FF : ||~a tale of 101 nights~|| #2 Thread ON HOLD page 8 imp note!

Ever since her childhood days she had heard a lot of him, many people have shared their opinion on him, every where one thing is common! That is he is heartless person! Various tales flew around exemplifying his ill nature and with earnest ear she used to hear them. each day as the sun sets down, she looks at the sun and wonders 'can he be like how they say?' and then takes a deep breath closing her eyes and remembers everything she had heard and while breathing out she says to herself 'must be, if all says then it ought to be true' and walks away into her chamber!

She is the princess of Amer! Beautiful and intelligent! She looks deep into the heart of people like a psychiatrist if you say so and discovers unknown truths about people! Everybody loves her and she loves them all too. She very well knows how to let things go the way she wants, a favourite of her father and too adamant in her decision, she never let anything or anyone change her decision if she knows what she saying is true! Then why she herself don't know let her father agree for her marriage, a political marriage?

She told him, that it's what cowards do and he shouldn't have agreed for it, 'for the fear of enmity you let me go off with anyone?' she said angrily to him!

Her father knew nothing on earth can now make her agree and he very well knows she has got sense in what she says! But soon without even much pressurising she agreed, to her and her family's shock!

Jodha!!! You are happy right?' she asked herself while sitting in her favourite place for one last time on the eve of her wedding day watching the sun set. She closed her eyes in search for an answer but in return she was taken back to her childhood days where she pondered on the young Mughal prince's heart! as a child often she came up with conclusion that what others say is true but then deep inside her heart she felt 'may be not, no one can't be heartless, so can't be he, he must have someone to understand him, may be then world would know how wrong they are' then she would pause her thoughts and looks up the orange shaded sky, her eyes would be glittering as she would say these words under her breath 'may be I should meet him'. And today again she relived through her thoughts and said to herself 'may be I always wanted to meet him' and gave a deep sigh! 'Or may be ...' but she never mustered courage to continue to what she felt then! Shredding away her thoughts and anxieties she walked away into her chamber to be ready for her wedding! Something on which she was having mixed emotions but was not sad!!!

CHAPTER 1

Her eyes glittered, she looked aside, his face was not clear, she wanted to know how he looked but the more she tried to catch a glimpse of him the more moves away like a shadow which fades away. She was anxious. Her heart leapt stream of unknown mixed feelings. She the bride of Amer was now leaving her home, her family, her friends, her loved ones everyone to a new land, a new place with new people, her heart should have weighed with emotions of parting but she was curious, excited and little thrilled to know this heartless shehzada' and because of this she was lost, lost in feeling what a bride usually feels when she is married off.

She looked around and found her deep red flowing outfit got stuck in her anklet and on her pulling it she found it getting torn and waves of cries flooding in... People near and dear saying it's inauspicious and that the marriage is going to end in turmoil and she will be shattered, it's going to be a loveless life waiting ahead for her and her fate is cruel to give this beautiful innocent girl such a cruel life. There was roar of detest to her husband, he was looked down by them as her murderer, who is all set to kill her. Sighs and Cries filled her ear but her thoughts were wandering aimlessly in search of an aim, in search of a destination, in search of her shehzada...

"Am I to feel upset?" she asked herself hearing the endless flood of concerns coming her way. "so am to weep and wail over my ill fate? Well who said my fate is ill?" she paused her flow of thoughts and looked sidewise for a glimpse of her "shauhar" as they say, but it was all in vain. She was in the middle of so many known unknown faces that even if even if her Kanha is beside her she won't be able to see! She took a deep breath and pondered on what she was thinking a while before "cant this be a new beginning? A happy one unlike what they say? Who are they to predict my life?" and looked at them in utter amazement!

Tears of joy mixed with tears of sadness filled her eyes and with welled up eyes she bow downed to her father, mother and all other elders of her family. She was feeling little sad now, leaving all of them here but still an unknown anxiety has caught up her fully and completely!!!

"Jodha, keep smiling" she said to herself, "you can't make them weep more with your sad face"

Keeping a smiling face she was walking towards her beautifully decorated palanquin, she looked at the people standing near there, they bow down at their Rajkumari who is now the Mughal Begum, and she smiled at them and bowed her head and folded her hand in salute. She was someone whom the entire Amer respected as she looked at all with equal eyes, she never held anyone superior or herself as above them, she literally practiced equality for which she was loved by all.

As soon as she was entering the palanquin, Shivani came running, Jodha looked at her sister's worried face and gave a questioning look., but before Shivani could say anything Jodha pacified her fear saying "Don't believe in all these, it's all mere superstations, I don't believe then why should you? Cant this all be symbolic of something good?" she paused for breath as she was hurrying out the words. Then looking at her sister's still confused face she continued " am not an ideal optimist, but am someone who like to see good in all and believes good will happen, let things go wrong, then i will worry, why should one worry thinking things might go wrong?"

Shivani smiled at her sister, she knows no one can read people's mind like Jodha and that Jodha is wise enough to let nothing wrong happen to her.

Seeing the smile on Shivani's face, Jodha got into the palanquin and set off for her journey, an unknown journey which will let her explore herself and her life like never before!!!

~~xxx~~

The palanquin bearers were exhausted, it was a tiresome job, their leg ached and body pained, they felt their leg won't take a step further but there was an air of determination in them to not rest, they were, they felt doing one of the blessed job in this earth, the chosen ones, the blessed souls could only be the bearers of Jodha's palanquin. And a step more and they reached the mighty colossal palace of the Mughal, Jodha peeped out from her palanquin and got a glimpse of this artistically beautiful palace, she knows that this can only be the best view she can ever get of this palace and like a camera capturing a photograph, Jodha captured the she image in her heart and pasted it forever. "Unseen Beauty" she muttered under breath and closed her eyes a made a swift prayer to Kanha, "kanha, am now worried, stay beside me today and always and forever". She felt an unknown fear inside her tummy and pressed her stomach hard as if to escape a stomach ache.

She was headed into the palace and she felt like a tourist getting to know an unknown place and enjoy its beauty, she was introduced to many people and she felt almost all looked similar. That's what everyone feels when they enter a strange land. Some unknown person whispered something to another unknown person's ear and she was taken directly into her Hojra and was asked to take rest as she must be tired and if she needs anything she can tell anyone in harem, they will help her out as she and her daasi is new to here. She nodded her head and smiled. All left, even her daasi asked to her take a nap and went to do some arrangements. She couldn't sleep, she was having this strange stomach pain that she felt only way she can get over this is by walking around and drifting away her thoughts, "I know my entire life is waiting for me to see him, yet why cant I be little patient, why do I feel an urge to see him?, may be a stroll can make me feel better, this way I will explore this place too in my own way" she winked at her thought and walked out.

