Chapter 33
"Why"?
(Jalal got confused by her one word Question what she mean"? by her why"? why to question on first place"? whatever he said itself gave clear insight, how much she mean to him. how much he's possessive of her. Then why such a cold confused reaction"? Anyone on her place will ask and react the same way"! comes the reply from his heart. "Why"? come pat question by his mind, He stare at her she was looking at him boldly, with her Curious confused eyes. "Cause your words express endless Possessiveness for her"! Not love which she may desire to see in you hart for herself"! Comes the reply from his heart. But I don't love her or I do"?, I fear to lose her, Possessiveness comes when there's fear of losing. he was struggling with his own emotion, lost in thoughts. And Jodha took chance of him being lost in thought's, to got up from the edge slab of Bath-tub. wearing the Bathrobe she was busy tying the lace. whatever he said had her so thoughtful. That she didn't knew how to react to it however, his last words made her aware for some reason. He's extremely possessive and obsessive about her. But she didn't dare to take that reason as Love, a part of her already take his words to his confession of love but not entirely. Last time she check they were in-to hating mode. trying best to rile up each other. Then time slowly did it's magic on them, which had them come close for while, As normal couple they weren't even friend, admit they decided in heart to start afresh. But how can his emotion can take U-turn so soon"? how he can fall for her "? when he already have lot's of Women in life"? forget about him, "what about her"? even if he loves her, "Does she herself love him"? am I even aware of feeling called Love"? With everything everyone have to offer him. "Am I even worthy of his Love"? other women in harem can accept him in his bad good way's, they can entirely submit themselves to him. by mind ,heart ,soul and body. But she cannot, She cannot be part of his Victory Celebration, if he earn them by Killing the people of Her Mother-land. She cannot blindly support him in his Decision, if she find them to be highly inappropriate. Then why"? even he must be aware of these things, then why he will fall for her"? how he can love her"? She glance at herself in Mirror before her at the side on wall. She's not even much a beauty. Then why leaving all the Women he will be in love with her"? Forget about Love, "why he will be this Possessive and obsessive of her"? Why"? she had no answer to it hence she spoke again. Both were new to the Emotion called love. Immature in love, one had set the boundaries for other. so other wasn't ready to acknowledge them).
"Why"?
"What you mean"? By why"?
"You have many in your life", "who are ready to Support you", "In everything you do"! "Then why me"? "We both aren't even familiar", with Emotion called Love"! We both aren't aware the thing which we have for each other in heart called love"! We don't know we are indeed in love"! Then why"? and how"? what makes you so Possessive of me"?
(Jalal had no answer to any of her Queries, What he can say"? he was himself having these very thought's, he likes to be with her, he care for her, he Like everything about her. the way she talk the way she think, the way she behave, the way she carried herself with grace , her kind heart the purity she possess. everything about her intrigued him he trust her and a part of him respect her. he may not understand her always. He doesn't like it, when she ignore him, he doesn't like it, when she had her attention on other's. Or other's attention are on her. he want her "! But why"? is this Love"? Does he love her"? maybe no maybe yes God knows what's there in his heart. But unsure about his own emotion, "is it fair of him to mislead her"? by making her think he love her"? Does he even have time to give priority to love"? or figure out whatever, he feel about her is indeed love"? or something else"? back in years he thought he loved that , nameless faceless Landless girl. Later he realized he don't whatever he felt for her was his intuition. She even being simple was mysterious, but Jodha isn't there's still lot of thing he need to know about Her. But she's still very open to him he know her more then he know anyone else. Hell how much he knew about that girl either"? nothing expect her view of life, Her work and way of living he knew nothing about her. He never even get to see her face. However the day was still Afresh in his mind. The day when he met her ,with his brother Nasir friend Amir).
Past
"Fast Amir"! We have to reach to our camp before sunset"! Hurry up with your speed"! Before the Storm hunt us down"!
(The particles of the heated sand, of the desert land Umarkot, were swirling in the air. The blow of the blistering wind was, choking there breath and eyes , which were temporarily blinded in dust, as if the nature is determined , to strangle them in lonely desert. Both prince weren't aware of upcoming Storm, but again no one can predict about change in nature).
"It's seems Impossible"! We cannot reach our Destination because of this storm"! "!
"Even in the word impossible there lie possibility"! And in this world nothing is impossible either"! Expect few things"! But escaping alive from this Storm isn't one of those things"!
(Spoke Jalal to Amir, riding his horse faster, but Amir wasn't the one to really acknowledge his words this time. He was really losing his courage before the storm why he won't be he have his whole life ahead right now, he's just 14 year old at moment, definitely he don't wish to die and didn't learn to control his option, or win over his fears yet. But then he heard again the voice of Prince Nasir this time who was breathlessly, panting on his horse and trying best to rode faster).
"We are already detached from our caravan"!. If we cannot reach to them in time, it may create another problem for us"! I don't want Sher khan to reach there"!
"But how can we go forward in this calamity"? It's not gonna happen it was wrong on our part to get here"! To meet the King of Umarkot"!
"Amir"! Don't stressed keep calm and have faith"! All of us have to die one day"! It's inevitable truth"! But today isn't our last day"!
"I know how to rule over my own destiny"! Obstacles cannot restrict my path not a single one, I can break all the obstacles to reach my goal". Cause I have courage to do so"! A mere sandstorm will stop my path"? No Amir never"! I won't let it happen"!
