FF: AkDha in Jungle - Thread 3 - Part 53 (last Ch) Updated on Pg13 6/6

Hello everyone! 🤗 😃 Finally, after a long break (almost one year 🤣 ), I am back with an update. 😆 I hope the readers still remember this story. I wouldn't have been able to write anything further, if the innumerable PMs from various readers had not encouraged me to do so. Anyways, here is the next update. And I guess, since it's my vacation time, I'll be able to update soon from now onwards 😛 😉

The Summary from Part1-Part 50 is present below in order to remind you of the plot of the story 😆. The story will end soon with a few more chapters. 😊

Thats it. Happy reading. 😃

Regards,

Nancy 😳

Link to Thread 2 >> AkDha in Jungle - Thread 2

Thread 3:

Summary of Part 1 - Part 50 :Below on Page 1

Part 51 : Below on Page 1

Part 52 : Below on Page 1

Part 53 : Page 13

The story starts from Jodha running towards Jungle to commit suicide because She was rudely insulted by Maham Anga in the court..Just because Jodha had thrown colour on her..by mistake. However..Jalal saved Jodha on time..They had an heated argument..Not only because Jodha tried to commit suicide..but also Jalal had said that He'll leave her to Amer..But..Jalal accepted his mistake..saved her..They were attacked by a tiger.. Tiger pounced on Jalal but Jodha came in between to save him.. Jalal was moved by this.. He fought back the tiger and both were saved.. Jodha nursed Jalal and the night passed away in silence..Next day Jalal found out that Jodha is badly injured..He takes her on his horse..Both reach the Palace..
He takes care of her..From here on..Both Jalal and Jodha start getting affectionate towards each other.. On one side..Jalal is moved by her words and her care for him..But he understands that she hates him for what all he had done..On other side..Jodha is in thoughts of why Jalal is doing so much for her.. As time passes by..Jalal keeps a function for Jodha's welfare.. Where he declares Jodha as Mallika-e-Hind.. Jodha is totally moved by his actions.. Jalal also confesses his love for her and says that he'll wait for her answer..
Meanwhile..Adham is enraged by Jalal's love for Jodha..He thinks Jodha should be punished severely for insulting Maham Anga..He barges in Jodha's chamber and hurts her by slapping and man-handling her...But before He could do anything further to her..Jalal saves Jodha from him..
Jalal is enraged to heights..The very next day..He kills Adham severely in front of everyone and everything is witnessed by Jodha..Jodha is touched by this..Maham plots to hurt Jodha but with a smart play.. All the while..Ruqaiya is upset and jealous with Jalal's and Jodha's relationship..
After this incidence..Jalal shifts Jodha to his room wherein they start living as husband wife..They do not consummate on the first night itself..Jodha sleeps on ground as Jalal is out and there is only one bed..When Jalal comes back..He is so touched by her concern for him..He lifts her up and places her on bed..Whereas Himself goes on to ground to sleep..finally Jodha also comes down and both sleep together on ground..Next morning..Ruqaiya comes at door and Jodha opens it..Ruqaiya is shocked with their state..Jodha feels awkward and little guilt-struck..Jalal greets Ruqaiya..they have small convo and Ruqaiya leaves.. After that Jodha and Jalal have a talk..Jalal again tells Jodha that Jodha is the only one he loves and No one can take her place..Jodha feels happy and a bit sad as well..
After that..Jodha goes out in garden and Maham comes to her..says..Run from here..Its all Jalal's game to fool her..Jodha slaps Maham hard..and confronts her with all the crimes and misdeeds she has done..Maham is surprised and Shocked..Jalal is listening to everything..He is shattered and broken by knowing the reality of his badi ammi.. He goes in his room and collapses down..Jodha comes in and Sees his condition..Docs check him and say.Its just little stress..Everybody is worried..
Ruqaiya blames Jodha for Jalal's condition...She explains what she saw in the morning..Maham also plays her card by saying that Jodha slapped her..Hameeda is shocked...She confronts Jodha..Jodha is unable to answer since She's more worried about Jalal and feels really trapped..As Hameeda raises her hand..Jalal stops her hand and goes to Jodha..He hugs her and defends her..
He orders everyone to stay out of the matters of his personal life and calls for Deewan-e-Khaas..Both Jalal and Jodha have conversation of all the things..Jalal gets to know the whole reality and how Jodha is scared of not telling him truth since She fears He'll do disgrace to her family.. Jalal is so touched and feels very much guilt-struck..

