Siggy is by Taz...
Samundar ka Raja
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The choppy black sea tossed the large schooner as if it was just a toy that it had got tired of playing with. Jaiyant Kaladar struggled to hold the large wheel in place, his arm and chest muscles strained against his wet shirt, whatever happened he had to stop the boat from keeling over. Over the roar of raging waters he screamed as pain shot through his body, his voice lost in howling of the winds and thundering of the waves. The storm raged for several hours and Jaiyant stood gripping the wheel, his face frozen in determined scowl, the pain had long been numbed by his exhausted muscles but with one thing on his mind, he would not yield to the rage of sea god.
Dull grey sky of morning found, Jaiyant stooped over the wheel. His eyes closed, the arms hanging heavily over the wheel. Nandu Bulchand crept out of the galley, his face ashen telling that he did not fare too well below deck too. He glanced at his fellow shipmates, wet and bedraggled either sprawled on the deck or slumbering holding onto the sides of the boat. Nandu made his way over to wheel and carefully eased his master off and dragged him towards galley. The sheer dead weight of Jaiyant made it hard work and by the time Nandu had laid Jaiyant on the bed, he was gasping for breath. Sitting on the chair he took deep gulps of breath. After several minutes he got up and removed wet clothes off Jaiyant and covered him with several blankets. He kicked the wet clothes into a corner and lit the small heating stove in the cramped room. A little heat should help warm up the frozen body of his master.
The sun was high in the blue azure sky when Jaiyant stirred. His body ached all over as he shifted himself in his bed. Sweat covered his bronze skin under the blanket and he flung the blankets off and groaned deeply as he hauled himself up in the bed. He saw Nandu dozing in the chair and Jaiyant picked up his discarded boot off the floor and chucked it at Nandu's head.
"Ouch..." screamed Nandu as the boot made impact at the side of his head. He opened his eyes and glared at his master, sitting naked on the bed with scowl on his face.
Samundar ka Raja Pt 2
Nishikaran Raghuveer looked thoughtfully at the letter in his hand. The nobelman of Kannur, Jeevan Raya had sought the hand of Nishikaran's only daughter Banidevyani. Nishikaran sighed at the thought of losing his daughter now that she was of marriageable age. Banidevyani was admired for her beauty, beautiful with skin that glowed golden, her long black hair like silk, her doe eyes and a radiant smile. A sad smile came on Nishikaran's face, he could not keep Jeevan waiting any longer, he must talk with her daughter first though before he sent his envoy back with his reply.
Banidevyani was on the large terrace of the haveli, amusing herself with her maids. Nishikaran stood and watched his daughter, her tinkling laughter mingled with sounds of janjar on her delicate feet. Carefree, her long braid swinging as she chased the maid, she looked like an innocent child to his eyes. He took steps towards her and called out softly, "Bani."
The maids stopped where they were and bowed down as Nishikaran approached. Bani breathing rapidly looked at her father and smiled, "Baba..." She ran and hugged her father. "It is so good to see baba. I missed you yesterday."
Nishikaran sat down on the golden bench and asked Bani to sit down. "Bani...I am arranging for your hand in marriage with Jeevan Raya of Kannur. I have made enquiries and have heard so much good about him that I feel it will be a suitable match for you. My only wish is for you to be happy and I wanted to let you know before I replied back to Jeevan Raya."
Bani blushed at the talk of her nuptials. Her maids teased her about it constantly but she always brushed it off, in her mind she was not ready to leave her father's home and go away to a strange land and strangers that she did not know. But like a dutiful daughter she nodded her head and said softly, "Baba I know you have good wishes in your heart. I trust your decision." Nishikaran kissed her forehead gently and patted her head. "You are my most precious jewel Bani. But not one that I can keep with me always...time has come for me to give it away."
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The glass bottle rolled on the floor as it left the hand of the figure lying half on the bed. Aparaharam Dondi's throat felt parched and he licked his cracked dried lips and then still with his eyes closed, shouted, "Bhola, kutiya...daru la."
A scrawny young man appeared wiping his nose with the back of his hand, "Dada...daru khatam...sab kuch khatam."
Aparaharam opened one eye and then another and squinted at Bhola, "Then waht are you waiting for, go and get some more."
Bhola swung his head negatively and his large eyes gave baleful look, "Paisa khatam."
Screaming loudly and cursing Aparaharam sat up on bed, "Money...where did all the money go?"
"Last night...you forgot dada..Jhumri...she came here. You filled her choli with all the money you had. You let the witch walk away with all your money dada." Bhola said disgustedly.
Aparaharam's face broke into loud laughter, "Jhumri...kya cheez thi. She took all my money...you are right Bhola...she is a witch, but such a nice body...all woman that one." And then giving a mocking look at Bhola, "But you wouldn't understand Bhola...would you Bhola. Have you ever gone to bed with one like Jhumri. What Khusboo? What lovely taste of her lips..."
Bhola made a puking noise and ran out of the room. Aparaharam's gross voice rang out as he launched into a bawdy song, all thought of needing a drink forgotten now.
Samundar ka Raja PT 3
Jaiyant stepped out on the deck, a soak in a hot water and with food in his stomach, he felt invigorated, his muscles did not ache any more and the headache he had developed when he woke up gone. The salty air filled his lungs and whispers of winds brushing against the sails filled his ears. The sea was tinted by gold orb dipping in the sky. Seeing the schooner cutting smoothly through the waves now, the storm at night seemed like a dream.
He made his way towards the bow, nodding and having words with his men working away. Stepping on the bow, Jaiyant stood with his hands resting on the gleaming wood of the bow spirit, this was his life…a life on the open sea, following his own path, no worry about having to follow anyone's law…he was the master of his own destiny. His crew were loyal and brave and ready to defend their boat. The skirmishes they had endured together, the bounty that had fallen into their hands and occasional rowdy drinking sessions they indulged were part of belonging to a special family.
Nandu limped over to bow and tapped Jaiyant on the shoulder, "Master…" Jaiyant gave him a hard stare…annoyed at having his thoughts disturbed. "What is it Nandu? Nothing you can't handle."
Nandu grinned, his smile revelling gaping holes in his teeth. "Sorry, but we have to go into land. There is a crack in the rudder that needs attention. Can't do it while we are sailing. Plus rations are running low."
Jaiyant sighed, "Fine…I will look at the chart and give you instructions later. I will have my dinner on the deck at seven sharp. Bring up a bottle of port that is in my room."
A chuckle escaped Nandu, "Needing some warming up in the belly are we…me don't turn to bottle for that…a good woman in bed is enough to warm my belly." The glints that lit Jaiyant eyes made Nandu clamp up his mouth…he knew when to shut or bear the brunt of his master's arm.
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The gleaming granite palace was abuzz with activity. Servants ran to and fro packing trunks, running to markets and ensuring orders were carried out promptly. The excitement in the face of the people was catching…after all, the young master was going to leave shortly to bring his bride back.
"Jeevan…" an elderly lady, dressed elegantly in silks and adorned in gold walked into the room and her eyes searched for her son.
"Maa. Why didn't you send someone to get me?" Jeevan rebuked his mother. The tall, fair and handsome man hugged his mother and led her to one the many sitting area in the room.
Komaladevi caressed her son's face lovingly, "I shall pray to Shiva everyday to bring you and my daughter-in-law safely back to me. Tonight we must go and do pooja at Rajarajeswara temple. Abhimanyu is bringing your sister Aditi to join us in the pooja. She will stay with me until you return." She took of two heavy gold kangans from her hand and put them in Jeevan's hand, "This are to be gifted to Banidevyani at the nischayam. They have been passed down to the brides in our families and so now I must pass them onto your bride. Now I will go and let you do your work."
Jeevan kissed his mother's hand and helped her up and walked her up to the door. He looked at the kangans in his hand and wondered what they would look like on Banidevyani's hands. His envoy Adil had tried to describe the beauty of Banidevyani to him, but his mind could not conjure up a vision of her. This was making him more impatient now…he could not wait to sail away to Jamnagar…and see the fair and lovely Bani…yes he will call her Bani…she will have a sweet a voice…her name meant sweet sound. He opened up the silver box on a table and dropped the kangans on the velvet pad inside and closed it shut. Now he must attend a meeting with his close councillors who would look after the palace and needs of Kannur while he was away.
