Thread 2: Destined Love... (New thread created) - Page 54

Originally posted by: Insaneniyu

Awesome update

Loved jalal n salima friendship how he share about jodha n her support n motivation to go for his love like a true friend n her warning about his khan baba

Atlast jalal now understood what his khan baba is?

Originally posted by: divyadaya13

You are a fabulous writer dear. What an amazing update. Very very intriguing.

Good chappy...👏

Originally posted by: sweety992

Good chappy...👏

Thanks for update...😛

Hope to see them together...😊

sooperrr dear u know am new to this forums but i have fall 4 ur storiesss w8ng for ur nxt update dr

hai dr i m xtremly sry i dont know abt this forums am still trying to learn😕...that's y i cant hlp u am sry 😳

Originally posted by: sugankrishnan

sooperrr dear u know am new to this forums but i have fall 4 ur storiesss w8ng for ur nxt update dr

Originally posted by: sugankrishnan

hai dr i m xtremly sry i dont know abt this forums am still trying to learn😕...that's y i cant hlp u am sry 😳

Chapter 30:

Part 1

Puffing his sweat in a silky towel after a hectic sword-practice, Jalal was going to start his exercises again, but a servant interrupted suddenly.

"Pardon your Majesty... He said. "Adga Sahab is seeing your path. He said there is something critical which needs your attention right now.

"Adga Sahab? Jalal readily put on his royal choga on the kurti he wears at the time of practicing and went off from the ground. Adga Sahab was waiting just at the side of the door. "Adga Sahab? What happened? He asked in worry.

Adga Sahab was panting a little. His pant was more for his suppressed rage than his tire. His calm and fair face was reddish out of excitement. "I am sorry to nudge you at such an odd time, your Majesty... he said curtly. "But matter was important.

"What's the matter? Jalal asked.

"The farmers of the land of western village have come to seek your presence Majesty. Adga Sahab spoke after taming the temper of his voice. "Better you meet them for once.

"Farmers of western village? Jalal could not understand the importance of the matter. "However, are the farmers so important that I have to meet them right now leaving the rest of my exercise in middle? A particular day in a week is allotted for them when they can meet me. Why would run to them right now?

"Pardon Majesty... Adga Sahab lowered his eyes and uttered in a modest yet powerful voice. "Perhaps you do not remember the issue regarding the land of western village. Khan-E-Khana Bairam Khan had chosen the land for the extension of military camp; but since the lands are very fertile the farmers had come with a petition and you have listened to their plea by cancelling the plan of extension.

"Yeah yeah, I remember... so? What they want now?

"Majesty... A night before yesterday some goons broke in their village and destructed all the lands by putting in fire; those goons had worn the uniform of Mughal Army, and had declared that everything is going on as per order of the administration. The villagers were told that from tomorrow the construction of the camp will start. Adga Sahab took a long breath after completing the sentence. He was looking weary from inside. "Do you think even after this incident I should not bother to meet you to those farmers?

Jalal could not answer; as for a while he was astonished. He could not believe that even this can happen in his empire!

Western village, as they use to call the village at the west gate of Agra fort instead of bothering to know its real name, was too small and insignificant for Mughal Empire till Bairam Khan had discovered how perfect the place can be for a military camp. The Empire was ready to give the farmers a good amount of compensation, but they did not accept the offer. Jalal heard their plea and understood the significance of their opposition and had ordered to stop the project. He had told Bairam Khan to take initiatives to hold back the project on urgent basis before he sends the official notice. His Khan Baba was disgusted, as usual. "When the empire needs the land, that means the farmers have to give that. From where does the question of this opposition and all come? They were not even supposed to get compensation which they were given for handing the land to the emperor. He had commented.

"Because the land belongs to them; their well-being is related to those lands... And as an emperor I have to keep that in mind too. Jalal had cut it short.

"That the hell! Bairam Khan had uttered in irritation. "What about the military camp? What about the ever-growing army of Mughals? How would the authority accommodate them?

"The authority might find a barren land for them. But no man can be left homeless for some mere conveniences of the empire. A small amount of compensation cannot be a substitute to a permanent, independent livelihood. I would not snatch the source of independent life from anyone- at least not before giving them a proper alternative of independent earning. Jalal had concluded.

All these were an incident of two days before. Probably he would prepare the finalized official documentation regarding this small issue by today only. But the lands were destroyed right at that night... ignoring his wish... overruling His Majesty's order!

Jalal took a long breath out of a strange strangulation that was choking him.

Adga Sahab was continuing... "The farmers were so much enraged that they wanted to start a rebellion. Of course they believed that all happened as per your order; you tricked them in morning and then finished everything neatly in the dark of night. Thanks to the newly implemented intelligence system; they kept trace of the incident and then convinced the chief of the village to meet you at face and to talk once before. He said in a dim voice. "Tell me Majesty, hadn't I needed to call you even in this emergency purpose?

Jalal closed his eyes for a moment to control his scattered emotions. At the next moment he came back in his regal form. "Have the gumshoes found out the mastermind?

Adga Sahab smiled sarcastically. "You know him. Even each and every leaves of this empire knows who did it. Who else other than Khan-E-Khana Bairam Khan would dare to cross His Majesty's order and to decide everything as per his wish?

Jalal was getting ready for the special public meeting in Diwan-E-Aam which he had declared just now after talking with the chief of Western village at the gate of the outer palace. While an attendant was adorning him with royal ornaments, another one was putting on the royal robe on his shoulder and another attendant was taking care of his shoes, Jalal was completely lost in his thoughts. The faces of those dejected, broken farmers were floating in front of his eyes. The pitiful teary voice of the old head of the village was ringing inside his ear- the mournful wail of a man who lost everything!