Few steps were taken and she got attracted to a loud noise, cry and pleading down the stairs and she ran through the steps to know what the matter was and she saw whom she was searching for, Shehenshah stood there clad in Royal Wedding attire, his eyes were fierce and his words sharp and piercing. There was a poor peasant literally knelt down before him pleading for pardon, he was crying for mercy, almost yelling that he is innocent. But Shehenshah seemed to pay no heed to whatever he was saying and was ordering the guards to take him away to prison and to not let the person break off from the clutches of guards, "HOW DARE YOU run off and come near me when i have already sentenced your punishment, get off and take him away"

"But I am a penniless peasant Shehenshah, I can't do such heinous crime" the wrinkles over the cheeks of the person spread beyond his face. Jodha who was watching all this came down the stairs and stood almost beside Shehenshah, saw a twinkle in the eyes of the peasant and she asked people standing beside her what the matter was, no one seems to say anything and they were signalling Jodha to keep silence.

"You never heard my say in the case Shehenshah" the peasant cried and he was been pulled away by the guards.

"But this is unjust" came a voice as Shehenshah was about to walk away! He turned back and saw his newly wedded bride standing there furious over something; well he couldn't figure out what!

All there were thunderstruck! They looked at Jodha in utter bewilderment! It's not something to be said and they feared the outcome. Many standing there started murmuring things and many were thinking of the fate of this new bride! Alas! All sighed. Ruquiyya Begum, who seems to understand Shehenshah rushed in and tried to hush up Jodha "move to your chamber immediately". Jodha was not even hearing to what Ruquiyya was saying and kept glaring at Shehenshah for the injustice he is going to do or rather he did.

The other women from Harem walked in and on figuring what just happened all seemed to panic, Shehenshah looked around for someone to take Jodha Begum away from sight and his eyes as they rolled around got fixed on seeing Maham Anga, his Badi Ammi, he sighed seeing her understand his gesture and she moved towards the centre of a so formed circle surrounding Shehenshah and Jodha. She looked at Jodha, or literally glared at her. Well one ought to be scared to death with that look but not Jodha and receiving no expected reaction, she got furious. Jodha was about to speak something that a graceful elegant lady clad in royal outfit walked forward and asked her to move to chambers, Jodha looked at her, the lady looked pious and composed yet had a sort of authority in her voice. Jodha bowed her head down as the lady addressed herself as Shehanshah's mother. Jodha nodding took few steps forward but then turned back and said "but what you are doing is wrong, no wonder people call you HEARTLESS". Well that was more than one could ever think. They gasped. They were in utter bewilderment. "What a grave mistake she has done", people standing there started whispering loudly. Hamida Begum, Shehanshah's mother silenced them and motioned Salima Begum to guide Jodha into her chamber. All there were silent and were eagerly looking at Shehenshah. There were curiosity and anxiety in the face of all and an intense interest in what is going to lead ahead in the new Begum's life. A deep sigh followed Shehanshah's exist and Ruquiyya ran behind him to pacify his anger and others retired to their own chambers with loud murmurs.

~~xxx~~

"What have you done Jodha?" Her friend and helper Moti asked when she saw Jodha walking into her room with perplexed face.

"You still haven't got the seriousness of the issue?"

"What Moti? Am feeling bad for the poor peasant" she said with a thoughtless expression on her face. "How can one be so senseless as if not to hear the other side of story?"

"Jodha, please this is not Amer, here you have to understand the rules of this new place. You ought not to make your decisions"

"SHUT UP MOTI" Jodha was furious, she was upset the way others try to push her views and opinions aside and try to rule over her with their rules and regulations. She had enough of "don't say this, don't say that" from people and will never take in any such reaction again from anyone. She decided long back to stand by what she feels is right and at no cost will let anyone shape her views or make her voice mute. With utmost anger she looked at friend which said enough and Moti walked out knowing it's always the best thing to do when Jodha is angry or upset else world will go upside down.

~~xxx~~

"Dear Kanha" Jodha knelt down before her Krishna idol "why should there be injustice..."but her prayer broke in with sturdy footsteps and an unannounced entry by Shehenshah, she turned back saw the person whom few hours before she longed to see a glimpse of, Shehenshah looked like a hungry lion all set to bounce on its prey. Jodha got up from her place and made a quick bow to which as she expected was not welcomed. He made a quick glance over the entire room, one glance over her Kanha and then at her. If looks could kill then one would have been dead by that furious angry look by Shehenshah.

"Yes Shehenshah?" Jodha asked with no emotion in her voice which made it sound like a casual question put forward.

"HOW DARE YOU JODHA BEGUM? How could you oppose me? You haven't even came and you just expressed your opinion"

"Well, I never knew, one is not supposed to have freedom of expression here" she sighed.

"JODHA BEGUM"

"I can hear you, you don't need to yell, and if you indeed want to vent out your anger then first be in peace with yourself and then ponder over your actions, I know no sane soul can do that but at least you can refrain yourself from coming to me"

"Well, so that is your wish, you don't want your husband to come to you ever, if so how come you can agree for marriage?" he broke in before she could complete.

"SHEHENSHAH" Jodha didn't know what he said but something of the way he told made her angry and her calm, composed tone raised.

"Here you go you ought to control your anger" as he spoke there was less of anger and more of a challenge in his tone.

"Am not angry" Jodha this time was managing to make her tone calm but her sound clearly gave out how irritated she was.

"Jodha Begum, no sane soul can be calm when angry"

"But I AM and I CAN"

"R E A L L Y?"

"Yes, am calm and cool" Jodha said affirming herself that she is.

"I don't think so" Shehenshah said looking at her, there was a twinkle in his eyes.

"Huh! I KNOW MYSELF BETTER Shehenshah"

"Good for you, you are unbelievable" he said and smirked and was about to turn away.

"But why are you leaving?" Jodha called back making him stop abrupt and as Shehenshah turned to face her, she continued saying with same calm tone with which she greeted him when he entered "you ought to listen to the other side of the story, it's not fair as you are the Shehenshah and you are the ultimate law in this kingdom and you are ruling not for you but for your people, it is people like him who make you great and not royals and noblemen, so as an action of a good King you ought to hear his story, who knows may be someone inside itself may be wrong..."

"ENOUGH JODHA BEGUM" he said in fury and walked back out.

Shehenshah was lost in thought, Jodha's words were reverberating in his ears, each word echoed and somewhere it was pricking his conscious. He paused to think over what she said and somewhere deep in his heart he knew what she said made sense but listening to her would be hurting his pride, his ego won't let him make amendments but yet it is unfair and unjust if he doesn't hear the peasant and moreover if the poor peasant is not guilty then he himself would be committing crime. "Oh Lord! Am in such a dilemma" he thought and prayed for a means of escape from this. All thoughts were muddling in his head as he passed by when he saw Atgah Sahab; he alarmed Atgah but suddenly calling him to his chamber. With due respect and fear of is any danger coming the way to his King or Kingdom Atgah hurried to follow Shehenshah's order but what came from Shehenshah was something that surprised him and made him smile slyly.