(They keep on going, fighting with the violent nature. The scorching heat and rough hot wind, was burning their skin, sand particles were piercing their body and eyes, still they kept on moving forward , cause giving up and stopping wasn't an option for them at all, ignoring all the adversities to reach their destination, it was important for them to continue moving forward. they were sincerely hoping, to escape alive out of this killing storm. But it was really tough with their each forward step).
"Help! Anybody help!! Us"! Help
(They had heard it correctly. The devastating howl of wind couldn't hide, the desperate helplessness of the voice. It was a voice of girl's. Somewhere people was shouting for help, asking for help from them. It was hard choice, when they're lacking the time and source to protect themselves , they're ready to take step forward to protect other's. For others it's most foolish decision they made, but for them it's the most wise decision. If they were to die, they die fighting like warrior blood protecting others.They ran towards the source of the voice, the voice was losing its intensity with the increasing time, "Who's there? They shouted in Union, but None answered. They continue moving towards the horizon, they saw three Little girls maybe around 10 or 12 were trying to help five men, laying on sand ground, they were soldier at least that's what they assume by their uniform , whereas the girls had long veil on face, they didn't get to see their face at all, only two girl clad in plain yellow color, Ghaghra choli was yelling for help, but one clad in red color Ghaghra choli, was tenderly skillfully trying to work, on laying men's injury. She had them under a shed of ficus tree, the laying sword injured soldiers and blood stain on her cloth, empty water bag lack of clean clothes, were clearing the need of yelling for help to them. They had tied their Horse around the tree, like wall, Jalal Nasir Amir move forward and reach out to the girls. Upon reaching closer They found few dead bodies , lying near their horse, who by look seem Afghan. They reach near and get down from their horse).
"Help us to reach down there"!
(The girls pointed out to them, by motioning towards the village, down across the desert a little far from the desert hill they were standing on. The girls try to get the men's on horse but their little strength was nothing before the unconscious warrior men, they failed each time. Nasir Amir Jalal shared a look then try to get the Soldiers on horse saddle).
"Careful they're injured"!
(They heard the melodious soft voice, it wasn't entirely low nor it was high tone but it was firm and soft. They glance back and saw the girl , coming forward towards her horse, she had one white horse, which had hazel round eyes, she try to get on the horse but failed, Nasir and Jalal watch her movement and chuckled inwardly. But then realized the girl had her right foot injured hence she's not able to mount on horse, Jalal thought to help her but Nasir beat him at it. He rush to her and helped her to get on the horse, he put his hand on waist, then scooped her up by behind, and helped her to get over the horse. She glance back at Nasir then thank him. It's sting Jalal she didn't even cast glance at his way for getting the injure soldier on horse. but here she just thank Nasir cause he help her to get on horse. But that was things to wonder on later now they need to move out. The rest of journey he didn't realize how they completed, all the while Nasir eyes were on the girl in red dress even he was finding himself staring at her time to time. They were now in the village, the men who were injured were taken under the hut for medical aid. It was small village only with 62 small wooden hut's but it had everything a village or a city needs to have,it was guarded by boundary of stone wall, they didn't taken the tour but from the height from far, when they were on horse they did get to understand the layout of village very well. Upon reaching inside they got to meet the head of Village name Sujan Singh, who inform them how they're outcast-ed subject of Umarkot king, ten week back a terrible human killing incurable epidemic spread in Umarkot, the king was helpless before such situation, the doctors the physicians were still trying to work on this , to find the cure but having no way out with it, they started getting the people out of state who suffer from this, so that it don't spread more, with each day few more people will be sent here by soldiers, hence the village turn into more like camp, filled with unwell people. even the king himself will comes there to work for them. The girl and men they help arrived two week back, from another state to help them in finding the cure of disease and fight with it by living with them. listening to Sujan Singh, they were staring at the girl in red who was after reaching started to help the rest of people there, by applying salve on rosacea people had on their skin be on face neck hands arm feet anywhere. They got to know the disease started by people, caught fever which end up weakening the body of people to fight the illness, then within one or two day the rosacea will started appearing on the unwell people. I cannot even glance at them"! And she's working skillfully on it"! Was the only thought was in his mind, whereas by heart he was amazed by her. Sujan Singh was still speaking telling them about how the girls desire , to pay visit to the temple, but got attacked by Afghan, they did got to defeat them, but get caught in storm. They're thankful to him. But he heard nothing he did then he didn't pay heed to it. He knew even Nasir situation is similar to him. He glance back at his elder brother and found him looking at her only, however she turned to their way, which made them immediately look opposite, they try to pretend they weren't looking at her).
"A little simple thanksgiving "! will be a negligible word to a kind Generous people like you"! We won't thank you for saving our life"! But we We will like to confess"! We will be always in-debt to you"! For what you people done for us today"!
(Hearing her words three of them , turn back to her and saw her standing behind them, wiping her hand from dry cloth , they didn't knew what to say but Nasir got grip on his emotion. And spoke firmly in gentle tone looking at her, they didn't get to see her facial features at all, cause of her long veil on face. Which was intriguing them on first place, the voice is very melodious "! and they wanted to see the owner of the voice"! However they knew it won't be possible at all).
"It's really not necessary to thank us "! for what we did for the sake of humanity"!
