long distance away - strange sounds of some sort. He couldn't guess precisely from where, though. It didn't sound like an animal. It sounded like something far more sinister.

Then, they heard the noises again!

************

The clearing

'Begum Sahiba..forgive me for my insolence...' one guard eventually spoke up 'However, you've come here without the Shehenshah's permission...it would be better for us to return now...if the Shehenshah comes to know of this, we'll pay for it with our lives...besides, it is going to take us a very long time to trace our route...' his words were cut short.

Out of the blue, the monkeys had started behaving oddly. In a matter of moments, the animals had started evacuating the area in escalating panic - disappearing into any shelter they could find. By the time Jodha and her alarmed group could understand what was happening, they heard the sounds of horse-hooves approaching them.

Realizing thereafter what was happening, one guard instantly turned to the maids and shouted out instructions 'Take Begum Sahiba and run for your lives...' he selflessly passed his sword to Jodha 'Run Begum...we're being attacked by bandits!'

Jodha was horrified. It took a moment for reality to sink in 'Lord! What have I done?'

'If you are unable to run...find a suitable place to hide...' the other guard urged in desperation 'Stay as quiet as you can...we'll try and fend these men for as long as we can...'

'Now GO...all of you'

The serene spot had now transformed into a place of mayhem. Quickly grasping that they had no time to squander, Jodha snapped out of her daze and grabbed the wrists of her female companions - compelling them to run as fast as they could! However, the dismayed queen knew that their small group was no match for a bunch of seasoned dacoits. It was only a matter of time now!

**********

The dense wilderness

'Did you hear that?' Jalal hurriedly asked his aides -not letting his anxiety show

'Yes Shehenshah...' one soldier agreed 'I think it came from that direction...'

'No Shehenshah...' another guard panicked 'The noises are coming from this way...don't you think...'

'I don't have to THINK...' Jalal barked back 'I KNOW where its coming from...now stop squabbling and follow me...'

Suddenly, a distinctly audible chilling scream forced the men to fall quiet.

Right away; Jalal grabbed the reins of his steed with brute force, kicked the spurs on his horse and flew off in the direction of the disturbing noises - his guards galloping right behind him.

*********

The clearing

She hadn't given up hope. They'd run as fast as they could. Nevertheless, how could they outrun horses? They'd tried hiding too. However, these goons knew their forest inside-out. Having massacred the two guards in a matter of moments, the seven bandits had successfully followed the trail of the ladies and caught up with them in no time.

Quivering; Jodha stood up to face the frightful thug who'd pitted his sword against hers.

'Looks like its our lucky day' one of the men sneered as they lay their lusty eyes on the prize

'Are you referring to the exquisite jewellery...or to the delightful young lady wearing them...' another jested

'BOTH!'

They all broke out into fits of laughter.

Daunted by what seemed like a hideous end to their lives, the maids started sobbing in fear. However, the lone queen tried her best to uphold her fortitude. She'd brought this fate upon them - the least she could do was fight to save her honour and her maids'.

She'd tried threatening the men by letting them know who she was - but, they didn't really believe her. Even if they did, these men seemed to fear nothing - not even a mention of the Shehenshah's name! She'd tried bribing them with her jewellery, pleading with them - nothing seemed to work. They were determined to have their way! Ultimately, she decided to the do the only thing she could - fight them to her death.

Mentally muttering her prayers, Jodha tightened her grip around her sword. Amused by the queen's defiant stance, three of the ruffians casually advanced towards her.

Wisely taking advantage of their laid-back approach, the brave queen acted in a flash. Veering clear of two men, Jodha struck her sword at the third without any warning and maimed him in the process. The group watched in shock as their companion fell down shrieking in pain. Their plastered wry smiles had disappeared in a jiffy. No longer amused, the two others charged ahead immediately.

Jodha put on a brave front for long - defending herself and fending off their assaults. Why, she'd even managed to injure another thug in the process.

However, they were stronger men and they did do this for a living. Thus; despite her skills with the sword, the lone queen was outnumbered and eventually exhausted. Try much as she could - she couldn't keep up.

The men gradually surrounded her on all sides. While one clutched her arms from behind to restrain her, the other seized her weapon. Ensuing a series of maniacal laughs, the criminals observed their victim heartily. They'd been WAITING for this - after all she was one of the most beautiful women they'd ever set their sights upon!

Pinned down against her wishes, Jodha desperately tried fighting her captors- unable to stop the tears flowing from her face any more! Just as one of the bandits came close to her face, she looked away and shut her eyes with a prayer.

Then, following the screams and struggle - there was a spell of stillness!

Eventually compelled to open her eyes, Jodha looked up at her assailant's face. The ruffian had been paralyzed - what with an arrow now lodged in his neck. While the dead man slumped to the floor lifeless, the remaining startled thugs loosened their holds on Jodha.

'Shehenshah' the maid shrieked in alarm 'Please save us...'

It took her a moment to realize what was going on, but the frantic queen soon noticed his emerging silhouette in the horizon. NEVER had she been so RELIEVED to see the emperor approaching her!

As Jalal and his troops raced towards the dacoits, he appeared formidably threatening on his horse - the blaze in his eyes and the rage in his pace evident! It was their turn to panic now. Scurrying to grab their weapons, the thugs attempted to mount their horses and escape. However, the cunning emperor was not going to let them evade their sorry fate. How dare they attempt to lay their hands on what was his and HIS ONLY!

'Aim at the horses...' he yelled at his guards 'Leave the men alive for ME to deal with'

While his soldiers followed orders and begun taking their aim, Jalal thundered ahead to catch up with the mob before they could leave.

Just as expected, his plan worked. The tumbling horses brought down their riders to the ground one after another. Grabbing his sword, Jalal jumped off and faced the five thugs single-handedly. What followed was a bloody carnage of sorts - the first time that Jodha had witnessed so brutal a form of his!

The Emperor's fine weapon and agile swordsmanship gradually reduced the proud men to nothing. By the end of it all, Jalal had made each one grovel for pity before proceeding to execute them mercilessly. Finally, he turned to confront the only goon left standing - the leader of the gang. Briefly pausing to break out into a scornful smile, Jalal started battling his opponent - unaware of the morbid intentions of an injured dacoit lying behind him.