"So am saying is that, I can no more deal with this peasant, you should do everything and make decision by yourself, then only tell me your decision, i know you will do it fairly and well" saying this Shehenshah dismissed him, but he knew that Atgah is smart enough to dig deep into the matter and also hear the tale of peasant and this way there will be fair judgement and no one will feel that Jodha had effect on Shehenshah, he thought and smiled at his own proud way of dealing the matter but on the other side Atgah who had been serving Shehenshah for such a long time very well knew that Shehenshah felt sense in what his begum said and that is the reason why he was made to do like this else never would Shehenshah asks him to do something of this sort when Shehenshah himself had adamantly made his judgement. And it's always Atgah only whom he asks to deal with matters so no point in making say that as if this was some special case and moreover what Atgah felt so strong about Shehenshah wanting proper judgement was when Shehenshah asked him to Atgah to make judgement and say to him. Atgah smiled thinking "the new Begum should have come little earlier, may be Kingdom would have been much more fair in all judgements and there ought to be someone who can raise voice against unfair treatments" he felt proud about Jodha and at the same time sad that he too was wrong like Shehenshah and never thought about the point of view from other side. A deep sigh!

____________

"Jalal, Jalal" a screeching voice it seemed to anyone who are not used to her voice but to all who knows her, well they are used to her voice so no matter what they will smile, acknowledge or walk away depending on their position when they see her and she too reacts differently in accordance to what one deserves from her whenever she sees anyone anywhere, ha yes there came Jalal's or Shehenshah's first wife and his so far favourite, his best friend Ruquiyya Begum! Jalal

Jalal turned back, he was tired and weary after the whole day, what all just happened, he got married, tried Shehenshah was welcomed with a tiring case and added to all this he had a quarrel with his newlywed wife that too were the first words they exchanged, with utter disbelief at himself he thought "i would be the only husband in the entire universe who had a fight with his wife in the very first night of marriage and that too turns out to be the first words to each other exchanges" he takes a deep breath after this thought and the coming back to senses he feels like a cherry on top comes Ruquiyya to give a grand finale to this great day!

"Jalal" Ruquiyya is now nearing him, panting she asks "why are you here and not with your new begum?"

He gives Ruquiyya an unbelievable expression "WHAT?, don't say you came all the way to ask me just that?"

"Oh! Yes Jalal, its strange to see you walking while your new begum would be waiting for you"

The always jealous Ruquiyya is concerned about his new begum, this was something really hard for him to believe "don't say you are concerned"

"well I am" she said little hesitant " I know you are not going to believe me but surprisingly and shockingly am worried about your new begum "she said to her own utter disbelief and stood there staring at Jalal like a dumb.

"Ruquiyya begum, neither you are fool nor I am, so please doesn't act one and say what you want to say or rather why you are here?"

"Erm!" Ruquiyya stood there opening her mouth and with no words coming out closing it suddenly.

"It's high time you need a control over your jealousy" he said smiling at her

"I am happy" she said like a final confession of guilt

"I knew it, but how long you will stay happy Ruquiyya?" he asked with a slight smirk.

"Don't know, well today I am and I live in present"

"Oh yes! I know that" he said with sarcasm "well am tired and going to sleep"

"I will oil massage your head" she said eagerly

"No need! Am GOING" he said and without wasting more time talking senseless as that was he felt he went into his chamber for good deep sleep after a real hectic day and even night!

______________

Jodha who was still sitting in her chamber was thinking about the poor peasant. "Kanha I wish Shehenshah listens to him, please do something, I saw genuineness in the eyes of the poor old man, he needs to be heard and I wish he will be". Then her thoughts shifted to her meeting with Shehenshah "such an impatient King!" she thought "cant he sit and listen to me? How can he, he is so impatient, he ought to be patient" she said thoughtfully. She was having very bad headache. All she wanted was a good sleep but was feeling restless, she felt suffocated sitting alone and was in desperate need to talk to someone. It was pit dark outside and she knew not a single soul would be there, she got up from her place "may be some fresh air would do wonders" and wrapping a shawl around her she stepped out into a garden. At night everything seemed sleeping, the flowers, the trees and there was not a single sound. All silent and all dark. She kept the shawl aside and took a deep breath. Stretching the hand, she felt the subtle breeze coming in and teasing her face. An ease she felt, it was like a perfect de stresser. She welcomed in the new air from a new place and smiled. She felt the wind like a messenger, ever since childhood, she used to feel that wind carried messages from people far away and had even thought maybe it connected unknown people who are bound to meet and brushed away those thoughts thinking of them as too dreamy, "how silly i used be as a child" she laughed at her own thoughts "then Shehenshah ought to have known me with all those messages I conveyed through wind" she giggled and continued "but I still believe in talking to loved ones who are faraway". She closed her eyes and the wind flew harder her hair flew in air, she letting out every inch of stress and tiredness in her body yelled in joy "tell everyone out there in Amer that am so happy! Tell masa, bapusa, dadisa, everyone". Jodha was gleaming with joy but then she sat down in the lush green grass and wondered "why am happy? I ought to be worried right! I know no one here and the welcome I got sounds like a bad omen for normal beings. Am supposed to be in my chamber fearing what might happen tomorrow, how the people here are but am happy, why?, will I be happy always?" but then as he belief she don't much think about what is going to come by which would spoil the happiness of present! "happy for no reason or happy for reason, happiness is happiness" she thought and smiled and decided to enjoy this strange happiness by not bothering too much about what is going to come her way! "Waiting" she said and walked back to her chamber feeling refreshed and relaxed! Now a good sleep can do wonders to charge her up for a new beginning in Agra!

CHAPTER 3

"Good morning Jodha" Jodha says to herself and wakes up, she stretches her hand, rubs her eyes and sits on her bed for a while adjusting herself in this new atmosphere, for few seconds she couldn't recognise where she is but then she recollected her memory and said to her brain "go see and take in my new home" and giggled. As her daily routine she wakes up, have her bath and prayer and then goes to meet elders with Prasad but this place was new and she didn't knew the way from one chamber to another, forget chamber, she didn't knew what all things are in her chamber. Her chamber was luxuriously large, perfectly designed for a begum. She looked around at the artistically designed walls and smiled. Right then Moti came in and enquired about what she wants.

"I want to take a bath" Jodha said plainly still admiring the walls around and then looked at Moti"I will refresh myself and come for pooja".

Moti felt that Mughals might not appreciate her doing pooja, even though, Shehenshah has agreed for it. Moti was of a belief that Jodha should do things which please the Mughals and not what pleases Jodha. She felt like advising Jodha but then remembering the earlier incident where Jodha didn't listen to her, Moti drew back the advice which came to the tip of her tongue.

---------------

Meanwhile the others in castle were discussing about the new begum, some shared positive remarks about her and praised her courage to stand for right even if it means going against the King, others called her to be too proud to have her way not adjusting with the Mughal norms. Some other group were sympathising and pitying her saying her fate will be doomed for being outspoken as Shehenshah never appreciates such remarks. As the talk in harem between the ladies of this castle was going Ruquiyya Begum, the special begum of Shehenshah thought of visiting Jodha by herself. She decided that she will not make a judgement about Jodha's character from what she hears but instead will go and understand Jodha by herself. She is a proud woman and has huge big ego too, she prefers begum's to meet her instead of she going to meet them, yet somewhere she felt she needs to meet Jodha begum first and she was getting a lot curious about this new begum whose entry to the palace has made her the talk among all.