(The girl didn't said anything, but nodded her head she knew not what to say, but she didn't find in herself to walk away when they're still standing before her, she wasn't good at words but she knew very well it won't be good to leave either. So she stand still silently, she played with her fingers and try to come up with something to say, she was nervous and shy they assume by her little gesture. If only she knew they themselves were out of word, they all were young and not to exposed to diplomatic way of people. Nor they were familiar to talk with lots of people either. Hence they weren't very much into understanding other's gesture. But then watching Amir is going to mount on horse she ask in curious tone).
"Aren't you going to stay"? Pardon me for my audacity to give suggestion"! Without seeking permission"! But I don't think it's fine"! For you to travel in such a violent calamity today"!
(Nasir and Jalal shared a look, they didn't plan to stay, however listening her word and after meeting Her. They lost the will to leave as well, henceforth both of them nodded their head in understanding, after all the girl is just showing her concern, for their well being. But then Amir who heard her come forward leaving his horse spoke).
"Leaving isn't safe"! But staying isn't safe for us either"! With sick people suffering from in-fective incurable disease living around"!
"We had found the cure"! It's not incurable anymore"!
(Saying this she walked away, she didn't find it important to stand before them any more. Nasir and Jalal glare at Amir who just give a sheepish smile to them. But then they decided to stay, it was the first time they met her. But got impressed by her within three days of their stay in the village. They didn't knew her name young kids will call her jiji (Endearment used for Elder sister), elders will call her beti, (endearment used for daughter's). She was noble girl that they understood ,by her righteous fearless persona and graceful gestures. When they try to inquire about her, they come to realize no one know her name, in-fact no one had saw her face either, they ask from the men she come with, to which they confess the girl met them, in desert forest inside Lord Shiva temple, When they were chasing few Nomadic Robbers, hungry injured in very awful way. They helped her and taken her in there care here after knowing she's good at Medicine. So for them she was just a Nobel girl aware about Medicine enough to help them. to fight with deadly disease here. After the little conversation with her they didn't met her again, but saw her serving others, guiding people in hut, applying medicine on people, watering the plants there, or helping her friend in getting the water from well, she enjoy each minutes second of her work. Even doing all this she look fresh as flower. The only problem for them was, her Veil on face which doesn't drop even for seconds, she had it on in such way that it's never deceive her. It was night time and she was sitting with kids on Cot. Where they demanded to hear story from her hence she started telling them story. After putting a condition, that at end she will ask question if they gave right answer she will continue ,or she would stop then and there. The kids agree to her condition and she started telling the story).
"Once upon a time in beautiful castle lived a king with his two son"! One day his younger son was playing outside in the castle garden"! While elder was shooting Arrow to polish his skill in archery"! But soon he saw a beautiful white peigon flying in sky"! He liked it and decided to caught it"! With intention to caught the bird he shot the arrow in bird direction"!
"But The younger prince who while playing saw this"! and run caught the bird before it could crashed on ground and get more hurt. Reaching the bird he provide medical aid to it with help of servant"!
"When the elder prince come and demanded, to get the bird from him. The younger Prince denied enraged by refusal the elder prince went to complain to king"!
"The king got confused"! The king himself was fond of hunting and legally the elder prince had right on bird"! But being king it was his duty to provide security to his subject"! So technically the younger prince had right on bird"! He got confused what to do"?
"Now the question rise"! if you would've on King place what you would done then"?
"I would given the custody of Bird to younger Prince cause he protected it"! As everyone say the saviour is greater than Killer"!
"No in that way the king would be proven wrong"! Cause even he killed others to protect"! His own"!
(Soon enough the argument , between kids started about what they would done , at king place to serve justice. However at one point one kid got up and ask her. Even they were looking at her surprisingly when they Heard kids question, as they themselves were kid however they knew what death was. However telling about it to kids were harsh, but the question needs to be answered).
"Jiji you're smart do you know "What's death"?
"A word with different mean in everyone's life"! Invitiable truth of Universe"! bitter for some then sweet for some"! Now no more questions I know you did to distract me from my question for story"!
(And that was it, she went out to sat near well, whereas kids went to sleep Nasir thought it's right time to talk with her, hence with Jalal he walked to her).
"Why you don't let other's know your name"? Entire day had been passed but we're aware of your name"!
(The low gasp, made him aware he startled her, but before he could, apologize they heard her question in response of their question. She was truly bundle of Query).
"What you will do"? by knowing my name"? If you want to know me"! Then know me by my deed"! My deed's are my identity"!
"We work to make name"! We work to get recognize by name"!
"Just to become special and live with dignity"! Here I already achieved that"! What's the point"?