"You assured us that none will take away our home from us... now where will we go?? Tell us??

"You had promised us, Your Majesty! We believed you! You broke your promise! Now where will we go??

No, they were not pointing finger on anyone; they were not describing their situation with fabricated words; they were only wailing and lamenting spontaneously. They were crying and venting their frustration out on their emperor whom they had believed to be their saviour and had been deceived. While crying and wailing they had forgotten that they were standing inside a vast palace, surrounded by plenty of armed soldiers, and a man of a great personality is standing just in front of them keeping negligible distance in between. They were so lost in their sorrow, in their future worries- which were the responsibilities of Jalal, where he failed!

Probably he is equally responsible. He did not give that much stress regarding this small matter due to busy schedule. He had thought his verbal orders would work for now, and he will complete the formalities when he would get time. After-all everything is going to be managed by Khan Baba, he will take care of it; nothing will happen if formality is a bit less. If only he would not be so silly-sally about this small' matter; if only he could understand that hundreds of lives are hanging on the loose thread of this small' matter... if only he would be a bit serious and took the responsibility on his own hand...

How did he believe that Khan Baba would leave this chance to show his superiority on these poor villagers on his word, even after so many incidents? Again he depended on Bairam Khan, and failed as an emperor!

"Jalal! Jalal! Bairam Khan suddenly stormed inside the room ignoring the mild protest of the guards standing outside. "What am I listening? You have cancelled the important meeting regarding next war and called for a meeting in Diwan-E-Aam?

Bairam Khan never had followed any royal etiquette while meeting Jalal, Jalal never found it odd ever. But today the bones of his chin became rigid in a strange pinch of insult. He was standing in front of the mirror; he felt his own reflection was mocking at him and his helpless feelings of insult.

"Jalal... I am talking to you! Bairam Khan became impatient.

Jalal looked at him with stern eyes... "I felt it is needed. He told in a cold tone while wearing the rings.

"But suddenly the notice... the sudden cancellation of the meeting... what... Bairam Khan became impatient and angry. "What is going on?

Jalal turned at him and observed him for a moment. Then he turned back to the mirror again. "Taqliya! he ordered. The attendants bowed and went off.

Bairam Khan came closer. "Jalal...

"I wish you haven't forgotten that there are plenty unpleasant things in this world which should not take place in front of the servants. Jalal uttered in a cold tone. The coldness of his voice made Bairam Khan speechless for a single moment.

"The Diwan-E-Aam... He tried to start.

"I am sure you know the reason. Jalal interrupted. "By now you should have been presented in Diwan-E-Aam instead of standing here.

"Why are you talking like this to me? Bairam Khan asked in an irritated voice.

"What else do you expect, when the answers are well-known to you? Jalal looked straight at his eyes. "Rather I should ask you... didn't you get your show-cause notice?

Show-Cause notice to Khan-E-Khana Bairam Khan! Bairam Khan stared speechlessly for a while.

"It seems the bearer was too timid to handle the notice to you. Jalal said in the same cold tone. "However, when you are here, I must ask you verbally. How did you dare to put fire on the land of those villagers ignoring the order of your emperor?

Bairam Khan stared vacantly at Jalal.

"What happened? Do you deny doing that? Jalal asked in a suppressed rage.

"For some mere villagers you planned to insult me right in Diwan-E-Khas? Bairam Khan hissed.

"A question on a punishable offence is never an insult. A responsible minister of Mughal dynasty must know this. Jalal's eyes were piercing Bairam Khan's heart.

"Being an emperor you dance in the steps of some mere villagers... it's not appropriate for an emperor. Bairam Khan raised his voice.

"You are so caring about the respect of the emperor; isn't it? Only pity is you yourself don't know how to respect your emperor! Jalal's voice was not high, but rigid enough to shiver the heart. Bairam Khan was ready for a conflict. But he did not expect him to be this much direct!

"What I did was for betterment of the regiment. Betterment of the empire...

"Who are you to decide that?

A simple question. But Bairam Khan felt the earth under his feet has started trembling.

Bairam Khan took a long breath. "Mughal Empire gives me the right to allot proper lands to every departments. The department of land and revenue comes under my responsibility.

"By crossing the emperor's order?

"If the emperor starts taking whimsical decisions...

"Then too, you are no one to take decisions on behalf of him!

Bairam Khan felt if Jalal would chop down his head instead of this insult, he would felt much comfortable. He is no one! The man, who protected the empire with the each drop of his blood when Jalal was a mere child, is no one to take a decision to oppose the whimsical acts of the emperor! Bairam Khan is no one to the Mughal dynasty?

Taking a long breath he controlled his emotions readily. "Of course I have rights to take proper decisions, Majesty! Your father, Shahenshah Humayun himself had given me that right...

"A Mughal emperor had given you the right, Khan-E-Khana... Jalal uttered cruelly. "Another Mughal emperor can snatch that too.

Bairam Khan stared without a blink. He had lost the power of speaking temporarily.

"However, Jalal continued. "I am coming to Diwan-E-Khas. You please present yourself there.

Bairam Khan could not move. He was still on the way to digest all the words told by Jalal. Jalal was setting his royal turban on his head. Some tresses of his silky, fluffy hair were becoming a restriction to it. While staring unmindfully, Bairam Khan proceeded to help him spontaneously according to his old habits. Jalal stopped him. His eyes were burning...

"I know how to manage my crown all alone, Khan Baba. He uttered. He set his turban properly, took up his sword and went out of the room.

For the first time Bairam Khan felt the name Khan Baba' came out of Jalal's mouth intending to mock him.