Ruquiyya walked through the long corridors to Jodha begum's chamber. She saw Jodha begum praying before an idol, eyes closed and pious face. There was calmness and serenity in Jodha's face. Ruquiyya stood there waiting for Jodha to finish her prayers before entering. This was so not like Ruquiyya yet there was something in Jodha that caught her and made her respect Jodha instantly. Had someone else seen this face of Ruquiyya they would fainted out of disbelief.

Jodha as he finished her prayer got up, gave Prasad to Moti and turned around to go out saw Ruquiyya standing her.

"Oh am sorry, I didn't see you" Jodha said

"Don't worry, you were praying and I thought not to disturb your prayer" Ruquiyya smiled and continued "may I?" without waiting for Jodha to reply she entered and introduced herself.

"Am Begum Ruquiyya Sultan, Jalal's best friend, his favourite begum and Begum-e-khaas"

Jodha smiled, folded her hands and greeted her, Ruquiyya too greeted Jodha back. There was a passion in the voice of Ruquiyya as she described herself and Jodha felt Ruquiyya is someone who loves oneself a lot.

"Come, I will show you around, the harem and people here" Ruquiyya offered Jodha.

Jodha smiled and accepted the offer, she knew that if she refuses then Ruquiyya's ego will be hurt and that can be harmful for Ruquiyya and people around. "Anyways there is nothing wrong in going with her" Jodha thought and followed Ruquiyya.

Ruquiyya gave Jodha a beautiful description of nook and corner of harem. She took her then to Jalal's mother's chamber Hamida begum's.

"Ammijan, look whose here" Ruquiyya said after greeting.

Hamida was happy and surprised to see Jodha, she so badly wanted to meet Jodha and was happy seeing Jodha early morning itself.

Jodha greeted Hamida. Hamida had earlier in Amer before marriage had asked Jodha to address her as Ammijan'

"Ammijan, I wish to know where the kitchen is" Jodha said after few minutes of talking.

"Why? You don't need to cook food dear"

"No Ammijan, this is our custom to cook something sweet in our in laws house after marriage"Jodha said trying to make Ammijan understand.

"Well, Jodha since it's your custom you can cook, else you need's take such pain"

"Cooking is no pain Ammijan, its pure fun" Jodha said smiling and eagerly waiting to know where kitchen is.

"Ruquiyya, would you mind showing Jodha the way to kitchen?"

"No problem" Ruquiyya said smiling and asked Jodha to follow her.

On the way to kitchen Ruquiyya was giving Jodha a detailed analysis of how the kitchen works who all are in charge of kitchen and everything.

"you should meet Maham Anga before cooking" Ruquiyya warned Jodha "She is the chief in charge of Kitchen and also our Kingdom, she is Jalal's everything, his foster mother, Jalal calls her Badi Ammi and loves her more than Ammijan, moreover she gets angry quite fast"

Ruquiyya took a deep sigh after giving a jiffy sketch about Maham Anga.

"Ok I will speak to her" Jodha said smilingly.

"But she is not like Ammijan, she might refuse you" Ruquiyya warned again to which Jodha just smiled.

As Jodha and Ruquiyya entered kitchen, all got up to greet them, Ruquiyya told everyone the purpose of visit and made a dasi help Jodha in knowing the kitchen while in meantime Ruquiyya told she will fetch Maham Anga and be back.

The aura of the Kitchen, the smell of spices and the flavour kheer which is been cooking tempted Jodha to start her cooking, she couldn't control her temptations.

"I know I should be controlling my temptation, but am very bad in controlling; I should wait for Maham Anga's permission but... I will try making her understand" Jodha said to a dasi who asked her to wait till Maham Anga comes.

_____

Meanwhile on the other end of the palace Jalal was waiting for his new begum to come. He know that they didn't have a good meeting the day before and ended up having difference of opinions, but now it's a fresh day and Jodha begum would have gone to meet everyone, in that case she would meet him also may be after meeting elders., he thought. He felt little impatient to meet his new begum, the good night sleep he had soothed him. He woke up fresh that day and recollected the experiences of previous day. He remembered his conversation with Jodha and smiled at her way of putting her points.

"Jodha begum, you are one of the most interesting person I have ever met, would love to know you better" he said to himself and smiled.

The begum had an impact on him since her entry to his life, this thought struck him but he shrouded it away saying "nonsense, she is just another begum, little different from others, may be can call her fearless that's it" he said and though of taking a stroll around the palace.

Deep inside, he wanted to see Jodha, impatience, something which he will never admit. He was impressed by her boldness and was eager to see her.

Curious Jodha walked around the kitchen, trying out different ingredients. She was not aware of the names with which people in Agra calls these ingredients, and when she asks for something in her Amer slang they too get confused in what she is asking, so Jodha decided to walk around the kitchen and find the ingredients by her own. She had a vague idea of a sweet's recipe which her dadisa used to make, one of her all time favourite sweet and here she intended to make the same one. She knew it tasted heavenly and its taste is sure to make everyone smile. She smiled as she remembered how dadisa used to feed baby Jodha, making her sit on lap and telling her stories of birds and animals, which were a fascination for Jodha as a kid. The flight of the bird and the fluttering of its wings, little Jodha used to watch all this is utter amazement and awe.

"Begum Jodha, what are you going to make? We will help you" one dasi came forward and offered

Jodha's thought broke and she looked at the young lady who came to offer her help, she smiled at the dasi as a token of acknowledgement and appreciation for her words.

"Thank you dear, but when I need any help I will tell you"

The dasi nodded smilingly and stood beside Jodha trying to make her understand the ingredients and trying to figure out what all Jodha wants.

Recollecting those days when Jodha used to huddle behind her dadisa as her dadisa made this special sweet just for her, her face used to gleam with happiness and like every obedient girl used to do all what her dadisa say till she gets her share of sweet.

Her memory was vague and she was trying hard to get the exact process of cooking and in that confused state of time she messed up and dipped the cooked ball into sugar syrup.

Alas! Jodha felt she spoiled everything and was about to throw the whole thing away out of frustration and disappointment when suddenly Maham Anga entered. Ruquiyya rushed ahead of Maham Anga and when she saw that Jodha had already started cooking a strange sense of fear caught in. She asked the dasi to keep the prepared dish aside when Maham stopped the dasi.

"Step back" Maham yelled.

The scared dasi took a step back and kept her head down.

"Who gave you permission to cook? ANSWER ME WHO?"

"That I couldn't control Maham Angaji" Jodha gently said.

Maham Anga looked at Jodha, her face gleaming with anger, her fierce eyes if possible could have killed Jodha with fire balls, if possible.

"How dare? You could do this? " Maham Anga already hates Jodha for being a Rajvanshi Begum, and since previous day's fiasco of pointing against Jalal made her furious about Jodha and now she went against the rule, she had the guts to cook that too without waiting for Maham Anga's approval. Nothing could hurt Maham's ego more than this.

"And you mind telling us what this weird dish is?"

"Erm..."Jodha didn't know what to say as she herself is not aware of its name.

Maham looked around, saw silent dasis and then ordered one of them to throw it away. The dasi looked at Maham, then a glance at Jodha. Everyone there is well aware of Maham's anger and she had no other option other than obey.

"I don't know" Jodha said after a pause.