(They had no answer to her words, of course a part of them wanted to object, that what you call your achievement hardly matter before others. she's known respected just in this village. What about rest of state rest of nation. That you have satisfied yourself with what you already have. But they didn't find it wise to say all this. what they can say"? They're royal by blood even if they're to die"! Their name going to be in history. There are many soldier servant who serve them support them. Are they aware of their name"? No aren't their work up-to mark"? It's not only Chief on commander who bleed for them"!, but common soldier as well whose, shed blood never get recognition as much the higher position holder men get. Jalal still wanted to object but he knew Nasir is impressed by her, so was he but he was more interesting to know about her, most importantly wanted to see her. But here the girl will reveal nothing. Not even her name he was annoyed but he knew to respect as well. Hence he didn't acted or say much. Their conversation ended then and there but then next day. She plan to visit forest to get some plant leaves for making medicine. But people in village weren't ready to let her go on own, Whereas she wasn't ready to go with someone.That's when Nasir and Jalal stepped in scene, skillfully convince others and her to go with them. So here they watched her collecting Azadirachta, Basil, Catnip and Lemon balm leaves, So here they were deep inside the forest , the place which always tempt them to hunt, however with her around they didn't wanted to do so. The girl was vegan and nature lover, healer by work, she will definitely end up crying like baby , to see animals being hunt down by them. Or she may run away from them , as if they're most horrible people in the World. even the sight of her doing any of this made them cringe. Of-course they wanted to Impress her and failed as well, they said they can help her to, instead of just guarding her. She told them to collect the leaves, she mention the name, but they ended up collecting wrong plant leaves, Which made her realized they know nothing about it. So they fail to impress her, Done collecting plant leaves they started walking out of forest, However they end up taking another route to reach their village. Which made them come a village or in better way , what remained of it after it was put to torch. It was all ruins. Everything charred and black and turned to ashes. Small houses stood without roofs over them, their walls half fallen and the remnants of it covered with a soot. The wild grass grew a waist high denoting that it must have been a year before someone had set a foot on those grounds. A sudden feeling of Pity and guilt , surged up inside their heart. Whoever lived here were the people of land they conquer , now unbreakable part of Mughal Empire. They were subjects of their father, But it was their own army who had destroyed it. They figured that out by looking at the flags, that flapped around. Yes, those flags were withered and the color had faded away, still they were theirs. Uneasily they glanced at their companion the girl, who stood motionless on Ground, She didn't move and because of her veil they knew not how she's feeling. But her curled fist shaking feet give away the, Description of how she's feeling, Their is anger, hurt grief, she walked forward while they watched her, staring at charred human bones and skulls scattered below).
"Do you know these lands were part of Umarkot"! All the Invader, attackers before had come and gone back with plunders and ransoms"! but Mughals wanted to stay and rule, they wanted land and they got it"! A peace treaty was signed and sealed. A promise was made"! that the people of this land will be treated as their subjects"! See how well they treated them"!
(Her voice was cold and accusing, all the warmth and calmness Faded, they felt as if they were starting all over again, but they did not interrupt her. They have to listen, they told themselves as they remembered , their father's words "A Emperor has to answer for the follies of those" whom he commands"! and a good Emperor takes care that it's never happen"! they weren't Emperor, but that did not free them from the responsibilities they had as Mughal Prince).
"They were conquerors of this land"!"And all they did was plundering"! They never became the rulers as promised"! "All of them are same"! "War, conquer, slay, destroy, robbing "! That's the only way of these evil coward invaders to extend their kingdom"! They don't know they can never learn"! The difference between Conquering retaining or ruling"!
(She wasn't accusing them, she wasn't making up stories, the situation before them was the truth, the withered flags flapped around , with a ghostly wind billowing them out noisily telling a story of a conquest that had lost its meaning. Was there ever a person who could rule over the ashes and charred bones? They heard her again this time her voice was choking, she's is crying they assume Nasir hurried to her to comfort her. However he didn't even dare to touch her just stood behind her).
"Heart's aren't like states"! You cannot burned down everything inside"! And then make them yours"! With such a hatred and cruelty "! They won't be able to rule here for long"!
Present
(That touch their heart like nothing , Nasir never forget this, however Jalal take it as challenge instead of going on conquering heart's , installing respect in the hearts of others for himself, he went on conquering states installing fear in heart for himself. However Nasir was different that incident changed his approach towards life. And way to rule, he didn't stopped Jalal even if he tried he failed, however he made sure no one get to stop him either. From being kind to his subject, which made him righteous and dignified good Emperor. But what's the result "? he died miserably alone , In the tent didn't even get to fight for life. He get praise he earn respect he was in the prayers of many heart. But did that help him"? No what happen next after his death everything become awful for empire and his subject. People doesn't even remember him anymore. Maybe they do when he act cruel and so strict with them, they may miss him, but he earned everything some by his hard work some by installing fear some by power some by fate. He have everything as Emperor needs to have, yes he have his share of troubles. But who doesn't even a common men have his issues in life. he have more cause he's Emperor. He stare at Jodha a woman soft and beautiful as a rose petal, Her smooth long wet black open hair like dark clouds, her hazel wild doe like eyes, sharp and delicate nose, the perfectly bow-shaped lips , Her swan-like neck, she was now dressed in Light green color thin silk bathrobe. but it's got stick to her skin, cause of the wet dress, she had no Jewellery on , the perfect curve of her cleavage , over her breast, her navel, the curves of her waist. Was Enough to create the storm of desire in his heart. The beauty and the womanhood together , has made her complete. In his eyes she's Beauty a rare beauty , beyond compare Empress of Talent. Pure diamond, he wish to cherish, whatever he feel for her maybe it's not love, but no one can dare to discard it, by thinking it to be lust either. He was lost in her whereas Jodha was silently , staring at her reflection in mirror. She didn't knew what's had him silent. she didn't even knew he's still , present there or left. Staring at her he realized he's being silent ,from long he clear his throat then walked up to her standing right behind her, making her startled to see his reflection in mirror. In same frame, they watch each other's reflection in mirror , without breaking the eye contact from her reflection, he sneaked his hands around her waist pulling her closer, he hugged her by clasping his hands together by front. caging her in his arms. He leaned a bit near her right earlobe, still having his eyes on the reflection of her eyes in mirror. He spoke huskily in low tone).