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Bhola returned with a cloth tied up with bits of food he had managed to steal. He opened the door of the filthy hut and squinted in the dim light. Aparaharam sat cross legged on the bed picking his rotting teeth. The stench rose in the hut as heat penetrated the mud floor. Bhola put a cloth over his nose to take a breath. Squatting on the floor he spread open the cloth and arranged the food, some bread, a piece or two of dried meat and some fruit.
"Hungry?" Bhola darted the question at Aparaharam, who stopped what he was doing and peered at the spread on the floor. "What did your filthy hands manage to pilfer? I will take piece of meat." And he pointed at the large piece meat which now had flier hovering over it. Bhola handed him the meat and then took the other piece for himself. Both of them sat chewing the rather tough meat. When they had polished off the rest of the food and washed it down with some tepid tea, Aparaharam belched loudly and scrathed his stubbly chin, "So what news is there in the port…is there any ships coming in that we can sneak into and help ourselves to its booty."
Bhola shook his head, "Nothing coming in, but there is a boat going out. The Pooram is being ready to set sail…with none other than Jeevan Raya…talks going on about him getting married. Saw lots of stuff being loaded in the cargo. The captain is looking for some extra men. Thought we could sign up. Wouldn't mind sailin for few days for hot meal and some pieces of gold. And when we come back…it be a piece of cake to get our hands into some of pretty trinkets it will bring back. What say you boss?"
Aparaharam belched couple of times and then rubbing his chest, "I guess if I want Jhumri to come back, then I am going to need to get me hands on some pretty baubles for her." He stood up and straightened his clothes, "Come lets go and shake our hands with that captain. Yer right Bhola…sometimes that stupid brain of yours knows how to think," and he swat his hand across Bhola's head.
"Ouch…you ungrateful dog. I don't know why I hang around you." Bhola mumbled as he rubbed his forehead.
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Nishikaran supervised his servants in preparing his haveli for the receiving of his son-in-law. The quarters where Jeevan and his men would be put up had been cleaned and freshly painted. New rugs were spread out on the floor and silk curtains hung on the walls. Baskets of gifts had been readied to give away at the ceremony of the engagement.
In another part of the haveli, a bunch of giggling maids teased Bani upon the pending arrival of her husband to be. A group of them sat on the floor, the silk spread out as they embroidered gold thread in design of flowers, animals and motifs. Their medley of voices sang songs as their hands flew over the silk, pulling and knotting the thread. Bani sat near them, watching them with a shy smile on her face. With each passing days, her heart beat faster…the apprehension of finally seeing the man who would become her husband.
Samundar ka Raja PT 4
Jeevan stood flanked by Nishikaran on one side and his advisor Adil on the other. His was filled with excitement…the excitement of seeing his bride-to-be for the first time. Respelendent in finest silks and gold and precious stone jewellery, Jeevan looked like an epitome of royalty.
His eyes darted and then fixed on the approaching group of women. His eyes flitted among the covered faces of the women, trying to figure out which one was Banidevyani. The group stopped before them and then the women parted to reveal Bani, wearing a heavy silk gaghra choli in red, her face covered almost full by a veil and heavy red and gold bangles filled her wrists. One of the women nudged her, "Go on…" she whispered to Bani, who stood trembling, holding an arti thali.
Her steps made her payals sing as she took couple of steps to come close to Jeevan and proceeded to do arti. Disappointed at her face being covered, Jeevan's eyes stayed fixed on her slightly parted pink lips. When she finished doing arti, she turned and held the thali out for one of the women to take it. Meera who was Bani's personal maid came forward holding a mala made of fresh flowers and gave it to Bani. As Bani raised her hands with the garland, Meera giggled and said coyly, "Looks like the groom will have to bow down to my lady if she is to put the mala around him."
Adil laughed and whispered to Jeevan to bend down. Taking a step forward Jeevan bent down and Bani put the garland around him. Time stood still for Jeevan has he breathed in the smell of jasmine and roses from the garland, the tinkling of Bani's bangles and quivering of her lips so close that him. The moment was gone when she stepped back and left.
Nishikaran led Jeevan and his guests into the haveli as rose petals showered the guest of honour.
Behind the purdah, Bani sat with Meera and the rest of the women. Her veil finally removed she stared at Jeevan through the embroidered purdah. Meera nudged her, "He is just like a prince in stories…so handsome and so tall." She giggled, "Bani you look like a doll in front of him. How much he had to bend down so you could put mala around his neck, looks like her will have to lift you up a lot to meet his eyes." Other women laughed around Bani, who was blushing not because of what Meera said, but because Jeevan's eyes at the moment were transfixed directly where she was sitting. She felt shivers of excitement inside her body from seeing his deep dark brown eyes.
With the racing of her heart beats, Bani tore her gaze away and looked down at her mehendi covered hands.
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Nandu entered Jai's cabin grumbling. "A day wasted…nothing doing, but have to wait for tomorrow." Jaiyant looked up from the desk where he sat leafing through a book, "What's wrong Nandu?" he asked.
"Can you believe everything is closed in Jamnagar because of pending marriage celebration of some jamindaar's daughter. Everybody is partying in that bloody town…can't buy or get anything." Nandu spat out the paan he had been chewing into a bucket in a corner. Wiping his lips with his shirtsleeve, he scowled at Jaiyant. "Can't leave till we get the rudder repaired.
Jaiyant closed his books and stood up, "Why are you so upset about it? Get it done tomorrow. May be we should go into the city and join in the fun."
Nandu looked at Jai as if he was crazy, "Fun…are you mad. We can't abandon the ship and go there. You go if you want. I am not leaving my pyaari Phulari(that's is Nandu's name for the boat) for anyone."
Jaiyant picked out his best frock coat from the cupboard and put it on. Smoothing his rather curly long hair down with some grease, he checked himself in the mirror. "Fine you stay and sing love songs to your Phulari, while I check out the town."
"Take Dhanvi and Soma with you. Don't want you walking around alone in a strange place." Nandu called out after him. Jaiyant grinned, the old fool had soft heart under his crabby nature.
Under falling dusk, Jaiyant made his way into Jamnagar, the houses were lit with bright diyas and everywhere there was singing and dancing, the whole town was in the festive mood. He stood outside the haveli, which glowed bright as the moon, lit by thousands of diyas. He followed throng of people moving into the haveli.
"You two keep close to me. Don't want to have to try and find you in this maze." Dhanvi just grunted and grabbed Soma and pulled him along behind Jaiyant.
The crowd dispersed when they reached several colourful tents, the aroma of food mingled with noisy chattering of the people. Soma who was feeling hungry now, peeked into one of the tents and seeing piles of food, called out "Can we eat master?"
Jaiyant gave a disdain glance at the crowd gorging on food, "You can eat if you want. But stay around here so I can find you. I will be back shortly."
He strode off towards the dimly gardens. There was hardly anyone around. He leaned against the Chandan tree and looked at the pond set in the gardens, the lily plants floated on the still dark water, the flowers having folded itself tight for the night. His eyes caught the soft strain of payals coming towards him. He swiftly hid himself behind the tree and stealthily peered at the approaching figure. The jewellery she wore, sparkled in the faint light, but it was her face, framed by the glittering veil which made him catch his breath. Her pale skin glowed, the eyes lined with kohl, a nose ring adorned her petite nose and her lips curved in a smile, she just looked almost ethereal, like one of those devi descended from heavens.
She stood near the pond and bent down and ran her hand through it, causing the water to ripple. Something seemed to amuse her because her voice rang out in soft laughter. His heart beat in a disjointed rhythm and the urge to step close to her took hold of him. Before he could act on it, another voice rang out, "Bani…" A pair of hurried feet came up to where Bani sat. "Here you are…your father is looking for you…come..hurry."
Bani stood up and grabbing Meera's hand, hurried inside the haveli. Jaiyant stepped out and gave deep sigh at the loss of disappearance.
When he returned back to where the tents, he found Dhanvi and Soma loitering around, both of them grinned seeing his return. Jaiyant having seen enough now hurried out the way they had come in, the other two having to run almost to keep up with him.
It was dark when he stepped onto his boat. He found Nandu sprawled on a cot outside his cabin, snoring away. Jaiyant stepped into his cabin and taking off his coat and boots, poured himself a glass of the strong amber liquer and stood looking out from the small window at the glittering stars in the dark velvety night as if searching for that face of the goddess he had glimpsed earlier.
Samundar ka Raja PT 5
Jai was like a bear with sore head. Nandu scratched his scruffy chin wondering what happened to Jaiyant that he bit his head off every time he asked him something. Last night he had seemed in a good mood and this morning, nothing seemed to please him. Nandu hurried off to oversee the repair work, he had no time to babysit the boss this morning, things needed to be done so they could get back on sea.