Maham Anga looked at Jodha questioningly and the dasi stopped for a moment.

"I mean, I don't know what it is called".

"Huh! So you are experimenting here? You want to kill the Shehenshah with your experimental cooking? Now how can one trust you?" Maham's anger knew no bounds "I order that you will never ever step in kitchen."

Ruquiyya who was standing there was feeling bad for Jodha, she know that no one except Jalal can stop Maham from being angry. Then suddenly an idea struck her. She knew what to do. She grabbed few of the sweets from dasi and slyly vanished from kitchen without letting anyone notice.

____________

"Jalal, Jalal" Ruquiyya was walking around searching for Jalal. She was holding few sweets which Jodha had made and her eyes were roving in search of Jalal. Reaching his chamber, she got in despite seeking permission or announcing her arrival. She feels proud as she enters his chamber like because Jalal never scolds her or says anything and this privilege she solely enjoys gives her immense pride. She smiled at the guards around as they bowed at her... Smile filled with pride and attitude of begum.

She didn't find Jalal inside and this made her furious.

She walked out and shouted at the guards standing there.

"Ha? You all made me fool? If Jalal is not there, why can't you say that?"

"But..."

"No explanations" she said and walked away. For her right now meeting Jalal was more important than scolding the guards.

As she was walking through the corridors of the palace, she saw Jalal in the garden, sitting idly.

"Jalal, JALAL" Ruquiyya rushed towards him.

Jalal turned back and saw Ruquiyya running towards him with something in her hand. He signalled her to slow her pace and not to hurry, but she paid no heed to what he was saying.

"Look, this is for you" she said panting and produced towards him the sweet made by Jodha.

He gave a weird glance at the never before seen dish and gave a devilish smile at Ruquiyya.

"What is this Ruquiyya?"

"Don't know, say how's this?"

"I can eat?"

"YES, Jalal... Eat and tell me" Ruquiyya was getting eager...

Jalal dip his hand into the bowl produced by Ruquiyya and takes one small ball drenched in sweet sugary liquid. He slowly takes a bit; it was one of the tastiest delicacies he has ever eaten. Its sweetness filled his mouth. He felt that its one of the perfect treat one could ever give.

He gave Ruquiyya a small hug as a token of gratitude for introducing him to this dish.

"What's its name? It's the best dessert I have ever had" Jalal said in great excitement.

"I don't know I didn't make it" Ruquiyya said and then suddenly she added "Ha you think I will COOK?"

Jalal gave Ruquiyya a weird look filled with sarcasm as if saying "I AM SORRY, HOW I CAN GET YOU WRONG"

"It's made by Jodha Begum" Ruquiyya said making Jalal life his head up in delight.

"Oh its Amer special" and he smirked.

"But Jalal, I saved it, Maham Anga ordered to throw them away, and I saved what Jodha Begum offered me"

Jalal was shocked on why did his Badi Ammi ordered to throw away such a sweet food. He got up and started heading towards the Mughal kitchen.

________

As soon as Jalal and Ruquiyya reached kitchen, the dish made by Jodha was thrown away. Ruquiyya felt bad for Jodha and Jalal also felt little sad seeing the effort Jodha took to make the dish and the result what it got.

"Goodness, she might be weeping somewhere, Ruquiyya go and find where she is" Jalal said as he turned to speak to Maham Anga.

Ruquiyya gave a nod and vanished away.

"Badi Ammi, you shouldn't have done this" Jalal said peacefully to a furious Maham Anga.

"Jalal, you needn't feel bad or sorry for your new begum, I didn't do anything wrong"

"I know you, Badi Ammi, you can't cause harm to people, but Ruquiyya told me, you ordered to throw away the dish she cooked, which was actually tasty."

"Am sorry Jalal, but it was a much needed punishment for her arrogance, she cooked without my permission, well that I can ignore, I will give such a punishment for it, but when I questioned about the dish she said she don't know and when I ordered to throw it away, she didn't even pleaded once and when I said she will never ever enter Kitchen, she said ok and walked away. Jalal she is such an arrogant and proud begum. I know she is not bad, but she needs to control her arrogance. Ask the dasis over here, they are witness of her arrogance.

After Maham's long reasoning for her act was given, Jalal looked sceptical but the he smiled at Maham, bowed and walked back. He still wondered was this punishment a bit too much, but then if Jodha begum had no problem with it then why should he bother, he thought.

_____________________

"But, Jodha begum. Why? You never said anything against Maham? Ruquiyya asked "she kept on insulting you harshly"

"Ha, Ruquiyya Begum, you don't know how to deal with such people, silence kills them not answering back because they would be expecting response and when we don't response that will irk them" Jodha said smilingly and drinking sherbet offered to her by Ruquiyya.

"Oh! Great! I just can't be silent" Ruquiyya said thoughtlessly.

Jodha smiled at Ruquiyya. Ruquiyya suddenly came out from her thought and started pouring questions on her to which Jodha gave reply. They smiled and laughed a lot. It was for the first time Ruquiyya was having someone to talk to other than Jalal. She could never be this free with anyone, not even with Jalal she felt.

"But Jodha begum, why did you let Maham to throw away the dish?"

"Because I myself wanted to throw away" Jodha giggled.

CHAPTER 5

Jodha walked through the corridors, her eyes trying to get in the view of everything possible around her, she looked like a tourist visiting a historical spot and trying hard in registering the whole image. She smiled when she got into the right path and face palmed her whenever she took wrong turns. "Good heavens! I knew entire Amer by heart that even in darkness with eyes closed I can walk" she continued exploring the palace muttering to her every now and then. "Jodha, one day you will know Agra better than Amer" she said to herself sarcastically and giggled.

For a person who is watching Jodha would find her to be someone lost and mad, talking, giggling, scolding and laughing all to herself.

The silent corridors of the Mughal palace echoed the sound of her tinkling anklets as she passed through the way.

____________

Her giggles, laughs, scolding muffled with her anklets sound disturbed the concentrated mind of Jalal who was practicing his sword fight. This time no one entered the place as they know that slightest of slight sound would disturb Jalal's concentration. Lost in her way, taking random paths Jodha unknowingly landed in there making Jalal aware of someone's presence. He didn't want to turn and face the intruder as he knew it would be the worst ever thing to happen to that poor intruder. He paused his thinking for a second and said to himself "Huh! Poor? How can the intruder be poor?" saying he swiftly turned back but to his surprise and shock he heard the tinkling of anklets but no one.

"Whoever she is, ran away scared, Huh! But who is she?"

Jalal got back into practice but his mind was somewhere else, he was trying to know who entered there, his concentration was now fully lost.

Furious Jalal throwing away his sword walked out to find the person.

On the other side Jodha was completely unaware of Jalal practising his sword fight, she naturally walked into the place, found it was a dead end and moved out to find way.

Her anklet's sound still echoed through the corridors and Jalal silently followed the sound, he didn't want to make any sound in case she would run away fearing him to catch her. So very cleverly he walked beside the sound, out of the sight yet very near.

Each step he took, he felt the tinkling of anklet had a magical impact; it had some soothing effect over him, which he himself didn't realise. His fury, anger and irritation swept away and were replaced by mere curiosity, following the sound he for a second even forgot the purpose of his following. Like an enchanted spell casted over him, he followed her.