In Deewan-e-Khaas..He punishes Maham Anga and gives her death sentence..But Jodha stops him and therefore Maham Anga is given lifetime imprisonment..After all these things..Hameeda seeks forgiveness from Jodha and Both of them have a lovely time..After this incidence..Jodha realises that She loves Jalal..She goes in the garden and dances her heart out..She feels him everywhere..Her breathing becomes heavy..Jalal also comes there and Jodha confesses her love for him..Jalal feels out of the world..They both share a warm hug..As the day passes..Jalal comes to know that A mughal troop is thinking to attack him..He is surprised.. He knows He'll win easily but he decides to find out why his own people are against him.. That night..Jodha confesses that She wants to take their relationship to next level..
Jalal is so very happy but again he apologises for all his mistakes..And Jodha and Jalal consummate their marriage.. Next morning Jalal leaves for the battlefield..giving the palace's responsibility to Shariffudin..When Jalal is away on battle..Shariffudin laughs out his heart on the dirty trick he played..
He decides to kill Jodha and goes to her chamber in the night..and stabs and kills the person who's sleeping on the bed. He feels victorious and leaves..forgetting his dagger on the bed..

Here on other side..Jalal's army wins and they arrest the head of army.. The arrested person tells that
Shariffudin filled their pockets to attack on Jalal...Jalal is terrified with the cheap trick..His anger reaches to heights.,.
All his army moves back to Palace..Next morning Jalal and his group reach back to the palace and find everyone weeping and crying hard...Jodha is nowhere to be seen..Jalal is shocked to core.. He goes to his room and finds a dead body all stained with blood..
He drops down on the ground..Hameeda comes and consoles him..She directs him towards Jodha..Who is sitting in a corner in front of Kanha's temple..Jalal goes and hugs her..Jodha tells him that she lost Moti...Someone killed her brutally..She explains of how She was feeling lonely and she called Moti to her room..and when she slept..Jodha moved out of the room to have a walk in garden..Thats when Shariffudin had attacked Moti mistaking her to be Jodha.. Jalal understands everything within a second..He beats up Shariffudin with all his might.. Everyone is Shocked to know the reality of Shariffudin.,Bakshi Bano breaks relation with this man.. Jodha too slaps him..And cries her heart out.. Finally..after punishing him..as the time passes by..everything slowly becomes normal..Hameeda Calls peer baba for a solution to all these problems..He says Jalal and all his three begums need to go to Ajmer Sharif Journey and after that all will be well..Jalal and Jodha slowly and gradually become one..their love reaches to its height..
As the time for journey comes..Jalal..Jodha..Ruqaiya and Salima leave for the journey..Ruqaiya tries to win the trust of Jalal and Jodha by enacting to be nice..
In the jungle..where they stop for night..Ruqaiya plays a trick by joining hands with Khwaja Shera.. Khawaja Shera tells him that Ruqaiya is bitten by snake..Jalal and everyone are shocked.. KS asks him to stay with her for whole night..Jalal is shocked and feels guilt-struck..He says..Ok! I'll come in five minutes..Till then You take care of her..He goes to his and Jodha's tent and sees her praying for Ruqaiya..He feels so burderned with guilt as He had not allowed even her to see Ruqaiya..He goes and sits next to her..Jodha gets up and goes to sleep.. Jalal gets upset..He looks at her saddened face and feels very distressed..
Jodha turns her face from him and pretends to sleep..Jalal tickles her over her body..and seeks forgiveness...Jodha is always moved by his touch..She hugs him and both spend some lovely time together..Then Jalal discloses to her that He has to spend night in Ruqaya's room..Jodha is shocked but smiles out the matter..Jalal says..I am not going alone..You are coming with me..Jodha is so touched by his words..They both go to Ruqaiya's tent..Ruqaiya is shocked after seeing Jodha..
She burns with jealousy and anger..Jodha and Jalal sleep together in Ruqaiya's tent..That was height for Ruqs! At early morning..Ruqs drug both of them and shifts Jalal on her bed..As full morning arrives..Jodha wakes up and sees Jalal with Ruqaiya..She is definitely shocked and hurt a bit but calms herself down..
She moves out of the tent and collides with Salima begum in her way back to her tent.. Salima assures her that Jalal only loves Jodha..Jodha says I know that and I love him too..They both share a happy convo and then Jodha goes back to her tent..She is in deep thoughts..She feels uneasy seeing him with other woman..But then she finally convinces..That Its alright! He has got other duties as well..and that he loves her above all..When Jalal wakes up..He is shocked to core and reaches to his tent..He finds Jodha getting ready..A tear rolls down his eyes..Jodha hugs him and says..I love you and please don't give any explanation..Jalal hugs her too and his love and respect for her increases..On other side..Ruqaiya smirks and enjoys her first supposed "victory".. She promises to herself that She'll soon put Jodha into great trouble.
As all of them continue their journey..they reach Ajmer Sharif..They climb up the thousand stairs..reach the divine place..pray and take blessings..And have their lunch there..Jalal also fills the treasure boxes ..Finally they start to leave from there..In the way back down..Ruqaiya pushes Jodha from stairs..No one notices that..Jodha stumbles 5-6 stairs and Jalal catches hold of her on time..Everybody is shocked..Jalal is numbed..But he takes quick actions upon this..
All of them reach back to Agra palace.. The news is devastating to all..Jodha's treatment takes place..Slowly time passes by..Hakims tell Jalal that He's gonna be father now..Jalal's happiness knows no bounds..Next morning He discloses this news to Jodha and Both feel on the top of the world..They share lovely close passionate moments.. Unaware of the eavesdropping Ruqaiya.. Jalal calls Diwaan-E-Khaas and breaks out this news to everyone..Everyone thanks Allah for this divine moment..
Jalal orders the ministers to arrange for a big Jashn...