Taking advantage of the emperor's ongoing distraction, the wounded dacoit slyly picked up a knife lying beside and commenced inching ahead.

'Shehenshah! behind you' Jodha shouted out to warn the Emperor

However, her unexpected scream had ended up rattling the king - he'd never heard her call out to him thus. An otherwise perceptive warrior, Jalal's concentration faltered for a moment and he lost his footing in the duel.

The injured thug was about to attack - there was no time to lose! Grabbing a sword, Jodha blitzed ahead to stop the man in his tracks. Before Jalal could fully comprehend the unfolding events, she'd managed to jab the weapon into the injured bandit - but only just as the man had struck his knife upon the queen in defence.

'JODHAAA!'

************

'What did YOU think you were doing? Why did you STEP OUT OF THE CAMP when I'd ORDERED you NOT to do so? Look at the CONSEQUENCES of YOUR ACTIONS' he vented out his frustrations as he temporarily supported the wounded queen on his lap.

No sooner than he'd executed their leader, Jalal had rushed to be by her side. The forlorn guards stood back and watched as the maids attended to her. Assisted by the two ladies, the king dabbed a large clean cloth to stop the blood oozing from the deep gash across her shoulder. Looking up at the now-frail Jodha, he continued with vehemence 'Two soldiers lost their lives today because of you...YOU would have lost yours too had I NOT COME ON TIME...do YOU take fancy in FLOUTING MY ORDERS time and again? This sort of behaviour does NOT befit a BEGUM...do you..'

'Shehenshah' the weakened Jodha murmured, interrupting his angry tirade 'it hurts...a lot' her voice trailed off

The distressed emperor watched her pale face and her sinking form. The anger in his brown eyes receded away. She looked so vulnerable - he wasn't used to seeing her so. Her words had brought about an unexplained lump in his throat.

Snapping out of his restless stupor, he yelled his orders out to his guards - his voice now a deafening roar 'Let's not waste time...mount your horses...we have to hurry back...one of you rush ahead and inform the Hakim to have everything ready...I'll bring her along...NOW!'

The end😳

PART 4 - On her road to recovery...

Jodha's tent

His one hand still majestically held behind his back, Jalal casually balanced the small goblet in the other one as he made his way through her tent. The atmosphere was obviously tense. The physician's paraphernalia was being arranged, clean muslins were being set out and pots of hot water being brought in. In the centre of it all lay the injured queen - the discomfort she was going through apparent from the distressed frowns on her face.

'She refused to take this concoction Shehenshah!' the maid had informed him 'Hakim Sahib advises it would be better for her if she did...'

With her escalating turmoil, Jodha couldn't care less about who her latest visitor was. On the contrary; ever since he'd stepped in his sights were fixed on her - on her sorry state. The entire situation was something he wasn't familiar with. For starters, none of the other women from his harem had done what she'd done - risked her life to save his!

Consequently disregarding his thoughts, the pensive Jalal approached Jodha's bed and took his seat beside her. She appeared so different - so unpretentious without any of the jewellery and adornments he'd been used to seeing her with. A soft smile having found its way back on his lips, Jalal waited for her to respond. She looked up at him.

Just then, his inadvertent glance fell upon the gash on her shoulder.

'Lord!' she silently cried in despair, looking at the now exposed skin on her neck and right shoulder - as though the ordeal she was already enduring wasn't sufficient! Cringing in embarrassment, the flustered queen pulled up her sheets in modesty - forgetting about her throbbing pain for a moment.

'The maids informed me that you refused to have this concoction' Jalal spoke up, attempting to distract her from the noticeable awkwardness she felt by his presence 'Why, may I ask?'

Hesitantly reverting her gazes back to him, she observed his face. There was no hint of sadism or sarcasm in his expressions - had he genuinely visited her out of empathy? 'Couldn't be' she thought.

'N...n...no thank you Shehenshah' she went on to reply feebly 'I...I..c..can't have this...the maids explained that this was an o..o...opium concoction...'

She'd never observed any of the women in her household consume intoxicants and her simple traditional self just did not permit her to do so either -so what if she was utterly horrified of the impending procedure.

'It'll help you with the pain' he reiterated with concern

'N..no thank you' she repeated, looking away unhappily. Despite the anguish she was in, her defiance seemed as resolute as ever!

Baffled by her stance, Jalal turned to glimpse at the needle that Hakim baba was heating up. He'd undergone numerous such procedures himself in the short course of his battle-ridden life. However, for some reason he couldn't watch her - a woman - go through with it all.

Raising his finger, he deliberately indicated to the needle so she'd see what was to come. Just like he'd hoped, Jodha unwittingly turned to notice what the Hakim was doing. Her stubborn determination deflated in a flash. The colour steadily draining from her face, she glanced back at the king - the terror in her weary eyes barely hidden.

Grabbing the goblet from his hand, she gulped its unpleasant contents in an instant - wondering when her agony would end!

**********************

'Shehenshah...Rajputs are the bravest clan ever to have walked this Earth' she muttered angrily amidst shrieks of pain

He let out a smirk 'Honestly speaking Begum Jodha...I am yet to see enough of this Rajput bravery you boast about...'

Even in her half-dazed state she couldn't help but fume at the insulting remarks 'How dare he humiliate my people'

She begun stammering in distress - unaware that she'd been clenching the wrist of the very man she was feuding with so long 'S..Shehenshah...we Rajputs fight justly and therefore faced many losses of late...if not, none can defeat our warriors or their swords in a fair battle...'

He couldn't help but feel surprised at how feverishly devoted she was to her motherland and family - so much so that she could ignore her physical turmoil in order to defend their honour!

He continued as he studied her pale quivering lips - his voice steady 'Why, take your brother Sujamal for instance...you say he is a fearsome warrior...that he taught you how to fight...yet, by observing your sword-skills, I'd say he was nothing beyond ordinary at best!'