"You're right"! We are two immature soul"! Hardly aware about love"! But Trying to rise in love"! But we forget "! to rise in love"! We need to fall first"! I honestly admit, I don't know"! I love you or not"! But other's have nothing to intrigued me"! And there's hardly anything in you which doesn't excite me"! I am prideful to have you with me"! But I will be Honor to have you by my side"!
(Helpless was the only word, to define Jodha situation at moment. She was caged in his arms, but His eyes held her captive, his words overwhelmed her by emotions, that it's numb her mind which get nothing logical or right to put forth any view. Whereas her heart was floating with numerous emotions. She was truly helpless, "Is it effect of physical closeness"? His intense soul Piercing Gaze"? Or his heart stealing confession"? What's more effecting her"? He's the men to evoke all type of emotion in her, the power he possess to effect her by his actions and words. Was truly hard to ignore. How easily he made it clear by words, that even if he don't love her then to what he feel for her, he feel for no one. If it cannot be love it cannot be lust either, the feeling is to strong to term as mere intuition as well. He admit he's happy to have her with in his palace as his wife. But he want more he want her , by his side meaning her consent matter to him. She was lost in thoughts whereas Jalal was still looking at their reflection in mirror, he still didn't break the eye contact with her, however he knew she's isn't staring at him anymore she's lost in thoughts. God wasn't miser"! When he created you"! You're truly a rare beauty"! Thinking this , after everything he said he did, one kiss was obligatory for him. However he didn't wanted, to ruined the moment, by his hurried desire fill heart. But knowing she won't say anything maybe everything they spoke, come out pretty surprisingly for her. Hell it's surprising for himself as well. He decided to change the topic. he recall the Message he got by Abdul. who got his hand on the Messenger, his Brother sent before his death for Agra. he was in pretty bad shape when he found him, however he convey the message to them. it was riddle type message so he spoke looking at Jodha).
"What you think"? about playing a game of Riddle"?
"Huh what"?
"Get freshen up I will wait for you in room, I ain't sleepy, After whatever I confess today"! I made sure you don't get sleep either"! So I wish to know"! what you think about playing riddle game"?
(He's just changing the topic to ease her, sighing inwardly she nodded of-course' back in year she loved playing riddle, she often made her friends confused by her riddle. That they will end up involving everyone in her riddle to know the answer. Watching smile on her face Jalal himself felt happy. He kissed on her forehead by releasing her from his arms. Then walked out of Hamam, chuckling inwardly by her expression. Opportunist always take advantage of situation. Thought Jodha inwardly touching her forehead where he just planted the gentle kiss, but then knowing he will be waiting for her, she started to get ready).
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"I don't think Jalal will release her"! just cause you asked him"!
"He will he will do anything to Honor my word"!
"But Is it fair"? To have Maham released"?
(Dressed in, Peshawaz , light creamy color muslin light ornately embroidered, accompanied by lusciously embroidered odhani along with a relatively plainer form of churidar, on feet there were Mojari light embroidered stones were embedded on them. having right foot over left one, leaning over her Left arm, in half laying position on couch, the Sister of Late Emperor Humayun, Aunt of Emperor Jalal, Queen Gulbadan ask in curious tone. Whereas Hamida who heard her thought for while then spoke).
"We are Royal known for honoring our Word"! "If promised, we will have to fulfill it"!
"What about the promise you given to Jalal"? "often I think he's right "! in not letting the women in his life", to influence him much On his decision"!
(Hamida didn't said anything to her, taking sip from wine, she watch Gulbadan adjusted her Odhni, then take a one long puff from hookah, how she can confess to her"? That she love Jalal and whatever she do, It's for his welfare for his Honor only. The women change now, but she was very much generous back then, a true loyal lady, for her crimes in present she cannot just ignore all her, good deed of past whatever the present is in past she's been in-dept of her. Being Royal Mughal Empress she's ought to show gratitude to her. Even if she doesn't want to. She closed her eyes and pray inwardly. "Almighty bless us "! protect us from evil in World"! Protect us from the Satan within us"!.).
"Fair or unfair"! One thing we're aware His majesty won't let her do any wrong at all"!
"But Salima"! Jalal doesn't have time to get involved in Harem Politics"!
"Yes he doesn't"! No King or Emperor had time for this"! However his Majesty utilise his time very well"!
"You're really fond of Queen Jodha aren't you"?
"Aunt she's in Nice Lady"! a Royal blood which is known for their loyalty"! Only a fool would dislike her"!
(That stung Hamida, she gave an annoyed glare at Salima way, however it was of no use as she was looking down. But she knew Salima always speak her mind, like Rukaiya she's very Honest with her, never shy from saying what she had in mind, she watched Rukaiya who was glaring at Salima. It was night time a little get together of Them was a custom of them here. The things with Salima was she doesn't have high ambition in life. There's nothing she can hope or dream to achieve. So she try to push others to dream and achieve them. But you have to be worth her time, that's why she in her time get to help many people in harem in own ways. She was still looking at Salima when they Heard Rukaiya words).
"There's nothing to complain about other's Loyalty"! When your own betray you"! Tell me Mother is it fair to go against Law for the sake of one"?
"Rukaiya a destructive war can happen for sake of one person"! Then why we cannot go against Law for the sake of one"?
"You're saying this because she spoke in this matter"! Do you really think Queen Salima"? is it that simple to do so"?
"It's not simple I agree"! But it's not impossible either"! You have to agree as well"!