The untimely court in Diwan-E-Aam naturally raised a lot of questions in everyone's mind. However, everything got cleared when the emperor sat on his throne and three skeleton-like men were stood in front of them. The announcer read the complaint of those three in his typical high-pinched voice while three of them knelt down spontaneously. The pin-drop silence of the court broke as all the courtiers started chattering in low voice.

"The emperor ordered to cancel the construction plan?

"But how come we didn't get to know about this?

"I think Shahenshah had ordered verbally without issuing any sealed document; but the department of lands and revenue did not ponder over that.

"Department of Land and Revenue belongs to Khan-E-Khana... he has the authority to decide the matters regarding allocation of lands. When emperor did not issue any official order, Khan-E-Khana does not have the compulsion of carrying out the verbal order...

"This is utterly illogical; you mean to say there is no value of Shahenshah's words? Bairam Khan has committed crime!

"But the complaint does not contain the name of Bairam Khan... Clearly shows Shahenshah would cover him. Shahenshah Jalal cannot lose Bairam Khan... he is the pillar of all his power you know?

Among all discussions, Adham Khan kept quiet and smirked. Who says that you have great sense of politics, Bairam Khan? You are a great idiot. Otherwise who digs the hole for own burial like this being manipulated by some cheap followers? His eyes swiftly passed through the woman section behind the curtain. A pair of eyes smirked from there, which was only felt by him.

"Congratulations, Ammijaan! Adham Khan sniggered while uttering in mind.

After the complaint was read; the emperor got up. In a moderated and firm tone of authority he started-

"First of all, me, Jalaluddin Mohammad, the emperor of Mughal Empire, is asking heartiest apology to all the dwellers of Western village for the great mishap which took place in their village last night. Due to some miscommunications in the system this unforgiving mistake has taken place. The authority will do a proper investigation to find the real reason behind this worst incident. I really have no face to stand in front of you people and ask for apology; but I promise you to give enough compensation to you all so that you can lead a respectful livelihood temporarily. The army camp will not be built in your village and all your lands will be returned to you all. Your houses and farms will be rebuilt by the empire itself. If the lands lose its fertility due to fire, your land will be replaced with other lands afterward. Additionally to compensate your loss, the empire is relieving all the villagers from all kind of taxes this year.

All the people present there chanted in the name of the emperor. The emperor sealed in a document right in front of all and declared- "Sufficient amount of money and grains from royal treasury should reach to the Western village right now. The damages also should be repaired as soon as possible. Till then, a temporary shelter will be built for all the homeless people. All arrangements should be completed as soon as possible.

After another howl of chants on emperor's name, the court was adjourned. Bairam Khan had no significance among all these. He was surprised, as after the confrontation in Jalal's room he was prepared for an unwanted consequence. He was surprised to see Jalal not even mentioning his name. With that surprise touched in his eyes, he was about to leave, Jalal suddenly called him from behind.

"Khan-E-Khana...

Bairam Khan could not believe his ears. Jalal seldom calls him by his designation in any conversation taking place outside court. He stood and looked at Jalal.

"I have told the treasurer to send you a report of all the money distributed to the villagers. Jalal said in a mild but strong tone. "You have to compensate that amount of money as a penalty.

"What? Bairam Khan could not say anything more.

"Yes. Half from the budget allotted to land and revenue department, and rest from your own earnings. Jalal had no kindness in his voice. "You might face problem to give such a big amount at a time; so you can give in instalment. Have a talk with the treasurer regarding this.

"You... will take... take money...

"As a compensation, Khan-E-Khana... Why the empire would face the consequences of your fault?

"I don't know what you think about me, Bairam Khan took a long breath before speaking- "But whatever I did was not for my own benefit... what I did was for my empire; and I did not break any law by going against the official order of emperor as well. I told you I did not think your decision good enough, so I did not take any actions on them. If you have given official orders those would certainly be implemented. I might hurt you but... He had nothing more to say as an excuse, but he did not want to lose the flow of words in order to defend himself as well. So he continued- "And why would the empire take all the burdens of expenses of those villagers? Only a small amount of...

He stopped. Jalal had raised a hand to stop him.

"I want something more from you, Khan-E-Khana...

"Tell... Bairam Khan looked at his eyes with a suppressed rage.

"You will apply for a voluntary retirement from your responsibilities of land and revenue department.

Bairam Khan kept on staring numb.

"I want the paper till evening, Khan-E-Khana. Jalal said...

Bairam Khan could not help but to smile after this level of insult. "Won't it be better if you could throw an order of suspension right on my face in front of everyone? You are the majesty, after all!

"Yes I could have done, if I wished. There was no sign of regret in Jalal's cold voice. "Thing is, I don't know if it would be better for you or not, but it was certainly not good for me! It would malign you in front of the public. It would tell upon your image. His voice suddenly became too low. "Maybe you would never understand; but still now I consider your insult as my insult. You might find pleasure by showing me down, but I don't!

"I find pleasure by showing you down? What are you telling? Bairam Khan's voice cracked suddenly. "I have spent almost my whole life to raise you like an emperor...

"That's why it pains when the insults come from that same man who gave me the lessons of self-respect! Jalal lost the control of emotion from his voice suddenly. He controlled himself at the next moment. "I hope you would understand soon, that in the process of demeaning me, how you are pulling yourself down and insulting yourself, Khan Baba...

The corners of Jalal's eyes were shining; his eyesight was getting blurred. Perhaps to save himself from further emotional plight and to display his weakness, he left the place at once.

Jalal was sitting vacant on his bed after cancelling an important meeting. The short confrontation between him and his Khan Baba had drained out all his energy! Had he ever thought in his dreams that he would talk in this tone with his Khan Baba? But still he did; his position, his responsibility demanded it from him.