She grew livid with rage! Here she was - wrestling with pain after having saved his life, while he continued to taunt her and her family! 'If it weren't for me...' she started to retaliate and then abruptly stopped

'AAARGH...O...o...o...o...OUCH...'

The unimaginable pain compelled her to snap out of her anger as the Hakim carried on with doing the stitches. Watching the tears trickling down her eyes, Jalal darted a grim glance at the Hakim - it was nearly over, thankfully.

Looking back at Jodha who was once again squirming in misery, he incited her further with a wry frown 'Even if you hadn't stepped in Begum Jodha, I would have saved myself...I am perfectly capable of doing so...'

'Shehenshah...' her voice was now audibly sinking 'How could you be so heartless...s...so t...thankless...'

He sombrely watched as her form thereafter turned lifeless. She'd lost her consciousness just as the procedure had come to its end. 'At least she is out of her misery now' he thought

He glimpsed down at his hand - her hand still remained firmly wrapped around his wrist. She'd been subconsciously holding on to his wrist ever since the beginning - with no idea of how deeply her fingers had entrenched in his skin while doing so.

Slowly removing her grip from his hand, Jalal noticed the reddened impressions on his wrist. Letting out a subtle grin, he observed her still fingers that now lay in his palm - how tender they seemed! After a quiet moment by himself, Jalal gingerly replaced her hand on the bed once again.

'She should start recovering in the next two days Shehenshah...'

Snapping out of his daze, Jalal turned his attention to the Hakim. Nodding his head in gratitude, the Emperor then stood up once again - reverting to his imperial manner and authoritative form in a matter of moments. His hands yet again behind his back, the king made his way out of the tent just as he'd entered it a short while ago.

**************

The Emperor's tent

'No Shehenshah...I apologize for bringing you no positive news...her fever has not subsided yet' the maid informed him as she stood there with a pitiful expression.

He'd received the same update umpteen number of times now ! The queen's health was showing showed no signs of improving - her fever no signs of abating.

After dismissing the maid, Jalal plonked on his plush couch- rubbing his forehead in worry. This unexpected delay was costing him dearly. There were pressing matters to deal with at Agra that he HAD to tend to. However, there was no way he would leave behind his ailing begum in the middle of the forest at the mercy of his troops and her maids.

'Guards' he ordered a short while thereafter 'Send for my scribe...I have a few messages I need sent to Agra'

If he couldn't be with his counsellors soon enough, he obviously needed to let them know of it.

*********

The Emperor's tent

'Your absence is sorely felt at court, Shehenshah...the farmers are unhappy with...'

'There are rumours doing rounds that some of the court nobles are plotting against...'

'Shehenshah, the rebellion at Melwa is not under control yet...'

His thoughts kept lingering on the myriad of information he'd received from Agra that noon. In response to his message, his trusted ministers had sent him numerous scrolls - updating him on the not-so-pleasant matters of the court. Preoccupied with political issues and utterly stressed by the turn of events, the Emperor was finding it difficult to maintain his composure any longer.

'You'd advised me she would be on her road to recovery 3 days ago Hakim baba' he thundered angrily, as he took fierce strides in his tent 'I don't see any such signs...and trust me, I've waited long enough!'

'I apologize Shehenshah, but I am trying my best...'the old man responded in earnest

Walking up to the helpless man, Jalal quizzed him sardonically 'Are you telling me that you are incompetent or that you were lying?'

'Neither Shehenshah...' he paused in fear 'But, she is not yet fit to travel...we are trying our best to bring her temperature down...but her health is...'

'I'll give you two more days at most...' he cut the Hakim's words - glaring into his anxious eyes 'If I hear nothing positive by then, be ready to face the consequences Hakim!'

The old man was rattled. However, he had little go but to offer a humble salutation to the king and leave him to his troubled solitude - while hoping their fortunes would take a turn for the better soon enough!

************

Jodha's tent

As the first rays of that particularly glorious morning fell upon her ashen face, she took everyone by surprise when she responded by scrunching her eyes. Opening her eyes took more effort than she'd ever known and when she did, everything appeared blurred. She heard a few voices hover over her as she struggled to regain her focus. Following a few moments of fuzzy blankness, she gradually begun comprehending her environment and most importantly recollecting the events right up to her final moments of consciousness.

'Shukran Allah'

Shaken from her stupor, Jodha looked up at the old Hakim. He seemed to breathe a heavy sigh of relief as he palpated her forehead 'You are showing signs of recovery Begum sahiba...your wounds are healing ...but, you've lost your strength...so you must eat well to regain your health...'

A soft smile escaped her lips, as she faintly nodded in acknowledgement.

'I need not fear the Emperor's wrath now...my head is safe...' the frail man went on to jest 'He wanted you well enough to be able to travel tomorrow and I've successfully fulfilled his wish... thanks to Allah'

The pleasant smile that'd just begun creeping up on her feeble lips disappeared in a jiffy.

'Now rest Begum Sahiba...'

A short while after the Hakim had left, a few ladies went on to assist the queen. They carefully helped her sit up and gave her hot broth to make her feel better. As the flustered Jodha winced in pain all through, she inadvertently recollected recent incidents

'Even if you hadn't stepped in Begum Jodha, I would have saved myself...I am perfectly capable of doing so...'

In spite of her feeble condition, the first emotion that returned to her was that of inexplicable rage. Not only had the King never bothered thanking her for saving his life, he'd actually humiliated her and her family. To top it all, he appeared to have no sympathy for her plight whatsoever - compelling her to travel back to Agra to suit his convenience!

'How could one be so cruel...so heartless...he makes it so easy to hate him so' she seethed

Just as one of the female attendants finished redressing the gash, the queen grimaced at the agony she was being subjected to. Her mind still racing with thoughts on the callous nature of the king, she complained aloud 'I can barely sit up...and the Emperor expects me to travel in this condition tomorrow...all the way to Agra...'

Listening to her protests, the maids smiled at one another understandingly 'We empathize with your plight Begum Sahiba... however, we heard that many problems have risen in court during the Shehenshah's absence... we must understand his urgency to return...'