(Salima glance at Rukaiya she wasn't offended by her, way of Taunting her, cause she knew how to gave befitting reply to her cousin. You can kill the Anger of others in two way, first by your own calmness or by your Authoritive move. Here she knows her own calmness and wise reply can subdued Rukaiya anger very well. As she's aware of presence of elders in room. She won't cross her limit at all. Hamida and Gulbadan watch the interaction between the two, hearing their words they knew who they're talking About, on the matter as well. They heard how Jodha just voice out her opinion on the slavery's Law. However they cannot do it in one day they cannot Abolished the slavery's Law like this, there are many obstacles they have to face if they Abolished this old law. First big obstacles comes on the way, by scholar And adviser in empire. First they won't easily agree to support the Decision to end slavery law. If by chance they got aware the person who was behind this, will create more trouble for Emperor. Already lot of people held her accountable, for many decisions taken by Emperor. They think he's is getting influence by his None believer Queen. Hence the decision to end the Slavery law , will work like Salt on sore wound. Second Obstacles will be the burden Royal Treasure will have to endure, to make arrangements for providing new place for free Slave stay, or sending them back to their place if they have any, Or To Provide them another way of live-hood. They have two options either to make the lives of slave in palace nice. Which they never did back then, or think to released them Simple. Hamida won't admit to anyone but she was really surprised when she heard what Jodha said or did. The girl is smart when it's comes to issue , concerning her heart, she use her brain cautiously and words wisely. She knew in Harem many people wish to leave for the sake of their own sanity. Many endure discrimination on the basis of religion, they're not allowed to pray not allow to take a break unless they finish their work. They're not provided security either. They have voice but they cannot say no to anything. They have ears but they're not allow to hear anything other than orders. They have hands but they're probhited to use them for protest. They have eyes but they're not allow to see anything. Strange the Royal will prefer to die before getting in hands of Enemy's. So that they don't end up living a life of war prisoners and slave. But they themselves having power do nothing for other's).
"There's no point in telling anything"! You would do everything to support her even though you know what her intention are"!
"!At moment she hardly have any intention of her own"! in heart for speaking her mind"! And you're trouble by it already"! What will happen if she really had any intention of her own next time"?
(Rukaiya gasp by Salima words, is she trying to scare me"? Oh hell it didn't crossed her mind, that the way she discuss about it, look that she's is troubled by Jodha involvement. But Salima words made her really worried, she to thought not having intention yet, mean Jodha doesn't have interest in power or even in Jalal. And she stood up for mere Slave, end up earning respect in slave class people. And made others think she's is different from everyone there. What if she got interested in power"? Even in Jalal"? And started doing things to get them"? She got lost in her thoughts, whereas Salima watched her, she realised what she's is thinking and it's made her chuckle inwardly. She was happy by the happening in Harem, either Rukaiya will not think about everyone, Live like true queen fulfill her wish of having everyone happy there. Or Jalal will interfere and change the Law's, this will bring change for sure. In harem and Empire as well, Salima didn't had any of her own selfish reason, behind pushing Jodha to think about others and work for them, or installing fear of Jodha in Rukaiya heart to work for others. In both case it's clear and simple, there's is nothing she can earn by this, expect peace in heart that her ways could helped others. The satisfaction one gets by making others happy is priceless. Sighing inwardly she thought about her son, who was staying in Multan, he will be arriving in a week here in Agra. Oh how she missed her little son, even though he wasn't born by her she loves him like her own. Feeling tired Salima got up and spoke firmly greeting everyone).
"We should take your leave now"! It's late"!
"Yes you're right Salima"! Let's retire for Night"! We will proceed with our discussion tomorrow with Jalal"!
(Ordered Hamida agreeing to Salima, whereas Rukaiya who was lost in thoughts comes in present and nodded slowly they all got up and moved out of hall room to retire for night).
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(Sitting on the bed, Jalal was waiting for Jodha, if he wanted to play he could waited for her in play room sitting on couch, but Jalal didn't mean to just play today, or leave even though the two night he play with her, he didn't left before sunrise, but today was expectation. He waited while staring around in her bedroom, she has good taste"! Thought Jalal inwardly).
"I didn't thought you will be here"?
"My bad"! you put boundary for me in my palace then"!
"Even if I done that"! It's futile attempt as you will cross them"! However I didn't"! Nor I mean to say that way"!
"I know I was just jesting with you"!
(Jodha Nodded and sat on bed, Putting as much distance she can. She didn't ask him to be in limit, mean she acknowledge, what he said in Hamam about not liking, however by creating distance on own. she was conveying him, to don't expect her to re-appropriate them yet. It will take time for her to react to to them like he want. He sigh inwardly but said nothing).
"How you got the idea of playing riddle"?
"Rahim is addict to Riddle games"!
"Rahim son of Sir Bairam Khan"? I didn't Met him yet"! but whatever however i heard about him he seems smart Kid"!
"You will meet him soon"! so let's start playing"! first your turn"!
"Before I ask any Riddle I want to ask something else from you"! can I"?
"Go Ahead"!
"What was your plan if I hadn't escaped"! why you sent the letter to my Sister"! Confessing that capturing me was Mistake"! And she can pay visit to you to get me back"?
(Jalal glance at her, then closed his eyes leaning his head back of Bed, He let out sigh stretch his arms, Taking long time to regain his composure to answer her. Whereas Jodha who heard from her Mother about the letter. when she was here, was pretty much surprised and from the time she let this thought was troubling her. If he done this"? why did her sister hide this from everyone"? what was going on in her mind"? alas she would never know unless she meet her. And that's not gong to happen anytime sooner. Jalal who had opened his eyes by Now was busy watching her. By her expression he knew she's aware only half part of story. If she got to know the other part she will know. what he plan to do in real, However after all the things he confessed to her, he find it absurd to hide about this one so he spoke staring at her).