Only responsibility? Or something else? How can he deny to himself that he was so rude to his mentor because his ego was hurt! Yes... if he keeps the justice and the tears of those villagers aside, it was his pride as an emperor who compelled him to forget the position of his Khan Baba in his life. He was enraged as Khan Baba crossed his order. He felt insulted. He did not think for once that Khan Baba too might have some own views. Maybe he did not think the decision of Jalal alright, and from the habit of correcting him from childhood he also thought this time that he should correct him... perhaps he did not have the sense at that point of time that Jalal is not a child... Perhaps it was all his fatherly protectiveness, that he thought Jalal was being manipulated by some people and taking wrong decisions... He did an offence, of course, but was that offence so grave that he had to bear insult from the boy whom he has brought up?

What are you thinking, Jalal? Don't drown in emotion. Someone from his soul scolded him hard. Does your Khan Baba really deserve so much of your thoughts? Can't you see the faces of those innocent deprived farmers whose homes were burnt? Can't you hear the wailing of those poor villagers who do not know where to go, what to eat after this? If all these happens because of your Khan Baba's so-called fatherly protectiveness, then that fatherly feelings was needed to be crushed. You have a unique relationship with your Khan Baba, that's natural... but why the other innocent lives will suffer because of this? You should think like an emperor. Your pride of an emperor should talk on behalf of yourself. Your empire is much much bigger than the emotions of your foster father. If he is wrong; he has to pay the price.

"Jalal?

Jalal got back in his senses again and looked at the door. His Badi-Ammi was standing with a large smile.

"Badi Ammi. Jalal smiled. "Please come...

Maham Anga came and sat beside Jalal. She touched Jalal's forehead with tender hand. She looked tensed. "You are not looking ill. Then why did you cancel the meeting?

"I am exhausted. Jalal told. "By the way, how do you know I had a meeting now?

"I have to know everything that's related to you Jalal. Maham Anga's eyes shined in a glow of pride. "I am given the responsibility of all your happiness and conveniences... from the day you had born. I get to know everything just by looking at your face.

"Really?

"You want proof? Maham Anga smiled. "I can fathom why you did not go to meeting. You are upset about Khan-E-Khana.

Jalal told nothing, just smiled sadly and sighed.

"Don't be upset on Bairam Khan Sahab, Jalal. You have plenty of things to be upset. Maham Anga told in an emotionless voice. "Get upset about your position, Jalal. Get upset about your falling reputation.

"What do you mean? Jalal frowned.

Maham Anga smiled. "Do you think your declaration of compensation in Diwan-E-Aam was enough to revive the same image which the villagers of that village used to have on you?

"I know that some compensation would never be a substitute of what they have lost. Jalal told sadly.

"At least they would believe that there is no fault of you if they could see the real culprit in front. But you covered him, declared in the court that everything happened because of miscommunication.

"What else could I do? Accusing Khan Baba and putting all the burden of guilt on him?

"Why not? Is not it your duty to punish the culprits?

"Badi Ammi... Jalal sighed. "In that case, I am equally responsible. I should not have given much stress on this matter and did not pass any official order to put a stop on the project... Khan Baba also did not implement my verbal order and...

"Really? Maham Anga picked one brow amusedly. "Was the first step of the project plan was to lit fire in the village at midnight to let all the villagers burn alive? From when have the officers of Mughal dynasty started making such horrendous project plans?

Jalal stared at her for some time. Then he sighed. He knows... he has eyes... but still, he wants to believe in Khan Baba's excuse; not in the logics of Badi Ammi!

"Come on Jalal. Don't become blind in emotion! Maham Anga rebuked in a logical tone. "Khan-E-Khana had decided to create a massacre in the village after hearing your orders only. He wanted to teach a lesson to the villagers, he wanted to show the whole empire that he can do whatever he likes, and at any time he will be covered by the emperor. He was dying for a chance to prove again that he is the commanding body of the dynasty. And today exactly that happened. You proved again that you are nothing but a puppet of Bairam Khan!

"Badi Ammi...

"My words are not sweet, Jalal. But truth is always bitter. Maham put a hand on Jalal's shoulder and almost whispered. "Do you know what the people of Agra are thinking about you? They are thinking that everything was your plan; you tricked those innocent villagers with sweet words and cleared the whole place by sending people from backdoor. They think that all your promises of compensations are another trick of you, which will be easily forgotten along with time. Would you ever be able to wipe out this stigma from the crown of Mughal Emperor?

Jalal stared at her for a while, then closed his eyes sighing.

"Till when, Jalal? Till when you will tolerate these unwanted situations? Till when you would allow your Khan Baba to boss over everyone, presenting you as his puppet? Maham asked in a disgusted tone. "Can't you understand that your emotional attachment with your Khan Baba is directly telling upon our empire?

Jalal touched Maham Anga's hand. "Do you know Badi Ammi why I control myself from going against Khan Baba publicly time and again?

"Why?

"Because I don't want to let the conflict to be displayed in front of the world. I don't want anyone to know that there is something wrong between us. I would take steps against him privately, would take away powers from him, but no outsider must know this. They will cash this against the empire. Bairam Khan is one of the strongest pillars of this empire, his loss is an ultimate loss!

"Pardon Jalal. Maham smiled sarcastically. "A rusted pillar must be replaced, else it becomes the reason of a great fall. Don't you know that? You want to hide the conflict from the outsiders at the price of your own reputation and respect? You don't want people to know your problems with Bairam Khan by reflecting yourself as Bairam Khan's puppet in front of public? And how long you would stand on the shoulders of Bairam Khan? You have to stand on your own feet.

Jalal could not say anything more. He wants the same- to stand on his own feet, freeing himself from the clutches of Khan Baba. He cannot believe him as an ideal man today like childhood, he loathes him, cannot stand his ideas and beliefs... rather he understands he can be harmful for his empire... but...