'Well..setting out on this ridiculous hunting trip with me was his idea, after all!' Looking up at her attendants, she mumbled irately 'Anyway, he could have at least give me a day to recover...how can...'

Listening to the queen's words the ladies abruptly stopped whatever they were doing!

While Jodha grew increasingly intrigued by their puzzled reactions, one of the maids spoke up on behalf of the rest 'One day? Begum Sahiba...he's been waiting for five days now...'

'FIVE DAYS?' Jodha nearly yelled.

'Yes Begum ...didn't you realize...you've been barely conscious for the past five days?'

Jodha needed a short while to come to terms with reality - she'd just learnt of the fact that five days had passed by that she had no account of!

'He didn't want to leave you behind in our care and proceed to Agra by himself...he waited behind for you to recover...' another lady enlightened her 'You speak ill of our Emperor Begum Sahiba...but, he is very benevolent indeed...'

Jodha couldn't help but smirk at the remark. If he was benevolent indeed, she was definitely not at the receiving end of it. The annoyed queen argued softly 'Well then...why didn't he thank me for my gesture once...instead, he went on to offend my family...not once did he come enquiring after my health, but he wants me to recover soon so he can return to Agra...' the resentful queen looked away bitterly.

Following a brief pause, the ladies in the room broke out into fits of uncontrollable giggles.

'What happened?' Jodha queried after a moment - unable to hide her innocent frustrations 'Why are all you giggling now?'

Regrouping herself, one of the maids approached Jodha and sat beside her 'Begum Sahiba forgive our impudence...but, due to your anger against the Shehenshah you fail to see what's obvious...he never meant to offend you in any way that day...he was only speaking ill of your family so that your attention would be diverted from the terrifying ordeal you were going through'

'Shehenshah has been so restless ever since your health took a turn for the worse...' one more maid added 'You are unaware Sahiba, but he visited your tent many times in the last five days... spending many moments beside you...'

The perturbed Jodha remained silent as she listened to their justifications. She was not going to be convinced - well, she chose not to be!

'Personally supervising your care every now and again...' another joined in

'Tenderly feeling your forehead to check if your fever had subsided...'

While the ladies whispered mischievously amidst themselves, Jodha looked up at their faces in bewilderment.

Watching the queen's fazed stares, an older maid walked up to Jodha - trying to put her mind to rest once and for all 'Trust us Sahiba, when we say that in those moments that he wished for your speedy recovery, he was definitely not thinking so because he needed to return to his court...'

PART 5 - Unfamiliar emotions

Jodha's tent

Running her fingers through her long tresses, she continued gazing at her image in the mirror as she sat on her silken couch. Though naturally blessed with beauty, the illness had definitely taken its toll on her radiant splendour. However, THAT was not what Jodha was musing on as she studied her solitary reflection that lazy afternoon. Nor was it the stinging pain caused by her partly-healed wound that she was brooding about. It was something else altogether that she was trying to understand - her emotions. Her outrage had now mellowed into something unfamiliar - something that seemed more like 'guilt'.

She didn't know what to make of it all. For starters, she didn't want to believe any of the information that her maids had conveyed to her that morning.

'You are only saying so because he is your Emperor...and it is your duty to support him' she'd rejected their tall claims with indifference

However, they'd reiterated the validity of their accounts over and over again 'Begum Sahiba...its true...' 'We swear on our lives...' 'We don't lie...'

Either way, those significant bits of information had replayed in her mind more than once since that morning

'He must have visited your tent many times in the last five days...personally supervising your care...and trust us, when we say that in those moments that he wished for your speedy recovery, he was definitely not thinking so because he needed to return to court'

The escalating agony in her shoulder inadvertently compelled her to snap out of her dilemma 'Anyway, why should I feel guilty for wrongly assuming a few things about him?' Jodha placated herself 'After all, this small blip does not change facts - that Shehenshah is by nature a tyrant!'

The troubled queen then decided to call out to her maids - the burning spasms in her shoulder had begun tormenting her more than ever 'Aliya...please fetch the Hakim baba'

There was no response.

She called out again - her tone markedly agitated this time 'Waajida...the wound is stinging ...can you please...'

She was surprised. There was still no response.

Carefully turning around, the queen observed the entrance of her tent to look for them. However, she was taken aback by what she saw. There he stood, looking as resplendent as ever. For some reason, she hadn't expected his visit then. A distinct sense of discomfort immediately overcame her. As it is, her bruise was giving her enough grief - and now this!

While Jalal gradually made his way through the tent towards her, Jodha uncomfortably attempted to pull her veil over her exposed shoulder. Nodding in response to his genial salutations, she silently turned away from his presence and back to face the dresser. Looking up at the mirror, she watched his emerging image in it. As he came up to stand right behind her, she couldn't help but recall their last meeting together.

'I was unable to come pay you a visit this morning due to some other issues...' he addressed her through her reflection in the mirror 'However, I am glad to see you are better now'

She responded with a faint smirk 'Thank you Shehenshah...anyway, I heard you'd paid me quite a few visits in the past few days' The remark was blunt, but the rebel in her wanted to gauge his reactions.

The spirited Emperor grew intrigued as he tried to understand what she was hinting at. He played along - retaliating with a mischievously haughty frown 'Well...I had no other go...I needed to see how you were doing...my return to Agra was unexpectedly delayed by your condition, you see...' he paused 'Why, did I do anything wrong?'

She was right. He was as egoistic as ever - and to think that a short while ago she'd nearly wondered if he'd changed 'Oh! Nothing' she replied- the sarcasm in her tone obvious 'Only that your manner of expressing gratitude is quite different to any I've witnessed Shehenshah...'

Surveying her expressions in the mirror, he questioned with mock innocence 'Why, have I not done something I should be doing Begum Jodha?' He knew precisely what she was expecting.

'Shehenshah...if you do not have any appreciation for my actions, the least you could do is NOT taunt me for them...' she mumbled in annoyance 'Anyway, I was wrong to expect ANY gratefulness from you...'

'Appreciation? Gratefulness?' he shrugged lightly 'For what?'