As the arrangements for Jashn go on, Jalal and Jodha share a passionate time in their own world of love. On the other hand, Ruqaiya plans to harm Jodha. Jodha has an urge to ask for something from Jalal but doesn't say it. However Jalal could feel it and sooner, he realises what she wishes for.

Jalal reaches to Hameeda and says that despite all the tight security, requests her to take extra care of Jodha, and that, to check everything before anything reaches to Jodha, as he knows that his mother is the best. Hameeda lovingly agrees and says, you don't need to say this Jalal. I am there for Jodha. Jalal and Hameeda hug.

Here, Jodha gets ready for the function. She dresses up like an angelic Goddess. Jalal sees her and is mesmerised beyond words. He fills her maang with holy sindoor and both make their way to the Jashn hall.

The celebration starts as the King and Queen occupy their thrones. Before the program commences, Jalal gets up and respectfully escorts Jodha's family in the hall. Jodha is stunned beyond belief and her respect for Jalal increases manifold. So after all, her husband completed her wish even without her asking for it. She thanks him from bottom of her heart and Jalal acknowledges it lovingly.

The programme begins. Dancers and Singers from various cultures beautify the grandeur of Jashn. As the dance comes to an end, the ceremony of presenting the gifts to King and Queen begins. All are elated. Every Begum has got a glass of Kesar milk along with other gifts they have brought. Ruqaiya plays her card here and takes Jalal's permission to present all the milk glasses from all Begums to Jodha herself, as she's very possessive about the baby. Though everyone is stunned at her awkward request, Jodha and Jalal nod in yes. She's about to poison Jodha with the milk she had brought, but Hameeda stops her in time. She decides to check it herself and hence, in order to save herself, Ruqaiya drop the glasses calling it a mistake. Hameeda asks maids for more glasses of milk and then Jodha is fed with pure safe milk while Ruqs fumes as her plan has failed.

Later Atgah Sahab gives vote of thanks and the Jashn arrives to its end. Everyone retires for the night.

Jodha and Jalal have a mischievous banter and later, they get lost in their own world of intense love. Ruqaiya is higly pissed off and hence she plans to kill Jodha with a poisonous knife. Later in night, Jo asks Jalal if his going to a meeting next day was important. Jalal says yes but she didn't need to worry as he'll be back soon.

Next day morning, everyone blesses Jalal to be successful in the meeting and Jodha does his aarti wishing him all the very best. Jalal gazes at her passionately while Jo blushes and asks him to return soon. Ruqs is happy as she has finally got an opportunity to kill Jo. Soon the day passes by and Ruqs starts for her mission. She comes into Jalal's room but guards stop her. But she threatens them as the Shahenshah himself has allowed her to visit his room. She goes inside room while Guards are way confused and scared thinking about their king. They decide to atleast let Hameeda know that Ruqs has gone in room.

On other side, Jo is way to worried for Jalal as his portrait was about to fall due to stormy wind but she saved it in last minute. She prays for Jalal's welfare. Ruqs enters and accuses Jo of all the allegations she could say, beginning from snatching away Jalal from her to now becoming mother of his child. Ruqs calls Jo's and Jalal's baby a sin. Jodha is way beyond shocked to see the real face of Ruqs. She slaps Ruqs hard and tries fighting back her but her condition doesn't allow her much of warrior moves. Ruqs get hell angry and makes a deep cut on Jo's hand with the toxic knife. Jo winces in pain. As Ruqs watches her pain in delight, she confesses all her plans (trapping Jalal with her during Ajmer journey, throwing Jo down from stairs, poisonous milk etc.). Jo is so stunned; she is unable to speak anything. She is immensely disgusted from Ruqs.

Here, guard is about to reach Hameeda, he sees Jalal walking in Palace. Jalal has knowingly completed his meeting soon in order to be with Jodha asap. Guard narrates the whole thing to Jalal while Jalal runs fast towards his room as he smells something fishy. He comes to know of every disturbing detail from Ruqs mouth itself and he bangs open the door, saving Jodha in nick of time. Jo runs to him and hugs him. Jalal's rage is beyond control. His reddened eyes are just on his prey. Jo passes out as a result of immense agony. Jalal calls for Hakims and ask them to take care of Jo while he drags Ruqs out of him immediately. He slaps her solid twice while Ruqs cringes in ache. Whole palace is awake by now and witnesses the grave scene. Jalal's wrath is so beyond control, he takes a sword and is about to behead Ruqs when Salima stops him in between and gives him a word of wise advice. Jalal asks guards to arrest Ruqs and himself goes to Jo. Hakims give their verdict saying Jo is in critical state as lot of blood has oozed out. But thankfully, Jo and the baby are fine as of now. They also say that she needs to be taken care of well as the injury is not usual and is poisonous. Jalal is stunned with the new development. His rage only intensifies more.