"Till how long you would keep balancing between your Khan Baba and your empire, Jalal? You have to choose one! Maham Anga uttered in a cold tone.

"What do you want? Should I throw him out from Agra?? Jalal suddenly became angry. Perhaps, because he had nothing to say... Maham Anga always tries to show Bairam Khan in negative lights in front of Jalal. Jalal always ignores her, cuts her logics with more logical reasons... but today he was unable to do that. Today Maham said such things those were buried deep inside his mind. How long? For how long he will keep on mending things for Khan Baba?

Maham was not a bit puzzled with Jalal's anger. She affectionately touched his hand. "You are not a child, Jalal. You are older enough, much sensible than me. You know your duties very well.

Jalal stayed silent. Maham Anga smirked hiding her face.

"You have installed so many spies all over your empire. Did they report you about Bairam Khan's recent activities?

Jalal looked at her with surprise.

"Do you know in which cycle your Khan Baba belongs to? His friend-cycle contains all your enemies...

"What??

"All the officers those have been sacked or punished by you, all the followers of those officers, the people who are tend to oppose your every decision, and all the priests who are directly against you, are his bosom friends. What do you think- they have any noble idea in their mind? Everything that's happening nowadays to malign your image publicly is just a plan. Might be you love your Khan Baba very much, Jalal. But he does not love you much than his powers!

Jalal hid his sigh. He never thought in his life to spy behind Bairam Khan... but what is happening?

For last time Jalal tried to implement a weak logic... "There is difference between having talking-terms with someone and to conspire against the empire... if I start suspecting like this, I have to send Show-Cause notice to each and every officers of the empire hampering their personal freedom! He said. "Even your son Adham Khan has suddenly become friend with some suspended or demoted officers. Can I accuse him as a conspirator for this officially, even if I have doubts against him?

Maham Anga smiled sadly. "You're trying to stop me by taking my son's name now, Jalal? Well... She touched his shoulder. "So it tells you have set a pair of eyes behind my son too, to know about his activities... none is above your doubt, except Bairam Khan...

"Badi Ammi... I...

"No Jalal. I know you are right. As an emperor you should keep track of each and every creature of this fort! Maham Anga said with a smile. "Anyways, I have only one question. Even if I assume that Adham Khan is the evilest of evils, does it nullify the offences of Bairam Khan by any means? Adham's friendship with those particular people must raise doubt in your mind... but Bairam Khan Sahab's friendship with all your internal enemies is something more suspicious. It's my duty to tell you, Jalal...

Jalal nodded silently while thinking something. "By the way, how do you get to know all these about Khan Baba?

Maham Anga did not get puzzled again. "I said you before... I have to know these things... for my Jalal! She smiled. "You take rest... I am going. Khuda Hafiz.

"Khuda Hafiz, Badi Ammi...

Maham got out of the room. She had frowns on her brows. Adham Khan should be warned immediately. Jalal has got to know about his relation with Maksud Khan. They have to be more more careful from now on!

Jalal lied down on bed tiredly. He could not ignore Maham Anga's words thinking those as a trial of manipulation anymore... She was right! She was very right!

He suddenly got up and clapped. A guard ran in the room and bowed.

"Call Jafar Khan at once.

Jafar Khan is one of the most faithful and efficient spies of Jalal. He sneaks like mouse in anywhere and gets the actual information. The guard bowed down and went out. Jalal drowned in a deep thought.

From today Khan Baba too has to come under the eyes of Jalal.

Part 2:

Another full moon night it was... the silvery wave of moonlight swept over his royal bed, gently touching Jalal's body with its divine, delicate affection. A gentle breeze from river Yamuna was flowing in the grand restroom through the window spreading the bliss of peace in the atmosphere... But still Jalal could not sleep. The bliss of moonlight did not give him that warmth today; the affectionate touch of air could not wipe out the strain of his wounded soul... today the poisonous air of his surrounding has strangled him completely... there is no escape!

He was staring over the window... to the moon... to the silvery reflections on the surface of the river which was shining like diamond from far. The sky is clear today. The moon is smiling brightly surrounded by lakhs of stars floating on the canopy of sky, shining like priceless gems. The night is so calm... so peaceful! Still why humans invite unwanted turbulences in life to break this charm of peace! Why despite the nature being so pure, the humans have to die in painful strangulation? Why despite so much light in nature, humans have to stay in darkness forever?

If she was beside him tonight!

In the solitude of night, while lolling restlessly on bed, while staring at the treasure of nature outside, Jalal realised how much does he need her; after a long time!

He remembers her... he thinks about her... he has started searching her... he is waiting for her... but among all these he has preserved Purnima in heart as only a memory, rather a beautiful, and short-lived dream of him. Today, in this intolerable night of plight and conflict, Purnima stood before him like a living entity.

Jalal got up from the bed, stood beside the window in slow steps. The breeze of the river swayed through his soul. As if the soft moonlight caressed his heart affectionately to sooth him... A window opened in front of him with that gentle touch... a window of memories...

He remembered the flash of the night at the riverbank... the glowing eyes of the heavenly beautiful woman, as unique as a thundering bolt... the skilful strokes of her valiant sword... her elegance... her magic...

He remembered the night when she came to tend him in the broken hut beside the abandoned temple. She was as pure as moonlight... as delicate as a dream... she became a shelter, a protector... a saviour... she indebted him with her kindness- with water, food and medicines in the greatest need... she gave her company in those dark nights... and he did not even understand when she took away his heart while filling him with content in the lonely, aloof livelihood!