'For having saved your life, of course!' she'd nearly yelled there

He hadn't realized how far he'd missed having glimpses of her flaming temperament the past few days. There was no question he was enjoying this. Folding his hands, Jalal gazed at her with an air of authority 'From what I remember, I'd specifically asked you NOT to go out on your own...you disobeyed me...so, you want me to appreciate that?' he broke out into a subtle smile 'Besides, 'I' was the one who'd saved YOUR life...and I don't recollect YOU thanking ME for it either...'

There was a long pause in the room - very long! The frustrated queen looked away from his wry stares. Whichever way she debated it, he still had a point!

'Fine...' she eventually ceased the awkward silence with a disgruntled stare 'S...Sorry for my actions that day...and thank YOU for saving my life Shehenshah!'

'You are welcome' he saluted her. He was then about to walk away in his characteristic manner with a grin that obviously read I-won-again!

She couldn't believe it! He'd MADE her apologize AND thank him, without a single hint of obligation towards her.

'Shehenshah!' she uttered loudly. The unwitting queen stood up and swayed around to counter this game he'd started.

A-A-R-G-H!

She'd forgotten about her injury. Her abrupt movements had caused the smarting pangs to return - with a vengeance!

She sat back on her divan, wincing aloud.

'You are impulsive, Begum Jodha' he muttered as he noticed her suffer the repercussions of her careless actions

'Only around you...'

The hostile couple paused there for a second. In her grievance, she'd uttered more than she'd intended to.

Quickly attempting to recover from her slip-up, Jodha addressed him with a bitter glare 'Shehenshah...I was hoping the Hakim baba would be here now since you require me to be fit to travel by tomorrow... forgive me...but, can I request you to please...'

'Shhh!' he gently shushed her as he placed his sword on the ground and came up to stand right behind her. She watched in horror as he leaned over to study the bruise - barely a hair's breadth away from her. She turned to glare at him. His eyes were soft as he gazed back into her guarded eyes. While she sat agape, Jalal arched over to peruse through the array of medicinal bowls placed on the dresser in front of them. Casually grabbing a small bowl of medicinal oil, he concocted his own mixture by dropping a pinch of few herbs into it - aware of the startled look on her face while he did so.

Dabbing a tiny bit of fresh muslin into it, he returned to revert his undivided attention to her.

'W...what..a..are you..d..doing S...Shehenshah' the exasperated Jodha muttered 'I...I...can take care...of...myself..'

'Ssshhh!'

As he drew near her, she could feel her heart racing faster and faster. The intensifying flutter she felt was stranger than anything she'd ever experienced.

Proceeding to squeeze four drops of the herbal oil on her wound, Jalal looked up at her ashen face to gauge her reaction. He was so close, she could smell the fragrance of attar in his silky hair - so close, he could almost feel her silky skin. Mortified, Jodha shut her eyes and looked away. He couldn't help smiling to himself.

While Jodha struggled to fathom her escalating restlessness, she was left a confounded mess. Gradually, she felt his lips come close to her shoulder. She didn't know what the king intended to do, but she didn't dare open her eyes. She wanted to revolt but words failed to escape her parched lips - all she did was sit limp. She wanted to resist his charms, but the naive queen knew not how to. The unfamiliar sensation of his heavy breath beside her ears - his lips next to her skin - had roused a passion, she didn't know existed within her.

Just when she thought she could take it no longer - she suddenly sensed a cool breeze brush past her bruise. Much as she couldn't stand the fire burning inside her, the relief his actions were giving her injured skin was so soothing!

He continued tenderly blowing on her gash, her bare shoulders, her soft neck - revelling in the rare proximity he was enjoying with her. He watched her heightening anxiety with a teasing grin - no doubt, his vulnerable queen appeared as endearing as could be!

Then, he stopped - with no warning whatsoever.

Alarmed, Jodha was abruptly drawn out of her stupor. Her breath flustered, the seething queen immediately stood up and faced him - her troubled frowns reflecting how far she'd been disturbed by his audacity. She despised what he'd just done, but she despised herself far more for having LET it happen.

He; on the other hand, was as composed as before! He'd witnessed a glimpse of the effect he had on her. He had no complaints.

'S...she...shehenshah...' she stuttered as she glared at him indignantly

'Begum Jodha' he calmly interrupted what he knew was going to be a tirade 'The stinging pain must have reduced now'

She was aghast - she couldn't refute him there!

He continued with a perceptive smile 'If you were in Agra...Badi Ammi, Ammi Jaan or Khwaja Shera would have used such herbs and measures to ensure your speedy recovery...the maids here might not be as well-versed...'

Just as he nonchalantly reached out to pick his sword and make his departure, she interrupted him with a curt tone. She couldn't let him get away with it again!

'S..shehenshah... y...y...you... you' somehow expressing her reservations suddenly seemed more difficult than she thought!

'Yes Begum'

'What you just did was not appropriate...you went back on your words...you said you wouldn't ... wouldnt...'

'Wouldn't?'

His cynical smiles were so disquieting. She glanced away to regroup herself 'That you wouldn't touch me...and yet...'

He folded his hands once again 'TOUCH you Begum Jodha? You tend to shift blame on me so conveniently' he acted pensive 'Hmmm...let's see...the other day, you tripped in your chamber - YOU held me...few days ago when in pain, YOU grabbed my wrist...'

While she stood still - shocked by his list of insinuations, he continued with a teasing smile 'Even now' he paused 'I didn't touch you for an instant...did I?'

Cornered and speechless Jodha could say little else, as Jalal offered her his characteristic salutation and walked off from her muted presence thereafter - his pride still intact!

On the way back to Agra...

Closing her eyes, the ethereal queen calmly rested her head on the plush cushions in her comfortable palanquin. It'd been a considerable while since they'd started making their way home from the dense pathways of the forests. The trek had been slow yet steady so far. More importantly, it had been less discomforting than she thought it would be - that in itself was a sign that she felt much better.