Lost Jodha still unaware of Jalal's presence took long paths and made Jalal walk through unknown, unseen places in his own palace, astounding him and in a sense favouring him by giving him a tour through his palace.

Her disturbance was a boon in disguise he thought as he discovered some never before seen doors and pathways in his castle and he with utmost curiosity looked around at the unseen treasures of his palace.

Lost in exploring the palace he forgot to realise that the sound which he was following is not audible, she has walked further, he had to rush to make sure he keep in track with her.

Alas! It was a junction, ways spreading to different direction and Jalal cannot make out which way she ran. He stood there trying to figure out which way she might have gone. He thought of taking the right turn then thought flipped his mind on whether she would have gone through the left path. So, he thought of moving through left but again he thinks otherwise. With this utter confusion in his mind, he sat on a wooden plate attached to a window which was nearby where he stood.

Leaning towards the window, he sat, eyes closed and thoughts wandering, then suddenly he heard the tinkling of anklets, it was faint and almost inaudible but then he was sure that he is hearing the same sound.

"Is it my illusion? Am in some delusional state?"

But no, the faint sound continued to tickle his ear with its enchanting magical effect.

He looked down feeling the sound is from deep down and to his surprise he saw Jodha begum.

"Ha, it can't be her" he said with disbelief but then he saw her turning around, her one hand over her earring and other picking up something, looking them closely and throwing it away.

Her actions intrigued him and he was wondering what is she doing, it looked as if she was searching for her earring's broken piece. He smiled at her antics. She looked beautiful he felt and then shook his head and was about to turn away when his hand got pricked.

Tiny drops of blood oozed from his index finger and he saw that a small pin like object has pierced into his finger.

"What is this?" saying he took it out and as he was about to throw it away his eyes stuck and he found it to be a broken piece of earring.

"Huh! Earring piece, but what it's doing here?" he wondered and got up.

Then suddenly like how Archimedes yells Eureka' and rushes out, Jalal too jumped with joy in understanding "Gosh, so its Jodha begum... And she jumped down the window! Good heavens" he was rushing out to find Jodha and question her about this. He felt a thrill and fun in all this and started running. For someone who has being Jalal for long would find it weird seeing him run like a kindergarten kid.

"Goodness!! How's the way out?'

___________

Jodha sitting in her chamber was laughing hysterically. At times she holds her stomach hard and tries to control her laughter but then again breaks out laughing. Her laughter was getting louder and louder.

Moti feared laughing so hard at this odd time would make someone notice and something might happen.

"Jodha, what happened? Have you gone mad?"

Jodha looked at Moti, seeing the irritated face of Moti, she started laughing again.

"Are you seriously mad, because, you broke your earring?" Moti asked in a teasing manner because she knew that talking of earring would make Jodha serious. It was Jodha's favourite earring and was given to her by her favourite brother.

Angrily she looked at Moti "stop talking about it"

"So, tell me why are you laughing?"

"The place is so spooky and huge, I am sure one day, finding way I will go mad" she giggled.

Moti looked at Jodha with utter disbelief; she sometimes feels that she can never understand Jodha. What silly reasons Jodha brings to laugh is something Moti will never ever understand.

"Wait, Moti... "Jodha said seeing Moti leaving "listen..."

"Today I jumped from a window and Rahim saw that from distance, he felt it was a ghost and freaked out...poor boy" Jodha was telling Moti as she was removing her jewellery. She didn't knew that Moti walked out of the chamber and unknowingly still continued speaking "he went and told Salima begum, thankfully before she told anyone else I heard it and I went to Salima begum and told her everything..Poor child ..."

She giggled.

"Jodha begum" a soft yet audible voice made her turns back.

Her hair was loose and she was removing heavy jewellery with which she has been walking around the palace whole day.

Anyone who sees her would go mesmerised by her beauty, the beauty in her simplicity could sweep away the floor beneath you and you wouldn't even realise.

"Jodha begum" Jalal said, breaking each word and spelling it out as if teaching a kid early alphabets.

Jodha smiled and bowed and then walked towards him, her face had a question, a doubt about his uninformed visit to her chamber.

She swiftly gave a pranam and looked at him, waiting for him to speak.

He stood there motionless not even returning her the greeting.

"Shehenshah, what are you doing here?" Jodha asked little irritated after a while of him standing there motionless.

She was losing her patience seeing the Mughal emperor standing in front of her like a silly fool with nothing to say.

Her voice shrieked through his ears giving him a sudden jerk and bringing him to reality. He cursed himself for a second for letting him stand there like an admirer and not like a Royal king.

His purpose of visit had nothing to what he was saying as his now only desire was to counter her statement and not let her imagine him to have been lost in her beauty.

"Why? I am your husband and I have every right to be in your chamber" he said smirking and advancing few steps towards her.

"Oh! Yes that every husband has" she said smiling

He wanted Jodha step back in fear.

But she stood there still, not even having shades of fear in her eyes.

He walked even more close.

She still stood there, giving him a sceptical expression.

"Are you drunk? Or out of wits?" she asked coolly when he was so close to her that she could even feel his breath.

Jalal shredded a nod saying no, he held his hand around her waist and pulled her closer to him and whispered to her ears "it's my right as a husband"

"But we are still strangers" she said and pushed him aside.

He shockingly with utter confusion looked at her not able to comprehend anything of her looks.

"See, what I meant is we hardly know each other, like as a person. Don't you think it's odd to do anything before we get to know each other well?" she eagerly looked at him for a positive nod seeing his still static added "you see, then we can expect what we are getting from the other?"

Jalal unknowingly smiled, he was totally lost in her that he had no control over his actions. Seeing him smile Jodha gave a victory grin.

Giving himself a hit on head as he came back to sense, he forwarded his hand and to Jodha's surprise she saw her earring's broken piece.

"Awe, from where you got this?" she jumped to snatch it away but then Jalal suddenly took away his hand and waved it in air.

"Huh! Give my earring Shehenshah"

"Why should I?" He smirked.

Jodha thought for a good reason to make him return but right then her thoughts were full blank. Blankly she looked at Jalal, her eyes blinking.

"I will give you, but you need to promise me something" he winked leaving no choice for Jodha other than agree.

CHAPTER 6

It's been almost two nights and a day away from Amer and she hasn't even thought of Amer! Strange she felt but then she recollected how packed her day was and how tiring yesterday night was.

"I need to write to Amer, they might wonder why I haven't written anything" she said to herself and sat down with a parchment to write.

Alas! She was restless and couldn't even write a pranam'. How else can she be? She doesn't know what is in the mind of Shehenshah. He had made her promise but didn't say a word of what his promise was. Her mind and thoughts were completely lost in that thought.

Jodha recollected the incident which happened few minutes before. How Shehenshah almost gave her the earring and with a classic smirk left the chamber, waving the earring in air and reminding Jodha of the promise. Her heart skipped a beat and wondered what the promise could be. She thought of all weird things which Shehenshah would ask and felt like something grumbling in her stomach.