He remembered her bright smile after seeing the portrait he made for her... he remembered the gloomy shadow in her face when he had mentioned for the first time that he is married... he remembered the touch of dreaminess in her eyes when he narrated the pseudo descriptions of his childhood... he remembered the eagerness when she ran to him in the stormy night and demanded to go away with him... he remembered the calm love in her eyes when she met him at the last night... he remembered the divine touch of her lips... he remembered the burning rage when she found his fake identity... he remembered her surrender and belief when she saved him from the soldiers of Amer in the name of her love, without thinking about own future!

Where is she now! How is she living? He knew her only for five days; but within this short time only his heart is completely saturated with the presence of her entity. Purnima, who was as truth as sun only some days before, can stay forever as a dream only?

He moved at the corner of the room and pulled off the cover of the easel. A coloured portrait of Purnima came out... He stared at the face of her for a while. Salima Begam said this picture says everything about Purnima... But where? No no... he cannot find Purnima in this face. This beautiful picture is rich from many other aspects, but it does not have the life... the life which was there in the casual sketch of charcoal made on the floor of the hut... Because that time Purnima had filled his heart and soul with her existence. Today she is lost... lost from his life!

"Suppose, my name is Purnima... She had uttered unmindfully while gazing at the stream of moonlight through the broken roof of the heart... Purnima... the bliss of moonlight... the glory of the moon... Chandra's Purnima...

"Where are you, Purnima! Jalal sighed deeply while seeking a glimpse of Purnima in the portrait.

"I am with you, Chandra... Right in your heart! I am the glory of you. How can I go far from you? Someone whispered in his ears... or perhaps the voice echoed inside his heart!

"You are the glory of the Moon! You are the love of Chandrajeet... But how will this helpless Jalaluddin Mohammad find you, Purrnima! Jalal took a long breath in deep agony. "Jalaluddin has lost the glory of Chandrajeet Rathore from his heart while fighting alone in this world of misery and nastiness. How would I see you, Purnima, when I myself have lost the strength of winning you? How would I find your glowing face from the pile of worthless political agendas? Please come to me Purnima! I need you! I need you at least for a glance to revive the soul of Chandrajeet who is dying inside this crude Jalaluddin! There is no existence of Chandrajeet without his Purnima. Give me my existence back... Come back to me for a glimpse!

In the afternoon, sitting at the terrace of woman's quarter in Amer fort, Moti bai was making a casual braid with Jodha's long, uncared hairs. The princess was sitting quiet like a stone-idol of melancholy while gazing at the melting glow of twilight across the horizon. An old traditional folk song from nearby localities was floating in the air...

Mahaarey hivdhey mein jaagi dhaunkani
Rae chandaa main thaari chandni
Maney daaman mein baandhi khusi
Rae jhoom, jhoom, Jhoom jhoom baa jhoom!

A slight smile touched Jodha's lips all of a sudden. The tune of love is mixed everywhere... in every song, in all lyrics... in flowers, air, sky... Why the language of love is same everywhere? The same language, the same tune, the same urge of heart- without any strain of discrimination...

Love knows no discrimination... still why some loves are forbidden!

Jodha exhaled a deep sigh; at the same time she heard a sound of a suppressed weep. With surprise, she turned back. She noticed Moti wiping the trace of tears from her cheek instantly.

"You're crying Moti? Jodha asked being surprised. "What happened?

An ashamed Moti shook her head forcefully while trying to restrict the flood of tears from her eyes.

Jodha pulled her and made her sit beside her. She took Moti's hands on her lap and then cupped her face. Moti started sobbing now. Jodha became concerned seeing her face. It was evident from her eyes that they haven't got recess from shedding tears for a pretty long time. There are patches under her eyes, witnessing the sleepless tearful nights she is spending... Moti comes to Jodha frequently. But Jodha is so occupied within herself that she did not realise when the stream of happiness inside Moti has dried up and when she has become a dried river of melancholy...

Jodha picked up her chin. "Tell me... She requested in a tender voice.

"He... he... Moti sobbed holding her hands... "He did not give me a single news after he left...

"Vijay?

Moti nodded. "It has been months... He did not tell me when he went away from Amer. He did not give any news about his whereabouts! What does he think? I am a wooden doll and have no feelings? How can he play with my emotions like this?

"Ohhh! So it's your anger to your would-be-husband... Jodha tried to laugh, but she could not... Moti's eyes show that she is not angry. She is worried and afraid.

"Why are you tensed Moti? Jodha tried to pacify her. "He has gone with Sujamal Bhaisa only...

"But it has been months! No news, no letters... nothing! Moti's voice trembled. "I am not sure if he will return ever or not!

"Why won't he return Moti?

"If Kunwar Sujamal does not return, and he does not let Vijay to come back? Moti uttered in a broken tone.

"That's childish Moti... Jodha tried to cheer her up. But Moti became inconsolable.

"I too used to think this childish a month back... but today all my beliefs have broken! After that dream!

"What dream, Moti?

"I saw he is leaving me forever... and I cannot reach to him... he is calling my name but I can't reach to him... I... I... she broke down again. "I cannot live without him, Kunwari Sa! He is my life, my everything! I will die if he leaves me!

Jodha's heart ached hearing this heart rendering confession. She started caressing her head. "Nothing will happen, Moti. I tell you. Sujamal Bhaisa will return after Bhabisa conceives, and Vijay will come back with him. She consoled her hiding her own worry.

"Are you sure, Kunwari Sa? Moti asked a bit brightly. "Did he write to you?

Jodha could not tell anything. Almost three-four times letters were sent to Sujamal Bhaisa in Sonargarh fort from Amer. No reply had come. The women of Amer, the friends of Lilavati often write to her, but none have got any response. Even some days back her mother herself wrote a letter to Lila Bhabisa asking about her health, no reply as always! Sujamal Bhaisa can ignore the letters of his uncle out of fury. But why would Lilavati Bhabisa ignore the letter from her Aunt-in-law? She respects her as her own mother after all!