Jai kicked the overturned stool in his cabin again. He had spent half the night lying awake, unable to sleep as the beautiful face of the goddess he had seen last night haunted him. Not the one to be charmed so easily by the women, Jaiyant cursed himself for letting some woman who he may never see again, get under his skin. He rubbed the day old stubble on his chin and then coming to some decision; he stepped into his boots and tucked his pristine white tunic into the waistband of his pants. He forgo his jacket and walked quickly out of his cabin and onto the deck.
The men were busy cleaning up the deck, the mast and repairing the sails. He gave a quick look around for Nandu and not seeing him, he strode up to Soma, who was busy unloading sacks of supplies.
"Soma…" Jai called out.
"Yes master." Soma hobbled over, almost tripping over the sack he just dumped.
"If you see Nandu, tell him I have gone into the town."
"Sure…any special reason you going to town?" Soma asked.
Jai glared at Soma and snapped, "Nothing special. Just want to see around. Now go back to work."
Soma shrugged and turned his attention back to putting rations away.
In daylight the town looked different. It was back to routine, the throngs of people partying last night had disappeared. The closed shops were open and bustling with business.
His aimless walk led him to the harbour, where a schooner, much bigger than his stood. Curiosity aroused now, he walked over and admired the craft. He got into easy conversation with couple of the sailors working on the deck and found out the boat belonged to the Jeevan…the one who's pending marriage was celebrated last night. He learned the boat would sail away south to Kannur that very evening taking the bride to be on it. Having satisfied his curiosity, he made his way towards the haveli.
Jaiyant stared at the haveli from the shade of the tree he stood against. Today there were sentries at the entrance of the haveli…unlike last night when people walked freely in and out. He wondered if she was there in the garden today, he wished to have a glimpse of her in the daylight, to touch her to see if she was real…last night she had seemed so ethereal.
His reverie was broken by couple of women running by, they were both laughing loudly. ''Aree Meera hurry up, you have to make sure everything that is to be taken to the boat is done before the evening. And remember you have to take Bani to the mandir for pooja too. I heard babuji is getting very uptight now that the time is so close and he will have to watch his beti go away from him.''
Meera stopped and pressed her hand to her waist, ''Mani wait…I can't run much more. It hurts here.'' She breathed deeply and fanned her face with her pallu. Through the corner of her eye, she spied Jaiyant watching her. Turning ever so slowly, she smiled at him, her eyes taking in his rugged looks, the long hair slightly curling around his shoulders, the gleaming bronze skin exposed by the v in his tunic and the length of his legs. Making it obvious she liked what she saw, she took steps forward and stared at him openly.
Jai nodded his head and then motioning to Meera with his finger to come near him. 'Why were you running?'', he asked.
Meera giggled and then walking close to him, " Oh I have so much to do. I am Meera. We are going away today…Banidevyani and me, babuji Nishikaran's daughter. "
Jai smiled, "The one who is getting married?"
"Yes. We will be sailing away tonight with Jeevan babu…the marriage will take place in Kannur." Meera said excitedly. "You don't look like as if you live here. Where are you from? Why don't you come along with me?"
Crossing his arms across his broad chest, Jaiyant smirked, "No beautiful, I am not from around here. I have my own boat, the open sea is my home." Meera sighed, her eyes lingering on his face, "You make it sound so romantic…I wish I could sail away too…but alas," she looked towards the haveli, "duty calls. I must go and see to my lady. May be we meet again if destiny so desires sir."
Jai bowed slightly, "I shall look forward to it beautiful. Pass my good wishes to your mistress." Meera giggled, "Yes sir." And then ran off towards the haveli.
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The palanquin made its way slowly out of the haveli. Bani sat crying inside. The moment had finally arrived and she was leaving her home, her friends, only Meera was coming with her. She had spent the last hour with her father, both of consoling each other as they cried. Nishikaran felt immense pain that this was the last time he was seeing his daughter, he had no idea when he would see her again. Her home now would be a far off land that he had not seen, she would now be taken care of by strangers he did not know.
On the deck of his ship, Jeevan stood and watched the approaching palaquin. His heart beat with excitement. Finally he would leave on return journey home. Now she would be under his care. He greeted Nishikaran with respect and then helped Bani out of the palaquin. The thrill of feeling her soft hand in his added to his eagerness he had to be with her alone, to see her face, to hear her voice. He led Bani and Nishikaran to the cabin that had been set up for her.
Meera eyed the sumptuous cabin with amazement. She ran her hand on the silks drapery and gilded furniture. The large spacious cabin had a large bed, along with carved furniture. Jeevan sat Nishikaran down and then send one of his crew to bring refreshments for his guests.
He struck up polite conversation with his father-in-law whilst his eyes flit over to Bani sitting with Meera. Eventually time arrived for Nishikaran to leave and Jeevan realizing he needed to retreat to give father, daughter privacy, left them alone in the cabin.
For the final time Nishikaran embraced his daughter and told Meera to take good care of her. Wiping her tears with the end of his scarf, Nishikaran kissed Bani's forehead and then left the cabin.
Outside on the deck he bade goodbye to Jeevan and wished him safe journey home. On the harbour another pair of eyes, watched the sails being unfurled and the hands pulling the anchor up. In few minutes the sails took to the wind and the ship set sail. Nishikaran stood and watched the ship move away, out in the open sea tinted by orange glow of the setting sun.
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When Jaiyant returned back to his ship, he discovered the repairs had been carried out long ago and Nandu had made sure the hull of boat was filled with rations to last them for several months.
Nandu grinned when he saw Jaiyant, "Welcome back master!" he said sardonically, remembering the grumpy face in the morning.
Jaiyant gave a careless nod, "Are we ready to sail?" he asked brusquely. Nandu saluted, "Aye…aye sir…just give the orders and I'll have the her out dancing on the waves soon enough."
Nandu's remark made Jaiyant laugh…it was only Nandu who treated the boat as if she was his woman. Resting his hand on the gleaming steering wheel now, Jaiyant grinned at his, "Get away with you…go get the sail going then."
Happy at finally leaving the land, Nandu roared out orders to the men, who promptly set about getting the work done. In few minutes the boat was out in the open sea under the night sky. It was fine night, the sky clear, the stars twinkling away brightly and the moon reflecting its glow on the dark sea.
Once out on the open sea, the land far behind him, Jaiyant gave the wheel to Nandu and went down to his cabin. He poured himself a glass of port and took out charts and then proceeded to plot course for Kannur…he had no intention of going to Kannur but he was going to follow the ship to make sure it reached its destination safely.
Samundar ka Raja PT 6
A soft knock on the door sent Meera scuttling to the door and opening it. Jeevan stood, his hand clasped behind him. He gave Meera a stiff smile. "You may leave, I wish to speak to your mistress alone."
Meera smirked and then casting a sly glance to where Bani sat, left the cabin.
Jeevan entered the cabin and closed the door shut quietly behind him. His soft steps made its way toward Bani. In the burning lamplight he stopped and gazed at the vision in front of him. Bani sat on the gilded bench wearing dark green sari and heavy silver jewellery, her face again covered so that only her mouth was visible.
He noted that her breathing was rapid and her hands clamped tightly in her lap. Clearing his throat softly, "I hope you are comfortable. Do you require anything?"
Bani shook her head, her goonghat fluttering slightly.
He stepped closer and knelt in front of her, gently he pried one of her hand off and held it between his hands. "I wish to get to know you. We have few days of travel to get acquainted. Tomorrow I will escort you on the deck. You must enjoy the fresh sea air."
With a little hesitation he pressed her hand, "Good night." He stood up and giving a final look at her, he left.
Bani lifted her hand rested it on her rapidly beating heart. Panic had flared up when she had heard him ask Meera to leave the cabin. And then he sent her blood rushing when he touched her. The gamut of feelings running through her now was completely new. Bani pulled down her goonghat and fanned her face,
When Meera entered the cabin, she found Bani flushed, her eyes moist. Sitting beside Bani, Meera put an arm on Bani's shoulder, "Hmmm…so what sweet things did he whisper," she murmured to Bani. "What a pretty shade of pink on your cheek Bani. If just his words do this to you, then what will happen if when he kisses you."
Bani looked aghast at Meera. She put her hands over her ears, "Just don't say anything else. I am sure I will die just listening to you. You don't know…you don't understand what I am suffering."