Jalal is broken by Jo's state and constantly keeps praying to God for her well-being. Next morning, he dreams of Jo in conscious state and smiling to him. But soon his dream shatters and reality hits him hard. The docs check Jo and she is still unconscious. Unable to watch her almost lifeless, Jalal moves out of the room in a trance. He keeps walking and walking unless he's out on Agra streets and later, a jungle. Hameeda had already sent Atgah sahib and soldiers behind Jalal out of worry. Jalal reaches Salim Chisti's place and asks for his blessings in order to save his beloved. The saint blesses him and says, go she is waiting for you and give him a divine thread. As soon as Jalal reaches back palace and then his room, he finds Jo opening her eyes. His happiness knows no bounds as he immerses himself in her smile, in her breathing. He asks everyone to leave and later caresses and cuddles Jo to no end. Jo hugs and clings to him seeking comfort while Jalal embraces her like she's the most precious possession of his and asks her not to worry a bit. He asks her to rest.

Jalal calls for Diwaan-e-Khaas for his decision to be announced. After a lot of self-thinking and with a heavy heart, he gives death sentence to Ruqaiya. Neither Hameeda, nor Salima interfere in his decision as they find it suitable. Jalal is upset because she was his childhood friend, but he has no regret for his decision as Ruqs had crossed every limit of brutality and inhumanity. Ruqs is hanged till death and bid adieu with honour and respect as she was Shahenshah's Begum.

In eveving,Jalal comes to his room and finds his beloved sleeping. He decides to let Jodha know of his decision later.

After a while, she murmurs in her sleep. Jalal is already by her side and he softly embraces her forehead with his warm touch. Jodha opens her eyes and finds her beloved next to her. She passes him a sweet lazy smile and tries to get up.

"Aaraam se Jodha", Jalal helps and guides her in getting up. Seeing her smile, all his pains and worries vanish. But at the back of his mind, the things he wanted to share and disclose to her kept revolving. He badly hoped that his Jodha would surely understand the reason behind his decisions.

"Shahenshah.. I feel so exhausted even after whole day of sleeping" she says sluggishly and makes a sad face. A meek smile comes upon Jalal's face as he watches her antics.

"And that's because you haven't eaten properly from past few days.", he tenderly chides her and gets up from the bed.

He goes and fetches the small bed-table. And then he organizes all the food items that he had specially asked the chefs to prepare for the dinner, keeping in mind the likes and dislikes of Jodha. He would have asked any of his servants to do all the work but he wanted this moment to be exclusively private and special. Just him and his Jodha. Moreover, he felt immense satisfaction in doing anything for his dear wife.

Jodha could only stare at him in bewilderment. She felt overjoyed watching her husband doing so much for her.

Once Jalal had arranged all the food stuff on the table, he looked at Jodha with a This-is-all-yours-Wifey look. Jodha chuckled in a shock seeing so much variety of food.

And that giggle brought a wide smile on Jalal's face. After so many days, had he got to see that smile of hers.

Jodha began noting the details of the dinner. Daal-baati choorma, Kadhi, Gatte ka pulaav, methi baajra poori and Boondi ka Raita in main course. Her jaw dropped in disbelief. As if all the items were not enough to throw her off-guard, she looked at the items of dessert. Baadaam ka halwa and choormaa laddoo.

"Shahenshaah!!", she gulped down and spoke in an astounding manner with her wide-opened eyes still lingering on the food. Each and every item was her favourite. Jalal couldn't help but grin at her cuteness.

"So.. what are we waiting for? Let's begin Jodha." Jalal said placing a piece of cloth on her lap first and then on his own.

"Don't you think all these food items are a bit less in quantity and variety? I think you should get more of them.", Jodha spoke in a plain voice, attempting to hide the intended sarcasm.

But Jalal was not the one to get easily be fooled. "Oh yes! You're right. Even I feel they're fewer in quantity. So once we finish them, another round of dinner awaits us as I've already asked the chefs to prepare more food.", he winked at her.

"Shahenshah!", she spoke in mock anger, patting his shoulder hard with her uninjured hand. Then, a second later, both of them broke out in bout of giggles.

"Okay Jodha.. no more of jokes now.. You truly need to have some healthy food. And look at yourself.. you appear so weak and pale.", he took a morsel from the plate and advanced his hand towards Jodha's mouth.

Though Jodha didn't mean to offend him in anyway, she couldn't help but retreat herself before he could feed her. "I.. I am sorry Shahenshah.. but.. it..its just that..", she tried justifying herself for her action. She knew Jalal would have felt bad.

"What happened Jodha?", he asked worried placing the morsel of food back in the plate, far away from feeling offended.

"Vo.. I don't know if the food is good enough for my health.. I mean.. isn't it so heavy?", she faltered in a low tone.

Jalal placed his palm on hers and assured her with his deep loving orbs.