"When My brother Abduct you"! My brother the Late Emperor was getting instigated by rest of Men In empire"! Who were jealous of me"! And he didn't hesitate to convey me about it"! That same time we received letter by your Sister as well"! She was enraged but wise enough"! not to take decision in anger"!
"What did she wrote you"?
"Not only me but My brother to"! "Well her letter cited"! The action of abducting the Princess"! was a breach of Peace Treaty between Amer and Mughal Empire"! She demanded your Immediate release"! conveying that She conveyed about my Action to Emperor"! Knowing my Brother to be Righteous and Honorable Men"! she was sure that he will be interested to have you released"!
"Buying time"!
"Even I was buying time"! But I didn't wasted time to reply both of them"! with similar letter"!
"Mean you invited not only my Sister"? But your Brother to"?
"Yes"! I did invited both of them"! for Different reason but one intention"! Before i reveal my entire plan which you Flopped by escaping"! I will like to let you know"! When I march towards Rajputana on my Brother's Word"! I didn't intended to waged a war against any of you"! I was there to find traitor and maintain peace"! your way to sent letter to us"! cleared the misunderstanding between both Empire in start only"! But What my Step Brother did "! by Abducting you was unfortunate and unplanned"! still that didn't make me lost my way"!
"Yes you didn't Because you were aware"! we Valued the honor more than lives"! you wanted to use that very Honor against us to maintain the peace"! You I got your plan"! At the presence of Amer Queen"! And Mughal Emperor"! you you intend to to Ask my hand"!
(He watch her getting silent a grim, expression comes on her face, she was angry and hurt, realizing how her abduction change everything for her. If Mirza won't abducted her then. Jalal would have worked to find traitor even they could helped him. And then he would went back to Agra Like he comes. Cause even though they weren't fond of Mughal like their parents were. They never intend to work against them, Or break the peace treaty and bring shame upon Their state, by breaking the Vow. So they didn't need to be scared. However it's change when he laid his eyes upon her, She was doomed if she won't have escaped then to he would have made her as his. And when she escape then to she's his now. Both ways he planned dangerously to have her as his. Jalal let out a sigh then spoke to break her silence).
"Even though I knew you won't have accepted it"! but even you have to Admit it was most clean and Dignified way"! Anyway that's past story"! Let's start with Our Game"!
"You're right"! Let's start here comes my Riddle question"! "Once upon a time"! A merchant Men decided to cross the Desert"! He had two Enemies one plan to make whole in his Water bag. So he dies out of thirst"! Other plan to Mix poison in his water bag"! So die out of Poisonous water"! Few day letter the men dies out of thirst in desert "! Now tell me who is real Culprit"?
(Jalal heard it with open mouth, the Riddle was surprising for him. Even though the answer is pretty oblivious, the men who made whole in water bag is real culprit. But he knew the oblivious answer isn't Satisfactory enough. but this wasn't the only reason for his surprise. He was Astonished to hear same Riddle he heard long back, He glance at her then recall how She saved him when he was bite by snake when they were in disguise. she's aware about Medicine and way to Give medical aid to other's in need. She's isn't much a talker either unless given befit reason).
"When was the first time you Killed Someone"?
(Jodha glance at him surprised by his way. Of-course she didn't expected such a question. What's gotten on him"? But then looking at his serious expression she decided to answer him first).
"I was 10 year old"! I killed the head of Nomadic Robber"!
(Hearing her low voice watching grim expression on her face Jalal comes to present and realized, it wasn't some prideful ment for her at all. She must've stressed out by her first killing. Is it possible she's the one"? No no she cannot be his stomach churn in disgust. By this because he knew how close Nasir was to her, she didn't exchange word with him as much she did with Nasir. But she will happily accompany Nasir if he ask her, he knew the Month they stayed in Umarkot, Nasir will often sneak out to meet her, however after the Month, everything went well for people but the girl disappear without a single clue. Of-course he wanted her back then, he will get enraged by the sight of two, being together many times he will make Nasir to get in trouble by his antics so that he get busy in some work and not, go to and meet her. They will bring many pleasant things to gift her , to impress her But she will turn those offers down. Not because she didn't like them , but she didn't accepted such a gesture, She never demanded anything, she didn't even knew their real identity. But then a thought comes in mind, "If she's the one then I am sure lucky one"! I wanted her in childhood and have her now"? the God really love me so much"!).
"Are you trying distract me from riddle"? Come on answer me who's the culprit here"!
"There's many answer"! The man who made hole was guilty"! It's oblivious he's the one"! Cause the Merchant died out of thrist"! But you will ask me about poisoned water"?
"How did you know"? I will"?
"I know you enough to predict your move"! However The men who made Whole was real culprit"! Even though the men who mixed Poison in water bag didn't held noble intention'! But his actions wasn't the cause of Merchant death"! We cannot punish or held accountable anyone for things they didn't do"!
(Jodha smiled at his words making him smirk, there's is something about him which made her so self conscious. However she focused on him , in childhood her father would often ask riddle as such, cause "The riddles of this sort aren't for solving, but to provoke your thoughts and to teach you the wisdom. The one who understands the underlying ,message solves the riddle" as always. Here even though Jalal answer straight away she knew he understood the message as well. She heard he's going to march Towards Chunar and she wanted him to be careful. However looking at him she agree to him and spoke).