Holding her stomach tight, she pushed aside the parchment and thought "may be tomorrow I will write"

Heavenly bliss! She was not even getting sleep that night!

Restless and curious. Never before had she experienced something of this sort.

"Moti, Moti... MOTI ... where on earth are you?"

"Yes, Jodha?" Moti came running

"I want to go out" Jodha said adamantly.

"Why? At this time of night? No, no... It's not possible... Why? You are missing Amer? Write a letter... maybe tomorrow we can go somewhere and feel better...Or maybe we can call someone from Amer to see you... you will feel good...but not now... No NEVER"

"SHUT UP!!! WILL YOU?"

Moti looked at Jodha's irritated face.

"Why are you such a fool? Well listen first before you blabber nonsense... At least allow me to complete what I am saying" Jodha said exhausted.

Moti nodded her head and remained silent.

"Great! I need breath of fresh air, so I am going to the garden. If you wish to come, join me but remain silent but if you feel it's wrong to step out at this time of night, then remain here. I am going" saying Jodha walked out not waiting for Moti to pour out advices on norms of society.

There was no option left for Moti but to follow Jodha.

__________

Jodha sat down on the lush green grass kissed by dew drops. Stretching her hands out, closing her eyes, she breathed fresh cool breeze of Agra. Its time when everything around sleep, the trees, birds, lakes, rivers, everything, the entire world sleeps. And she closed her eyes and felt the dead silence and the cool breeze which was caressing her and soothing her restless mind!

"Moti, listen" Jodha said calmly and signalling Moti to sit beside her.

"I hate shouting at you, but then when I am not in a good mood, you talk nonstop and nonsense without waiting for me to complete, well obviously I will get irritated right?" she looked at Moti and smiled.

"After all, you are the only one here for me to shout at. Had it been Amer, I would have spared you and instead shouted at Shivani"

Moti gave a vague smile and her eyes were moist. She knew no one could ever love her like Jodha and even as Jodha shouted, she knew it was not out of hatred but out of love.

Jodha hates getting emotional, she knows that once she gets emotional, she thinks of all her loved ones and starts missing them all terribly. So she drifted away the emotional state by saying"But then you are way too irritating Moti"

Both Jodha and Moti laughed.

Jodha hugged Moti.

"Let's go, guess, it's time to sleep... See you are drooping Moti"

______________

Morning rays of sun flashed on Jodha and her face gleamed. Anyone who saw her sleeping will be mesmerised by her angelic beauty. She was sleeping peacefully and her sound sleep was distorted with Moti waking her up frantically.

"What?" Jodha sounded irritated.

"Jodha, Shehenshah is waiting for you, outside the chamber?" Moti said worried.

Half asleep, Moti's voice sounded muffled and Jodha just nodded for she wanted Moti to leave, so that she can get back to sleep.

As soon as Moti went out Jodha turned aside, pulled on to cover her up with the silky blanket. She smiled unknowingly in half asleep mode for the extra sleep she just grabbed in. But no sooner she turned aside thinking of a peaceful sleep, lots of noisy sounds kept on distracting her. It seemed like in some distant someone's arrival is been mentioned. Or maybe it was her dream she thought and was trying to get away from the distraction and get in some peace.

"Jodha Begum" a strong baritone jerked her up and soon she realised what was that illusion of dream she was having.

"Shehenshah, you here? At this time? So early?" shocked Jodha jumped out of her bed and gave him a swift salute followed by tons of questions.

"Why Moti, you didn't inform your begum?" Jalal asked turning towards Moti, who just entered the chamber.

"Yes, Shehenshah"

Jalal smiled seeing Moti's petrified face.

"Don't worry, am not going to eat you up, just relax" he said to Moti and then turned towards Jodha

Jodha looked baffled, her cheeks turned tomato red with embarrassment. Keeping her face down, she stood waiting for Jalal to speak.

"Jodha begum?" he addressed her with authority and calmness in his voice "I hope you remember the promise" he paused and looked at her, waiting for her reaction. She was still embarrassed but nodded her head which was still staring at the marble floorings of her chamber.

"So, you need to come with me to a place" he said before leaving the chamber. On reaching the door of her chamber, he said "I will be waiting outside, so please don't sleep and trouble me to come here again to wake you up" and gave his classic smirk.

As soon as Shehenshah had gone, Jodha pulled Moti aside.

"What the hell just happened? Couldn't you wake me up if Shehenshah wanted to see me?"

Moti opened her mouth for defence but nothing came out. She kept on opening and closing her mouth until Jodha shook her.

"Stupid, I know you are cooking up excuse but getting nothing right?" Jodha was irritated "now leave, let me freshen up and do my pooja"

"But Jodha you can do that later right? Shehenshah will be waiting "

"Am not bothered".

_____

It's been hours since Shehenshah has been waiting for Jodha and till now, no news of her. He has never waited for anyone, but somehow he was enjoying this waiting. Waiting for Jodha was like solving a puzzle he felt. The more he waited, more intriguing the puzzle is and more fun he gets in solving he felt. People would feel as if the King had gone insane but then he was the King and was very unpredictable in his actions. All feared him so no one would dare to ask him anything. If they find any actions of his unacceptable and weird then it would become talk of the palace but away from the ears of Shehenshah. As he was waiting for Jodha many passed by and wished him, to which he returned their greetings with a Royal aura.

The puzzle solving beauty in waiting was now getting beyond his point of patience that he thought of entering Jodha's chamber. And he turned to walk towards her chamber. Suddenly he froze on the spot, for what he saw was a thunderstruck beauty.

Jodha begum, dressed in simple peacock blue attire, with light jewellery and hair loose, she was walking towards Jalal with her one hand trying to adjust her hair.

"What made you come so fast?" he asked giving her a sudden jerk.

She looked at him, and as she gave him a pranam, her adjusted her gone loose and flew , half covering her face.

"It's so windy here, Shehenshah"

"Yeah, right! So, its wind the reason for you to come late?"

Jodha looked up at him and saw a twinkle in his eyes.

"Why you are pulling my leg?"

"I am? No Jodha begum, I just asked you something and you gave an answer and..."

"Argh! Leave it" saying Jodha started walking.

"Where are you going Jodha begum?" Jalal asked "I am the one taking you, remember?"

"Stop reminding me always of the promise! My memory is not weak" snapped back Jodha.

"Allah! Why are you so pissed off?"

"As if you don't know" she said under her breath.

"You said something?"

"No, let's go"

Jalal smiled and Jodha felt, there was something unique about his smile. Something peaceful and something divine. Keeping her thoughts aside, she silently followed him.

_____

They silently walked through the corridors of the palace and soon they took a turn to an unseen hidden passage. Jodha was surprised in discovering a passage in a place no one would suspect one and admired the architect of this great palace. As she was admiring the architect on parallel she was feeling curious on where Shehenshah is taking her and what he is going to ask from her. The secret passage lead to a dead end and Jalal stopped there. He was staring up at the ceiling.

"Why did you take me here? You lost your way? Why you showed me the secret passage?" a curious Jodha showered him with questions.

"Look up Jodha begum"

Jodha looked up!

Alas! What she saw was beyond one's perspective of explanation!