"Don't worry Jodha.. the food is very much healthy. Before placing all the food stuff before you, I have consulted with all the Hakim Sahibas, and all this food has been prepared under their supervision and guidance. The food has everything in perfect amounts keeping in mind your health and you not need worry even a bit", he said comforting her.

She felt so guilty of her mindless remark. "I am so sorry Shahenshah! I should not even think of such things as long as I have you by my side.. I am really sorry" she apologised softly.

"Jodhaa.. I am absolutely not angry on you till now.. but the more you delay for the dinner, the more I will be angry", he looked away from her pretending to be annoyed.

"Okok.. not a single word more... but how do I eat?", she sulked as if she was really helpless.

Jalal looked at her questioningly. "What do you mean Jodha?"

"Vo.. I noticed a food bite coming towards me some time ago... But now I can't spot it anywhere..", she innocently pouted.

Jalal chuckled. He took the morsel of food and fed her lovingly. She smiled back to him fully satisfied.

"Yummm.. The food is so delicious. Just the way I like it.", she said delightedly dabbing her lips with her tongue. Jalal smiled wide looking at her. He was just so happy looking at her enchanted face. He was busy feeding her and didn't think about himself. Now, Jodha took a bite from the plate and fed it to Jalal.

Jalal more than willingly consumed it from her hands. "The food tastes extra delicious today.. Don't know why?" he teased her while her cheeks reddened with the compliment.

And they continued feeding each other devotedly along with light-hearted conversation.

** Jo-Ja's Private Garden **

The night turned up with a bright moon-light embellishing the otherwise dark sky. Jodha and Jalal basked in glory of moonlight, resting leisurely on the royal swing. Jodha rested her head on her beloved's comforting torso and Jalal caressed her back tenderly.

"I feel as if I and our baby are in paradise Shahenshah. All thanks to you", Jodha mumbled lovingly.

"Then I am in double paradise with you and our baby", he whispered in her ears.

A doting smile made its way on both of their lips. "But seriously, I am feeling way better after so many days.", she genuinely thanked him for all his love while Jalal continued cuddling her locks.

After a few minutes, Jalal thought of bringing up the topic of Ruqaiya. He never wished to dampen the divine atmosphere but at the same time, he couldn't let Jodha remain in dark either. But again, he witnessed a totally relaxed and pleased Jodha after so long, how could he just shatter all her happiness again!

So, having decided to take up his late-Begum's issue later, he looked forward to another lovely chat with his beloved.

"Hmm.. tell me one thing Jodha.."

"Yess??"

"Why didn't you have the dessert?"

"Shahenshah.. I can't believe this.. even after witnessing me gobble up so much of food, you are yearning to watch me have sweets as well!"

"What!!" Jalal immediately uplifted her slender body a bit and tenderly held her shoulders.

"So you didn't have it just because you assumed idiotic stuff. Waah! And I believed that you must have avoided it because you were full", he folded his arms in disdain and looked away with a frown.

"Arre... I didn't mean it that way. I.. I meant that I am actually full. Don't feel like having any sweets.", she tried to make up for the mess.

No reply came from Jalal's side. "Arre sach mei.. bilkul man nahi hai Shahenshah. Aap naaraaz mat ho na", she spoke so innocently, Jalal's heart almost melted.

"Okay fine.. I am not asking you to complete the whole sweet dish but at least you can have a bite or two na.. baby will love it as well.", he softly appealed to her.

Not wanting to nag her beloved any further, she gave him the nod in yes with the sweetest smile of hers. "But just the badaam halwa.. really don't feel like having the laddoos."

"Sure wifey", no sooner he received her consent, he hurried out to get the sweet course. As soon as he was out of sight, the smile on her face faded away. She wasn't oblivious of the battle of emotions that was ensuing within him, yet it never appeared on his face even for once. She could only gleam in pride for such a sweetheart husband.

Also, it wasn't that Jodha herself didn't consider the events that had taken place in recent past. But she was way too drained out to reflect upon them. After all this time, she sincerely wanted peace and no more worries. She had had enough of agonies and only she knew how much all that affected the baby. Hence, she didn't converse about that stuff with him.

"Here you go..", he placed the bowl of sweet dish in her palm thereby breaking her reverie. "Thank you.", she replied back with a soft smile. She took a bite of the sweet and forwarded it towards his mouth. As soon as Jalal was about to have it, she retreated her hand and munched on it herself instead.

While Jalal made a face at her, she giggled brazenly. After a while, Jalal also joined her in laughing and sweet dish.

The night carried on with immense solace in each other's arms.

*Next Morning*

Waking up to a beautiful and full-of-life morning, Jodha's first gaze hovered upon him. "How delightful he looks, I wish I could just kiss his cheek tight", she muttered in a mischievous sprite.

"Then what are you waiting for?", he questioned back playfully with his eyes still closed.

Jodha's eyes widened in disbelief and jaw dropped. She nearly had a heart attack.

"God.. you are such a devil. Do you ever sleep or not?", she chided him.

"Oh! That I am. Thanks. And yes, I do sleep. But there is one problem with me, rather an advantage to me, such tempting words always manage to wake me up.", he spoke all the more proud of himself with a wide smirk.