Jodha frowned in worry. Should she also write a letter to both of them personally? Will they reply her? But she dismissed her idea at the next moment. There are people in this palace who are much dearer to Lilavati than she is. There will be no speciality in her letter. Sujamal Bhaisa loves her a lot... But he did not addressed her for a single time; despite knowing her state- this is also a strange fact.

"Kunwari Sa! Kunwari Sa! Moti nudged her. "What are you thinking? Did you get any letter?

"Y...yes... Jodha lied. "But nothing was there about Vijay so...

"Can you please write to bahu-Rani sa about him? Moti requested desperately while wiping her eyes. "If he could address a letter for me for once... so that I can be assured that he is alright?

"Of course... Jodha patted on Moti's cheek. "Cheer up dear! Okay, now smile... smile for me.

Moti smiled with tears in her eyes. Perhaps she understood the value of Vijay Singh after living so many days without a single glimpse of him!

Jodha was thinking something else. She had lied to Moti in order to console her, but she was now in a great worry. Are they safe in Sonargarh? Are they free to write letters? Suddenly an uncanny uncertainty pinched Jodha. She stopped herself forcefully at the next moment. Sonargarh is Bhabi's own home. How they are supposed to be unsafe there?

Then what? Is Amer going to face something worse than nightmare? Is this silence a signal of that nightmare only?

"Moti... where is Bhagwant Bhaisa, do you know? I need to meet him as soon as possible. Jodha said suddenly.

"Kunwarsa is not in Amer, Kunwarisa. Moti replied.

"Where he has gone? Jodha frowned.

"Don't know... he did not tell anyone... he is doing something secretly.

"What were you humming?? Tell me what were you humming right now???

"Nothing... nothing my lord! Believe me!

"You liar!

Jalal heard this conversation while he was entering into his own restroom. The voice was certainly of his new chief personal bodyguard, Hamid Ali. Hamid is newly attendant in the place of Abdul as he had all the qualifications; though he seems more a jester than a bodyguard to Jalal. Abdul was much more reliable. Today Hamid was evidently showing his extreme authoritative qualities in front of some mere servants like he does every day.

"What happened, Hamid? Why are you shouting on this poor man? Jalal entered suddenly and asked.

"My Lord! Hamid was perplexed to see him all of a sudden he managed smartly. "You had called me, My Lord?

"Yes I had some work... but first tell me why you were shouting on this man? Jalal asked.

The aged man, who looked like a royal sweeper of the palace assigned with the duty of the emperor's restroom, stood at a side with trembling limbs.

"When I got into your room you were not here, Your Majesty. This idiot was sweeping the room. I suddenly noticed he is humming some tune without doing work!

"Really? Jalal looked amused. "Hey you... come here.

The aged servant started trembling in double intensity as his face reflected pure fear of death. He was sure that his majesty will behead him for humming a forbidden tune.

"What did I say? Come... Jalal ordered. The old man came closer and lowered his eyes.

"What were you humming?

"I... I... am... I am sorry...

"I asked what you were humming. Jalal asked again. He had a trace of amusement in his voice and of course it was not caught by either of Hamid or the servant.

"He was singing something related to Hindu Gods, Your Majesty. Hamid complained. "I heard clearly.

The aged men fell on Jalal's feet directly sensing the danger. "Mercy, Your Majesty! Mercy!

"I will forgive you, if you get up and sing the song you were humming. Right now. Jalal ordered with a smitten smile touched in his lips.

The man stood up with trembling legs. "Mm...my...my lord...

"Sing loudly so that I can hear what you were humming. Jalal ordered again while settling himself on a seat. "Don't waste time. Start...

Seeing that there is no scope to escape, the servant started singing in his trembling, almost choked voice-

Meera kahe, Pravu, bina prem se nehi mile Nandalala...

Prem karna chahi... preet karna chahi...

Sadhana Karana Chahi re manwa, bhajana karana chahi

Prem-lagana chahi re manwa... Preet karana chahi...

It was not that the man was singing very efficiently, rather his broken voice was not at all a pleasure to the ears. But still Jalal lost in the song. There is such a strange, simple pull in the tune that it does not let the heart to stay quite. The very simple lyrics are so poignant that they made Jalal get into a deep thought.

The servant was standing steel, lowering his head. Jalal looked at him. "Do you know the meaning of this song?

The servant thought he might behead him for singing a song with the name of Hindu God, so he started crying... "I know nothing, Your Majesty! I heard this song some days ago... the tune was on my head so I was just humming...

"Really! Where did you hear this song? Jalal asked curtly.

"Mercy my lord! The servant said. "There is a temple along with an ashram in Vrindavan, a yogini is staying there recently... she is a great devotee of our God Krishna and she worships him through her Bhajans... I heard this song there when I had visited her.

"Female sage who worships through her melody. Interesting! Jalal got quiet for a while. Then he looked at him. "Tell something more about her.

"I don't know much, My Lord. The man said. "Only I know that she was from a wealthy Rajput royal family... but she has left her home in order to seek God...

Jalal remained speechless. A princess leaves her home in order to seek the existence of God ignoring the barriers of society, sings devotional songs in front of everyone as her offering to her God and lives in a complete freedom... is really a matter of shock and amazement for a youth who has only seen women bound inside social barriers from his childhood.

"She is in Vrindavan right now, right? He asked.

"Yes Majesty!

"Okay... Jalal nodded. "Now you go.

The man was ready to escape, while Jalal called him again. "Listen, you can hum whenever, whatever tunes you want. None will stop you.

The man looked surprised for a while, then bowed down before going out.