Following her near brush with death nearly a week ago, that morning had been the first that she could offer her prayers to Kanhaji - and she did so with wholehearted gratitude. After offering a prayer for the soldiers who lost their lives defending her, she thanked Kanhaji for his grace and for Hakim baba's effective treatment - why she'd even thanked him for the maids who'd tended to her day and night! However, she'd deliberately left one individual out of her prayers - 'I owe him no gratitude' she'd told herself defiantly 'I owe him nothing!'

Following their encounter the previous noon, she'd wanted nothing to do with him - neither his unsettling company nor his thoughts!

Adjusting the cushions under her head, Jodha lazily gazed for a while at the monotonous vista that gradually passed by her palanquin. It could have been the effect of the lazy noon, the tiresome journey or her weakened state - but, whatever the reason - the queen's eyes slowly drew shut and she didn't even realize it.

****

'Begum Sahiba'

'Begum Sahiba'

Stirring from her reverie, Jodha consequently awoke to find an attendant addressing her from outside her parked palanquin.

'When did we stop?' she thought as she looked around at the unfamiliar surroundings 'Looks like I dozed off into a deep slumber'

Straightening herself, Jodha cautiously sat up to listen to his message.

'Yes?' she asked the man

'Begum Sahiba...I apologize for the disturbance...however, Shehenshah has sent a message for you'

'Here we go again'

'He's asked you to alight and join him now...to give him the pleasure of your company' the attendant concluded

'WHAT! What is he up to now?' she fumed to herself unhappily 'And I thought he was in a HURRY to return to Agra!'

She was in no mood to oblige yet another of his whims. Why, she even took a few moments to run through all sorts of possibilities of how she could turn down his request. However, in the end - she decided against making a public spectacle of their spat.

Letting out a deep sigh, Jodha carefully alighted from her palanquin with the help of two maids - taking care not to aggravate her shoulder

'I can't believe this' she grimaced as she stood up 'He's subjecting me to all this just to ...'

And then she saw him standing a short distance away- appearing his usual charming self. Surprisingly enough, he had a straightforward pleasant smile on his face this time - not a sardonic one! However, she'd decided she'd no longer read into his deceiving smiles.

With no expression on her face whatsoever, Jodha begun her dismal journey towards him to hear what he had to say. Just as she was about to reach him, she saw him indicating to a spot in a clearing a short distance away.

Though intrigued, Jodha warily turned to view what the Emperor was trying to show her - when she suddenly realized where they were. The magnificent structure itself and the setting it was nestled in were both, breathtaking.

'Bhagwati Mata Mandir' she muttered under her breath.

She turned to him not knowing how to react 'B...b...but...you'd...'

Relishing the look of surprise on her face, he interrupted her stutters by extending his hand out for her 'Shall we then, Begum Jodha?'

PART 6 - Her answer!

Outside the Temple

Observing her from a distance, Jalal was taken aback by how the unanticipated stopover at the Temple had brought about such a marked difference in her temperament. Understandably, the King had stayed behind outside - while the evidently pleased Jodha had gone ahead to seek her blessings from the deity. There she was - smiling to herself, praying silently and offering flowers. He'd never seen her so happy - merged in perfect accordance with the beauty and serenity of her surroundings. What a contrasting picture this was when compared to her form the past few days.

How frail and ghostly she'd become - she was slipping away!

'We can only hope for the best...only pray to Allah...' the Hakim baba had confessed to him when the unconscious queen had been continually failing to respond to the medications.

It was then that he'd made up his mind - that he'd bring Jodha to HER place of worship if she recovered from the ordeal.

'Why Shehenshah?'

He was shaken from his reverie. He looked up to watch her walking in his direction - descending the temple steps.

She stopped beside him 'Why did you bring me here now' she paused 'When you refused this very request of mine a few days ago' her manner was cordial, but not nearly as affable as she was with her deity a few moments ago.

With a subtle smile on his lips, he studied her for a moment 'I needed to return to Agra urgently and your health wasn't showing signs of recovery...I was wondering if your Gods were angry since I'd not permitted you to visit last time...' he shrugged casually 'Better not to displease them, I thought...'

Much as he'd tried dressing down his reply with the need-to-get-to-Agra bit, she could sense a different undertone in his admittance.

'That's a lot of concern for someone you claim to hate...' she quipped with a slight smirk 'A lot of concern for someone who's merely a token of your victory over Amer...'

'Oh!' he mulled on her retort. He hadn't expected THAT! She'd obviously not forgiven him for the repeated edge he'd been having over her!

'Oh!' she thought. She hadn't expected THAT!

She flashed him a smug frown 'Shehenshah...I only did so because you are the king and its my duty to protect you...besides, while the same cannot be said of your gesture - I'm confident I would have done this for anyone' she noted the grin on his face slowly ebb away and continued with renewed vigour 'A-N-Y-O-N-E- be it a King, a commoner or even a beggar...now, what do you have to say about that?'

He stood there - staring in disbelief. He knew not why, but her comment had definitely touched a raw nerve. It was a moment too late when the queen realized she'd possibly gone a step too far with her remarks.

'So what are you trying to prove Jodha Begum...that your dislike of me is greater than mine of yours' he questioned her. The smiles had long given way to a not-so-pleasant sneer now 'Was this an attempt to gloat about the fact that you hate me just as ever?'

'Shehenshah...I...' she stopped, not knowing what to say! Oh! Why did she have to blurt so?

He scoffed 'Go on...answer my question...I'd like to hear how much you hate me still...and more importantly - your REASONS behind this hatred!'

She was taken aback by the sudden hostility in his tone. However, Jodha couldn't deny that she'd needlessly turned what was a noble gesture of his into an unpleasant means of settling scores!

He authoritatively lifted the silent queen's chin up so that she'd HAVE to look into his eyes - she hadn't realized it, but she'd been staring down for a few moments now!

'Why so quiet Begum?' he asked with bitter sarcasm 'Seems like you're still searching for a canny answer to this query of mine...'