Jodha controlled her laughter and blush with much difficulty. "Fine then..carry on with the noble thoughts." she freed herself from his clutches and got up quickly lest he started his sweet torture.

"Arre.. Jodha.. complete the task you wished for", he called out teasingly while she disappeared in washroom.

*A few hours later*

After they were done with the steamy hot healthy breakfast, Jalal asked Jodha to rest for sometime while he would just go and have a look at DEK matters.
"Shahenshah", she called out so lovingly, he couldn't help but gaze at her beautiful face.

"Yes my love?"

"I have been resting and resting for so long. I just want to spend some time outside these confines now. Pleaseee can I go and have a stroll around Palace?? I'll go and meet AmmiJaan as well.", she pleaded like an innocent child.

Looking in those sparkling expecting eyes, Jalal's heart melted. But a few moments later, as Jodha looked onto him for his consent, he denied her of her request.

Ofcourse he would have allowed her to be wherever she wished, infact she didn't even need to ask for it, but the environment outside their room, precisely the environment of the whole palace was what jabbed Jalal. Jodha was oblivious to everything that had transpired when she was unconscious and sending her outside unaware was not reasonable.

Once he would discuss about the matter of Ruqaiyya with her, he'd be fully burden-free and she'd be nowhere in dark.

Without saying a word, she looked away in dismay. Jalal noticed the obvious gloom that had come over her features and he knew, the time had come.

He gently occupied a seat beside her on the couch and softly embraced her hands into his.

"Jodha.. I am sorry. Please look at me", he called out to her but she remained unmoved.

"Jodha.. I need to talk to you about something important.", he looked into her eyes as he tenderly brought her to face him.

"It's ok. I am staying here in the room. You go and attend the important matters.", she spoke in a plain dull voice.

"Jodha.. do you trust me?", he shot a question at her.

Sensing a sudden change in the content of conversation, she looked at him in surprise. "Of course I do. I trust you more than I trust myself.", the words came out of her mouth instantly, in pride. "But why are you asking this Shahenshah?", she asked confused.

"And do you trust my decisions and actions?", he asked gently with boosted up confidence as the answer from Jodha lifted up his spirits.

"I trust you and your decisions and actions blindly.", she swore on him with a gleaming proud smile. She had obviously ascertained that the matter was serious. And she determined to be all the more supportive to him.

"And what if I commit a huge mistake?", he asked looking directly into her intense orbs. Not that he regarded his decision as a mistake in anyway; it was just to know what Jodha had to say about him in that regard.

"That's not possible because you can never ever make an error. Hence if you have made a decision, it has to be correct. At least, I have absolute faith in your decisions.", she assured him with her profound words.

With that response from her, all his inner hurdles shattered.

"Ruqaiyya Begum is no more Jodha.", he said in a go, waiting for what was to come.

How was it?😲😕😆 Typing after one whole year! Phew. 😆

Jodha took her own time to decipher what she had just heard. While her eyes remained motionless, her hands withdrew from his grip. Jalal's heart towed watching her pulling her hand away. He knew no matter how much she trusted him and his decisions; she would definitely get a shock of her life listening to the news. And he was right, he could see her stunned beyond belief.

Jodha sighed deep and Jalal could hear her profound sigh. "I am sure she's way too upset with me now.", Jalal thought as trouble lines made their way on his temple.

"But she tried to murder you with a poisonous knife..", his voice suffocated with the mere thought as he tried defending his stance in front of her. Jodha looked deep into his painful orbs. Ceaseless love they carried for her. But the reality was so hard to endure; it had hardly sunk in yet. But one thing which had won her heart over, all over again, was his love for her. She couldn't believe he had done that solely for her. She was immensely touched by this gesture of his.

Again getting the silent response from her, Jalal's heart twirled. He immediately squeezed her palm back into his hands as if trying to not let her go from his hold.

"She even called our baby a si..", he again tried justifying his stand but couldn't complete the sentence as his soul infuriated recalling the bitter words. This time, the agonizing words ruptured her trance.

Before he could come up with any other means to explain the gravity of his decision to her, she just hugged him. Hugged him tight. Her hands encircled his waist, head rested on his chest and she sheltered herself deep in his shield. Jalal, though startled, reciprocated and took her into his embrace with all his love.

Her emotions and feelings surged down her cheeks in form of tears. The words which she couldn't voice out till now, just flowed away in form of tears. Neah, they weren't meant for the devil witch who was no more now. In fact, Ruqaiya didn't even matter to her. She didn't care if Ruqaiya existed or not; not at least after what she had done.

It was the pain and agony he must have gone through while taking this decision, which distressed her. She knew how much Ruqaiya meant to him. She obviously knew that her Jalal was way too enraged from Ruqaiya but how could she refute the undeniable bond of friendship they held, since childhood. And she could only imagine how tough and gruelling it must have been for him to do this.