Portrait of the late Mughal emperor, Babur. The portrait on a first look will look like a normal beautiful painting but on a closer observation, one would find it to be created by tiny pecks of diamonds. It shined brightly and the reflection of the portrait could be seen in the face of the person standing aside.

"It's breathtakingly beautiful" Jodha begum's voice was dreamy and she was completely lost in the masterpiece.

"An unknown artists created this, no one knows who. One fine morning this came up. About this secret passage only Ammijan and my Abba knows. Very recently Ammijan took me here."

"Why did you show me this?" Jodha asked regaining her senses.

"I saw your interest and passion in discovering this new palace and your interest in art and sculpture, so I felt may be you will like this"

Jodha looked at him awestruck, she a newly wedded begum whom he hardly knew was now shown a secret passage in the palace which no one except his mother knows.

"Do you think, we can be more than just strangers? I thought this will be the best place to offer you my friendship" Jalal said smiling.

Yes! Indeed his smile had something magical to it. It was the most beautiful thing Jodha has ever seen, more beautiful than the portrait she now saw. With teary eyes Jodha nodded and Jalal smiled again. She then wondered how many have seen this smile of his. If one had seen then they would never say he is heartless.

"My instincts were right, he can't be heartless" she thought.

CHAPTER 7

"Moti...Moti...Where on earth are you?" Jodha was yelling at top of her voice, her voice was cracked with tinge of nervousness and her demeanour signalled she wanted to escape from something, but is not aware of how!

"Jodha Begum" a sweet yet matured voice made her turns back swiftly and she saw Salima Begum, the begum of Shehenshah whom she wanted to meet ever since she stepped into harem. Lot of tales of Salima begum's greatness and kindness were heard and to her surprise all the woman in the harem irrespective of whether she is begum or bandi adores Salima begum, a trait very rare to find among harem ladies who never leaves a chance to gossip about anyone and everyone!

Smilingly, folding her hands Jodha said "Pranam Salima begum, please come in"

"I am sorry, I didn't come to meet you in person" Jodha said as Salima begum sat down following Jodha's gesture.

"Please don't be sorry Jodha begum, it's been just two days and I know there is lot of things you had to do, you need to first settle down and get accustomed to the palace and surrounding"

The words of concern from Salima Begum eased the restlessness of Jodha and her irritation and urge to escape from something unknown vanished. Jodha went and sat beside Salima begum, there was an aura which Salima begum's presence created, a soothing peace and utmost serenity. An effect of meditation was felt by her and she understood why everyone in the harem loves Salima begum.

"I am so impressed by you Jodha begum, the way you reacted to Maham Anga, the way you voiced your opinion about the peasant, very impressive" Salima paused for a while and seeing the twinkle in Jodha's eyes continued "tales about Rajput princesses are not unknown to us but today seeing you, I know none of them are false"

Jodha's eyes gleamed with joy and pride, she was impressed beyond words. With awe and respect she continued to listen to words of wisdom by Salima begum. The calmness and understanding with which Salima begum deals with problems made Jodha take a vow to be calm in dealing with difficult situation! Jodha too is calm in her own way but the patient calmness of Salima begum impressed Jodha and she understood this is the reason why Salima begum could easily suggest a solution for the most difficult of difficult problems and situations!

After an hour of talking, Salima begum started to retreat back to her chamber when suddenly Jodha called her "Salima begum, if you don't mind can I ask you something?"

An inquisitive Salima looked at Jodha!

Jodha with hesitation asked, breaking each word she uttered which clearly expressed the fear she held in asking this "I...don't know whether to ask, but...you think like...every other that..." she paused again and taking in deep breath without wasting another second hurriedly finished her question "that Shehenshah is heartless"

For a moment Jodha felt Salima begum might lose her patience and give her curt reply but the bewilderment in her face changed to peals of laughter! She laughed hard and looked at Jodha's shocked and perplexed face then again after a minute of controlling the laughter, she laughed again.

Jodha was stunned, she was trying to figure out the reason behind Salima begum's laugher, she wondered whether her question was foolish as is it an obvious fact that Jalal is heartless and her question might have made Salima begum take her to be dumb. She mentally hit her head hard in regret and felt sad feeling all the praises which Salima begum poured on her now went in vain and Salima begum would be regretting shaking her head Jodha murmured "goodness especially the one about Rajput princesses"

"You are saying something Jodha begum?" Salima asked in the midst of her laughter.

"Me? Oh no! Nothing" Jodha hushed

"Well the answer for you question is exactly what you feel" Salima paused for a second to analyse Jodha's change of facial expression.

"What?" Jodha asked still sceptical of what Salima begum was saying!

"Shehenshah is not heartless dear" Salima begum finally said and turned way to walk back when suddenly Jodha stopped her again.

"But then why did you laugh?"

"Jodha begum, you looked so funny and I thought will make you even more funny by laughing harder"

"You mean you were playing prank on me" asked in disbelief Jodha

"Yes" saying Salima begum winked and said a sweet goodnight and left leaving an even more perplexed Jodha stand and wonder!

Jodha was stunned for few moments, she was trying hard to internalise the people she met in this palace, of all Salima begum has impressed her the most. The elegance and beauty, with which Salima begum walked, talked and behaved and the storehouse of wisdom which she was, Jodha felt its hard one come across such a person. No sooner her thoughts shifted from Salima begum to Shehenshah. With great awe and surprise she recollected her each memory of Jalal since she stepped in. Her first meeting, the way she voiced against him and his reaction. The way he came to her chamber, the way he followed her, the way he asked her promise and the way, most importantly the promise he asked, how confusing he is she felt. . Aghast Jodha still let herself get lost in thoughts of Jalal and each time she thinks she tries to remember him.

Lying in her bed Jodha recollected another incident from the day where after asking her for friendship, how he told her that he will repair her earring and will return. Readily Jodha agreed to it. It was prized possession of Jodha, she was very possessive of the gifts she gets from her brother and this earring was one of her favourite. So she usually never risks giving it to others for anything, even if it is to repair as she does the required repairing herself if needed but then today without even thinking, so automatically she gave Jalal the earring and walked back to her chambers.

Now while recollecting the incident also she was not feeling any sort of regret and this was amusing her even more.

"What is that which Shehenshah has that is making me behave in way different"

She didn't know when or how she fell asleep but thinking this she drifted into sound sleep.

______

On the other part of the palace Jalal was lost in deep thoughts, he was surprised on how can a begum influence his actions this much that too without even knowing her properly. He smiled as he remembered how Atgah came and told him that the peasant is innocent and let the peasant free but made sure things are kept in secret till the real culprit gets caught. This incident is what prompted him to advance himself for friendship with his new begum. He was impressed by her and also wondered how many such innocent people he prosecuted because of his ego. He felt guilty and grateful at the same time, guilty at the thought of those unknown innocent people and grateful for his new begum.

Yet he was not ready to let her know or let anyone know about this.

He stood up straight and looked at the earring he offered to repair and wondered what was so special about this small earring. And an unknown tinge of jealousy he felt towards the earring which was so special for his new begum. Sighing and taking breath he decided to take a walk before going to sleep.

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