Since there was no easy answer to his questions, she decided to persevere with the only other solution to this dilemma - that of silence. Annoyed, Jalal let out a vexed sigh as he eventually decided to bring their exchanges to a temporary end. He had other matters to attend to - matters far more important than HER

'I don't have the time for this now...I should be on my way...' he spoke up with contempt 'Tomorrow, I leave from Agra to proceed North and shall not return for weeks...so, I expect you to come to me BEFORE I leave to give me your answer...'

Soon after, the stern Emperor held his hands behind his back and turned around to proceed towards his steed

'And if I don't give you an answer' she interrupted on a grim note. Granted she'd offended the Emperor, but her self-respect didn't approve being dictated thus

Jalal was compelled to stop in his tracks. He would not take repeated disrespect from anyone - not even his doe-eyed queen! Without so much as a glance behind, he conveyed his message 'Then, this would be the last conversation we'd have had ...ever...'

'What?' She couldn't understand this childish adamancy 'Shehenshah...but, why is this so important to you?'

Swiftly swinging around, the irate king returned to her with furious strides - till he was close enough to be able to whisper his retort into her ears 'As a wise king, I like to keep track of those who claim to HATE me...especially those who do so while living in MY very home...'

******

Jodha's chamber

'One snide remark I pass and he's taken such offence...what about the numerous taunts he's subjected me to?' the queen complained 'Now I'm doomed either way...whether I answer his question or not!'

Engrossed with worry ever since her return from the tiring trip; Jodha remained oblivious to the luxuries around her - be it the palatial bed she lay on, the cool night breeze flowing through the ornate windows, or the pleasure of having her hair brushed by her best friend!

'What answer do I give him...Mothi...answer me...' she prodded on unhappily. Her friend didn't seem to be taking her predicament as seriously as she'd have hoped - despite having been updated with all the happenings during the course of the hunting trip.

Well; Jodha hadn't realized that ever since her return a short while ago, she'd barely let Mothi utter a word as she incessantly talked to herself!

'Now that I am permitted to speak' Mothi declared with a light-hearted sigh 'My advice would be to NOT give him an answer...after all, he'd said that that would mean you'd never have to face him, meet or talk to him - EVER again' she paused curiously 'This should put your mind at rest, right?'

'What?' She didn't expect this suggestion from her friend. She didn't seem comfortable with it 'How c...c...could that be Mothi? Jodha stuttered in denial 'That would reduce me to the state of a prisoner...a slave in the harem here...I am a queen of the Mughal Sultanat now...'

Mothi didn't fail to notice the pride in her tone as she harped on about being the queen-of-the-Mughal-Sultanat - and to think that a few months ago Jodha was ready to die rather than be here!

'Fine! Then...tell him the truth...tell him how much you despise him...' Mothi advised as she lay the ivory comb on a table beside them.

Again, Jodha found herself feeling uncomfortable 'But how do I...' she squirmed 'I...I've been through this numerous times...I mean...w...what reasons should I give him without offending him much?'

Watching the queen's ongoing reactions, Mothi smiled to herself. She'd finally got her answer - Jodha's stance was just a means to evade an important truth.

'Why Jodha' the friend consequently spoke up in a falsely-motivating tone 'You have plenty of reasons...now, doesn't Shehenshah lose his temper with you every instance he gets?'

'Temper?' Jodha unwittingly recalled his outrage following the incident at the forest

'Why did you STEP OUT OF YOUR THE CAMP when I'd ORDERED you NOT to do so? Look at the CONSEQUENCES of YOUR ACTIONS...YOU would have lost your life had I NOT COME ON TIME...'

Mothi urged on 'Has he ever shown even an ounce of sympathy towards you?'

'Sympathy?' Jodha pursued with her silence as a correlative recollection subconsciously crept into her conscience 'He must have visited your tent many times in the last five days... personally supervising your care...and trust us, when we say that in those moments that he wished for your speedy recovery, he was definitely not thinking so because he needed to return to court'

Watching Jodha's dazed state, Mothi charged on with her hidden agenda 'He's known to go against your wishes and sentiments purely to agitate you...'

'Sentiments?' The queen continued to remain lost in thought 'I heard that you have not had your dinner yet...all of these items have been prepared exclusively for you...in special cauldrons that were only used to make VEGETARIAN dishes...' 'Shall we, Begum Jodha...here is the temple you'd wanted to visit...'

'Enough!' she exclaimed as the confounded Jodha finally snapped out of her stupor - unaware of how long she'd been quiet!

'Jodha' Mothi eventually proceeded to ask her a straightforward question 'Do you realize why you've been so frustrated this entire evening?'

'Because the Emperor has put forth a question to which I know not the answer myself!' the disgruntled queen disclosed

'No...because the Emperor has put forth a question - the answer to which you don't want to admit!' Mothi paused to observe Jodha's sceptical expressions with a discerning look 'If you hated him as deeply as you claim to, then you wouldn't have had to ponder for an answer to his questions so long' There! She'd said what she had to say.

'N...no...you're wrong' the queen retaliated.

The following few moments Jodha desperately tried coming up with many reasons to disagree with the justification her friend had just made. However, after all of that exercise - Mothi's single sentence seemed to make far more sense than the numerous other explanations she'd been searching for!

Unwilling to meet eyes with her friend's inquisitive frowns, Jodha turned away. Her glance then casually fell on the window tucked in a far end of her chamber - and therefore through it - on the beautiful moon nestled in the skies

'Mashallah! From where I'm standing, the moon does indeed appear very very alluring tonight...' she reminisced the compliment.

**********

Jalal's chamber

He'd been standing in his private balcony observing the serene moon for quite a while now. However, the otherwise beautiful sight of the dark skies gave him no pleasure. On the contrary, its peaceful form only seemed to irk him all the more. It was past midnight and the restless Emperor had found himself unable to sleep. Weary from the long ride back home, his body ached for its due share of rest - but his mind was too troubled to let him do so.

It could not be the political issues at court that were keeping him awake - he'd efficiently managed to attend to the more pressing issues as soon as he'd returned that evening. It couldn't be the perilous Northwards journey he was scheduled to start on the next day - conquests and acquisitions were nothing new to this adventurous ruler.

This uncertainty he felt was something else altogether - something he'd never experienced!