"Hamid. Jalal ordered. "Get Tufan and another good horse ready for a long trip. I will go out shortly when I will be a little bit free.

"Pardon, Majesty... Where?

"To Vrindavan.

"What? Hamid almost shouted.

"You have any problem? Jalal gave him a stern look.

"No My Lord... But... but... if anyone asks why then...

"You will not say a word to anyone. And we will go in disguise. Get ready.

"We?? Means...

"You are my personal attendant. You have to come with me. It comes under your duty.

"Very good, Majesty! Hamid gulped idiotically.

"And another thing. Your duty is to guard me and to attend me. You have no right to poke your nose in every single activity of any of your subordinates and you are none to decide what they will hum and what they will talk. Understood?

"Y... yes... Majesty!

"Now go...

Hamid bowed down and went off. Jalal sighed disgustedly looking at him. Then he stood in front of the mirror to set his hairs.

Disguise of a Hindu merchant will be best to visit the ashram. He has to see the amazing woman who wrote that song. He needs to!

"You had called me, Maa-sa? Jodha approached to her mother who was sitting in the grand hall in woman's palace.

"Yes Jodha... Her mother came forward with smiling face. "Look, who has come to see you...

Jodha looked behind her mother and she saw the woman with a calm and divine smile sitting silently looking at her.

"Guru-ma! Jodha uttered in an amazed, happy tone.

Ahalya Devi, the wife of Raj-guru, is a well-educated, well-accomplished woman. She has been the teacher of Chath-shahsti kala, the lesson compulsory to the women of royal family by tradition. But apart from that, she is literary a scholar of Sanskrit- which is uncommon for women of that era... and Jodha's first lessons were from her only before she got her entry to study with her brothers. Ahalya Devi has been Jodha's idol for a long time, so she became overwhelmed seeing her. When she bent down and touched her feet, there were tears in her eyes.

"How are you Jodha? Ahalya Devi touched her head while her eyes were too shining with tears.

"I am well, Guru-Ma.

"You are lying from your Guru Ma? Guru-Ma cupped her face. "I know everything Jodha!

"No... Guru Ma. Jodha uttered. "Maybe I look different; but it's not the truth. I have changed the perception of life. I am happy.

"Are you sure? You are satisfied?

"In my situation, it is the best possible way of my happiness, Guru-Ma. Jodha smiled. "Perhaps my destiny arranged the life this way for me. If everything would move the way it happens for everyone; if I would get married with someone and get a content life; that would be a curse of imprisonment. This solitary life is good! This apparent imprisonment gives me an open sky to float in... a sky of freedom... I get a lot of time for myself... to seek the answers of my questions. Guru-Ma, I have many questions from my life... can you answer those?

"What question do you have, Jodha?

"Love is the base of life, do you agree that? Jodha asked. "Then why the society creates a barrier in front of love?

"Because society needs to be tough. Love is a flow, which might flood everything. Society has to work like a barrage in order to control that flow. Just like a dam on a river.

"But can an artificial barrage control the flow of the river? When time comes, the river flushes away everything- the barrage cannot control that. How society marks which love is forbidden and which is not, when it has absolutely no control on the flow of love?

"Love is an emotion, Jodha. Society deals with reality.

"Society deals with humans as well. Society is made for the well-being of humans. How it can serve well-being of humans by going against the flow of heart? Jodha asked. "I understand society has to be tough; laws need to be make. But what is the necessity of those norms which do not serve good for humans? Which do not have any base? Why society becomes a barrier in front of humanity? What is the need of that society who cannot understand the language of love?

"What is your expectation from the society, Jodha? Guru-Ma asked in a moderated tune.

"Nothing, Guru-ma. I don't want society to overlook my offence. I don't demand that I was correct in all my actions. Neither do I go against all the norms of the society. I have to carry out the rules as long as I am in society. Jodha said in a low tone. "But, Guru Ma, I have only a question. What is the place of the girls like us in this society, Guru-Ma? What is the future of those girls who cannot shape themselves according to the rules; what would happen to them if they flow with their heart for once breaking the barriers? Men are the head of the society, they are forgiven. But, what about the women? They would be banished from the life, but the society would not leave its hold on them. They will be imprisoned in much tougher rules, they will be cornered for the rest of their life. Society will impose new norms for the betterment of the society itself. But what will be their own future? Is the only solution for those poor helpless women to live for the rest of the life? Is leaving the society forever and spreading over the free sky is the only solution??

Ahalya Devi remained silent for sometimes. Then she picked up her eyes. "I don't know! I really don't know!

Jodha sighed.

"But I know someone who might have the answers of your questions. Guru-Ma smiled somehow brightly. "She is a great devotee of Krishna! She left her home, her society out of her divine love for Lord Krishna. None knows the language of love better than she does... Some tells that she is the reincarnation of Devi Radha herself! She touched Jodha's chin. "My advice to you Jodha, go and see her for once. She is living in an ashram in Vrindavan right now. Your heart is going through a storm. You will find peace there... Go to her and ask for shelter to her.

"That will be good. Jodha's mother said in hurry. "Jodha too needs a change; also maybe the environment of the ashram would purify her from all the sins? I am telling Rajasa to prepare the trip fastest possible.

Jodha stared silently. In her mind she could see the woman with a divine smile walking alone through the path of paradise with a simple dotara in her hand... the bravest woman of the decade, who had the courage of leaving the society behind for her love... hence the whole universe has welcomed her whole heartedly. The sky, the air, the flowers everything has become her house today; her devotion, her song has taken her to the paradise in earth...

Would she give Jodha a little place near her feet? What if Jodha too leave her house, her society and dedicates herself in the devotion of Krishna to seek the answers of her questions? Can't Jodha also be as brave as her?