Meera laughed and tugged Bani's hands off her ears. "I would gladly suffer anything to be kissed by a man like him. Wait till you see and feel his arms around you…you will forget everything."
Bani stood up and then glaring at Meera. "Shut up…now get my bed ready. I want to sleep."
Meera's laugh filled the cabin as she stood up and pulled the bed covers over and then helped Bani get changed.
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Aparaharam lay in his hammock in a dark corner of the lower deck. He had been staring at the wood rafters above him for a long time as sleep eluding him. Getting restless, he rolled out quietly and then crept over to where Bhola lay curled up on the floor, fast asleep. He shook Bhola and pinched him on the arm. "Wake up you lazy dog," he hissed in Bhola's ear. Bhola opened his eyes wide and then squinted at seeing Aparaharam;s face so close, "What now? Can't I sleep. I am dead tired from doing my and your share of the work."
Aparaharam poked him, "Quit moaning and get up. Come we need to talk."
Bhola got up and followed Aparaharam out of the hold and then down into the hold. Pulling out a small knife, he proceeded to pick at the large padlock. Bhola scratching his head, "What you breaking in there for boss?"
"Shhhhhh…you dumb ass. Want to see what we can pilfer." Aparaharam hissed.
A small click and padlock opened. They slipped inside the pitch-dark hold. "Can't see anything," Bhola whispered.
"Hang on," Aparaharam said as he pulled out a candle butt and lit it. The weak glow showed stacked chests and sacks in the cramped space. He picked at the lock of one of the chests and opened it. A gleaming mound of gold coins lay in the small chest. He gave a gurgled laughter and stuck his hand in the chest and grabbed a fistful. "Time to fill my pockets with these." As Bhola went to pick one up, Aparaharam slapped at him, "Who told you to filch? Keep your dirty paws off it…you don't need em."
"But boss…" whined Bhola while rubbing the skin smarting from the slap.
"Shut it you snivelling bag of bones. I am looking after you aint I?"
Aparaharam crouched near Bhola, "Listen me pal. I have big plans for us. We will get plenty more of this with what I have in me mind."
"What's cookin in your head boss?" Bhola asked in a whisper. He knew when Aparaharam had plan going in his head.
"Well, did you see that pretty thing on the deck this morning, walking with the Sahib. His pretty wifey sure has pretty hand and feet, all pale and soft. And I know someone who likes pale lilies like that, especially ones that are so innocent." Saliva drooled out of the side of Aparaharam's mouth and his eyes danced devilishly. Bhola eyes almost boggled out, "You ain't thinking of kidnapping the girl are you? How you planning to get her of this ship without anyone seein ya?"
Aparaharam rubbed his scruffy chin, "I am going to take over the ship…" Patting the coins in his pocket, "I am gonna bribe me mates on the ship with these…I will promise them plenty more too. And I know what Rajmal Thakur's weakness is…he will give me plenty of them caskets of gold."
Bhola gave an unbelievable stare at Aparaharam, surely his boss had gone mad. Some of the men on the ship were mean bas***ds. He knew some of them didn't like Aparaharam…knew he was lazy and sly. But bhola knew, once Aparaharam got something ticking in his brain, there was no way to talk him out of it.
XXXXX
"Why are we going down south?" Nandu demanded of Jaiyant.
Jaiyant looked up from the chart, "Because I want to go that way. We have been that way before, you didn't complain than."
Nandu knotted his brows, "Yeah but not that far down. Why the hell do you want to go so far down?"
Jaiyant looked back at the chart and said dismissively, "Just know I have an important reason. I will tell you when its necessary. In the meantime set course as I told you. I will be up on the deck shortly."
Nandu gave a snort and stomped out of the cabin. He had been thinking they be headed out towards their favourite haunts, the islands in the Arabian sea.
Jaiyant rolled up his charts and put them carefully in the leather pouches. He was kept the charts safely as they were valuable to navigate the waters. Only Nandu was allowed to touch them.
He picked up his other prized possession, the leather and brass binocular. He had found this on a shipwreck couple of years back, a cargo ship belonging to the East India Company. It had looted of its cargo and the pickings left were just items not so easily sold. Jaiyant had grabbed the charts, bottles of ports and teak wood still intact.
Now he made his way up to the deck and strolled towards the bow. Taking out binocular, he held it against his eyes and scanned the horizon for any sign of the other ship.
Not sighting anything he put them away and stood resting his hands on the rails.
XXXXX
Aparaharam came out of the captain cabin wiping the long blade on the side of his pants. He looked darkly at the three sailors crouching in the dark, "Go in and get rid of the body. Make sure no one sees you." He watched the three of them scamper in as he walked towards the other cabin.
His feet light on the solid floor did not make any noise. With practised ease he opened the cabin door. By the light of the bright lanterns hanging from the rafters he noticed the bed was unoccupied. He smiled slowly, his eyes glittered wildly, no doubt the sahib was in the other cabin indulging with the girl. He took off the top of the bottle and gulped down the fiery brown liquid. The taste of the expensive liquor burnt a fiery hot trail down his throat, heating up his inside. He wipes his mouth with back of his hand and then making his mind up walked out of the cabin.
Meera stood idly outside the cabin door bored to death. What was he doing inside that it was taking so long? Today he had been impossible, spending almost the whole day with her, leaving Meera idle, and not knowing what to do on the ship. There was nowhere to go, especially near some of those men who ogled at her so lewdly. A soft rap got her attention and she stared at Aparaharam. She didn't like the look in his eyes and moved by door and glared at him, "What do you want? You know you are not allowed anywhere near here?" she shouted at him.
Aparaharam grinned, "Well my little darling, I like pretty things too. So I came to have a little look at the innocent lily…your mistress. Me master seems to be quiet besotted with her." His guttural laugh echoed in the narrow space. Drawing out his blade he angled it at her neck, "Now me darling move aside, you don't want to lose your pretty head now do you?"
Meera screamed, "No!" and then pushed open the cabin door and tried to close it.
Startled Jeevan rushed up to Meera, but before he could say anything, Aparaharam pushed Meera aside and drew his blade at Jeevan's throat.
Seeing Jeevan moving his hand towards gleaming handle of his sword, Aparaharam slowly swayed his head negatively, "Now you are not going to do something stupid. Me blade will slice your head off before you can even put your hand around your weapon. I don't want to scare the pretty lady off…all that blood."
Jeevan's hand dropped to the side and asked coldly, "You know you will not leave this ship alive."
"yeah…yeah. Stop wasting your breath." Aparaharam snarled. Now walk towards the girl."
"No!" Jeevan said with force.
The blade pricked his throat and blood trailed down his silk shirt. "Now see what you have done. Now move or I can do the same to your girl."
Jeevan looked at Bani, sitting like statue on the chair, he moved slowly. He couldn't let this maniac hurt her. He stopped a foot away. Aparaharam smirked at Jeevan and then lifted his hand towards Bani. As Aparaharam shifted his eyes slightly, Jeevan swiftly moved and slammed into Aparaharam. But the shock just rocked him slightly and a scream filled the cabin as the Aparaharam's blade went through Jeevan's chest. A spreading red mark grew as Jeevan fell to the floor. Bani fainted and slipped off her chair onto the floor. Meera who had watched everything in horror, reacted and rushed towards Bani.
Aparaharam lifted Jeevan's body up and then looked menacingly at Meera. "Don't try to leave this cabin or will go the same way. You can see to her. I will be back in a minute."
Meera watched the trail of blood left on the floor as Aparaharam carried Jeevan away. A moan escaping Bani broke her thoughts.
Samundar ka Raja PT 7
"What the hell…" Jaiyant dropped the binocular and leaped on to deck and grabbed the wheel of Nandu, "Go…get those sails and rigging working…we have to turn around…the blighter is turning around for some reason." Jaiyant bellowed.
Nandu stomped his foot, "Ye gone mad…what the blazin barnacle is goin on. And who is going around. I aint movin a foot until you tell me what you up to."
Jaiyant made a swift turn on the wheel and then held it tight and through gritted teeth, "Just get the sails adjusted first...then we'll talk. Get movin."
Nandu made a disgusted face and then started screamin orders at the crew.
With ship's course adjusted, Jaiyant gave his binoculars to Nandu and pointed him to look in the direction.
"Why we following that keg?" Nandu asked.
"That there ship was bound for Kannur…she is carrying the girl…remember the one whose betrothal took place at Jamnagar."
Nandu gave a blank look, "Just why are you following her…she is already taken. An since when have you ever been smitten by the opposite sex."