What pained her more was the fact that he even gave an explanation. He tried to explain his decision to her, so that she didn't feel bad. "What about you Shahenshah? Why do you always worry about what I feel? Why can't your feelings be equally important?", she thought and angered at him for being so selfless.

Jalal could perceive the sound of her intensifying sobs. He embraced her tighter and tenderly whispered in her ears ,"Why are you crying? Shh... Don't punish yourself when fault is mine."

Listening to his words, she broke the hug and distanced herself from him. She clutched his collar and asked angrily looking straight into his eyes,"Why do you do this to yourself? Why do you always prioritize me over yourself? WHY?"

Jalal looked at her with a confused frown. He was expecting her to be upset over Ruqaiya's death but instead, he found her to be angry upon his priorities. He couldn't entirely comprehend what she was talking about.

Jodha continued with her hands now releasing his collar,"Ruqaiya Begum doesn't matter to me anymore Shahenshah. It's your happiness and your contentment that matters to me the most. Yes, she deserved the worst punishment for hurting me and our baby.. but..", she paused and looked deep into his eyes, and spoke in a dropped voice ,"But..Wasn't she your friend.. Childhood friend? You are way too burdened after doing that to your friend, aren't you?".

Those words from Jodha answered all his queries and doubts. A wave of relief gushed through his veins. So she wasn't saddened over Ruqaiya's death after all. He felt so relieved to acknowledge this fact, as only he knew to what extent he was dying inside before he heard her thoughts out. He couldn't help but let out a sigh of respite.

Jodha noticed this and a frown hurled on her face. She looked away from him thinking he wasn't listening to her even when the situation was so grave.

Jalal tenderly placed his palm on her cheek and brought her to face him. "She wasn't my friend Jodha. She was never ever my friend. Had she been my friend, she wouldn't have even thought of paining me so much, forget all the crimes she committed.", he verbalized his true feelings in such a tender manner, Jodha couldn't help but give in to his words.

His words made sense. But she wasn't entirely satisfied yet. "But aren't you even a tad bit sad about this?", she asked genuinely holding his hands close to her heart.

"Honestly I am. But that's not because she is no more. It's because I misjudged her. I am disgusted at myself for I couldn't make out her real face and as a consequence, you got hurt.", he let his inner grief out.

His words tugged at her heart. She hugged him again taking him in, ensuring she instilled affection and ease in him. "No Shahenshah.. You're nowhere at fault. Please don't dare to ever say that again. If she turned out to be a wicked person, then it's not our fault. In fact, after listening to your true feelings, I am feeling much at ease. I am absolutely by your side, by your decision."

A heavenly smile crept over Jalal's face as he heard her utter that. He tightened his embrace and whispered in her ears,"Thank you so much Jodha. Thanks alot. I love you so much. You don't know what a burden you have got off my chest. Thanks for just being there for me." Apprehending his heartfelt words, Jodha smiled and cuddled deeper in his chest.

They embraced themselves in each other's arms for their own sweet time.

*A few hours later - Hameeda's Chambers*

Hameeda blessed her daughter in law with all her earnest blessings as she saw her after a long time. She welcomed Jodha in her chamber and made her sit comfortably.

She was way too elated seeing her Daughter in law way better than before.

"Bandhi.. Please make arrangements for the lunch for both of us. And make sure, food is prepared under strict observation and supervision of all the specialised Hakims", Hameeda ordered a maid.

"No no Ammijaan.. there's no need for that.. Vo.. I mean I don't feel hungry at all.", Jodha sheepishly tried to turn it down, as she concealed the real reason to herself. "Jodha.. I'll be back in afternoon for lunch.. We'll have a nice time during lunch and of course, after that as well", his wink and words reverberated in her ears, as she tried hiding a light tint of scarlet on her cheeks.

Hameeda could sense something cooking up in Jodha's head but decided to not embarrass her further.

"No you arrange for the lunch." Hameeda instructed and dismissed the maid while Jodha grew restless with the latest development.

Now Hameeda turned to Jodha and said ,"Jodha beta.. I am not listening to you now. You've been through agonising hell and I want to take bestest care of you.", she lovingly chided her.

"God..What do I do now? What will I answer Shahenshah and how will I face him?", Jodha thought in a dilemma and faintly smiled towards Hameeda. After a while, an idea popped up in her head. "Since I have no other alternative now, I'll eat a little lesser now, so that later I can join him as well.", she smiled to herself, satisfied.

They continued chatting for another half an hour and soon, the lunch was served hot by the maids and the sight of the delicious food was splendid indeed. Jodha gulped down in pale horror as she was just about to break her promise she made to him in morning, but then again smiled thinking of her idea.

"Ammijaan.. ", Jodha nervously called Hameeda ,"Isn't the quantity of food more than required? I mean we're just two.. and.. this food.", she halted as she noticed a manly silhouette approaching them.

"Adaab Ammi-Jaan .. Adaab Jodha Begum", his manly yet dignified voice echoed in the room as he greeted the two ladies. Hameeda smiled at her son and greeted him in return while Jodha gaped at him all astonished.