"Right because we punish men for the wrongs they have done"! Not for the ones they intended to do"! However this Riddle had"!..
"Underlying message"! More like advise"! I understood very well"!
"Really"? enlightened me then"!
"The poisoned water"! Which leaked by the whole"! It's signify two thing"! Either the dead man's enemies are too powerful and clever"! or he has a traitor amongst his own people"! moral " we shouldn't not reveal all our strengths and plans to anyone at once"!." The merchant should have carried reserves of water but he didn't"! Moral "we should divide our forces cleverly and always have a backup ready"!
"What's the point"? he must had it in his home"! Or his destination"! Where he plan to reach"!
"But he got nothing on way"! His over confidence on his strength"! blind faith on his people"! understimating his enemies ways"! costed him dearly"!
(Like it costed me"! Thought Jodha inwardly with bitter heart, however she dare'nt to voice out. She closed her eyes and leaned on bed. Tired by entire day happening now the long, yet attentive discussion made her more tired. However the more she thought the further she found her heart, getting engulfed by heavy emotion, which isn't only exhausting her but keeping her focused as well. Where's Jalal who was staring at her let out sigh inwardly, there's to much to teach her and learn from her. Why his mother cannot like her"? Why she found her to be a danger bell for him"? After his hunting trip he will march for Chunar, but expect having blind faith on his ability, concern for his well being, telling how risky it can be, did anyone try to advise him how to carry out his mission"? No not even his men did"! But she did even though he's not sure she's aware about his decision to march for Chunar or not. Strange that faceless girl unknowingly change my brother's way to see life and work. Here she enlightened me how to carried out with my mission. She was helpful to my brother, and she's helpful to me"! He was watching her and unknowingly got lost in comparing her with the faceless girl of his past).
"Tell me about her"!
(The sudden demand startled him, he glance up and found Jodha to be laying on bed, with her gaze fixed on him. She was staring at him without blinking. That's bold strong captive gaze, what's gotten on her"? There was fire in her eyes, it's anger "? No Annoyance"? No maybe yes but why"? Did she guessed it I was again lost in thinking about someone else"? Is that's why she's asking to know about her"? He was again lost this time about her, her thoughts was in his mind however She doesn't had paitent to know his reply hence he heard her saying again. This time in slight anger and sternness).
"You cannot just come in my room deprived me off from sleep"! Lay on my bed and think about someone else in my presence"! It's so disrespecting"! Either you let me sleep and think about her however you want"! Or value the time I am giving you"!
(Jalal watched her with stunned expression, but the minute she finished speaking, he Brust out laughing hard, earning her glare in return he try to stop laughing but he cannot help it, entire room echo by his throaty laughter, Jodha first got annoyed and angry but realizing what she done. Got embarrassed however she didn't get to turn her gaze, elsewhere as Jalal carefree laugh stole her attention. As she watched him laughing he look so human when he laugh like this,instead of having that sinister smile the smirk he often have on face, which is always danger bell for me. Here she was lost thinking about him, her eyes were getting heavier , whereas Jalal situation was no different slowly Minutes went passed by and his laughing session comes to an end. "I thought only I am insane when it's come to things and people I am possessive about"! But she's no less. "she's isn't in love with me"! but Fire of Jealousy is burning in her heart for me"! God knows"! what will happen"? when she will fall for me"! Thought Jalal inwardly. And glance at her, her eyes were closed now, her breathing was calm and compose, however cause of her laying position, her Robe slide up-word, revealing her fair beautiful feet, which was adorned by toe ring and coloured by Alta, she had thin golden anklet on, he touch her feet soles making them squirm, he smiled gulping he Caressed her soles further, making her pull them back. He leaned forward, more closer to her, when she drifted to sleep, not able to keep herself awake, she had her one hand behind her head, while other on her stomach. Even her sleeping posture was graceful, her feet were pulled back a bit in 60 degree angle).
"It was attack of Eyes"! or magic of Beauty"? But i longe for you whole heartily"! If I am sinner you're my beautiful Sin"!
(Whispering slowly he gazed at her, silently leaning besides her, he Dare'nt to disturb her in sleep. But then he saw her curling up forward, coming closer to his way, few hair strands come on her face, he raised his hand, forward towards her face to pull them back. But hestitate for second, Is that right to do"? She's is sleeping she's isn't aware. But what if she caught me"? She won't trust herself around me ever then. His hand was still raised near her face, lost in thought he didn't realize , it's now near her face on bed. then his finger brushed against her cheek tenderly. As She shifted making him pull his hand back in panic, she may wake up or explode on him. Realizing it's not right to stay there he he won't able to control himself, he decided to get up and walked out of there. But before he could proceed to act on his decision, he found himself trapped. To his Shock he found her Right hand comes on his waist by front, as she leaned further close to him. Oh lord have mercy on my poor heart. She's so close yet I am restricted and probhited to touch her. Why creating trouble for me"? I cannot control it I am just human with heart full of desire. Don't test me this way. He prayed and stare at her further. He run his finger in her open hair, they were soft like her face, they shined like the smile of her face).
"In my stubbornness I can conquer world"! Then in my desire I can find my way to your heart as well"! Jaan'e Jalal just wait I will make you pay"! For the trouble you're causing me"!
Edited by Rashmisingh9151 - 5 years ago
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