Jaiyant jabbed his elbow into Nandu, "Watch your tongue you scurvy seadog. I just want to make sure no harm comes to her. And I am not moonstruck by her," he thundered.
Nandu grunted, "Yeah…I believe yah."
An hour later with course adjusted, Jaiyant hollered at Nandu to come and take the helm.
"I will be in my cabin, I just want to check the charts, " and handing the bins, "keep an eye on the ship, just in case…"
Nandu grinned, "aye capn…will make sure the pretty lady is in me sight."
Jaiyant shot him a dark look before storming off to cabin.
XXXX
Meera stood in front of Bani, glowering at Aparaharam. "You step any closer and I will scratch your eyes out." She shouted.
Aparaharam brandish his sword, "I sure would love to see you try…you're quite something you know. How about coming and warming me bed. I would pay you handsomely…make you very rich."
Meera fixed her gaze on him, "Keep your filthy money and your hands to yourself."
"Move out before I chop your head off." Aparaharam shouted angrily, his mood darkening. With a wild lunge he pushed Meera out of way.
The bright glare of the dagger in Bani's hand made Aparaharam stop and stare.
He saw Bani's lips move, her voice slow and deliberate. "You step any closer and you will see my dead body." The tip of the dagger turned toward her chest and rested there.
Meera screamed, "No!" Aparaharam staggered back a step or two, he dropped the sword on the floor, his mouth convoluted in disbelief. His voice hoarse, he spoke, "Don't do anything stupid. I don't want to touch you. You are by prized commodity. I just wanted to make sure you were ok. "
Bani stood still, the dagger still resting on her chest. "You want gold…you killed Jeevan for gold…he could have given whatever you demanded. Why did you kill him?" Disgust laced her voice and even though he couldn't see her eyes, Aparaharam felt as if the eyes were burning into his skin.
Picking up his sword, he gave a guttural laugh, "Do you think I am dumb? I would have been dead long ago if your Jeevan was still alive. Men like him don't make trades with the like of me. But don't worry…there are some who are willing to pay a lot for an untouched lily like you. I suggest you and that wench stay put in this cabin. I can't guarantee the men outside wouldn't lay there grisly hands on you."
Aparaharam left the cabin quickly. Bani could hear muffled voices from outside and then quiet. Meera stood up and came up to Bani. She tugged at the hand holding the dagger. "You had me scared. Thank God, he stopped. What do we do now? We can't let him trade you. We have to get off the ship somehow.' Meera rambled on.
Bani pushed the silk off her face, her eyes hard. "Stop it Meera. How are we going to get past the men standing outside the door? And even if we get out of the cabin, how do we get off the ship? I don't think jumping in the sea will get us far."
Meera flopped down on the floor, "I hate men…especially ones like him. Where is he going to take us? And what will happen to me after…after…he gets rid of you?"
Bani felt for sorry for Meera. She wasn't sure what would happen to both of them. One thing was sure, she was going to think of some way to get away, once they ship put into the harbour or if they got off on land. There would be a way to bribe someone to help them escape.
XXXXX
Jaiyant sat back in his chair in the cabin, his legs stretched out in front of him and his hands resting behind his hand. There was only one place the ship was headed in its present course…the tiny group of islands in the Arabian sea, islands ruled by the rogue Rajmal Thakur…Rajmal. He had no idea why the ship was headed there, did the crew mutinied or was someone making blackmailing the captain with death. Jaiyant's eyes glittered hard at the thought of Rajmal, who was known to trade people into slavery…especially women to the Arabs of the Persian land.
The thought of Bani being sold to the highest bidder shot a deep tremor through him…there was no way he was going to let that happened. Somehow he had to foil the plan…he had to save her and return her safely back to her father.
Ok, I should have given Jai and Jeevan's ships name. So Jai is Vikrama and Jeevan's is Durai.
Samundar ka Raja PT 8
The moonlight streamed and rippled on the gentle waves in the secluded cove where Vikrama was anchored. The crew were having a much needed rest after relentlessly following Durai to this spattering of islands.
The golden glow of the lantern played light and shadow on Jaiyant's face as he sat with his feet resting on the table. Nandu sat on a stool near the woodstove, which burnt gently, the heat dissipating the chill in the night air. Nandu's face was ruddy from consuming couple of glasses of dark rum. He had been watching Jaiyant through his half-closed eyes, wishing him to say something.
"So you got any idea in that skull of yours, or ye just gonna sit and count your little pinkies?" Nandu said finally in exasperation.
Jaiyant gazed at Nandu's irritated face, "I am waiting to hear your plan…got any ideas…how do we get on that ship anchored at Barimal bay?"
Nandu belched loudly and rubbed his stomach, not bothering to apologize. "Well tell me…what u wanna steal that tub for…what ye gonna do with two tubs? I am telling ya right now…I a'int never leavin me Phulari."
Jai dropped his feet on the floor and sat up, "I know you will never leave this ship. And I am not planning on asking you, but do you think you can get me some seadogs willing to join me. I need another set of crew for the other boat…can't trust the ones on that ship. I don't want to be watching me back all the while.'
Getting up and running the back of his hands across his dry lips, Nandu gave satisfied look, "I'll take Soma and the little rowboat and see what I can bring back…but ye better give me some sacks of gold…not gonna get any good seadogs without givin some of shinies away."
Jai gave a roaring laugh and slammed his hand on Nandu's back. He opened up a locked chest and pulled out two small but heavy bags, "Here…spend wisely…I want some men who can fight as well work the rigging."
XXXXX
By mid afternoon next day, Nandu returned with two boatfuls of men. Jaiyant watched the men as they boarded, noting most looked like they had sailed all their life…good he thought…he needed good men if he is to steal the ship. He let Nandu get on organizing the men, Jaiyant rarely interfered in Nandu's work, just glad Nandu knew how to handle even the most difficult of men.
It was setting dusk when Nandu sought Jaiyant out in his cabin. The dull sunlight filtered in through the windows. He went straight to the bottle of rum and poured himself a glass and took a mouthful.
"Well ye got your men and…" pulling out bag half full, "didn't spend all ye gold neither. So when you gonna move out of this ere cabin? It be nice to put up in after yer gone."
Jaiyant threw a small dagger right past Nandu's ear and into wall behind, his voice hollered, "You sea toad…forget about moving your fat belly in here. It's my cabin and stays mine. Just because I let you pilfer my rum stock doesn't mean you start to claim anything else."
Nandu rubbed the ear where the dagger had wheezed past and scowled at Jaiyant, "Ye could have nipped me ear you know. Keep your stinkin cabin. But I will help me self to the rum."
Jaiyant watched him pour some more into the glass. 'Right when it goes dark, I want us to go over to Barimal and find out what's going on. I want to know if the girl is on the boat or on the island."
Nandu rolled his eyes after swigging at the rum, "The girl is on the tub. It be too dangerous to lug her around that hellhole. The men be killin themselves to claim her."
A sharp tug and the dagger was back in his waistband, Jaiyant stood stiff, feet firmly pressed on the wood floorboards. "I hope you are right. Now if you are done drinking my rum, go get some men organized. Oh and make sure you tell Soma to have a men rotating and keeping and eye out for trouble while we are gone."
Under the cover of darkness, the long boat made its way, skimming along the coat to reach Barimal. It was easy to moor the boat under darkness. Jaiyant asked them to kind split up in groups and make way to the shanty bars scattered around the pier. He took Nandu and couple of other men and made his way Drowning Fish tavern, the only one that was not haunted by the drunken sailors, ragamuffins and scallywags that found it way to Barimal.
Jaiyant found empty table in the corner and nudged Nandu towards it. It was in perfect spot for him to sit under shadow and observe the patrons. Nandu hissed at Jaiyant as he saw a large tray laden with food being hauled up the stairs by two men. "Who do you think is eatin all that?" And then with eyes gleaming, "I think I am a wee bit hungry too. What say we order something to bite?"
Jaiyant stood up, "Go ahead, I am just going to pay a visit upstairs. Just make sure you don't draw attention to yourself."
Upstairs Jaiyant stood in the narrow dark hallway, straining his ears for any sound. He softly treaded the floor as he made his way down. Most of the room doors were open and unoccupied. At the end the hallway two rooms opposite each other were both shut tight. Jaiyant heard muffled laughter coming from the room on the left. He sidled near it and pressed his ear to it. The words were undecipherable but he recognized one of the voice as that of Rajmal Thakur. He quickly moved to the empty room next door and locked it from inside. And then he moved swiftly to the window and opened it and peered outside. A narrow ledge ran all the way along wall just below the window.