Both Hameeda and Jalal had a mischievous grin on their faces as Jalal joined the two ladies soon. It didn't take long for Jodha to realize what was going on, and soon the tip of her nose turned red with annoyance.

"You both.", she murmured enraged and turned away her face from them. "I am not feeling hungry.. I'll have my lunch later.", she voiced out in a low dismayed tone and was about to get up when Jalal held her hand and apologised to her through his eyes.

"Jodha Begum.. aap apni ammijaan ke saath khaana nahi khaayengi?", Hameeda asked as if immensely sad.

Jodha took the pretence of Hameeda to be real and dropped down on her seat back. "No..Fine I'll have.", she spoke with her eyes lowered.

Hameeda gave a victory smile to Jalal which didn't go unnoticed by Jodha. "I can't believe this.. You too Ammi Jaan.. as if your son isn't enough", she complained in a cutely annoying manner.

"Hehe. Sorry Jodha. Its Jalal who made me a part of the conspiracy.", Hameeda feigned innocence while Jalal just stared at her in amusement. "Both these ladies will make me go mad one day.", he swore under his breath.

They had their lunch along with light hearted banter. The effect of all this led to immense improvement in Jodha's health. Not only physically but mentally as well.

*Two hours later - In Diwaan-e-Khaas*

After putting his queen to peaceful sleep, he was here in the respected court to make some important decisions. Of course, he had to be attentive about his Empire as well. And today he wanted to make an important announcement and formulate a significant rule. Though the events of recent past had become his priority, he hadn't forgotten the crucial issue and essential meeting he had gone for the other day.

Soon the court proceedings initiated and he discussed chief matters with the panel of esteemed jury and ministers. Elated with their suggestions and with his own proposal, he soon announced the vital verdict that no more taxes from any Hindu, rather no more taxes from any subject of his for the religious purposes will henceforth be seized. He stamped the scroll with royal seal and hence, the rule came into existence from that very moment.

He felt at serene peace after passing the new rule. He could already foresee the happiness his Hindu subjects would go through once they'd come to know of this.

He wrapped up the further discussions soon and asked the respected people of his court to enlighten the people of Agra and his country with the good news as soon as possible.

Moments later, the court was adjourned for the day.

*2 Weeks Later*

"God! I feel so lethargic today.", Jodha woke up lazily from the afternoon sleep. Stretching her arms upwards, she tried to chuck the exhaustion she felt. "Hmmm.. this is what happens when you listen to your husband without a word in protest.", she mentally scolded herself in annoyance.

"I rest for 23.5 hours out of 24 hours in a day as per his instructions, and just do a bit of exercise as docs suggest, that too after I initially demanded for it."..she blabbered in irritation and continued "Awesome. If this goes on for another week or two, I am surely going to resemble a plump ball of some sort."

She surveyed her surroundings with scanning eyes in order to check if anyone was present. Finding none at least in the near vicinity, she shrewdly smiled as if a cunning idea had just popped up in her mind.

"Darling husband is busy with the court and maids are just outside my chamber, waiting for a call of mine. Thank god no one is here. Great. Time to put my plan to reality.", she rubbed her palms in playful manner.

"But is it in anyway harmful for the baby? What if baby gets hurt in the way?", the mere thought made her troubled as the motherly voice echoed in her ears. Thinking deeply upon her strategy, she concluded that it was going to be alright. "Just a few moves, the basic ones. And it won't have much effect on my body. But at least the lethargy that I feel will vanish right away.", she smiled reassuring herself.

With that determined pledge, she got up to get ready and practice her sword-fighting skills. She headed towards the cupboard and soon dug up her practice attire. A beaming smile adorned her lips as she glimpsed at her precious possession after what seemed ages. She brought the dress close to her chest and hugged it fondly. And then she headed to washroom.

A few moments later, she was all ready. Looking like a striking brave warrior in that white attire with a maroon border. She watched herself in the mirror and let the nostalgia sink in as she loved herself as a fighter.

She then moved to the private weapons-room adjacent to the royal one, scrutinised the various swords. After a while, her sight caught hold of one and soon she placed her hand on a sharp spiky shining sword.

*In the Personal Practice Area of Emperor*

Relishing the moment after so many days, she chided herself for not getting this idea earlier. "I'd have practised light sword skills in all these days. Duh. Stupid me."

"Anyways... no more time to spare for self blabbering.", she ceased her thoughts as she slashed the sword sharp in air like a gush of wind. "Aah.. this feeling.", she elated in the pleasure she got.

*In Emperor's Room*

Jalal returned to room hoping for catching a glimpse at his sleeping beauty. He had finished the court matters soon and thought of spending the rest of his time with her. Moreover the morning incident worried him and therefore, he couldn't help but have a glance at his wifey for his own sanity.

No sooner he stepped in his room, his eyes widened in surprise not finding her there.

Hope you liked it. 😊 And the story will soon end in a chapter or two.😛

congratulation for your new thread and story success 🥳

awesome update loved it

continue soon

good ruku is punished