Then, it struck him. It was past midnight and there was no sign of a message...of an answer from her - yet.

'No' he squashed the thought immediately after. Something as trivial as this couldn't be keeping him awake. Especially not something that concerned someone as insignificant as her!

'Whether she answers me or not...whether she hates me or not...makes NO difference to me whatsoever...not to ME-the Shehenshah of the Mughal Sultanate...' he determinedly told himself 'After all, Begum Jodha is just a mere princess I ACQUIRED - just another possession in my harem!'

He made up his mind that he'd stick to his word. Nor would he go meet her of his own accord nor acknowledge her presence ever again. Not unless she followed his decree and gave him an answer to his question first - and if she failed to do so, she'd cease to exist for him. He knew not why the notion aggravated him, but one thing he knew for certain was that he'd never forgo his all-important resolute!

*****

Palace grounds

'Shehenshah is not in his best mood this morning' one minister whispered to another as they watched the preoccupied king paying no heed to the courtiers around him. It was time for his departure, but he appeared unusually distracted and irritated. Whatever the reason; it was definitely NOT because he'd still received no answer from her, he'd told himself.

The commotion in the palace pathways was indicative of the bustle that preceded every crusade Jalal set out on.

A large entourage of soldiers stood behind him - ready to accompany their King on his command. Maulvis chanted their prayers, well-wishers thronged palace lanes and the ladies of the Harem queued in the balcony to catch a glimpse of their dear emperor! Following brief meetings of farewell with Maham Anga and Hameeda Banu, Jalal ordered his horse to be summoned.

When the magnificent animal was brought thenceforth, Jalal grabbed its reins and deftly climbed atop. However, despite being seated on his loved horse and setting out on an adventure he enjoyed, he didn't seem his usual self - something was definitely amiss!

'And if I don't give you an answer'

'Then, this would be the last conversation we'd have had ...ever...'

The thought had riddled his mind numerous times already and the Emperor was growing increasingly enraged, not knowing how to thwart his agitation! He didn't know what annoyed him more - her audacity to disrespect him time and again OR that he let himself be bothered by it!

As his horse begun impatiently trotting in its spot, Jalal snapped out of his turmoil. He'd leave for his conquests and forget about it all, he pledged to himself. Swinging around, the grim Jalal proceeded to offer his usual salutations to the ladies waiting on the balcony.

Unintentionally, his gaze scanned the long terrace as he did so - she wasn't there!

'How dare she...' he fumed with renewed vigour 'She'd not even come out to greet her King before his departure!'

That's it! He'd had enough of her! The infuriated Jalal was about to swerve his steed and set off when he suddenly caught her emerging profile from the corner of his eye. Yielding to a momentary impulse, he glanced back and spotted the queen emerge from her chamber. He swiftly observed her glistening features with resentment.

Jodha on the other hand, began noting his piercing glares with mild amusement. In fact, as though to annoy him - she thereupon broke out into the slightest hint of an proud smile. She could see the grievance her silence was causing him!

Flustered by what he considered an atrocious display of conceit, the King grit his teeth as he mentally vowed to punish her for it. While the remaining ladies were puzzled by this silent exchange between the two, both Jalal and Jodha remained indifferent to their audience.

Just as the Emperor decided to resume his departure and get going on his way, Jodha conspicuously stepped forth to stand at the ledge of the balcony so that he could get a better view of her. Guessing she was trying to rub-it-in his face, he decided to escape her exasperating presence and nudged his horse with a mightier-than-necessary kick to spur it into action. However, a few trots ahead and something suddenly struck him.

The unfortunate animal was instantly brought to an abrupt halt as Jalal pulled on its reigns with a sharp tug. While everyone watched Jalal's actions in confusion, the Emperor once again turned around to direct his attention to the Harem balcony. He HAD to confirm a suspicion that'd just arisen in his mind.

HE WAS RIGHT! There she was - looking as resplendent as ever in the sapphire blue attire he'd gifted her a week ago - the gift he'd assumed she'd turned down!

He took a moment to study her - not knowing what to make of the situation. That is, till he read her triumphant smiles that said I-can-play-games-too-Shehenshah! She'd got back at him for the many frustrations he'd subjected her to and YET given him an answer far more favourable than he'd expected by wearing the dress he'd gifted her!

For a moment, as he'd rushed off, Jodha'd wondered if the generally observant Emperor had failed to grasp her subtle message. However his return had reinstated her faith.

Though it took him a moment, Jalal consequently understood her mischievous ploy. The flustered frowns on his face slowly waned into oblivion as his spirits were uplifted.

Watching his expressions of disbelief gradually transform into those of awe, the pleased queen thought to herself 'So Shehenshah, is this how it feels whenever you have the upper hand...its quite an exhilarating feeling indeed...I outwitted you for a while there, didn't I?'

Ignoring the people around him, Jalal continued to gaze at his hypnotizing wife. He was impressed by both -her unmatched beauty and her brawn! Revelling in his admiring glances, the beautiful Jodha couldn't help but break out into a part-abashed part-pleased grin. However - much to the chagrin of the remaining ladies - she chose not to look away. She HAD to thoroughly enjoy her moment of victory.

Savouring her flirtatious arrogance, playful smiles soon found their way back on his lips. He proceeded to give Jodha a 'special' hearty salutation - acknowledging her gesture and through it her answer 'So, you've finally accepted you don't hate me after all, Begum Jodha!'

They hadn't exchanged words, but she'd got the purport of his expressions nevertheless

'I suppose not' her eyes answered back to him

He nodded with a teasing smile that read 'Begum Jodha, you are unique after all...I shall now eagerly look forward to my return to Agra'

'So shall I' she replied in the form of an equally mischievous smile.

Then, the Emperor set off - pleased with how his tides had unexpectedly taken a turn for the better - her bewitching expressions still etched in his mind as he did so!

AND WITH THAT WE COME TO THE END OF THIS SHORT STORY!

My humble request to my readers would be to drop in a comment - however brief - just to let me know if they found this modest attempt of mine a satisfying read!😊