With light pull he was standing on the ledge and inching his way towards the other window. Gripping the jutting frame he pressed himself back and listened.
"Let me tell you something…I don't promise anything till I have seen the goods, do you hear? You want to sell me something than you are going to have to show her to me first. I am no fool and I don't suffer fool lightly." The voice was had dangerous tone to it. Rajmal Thakur voice alone made a man fearful. But here he heard Aparaharam laugh and slam his hand on the table. "You live up to your name. No wonder no one likes to venture up to this place. Wouldn't leave the place alive if they crossed your path. Ok fine…tomorrow, I take you to my ship and you can see that I am not tryin to fool you. Now let us enjoy a drink and eat some of his food you so kindly provided."
Jaiyant heard scraping sound like a chair being pushed on the bare floor. "You are welcome to stay and enjoy yourself. This room is paid for so you its yours for the night. I can send a wench up too, if you want. There plenty downstairs, for the like of yours."
The sound of door slamming had Jaiyant make his way back into to the other room. He quickly entered and then waited till the sound of feet disappeared. He opened the door slightly and took a quick look to make sure the way was clear. With swift soft strides he was down the hallway and back to the table where he had been sitting earlier.
Nandu pushed the empty plate away, "Saw that blighter come down just wee earlier than you. I guess she is up there."
Jaiyant shook her head. "No! But he is going to go aboard the ship to see her tomorrow. We have to take chance and make our move tonight. Let's get going. I don't think the captain or who ever he is going to shift from upstairs tonight." Nandu looked towards the stairs where Jaiyant was staring, a couple of girls making their way up the stairs.
Samundar ka Raja Part 9
Jaiyant and Nandu with two other crew member slipped into cold black water and swam towards the anchored ship. They made sure to make no noise as they slipped closed to the ship. Ducking under water, they swam swiftly towards the hull of the boat. Jaiyant deftly skimmed up the rope holding the anchor. He took a deep breath and then slowly peered over the edge of deck. He noted the two guards walking around the deck, they were headed his way and so he ducked down and waited. Soft treads and low voices past him and he looked again and then silently rolled onto the deck. With a swift move and a powerful blow, he knocked the first and the second guard, not giving a chance for him to react. He dragged them back and tied them up. Lying flat on his stomach, he signalled to Nandu and the others to come up.
Within few minutes, four other sailors manning the guard duties where knocked out and tied up. Nandu lit a small torch and waved it in a circle and soon two long boats were headed their way. Once the men were on boat, Jaiyant got them organized. He took Nandu and few of them down the deck and into the part where the rest of the crew were sleeping. Nandu padlocked the door and left four of them to stand guard and followed Jaiyant towards the other cabin. One of the guards standing outside the cabin occupied by Bani saw him and called out before charging with his sword at Jaiyant.
Jaiyant swung his powerful cutlass and knocked the sword out the man's hand and a powerful jab knocked him cold. The other guard dropped his sword and stood trembling, his protruding eyes staring at Jaiyant. "Who is in there?" Jaiyant asked in a dark menacing voice. The man stammered, "The…la…dy."
Jaiyant pushed him aside and entered the cabin to be met by two fiery eyes and a dagger pointed towards him. "Don't come near me, " she warned, her eyes unwavering as she watched Jaiyant. "I told the other one, I won't let anyone touch me." Meera peered over her shoulder and then suddenly recognizing him, blurted out, "I know you…I remember. Bani, he is not one of them." Bani pushed Meera back. "Shut up Meera. You don't know. He could be one them, trying to trick us."
"But I am telling you…he wouldn't hurt you. I am sure he would help you if you let him." Meera tried again to make Bani believe her.
Bani glared at Jaiyant, her voice sharp, "Is it true what she says? How do I trust you?"
Jaiyant took a step and in a blinding movement, knocked the dagger out of her hand. Bending down he picked it up and held it towards her. "Would I give this back to you, if I meant to hurt you?"
Bani stared with disbelief at him. She didn't even see him move, all she felt was a soft brush on her hand and the dagger slipping out of her grip. "Who are you?" she asked again.
Jaiyant led her to the seat and sat her down. He looked at Meera and ordered, "Get her something to drink."
He stood tall and rigid before her, his hands clasped firmly behind him. "I am Jaiyant. I was in Jamnagar when you ship left. I believe you were headed for Kannpur."
Bani nodded. Meera handed Bani a glass of water
"I was following your ship and saw it alter course and felt there was something wrong. So I followed your ship all the way to these islands."
Bani spoke when Jaiyant paused, "They killed him…I don't who else he has killed. I don't know where he is. But he came in here and I threatened to kill myself if he dared to touch me."
Meera took glass of water from Bani and gazed at Jai with open admiration, "That monster have killed Jeevansaab…and the captain I think. He said something about some else…this person would want Bani."
Jaiyant nodded with a grim face, "I know…Rajmal Thakkur, he rules this island."
Meera fell on her knees in front of Jaiyant and clasped her hands and wailed, "You won't let anything happen to her sir. Get her back safely to her father's house. He will give you whatever you want. But save her."
Jaiyant sighed, "Get up woman. I came here rescue her. Now I have to get the ship under sail. We must get away now or it will be too late." He gave a slight nod in their direction and strode out of the room.
Meera collapsed with relief as soon as Jaiyant left. "Thank you lord. I told you he was decent. Such a handsome man…a real hero. Now Bani…that's the kind of man you should marry…so brave…so handsome."
Bani stood up and walked to her bed and lay down. "I don't want to hear any more of such talk Meera. It is best not to say what is not written in my destiny."
Meera came up to Bani, "Why not? Who says you can't dream?"
Bani pushed Meera away, "Go to sleep."
In a few minutes she felt the ship move, the gentle sway as the sails got under way. Tears of relief gave way and rolled down her cheek. She had no idea where he was taking her but she prayed hard that he would take her back to her father. As the ship slipped further and further from the island, Bani drifted off to sleep. On the deck at the helm, Jai steered the ship skilfully southwards. He too prayed that no one noticed the ship gone until morning, because he had no doubt that Thakkur will chase them. The greater the distance he put between them, the better his chances to escape him.
TBC…
Samundar ka Raja Part 10
Jaiyant sprawled out in a chair, tired from manning the helm. Satisfied with the headway they had made, he had handed the wheel to Soma and made his way to the cabin. He closed his eyes and soon fell asleep. He woke up when warm rays of the sun hit his face. He stirred in the chair, feeling ache in his muscles from sleeping in the chair. Stretching himself, he stood up and walked over to the small porcelain basin filled with water. The cool water invigorated his skin and he felt fully awake.
He made his way to the galley and grabbed a mug of steaming hot tea. Brightness of the sun hit his eyes as he stepped onto the upper deck. Some of the crew hailed him as he walked up to Soma. "Anything to report?" Jai asked as he set his cup down,
"No sir." Soma responded. "What do we do about those rat bags cooped down the hole?" Soma was referring to the old crew locked up in the lower deck.
"Bring em up. I will talk with them. The ones that give us trouble can swim there way ashore. The rest they can work with us and earn their keep. Soma check up on the ladies. Make sure galley send a tray of food down for them."
Soma grinned, "Aye sir. Be right back."
Jaiyant took out his binocular and scanned the horizon, he was expecting company but when he had no idea. Thakkur must have found out his prey was missing and it was just a matter of how quick he organized a ship to chase them. He hoped Nandu would follow his instructions and wait till he saw any vessel leave and follow in his directions before tailing them.
He swigged rest of his tea down as Soma returned. "The cook has orders to send tray to ladies cabin. The old crew had been hammering to be let out. I hollered they better behave if they want to be let out. Gonna check to see if they quietened down and ave a word with them."
Jaiyant nodded, "Make it quick. We could do with some of them on our side."
"Aye sir…I understand. Seen anything with them glasses sir?" Soma asked, pointing at the binoculars.
"Nah…but the bas***d will come. He will come chasing like a devil…Thakkur hates to be deprived, especially when he had been told of a beautiful woman only for his eyes. He hasn't seen her, but now he will want her more than an ever."
"Well I been itchin for good fight. So let him come, give me arm a good workout on them black rats."
Within few minutes Soma had the crew line up. Jaiyant walked up and down looking at their surly face. He stopped in front of Bhola, stood with downcast eyes, his body trembling. Jaiyant's eyes narrowed, he didn't look like he had sealegs. He rapped Bhola's shoulder, "What your name kid?"
