S2 Chapter 15

513 23 0
                                    

Mantriji visited after receiving Akram's letter about his reunion with Kadira. His reply was brimming with exclamations, clearly overjoyed by the news.

When Mantriji saw Ishaan, he was captivated, praising the child's charm and beauty. It took him a few moments to regain his composure.

Akram and Kadira watched with warm smiles. Ishaan, initially uneasy, relaxed once Akram introduced Mantriji.

Sahir stood apart, clearly uncomfortable with the familial atmosphere.

When Sahir asked to speak with Kadira, Akram shot him a glare. But Kadira, ever kind, gently nudged Akram and Ishaan outside.

Sahir spoke softly to Kadira, "I believe my task here is complete. This time away from the capital's chaos has been refreshing, but I must return. My uncle has held my place for too long."

Kadira understood his sudden decision. "You are a true friend, Sahir, and you've done so much for me. Remember, if you ever face trouble in the capital, your friend is a queen...." She paused, her eyes softening, "And I believe there's someone out there destined for you." Kadira squeezed Sahir's hands.

Sahir smiled weakly, "I hope so. Farewell, my friend."

Reflecting on the moments that had just passed, Sahir bid his final farewell, acknowledged by Mantriji. He was stunned to learn he had been branded a traitor (gaddaar) following Kadira's departure.

Kadira's jaw dropped in shock. Akram hastily penned a letter clarifying that Sahir was no traitor. Kadira glared at both Akram and Mantriji for their decision.

Ishaan clung to Sahir's legs, trying to prevent him from leaving. Sahir's eyes filled with tears as he looked at the child. He crouched down, ruffled Ishaan's hair, and kissed his forehead before leaving hurriedly. The longer he stayed, the harder it would be to leave. He had become so intertwined with their lives that he had forgotten about his own.

He rode away on horseback, tears streaming down his face as the wind whipped against him. His heart ached, but he left with a smile, even as his eyes betrayed his sorrow.

Akram, Kadira, and Ishaan watched Sahir's figure disappear into the distance.

Mantriji soon delved into discussions about administration and the alliance between the kingdoms.

Upon returning to the palace, Akram, Kadira, and Ishaan were met with surprise. The King, taken aback by the Maharani's presence, bowed deeply, apologizing for not realizing she had been in his kingdom.

The love story between Akram and Kadira had become legendary, a fairytale told in every household. Couples dressed as Akram and Kadira, believing it strengthened their own love. Akram's grief during Kadira's absence had become yet another tale. Their love story, the saga of the empire's sun, was renowned.

After finalizing the diplomatic deal, Akram, Kadira, and Ishaan returned to their empire. The entire kingdom erupted in joy at the Maharani's return with their little sun.

It was the season of festivals, and every house celebrated. Diyas glowed, laughter echoed, and the empire smiled as one.

For Ishaan, everything was new. Akram and Kadira guided him, even scolding teachers who pushed him too hard.

Kadira discovered that Leila had been imprisoned all this time, a revelation that shocked her and highlighted Akram's past instability. Akram laughed it off as insignificant.

At present ~

Kadira was instructing the dasis when a sudden silence fell over them. She turned to see Akram holding Ishaan in his arms, a smile spreading involuntarily across her face. Ishaan jumped down, eliciting a scowl from Akram. The dasis quietly left to give them privacy.

Begum naraj Hain ® (Original) Where stories live. Discover now