"Bho…la."
"So Bhola, how long ye been sailing?"
Bhola head shot up and he looked with bulging eyes at Jaiyant. "Neva been on boat. Me first time. Ad no choice, me master would beat me black n blue if I sid no."
"Who is your master?"
"He aint ere sir. He went on them island to see some thakur. He goin to sell that pretty lady."
Jaiyant gripped Bhola's shoulder, "Well Bhola, I am going to be nice to ya. You work for me and you go free when we land, otherwise you better know how to swim your way ashore."
Bhola dropped to the floor and grovelled at Jaiyant's feet, "Don't naw ow to swim sir…please siree…I do whatever ye wanna, but don't throw me in water sir." Soma hauled Bhola up, "Stop snivelin brat…promise ye be faithful to the captain."
Bhola nodded his head, "Yes siree….Bhola promise to his life to you capn."
Jaiyant pushed him to one side and then bellowed out, "All you sea dogs heard me. You want to stay on the ship and work for me then you are all welcome. Anyone wish their freedom then get ready to walk the plank? Who's going to be first to swim ashore than?"
The men looked hard at Jaiyant and then at the choppy deep blue waters. None of them were ready to leave the ship. To them it didn't matter who captained the boat now as long as they got to save their skins. One of them stepped forward and asked, "Ye goin to pay us decent pieces of gold. I got a family back home to feed. I didnna sign up for free labour."
Jaiyant eased his stance; "If you follow my orders and don't try to sabotage the ship then ye all get five pieces of gold when we hit land."
The men murmured their approval. Jaiyant looked at Soma, "Well I guess they are all yours. Get them fed first and then assign them duties. I am going down to check out the hull, see what stores they have."
A soft rap on the cabin door sounded before the door opened. Bani stood up when she saw Jaiyant enter.
"I hope you slept well ladies. Hope you got something to eat too. We are making good head way, but I wanted to warn you ladies, we may run into trouble. I would like you to keep to the cabin for a while. If you need anything let me know and I will see what I can do." Jaiyant paused and took a deep breath. He smiled at Bani and Meera and was rewarded with soft smile from Bani, her eyes showing gratification. Meera just looked mighty pleased.
"Thank you sir. I would have liked to take a walk, but may be it is wise for us to stay here as you say. I thank you for your kindness." Her soft voice sounded heavenly to Jaiyant's ears, her words didn't register in his mind. She looked so fragile and delicate this morning but he his mind flashed images of her fiery eyes in the night.
"ahem sir…" Meera's voice brought him out of his daydream. Jaiyant gave a look in her direction.
"Could we get some hot water?' Meera asked.
"I will arrange it. Is there anything else?"
Meera shook her head. Boy if only she could tell what else he could do for her. The way his eyes looked, it was like he could see right through you. She giggled and wondered if it was possible to really see the flesh underneath the layer of clothing.
TBC…
Samundar ka Raja Part 11
A sailor in the crow's nest scampered down and pointed in direction. Soma looked but he could see nothing. He rushed towards Jaiyant, "Cap'n, something sighted. Too far to make out what it is." Jaiyant indicated him to take the steering wheel and he pointed his binoculars and squinted his eyes as he strained to see in the distance.
A slow scan he sighted a ship, it was too far off to make out if it was Nandu or Thakkur. Well he will soon know if they follow his path. He fired off instructions to Soma, "Get the men organized, make sure they are armed and I want guards stationed outside the ladies cabin. Come back when you are done, I want you close at hand."
"Aye cap'n."
Jaiyant trained his binoculars where he had last spied the ship and sure enough it was still headed their way. Restlessness stirred in him now, he looked skyward at the sails, observing carefully the lift created by the airflow. They had a good run so far and hoped the wind stayed the direction and not change.
Soma came back bringing back a tray of steaming tea and some food. "Why don't you take a break cap'n. Good time as any to get some rest." Jai slowly released the wheel and let Soma take over. He sat on the edge of rails and sipped tea. His stomach rumbled and he realized he hadn't eaten for long time. Reaching over to the tray, he broke a piece of bread and dipped it into the stew and ate.
"Cap'n…" Soma shouted. And then raised his hand and pointed.
The other ship was now in fully visible. "She's fast that un. If this wind keeps us she be upon us soon."
"Aye. I expected it. Get a man up on the crow and see if he can spy Vikrama. Nandu should not be far behind Thakur."
Jaiyant took over the helm, his eyes on the vessel cutting the surf and speeding towards them. He shouted orders for the men to be ready for the assault and jammed the wheel. Within few minutes the Thakkur's ship was looming close to his. Jaiyant ordered the men to launch bottle filled with oil with soaked rags burning. If he can keep Thakkur's crew of the busy putting out fire, then he will have fewer men to contend with.
The flaming barrels flew in rapid succession over the water and landed on the sails and deck of the ship. Few missed their mark and fell in water, burning in pool around the ship.
Within minutes Thakkur ship collided with his, the jolt strong enough to keel the ship dangerously. Jaiyant slipped, but his reflexes kicked in and he grabbed at the rope and held it tight to stop himself from slipping further. He pulled himself and reefed at the sail, shouting at the others to do the same. His effort paid off as vessel straightened. Screams and shouts and thudding footsteps sounded towards the stern as a Thakkur's crew boarded the ship. Wedging the steering wheel, Jaiyant flew over the deck, followed by Soma and few others.
With his sabre swinging and his fist striking out, Jaiyant furiously fought striking and knocking out Thakkur's men. More men overran the ship and furious fighting ensued. Jaiyant bleeding from several cuts did not let up.
Jaiyant stood leaning on the rails watching Thakkur's ship drifting away. Smoke still drifted among the burnt out sails. His crew was busy, tossing dead bodies away and washing the deck. He winced as Soma put a hand on his shoulder. "Get them cuts cleaned up cap'n. I'll keep a watch on that limping tug just in case the blaggard decides to run us again."
"Thanks. How many did we lose?"
"Five dead. Two seriously cut up and six will be right as rain with them cuts stitched up."
"Get the sails going once the deck is cleaned up and then we'll give the five a proper burial at sea."
The cold water burnt his skin as he washed himself. He threaded the needle and then took a long swig at the rum till his stomach felt on fire. Carefully he stitched up two of the wounds with deep cuts. The rum made his head dizzy as he stood up. He struggled towards his bed and slumped down on it closing his eyes.
He had no idea how long he slept. But when a knock sounded on his cabin door, he jerked awake, winching at the searing pain from his stitched up wounds. Soma entered with a tray. "Get some of this food down you cap'n. Rum on empty belly dun do you any good. An' ye be glad to know just spied Virkrama heading towards us."
"Soma. Did you check up on the ladies?"
"Aye Cap'n. They be fine. That maid be a little spitfire…ready to split me 'ead with a trunk."
Jaiyant laughed, "She is only protecting her lady. You would do the same for me."
"Aye but…she be wench. A'int seen one like 'er before."
Jaiyant stepped off the bed and grabbed a clean shirt and slipped it on. He ate greedily, feeling the hunger biting his belly. Tucking his sabre in the sash around his waist, he left his cabin and made his way to Bani's cabin.
Meera opened the door and seeing Jaiyant, opened it to let him in. 'Shhh…she is sleeping. Poor thing was ready to slit her throat."
Then seeing a cut bleeding on his arm, she looked at him with shock, "You are bleedin to death. Here sit down. I will bandage it for you."
Jaiyant brushing her aside, "It's nothing, just a scratch. Tell you mistress she has nothing to fear. We should soon reach her home. I will come back later."
Meera nodded at him, "You should let me fix that cut, it's the least we can do for you."
Jaiyant merely smiled at her and left.
Another hour and Vikrama ran side by side with Durai. Nandu hailed them and asked if they needed help. Soma indicated they were in good shape and should hit the coast before nightfall.
It was dark when the distant lights of Jamnagar glimmered in the sight. The wind had dropped and both vessels were drifting with the tide towards the port. Jaiyant watched the dark waters lapping against the hull of his ship. An ache filled his heart as he realized that soon she would no longer be with him. He lips twitched, few days ago he had landed on this same coast unaware of what the stars had written for him. One glance at her sitting in the same darkness as now, he had given his soul to her without even knowing it. Tonight she would walk away with his soul and he would just stand and watch it go away with her. Is this how he wanted their journey to end? He had followed her, wanting to see her safe, prepared to leave her on that strange shore under the protection of a stranger who would claim her soul.
With determined steps he made way to his cabin. He had to see one more time. Meera opened the door when he knocked. Bani looked up at him with her soft honey coloured eyes. In pale glow of lanterns she looked fragile.
She gave a look to Meera, who slipped out of the cabin. Her soft voice broke his thought, "Meera tells me you are injured."
"Its nothing. Just a few scratches, nothing I haven't experienced before. I…I came to say goodbye. I hope you have not experience any discomfort on the journey."
Bani's eyes widened, "No…you have been most kind. If you had not come to our rescue, I don't know what fate would have befallen me. I hope you will let father reward you for your trouble."
For a moment his eyes locked with hers, his heart stopped and thundered as he felt drowning in the golden pool. His voice sounded strange to him, as if was coming from afar, "I don't anything from you…just…keep…what you have taken from me safe."
Bani looked away, breaking the gaze. "I am sorry I don't understand."
Jaiyant turned away from her, "May be one day you will. I hope you will think kindly of me. Please do not get offended, but if I may be bold and tell you that you are the most beautiful woman I have ever met."
"Thank you." Her voice felt like a soft caress.
Jaiyant stepped out without a backward glance and made his way up to the deck. He asked Soma to prepare to anchor the ship and a longboat be readied to take Bani and Meera ashore.
TBC….
Samundar ka Raja Part 12
Bani watched the figure standing as watching their boat moving away. "Meera why does he look so sad?"
"Hmmm…I can only think of one." Meera said wrapping her arm around Bani. Bani turned her face and gazed at Meera's smiling face, her eyes bright. "Why?" Bani asked.
"I think you have to ask your heart that question Bani." Meera sighed, "I think he has lost something very precious to him."
Bani turned back and stared at Jai, who face looked blurred now as the boat slipped further and further away. She stared until she could not see him anymore. Bani laid her head on Meera's shoulder, "I am scared to face papa now. He had been so happy with the marriage proposal…how will he take it Meera?"
"Oh don't worry love. When they explained what happened," Meera said pointing to Soma, "I am sure papa will be so relieved you are alive. I just wish Jaiyant had come personally to see meet your father."
"I hope he will come back one day. I would like to repay him for saving us from being sold."
XXXXXX
Nishikant looked bewildered when he saw Bani and Meera. "Why…what happened? Where is Jeevan?"
Bani just ran and hugged him. Meera walked silently up to Nishikant, "He is no more in this world. He died on the ship…killed by his own men."
Nishikant gave a cry, "No…this cannot be true…why my poor child." He wrapped his arm around Bani. "This is a nightmare…how can my child's happiness be wiped out so soon."
Meera, "Sire…this man…he and his captain are the one that rescued us. That horrible man was taking us to be sold…when the daring captain came to our rescue."
Nishikant looked at Soma, "I owe your captain much, please tell him I wish to see him. I shall be eternally grateful for the good deed he has done."
Soma looked uncomfortable, "Pardon sir but captain cannot meet you at the moment. But I shall pass your message on. My duty here is finished. I take you leave now sir…maam."
Bani gave a grateful smile to Soma, "Thank you…please tell the captain I shall always remember him."
Meera smiled at Soma and accompanied him to the entrance. Soma gave her a shy smile. He liked her a lot. "Err…I have to go…captain will be waitin."
"Bye my hero." Meera flashed him a smile and then impulsively hugged him making Soma turn red. He never had a woman throw herself at him.
He extricated himself gingerly, "Sorry…I got to go. Bye love."
XXXXX
Nandu slapped Jaiyant on his back, "Where we goin next then? Ye know that Thakkur is goin to come seeking your ass. That'un is not goin to forgit you easily."
Jaiyant turned back, the boat carrying Bani was no longer visible to his eye. "I know Thakkur never forgives. We have to ready the two ships to a battle. I need some fightin men. Tomorrow we sail to Lajapur and see Hanif."
"Hanif…that scullbag. He is barbarian…he'd like to see your head hangin off this mast that'un."
"Well, we need him and he hates Thakkur too…he has a festering old wound at the hands of Thakkur and would love to see Thakkur's head hanging more than mine. He will join hands with us. Now come and have a glass or two of rum with me. I need some company tonight."
"Har…that one's taken ye little heart with her has she? You bleedin poor soul. Come lemme 'elp you forgit er."
Nandu ignored the daggers thrown at him by Jaiyant's dark eyes and stomped down to the cabin.
XXXXX
The bright sunlight hit his closed eyes and Jaiyant moaned and turned over, dropping empty bottle of rum from his hand. His head throbbed and the motion of ship moving made his stomach turn. The next second he was leaping off the bed and throwing up in an empty can in the corner. He rinsed his mouth and washed his face and lay down on the bed staring at the woodbeams. He shouldn't got carried away drinking with Nandu last night.
The door to his cabin opened and Soma entered with a tray. "Git yer black tea and some food boss…yer should nah drink in Nandu's company. The old sea dog don't when to stop sometimes. He's snorin away in the hammock."
"Give me the tea. How far are we from Lajaput?"
"Be there before the sun is high capn."
"Good. I will be up shortly."
Jaiyant drank tea, ignoring the plate piled high with food. He did not feel hungry.
Fresh salty air helped tone down his headache. Jaiyant stood leaning on the rails at bow of the ship, watching the choppy waves. The wind was fairly strong, the sails billowing out. The two ships sailed side by side, the crew now and then hollering across to each other.
It was late afternoon when ships anchored and two long boat mad it way to the shore. Jaiyant watched the men haul the boats up on the sandy shore and then marched along a well-trodden path. The beach was dotted with scanty huts scattered sheltered within the swaying palm trees. Jaiyant asked one of fisherman where he could find Hanif and was pointed to a wodden hut in a distance.
"Bhai…Bhai..look." Hanif's man shook him on the ratty old bed he was sprawled on.
Hanif, sat up and stared in disbelief. "Why you dirty rotten infidel? Got a nerve to step in my house. Would love to carve up that pretty little hide of yours."
Jaiyant sat down next to him and slapped him hard on the back. "Now Hanif…keep them sweet words for some pretty girl. Don't waste them on me. You know how much I love you…couldn't pass by and not stop by and see you. So how life Hanif?"
Hanif rolled his eyes and shook Jaiyant's arm off his shoulder, "You keep your filthy hands to yourself. And life's was good until you showed your ugly face."
Nandu roared with laughter, "Nice to see you two be such lovin couple. Must git yer together more ofen."
"What say you Hanif? Want me to come hangin around you more often? Could do with sharing my rum with some other scoundrel beside Nandu."
Hanif ordered one of his men to fetch drink for them. "So what you here for really Jaiyant?"
"Want some help from you. There is big booty at the end of it, if we are successful."
Hanif looked suspiciously at Jaiyant. "What the devil you're up to now?"
Jaiyant stretched his legs and leaned back and drawled slowly, "Come now…don't give me such a mean look. Remember Thakkur…"
"Yeah…I don't forget me enemies. What about him?" Hanif threw his dagger into the ground. "One day he is goin to be cut up into pieces and fed to the dog."
"Well then join me and you get to fulfill your wish." Jaiyant said holding his hand out.
"You aint said what yer want." Hanif growled ignoring the hand.
"Sail with me…you and your men and help me fight Thakkur."
"Sail with ye…you must be ravin mad. We'd be at each other's throat even before yer ship sailed."
"I don't think so. Not if you want to get rid of Thakkur and take over his little empire. Heard he rakes in sacks of gold from visitors to them island."
Jaiyant held his hand out, "What say ye…come and join me. I have the ship and you have the men. I know he is going to come looking for me."
Hanif took Jayint's hand, "What did ye do ter im?"
"Nothing much. Just tried buring his boat and tossing few of his men in the sea."
Hanif laughed now, "I bet that was a blow his big head…now yer made a big mistake and yer come runnin to me."
Jaiyant rubbed his chin and stared at Hanif with steely eyes, "I didn't come running to you. I need fightin men and you have them. They'll get paid well."
"Aye well, I got to talk to me men. I know they'll do as I say…still I like ter still talk with 'em."
"Do it then…but make it quick. I like to get away quick. Don't want him to find me like a sitting duck here."
"Ok, you rest your asses ere. Don't think of movin from here and go wanderin…if ye want some'at to eat…tell me men."
Jaiyant waved him off, "Go…we be fine."
TBC…
Health and Fitness
Tum Se Tum Tak
