Sa'eed - The Warrior

Justice

I entered Malika Mariam's chamber with Zohra. I was surprised to see that it bore a striking resemblance to my own room. I had been given the best there was. There were squeals all around.

"Is she Saeed?", asked a young lady.

"Yes, she is", replied Malika Mariam. "Saeed, meet Malika Firdous. And this is Malika Humera". They gave me loving hugs.

"Shehenshah always chose the best for himself, even as a child. Its really of no surprise that he has selected you to be his wife. I can clearly see why", said Malika Humera. It was an indirect compliment, maybe because of the simple navy blue suit with white stones I had worn from the wardrobe.

"This is Aiza". I didn't need the introduction but I couldn't tell Malika Mariam I had already seen Aiza from behind the cupboard so I courteously shook her hand.

"It's nice to meet you Aiza"

"It's nice to meet you to. An honour to see the girl who won Shehenshah's heart". Her tone was sad and her smile did not reach her eyes. Unfortunately I could say nothing to pacify her broken heart except pray to Allah to grant her a better husband soon.

A small figure of a boy flung himself at me. "Saeed!" Shehzada Firoz held me tightly as I laughed and hugged him back.

"You are marrying Akhi! You will be my family. We can have lots of secrets together". His enthusiasm is infectious. He didn't let go off me and I had to untangle him. He immediately pulled another boy beside him. "This is Rehan, my only friend".

"Hello Rehan", I caressed the boy's cheek as he smiled shyly. He pulled a woman beside him. "Meet my new Maa, and this is my old Maa", he said indicating to the two women as all the female folk burst out laughing at his innocence.

"I am Madiha, wife of Mahmood Hassan"

"And I am Ayesha, personal kaneez of Malika Mariam"

The so called old and new mothers introduced themselves to me. A young maid did aadab as Malika Mariam introduced her. "This is Tasleem. You might as well get to know her for she is vying to serve you".

"At your service 24 hours. Just call me and I will do anything for you".

I felt extremely happy being showered with all the love. I looked at the people around me, they were my new family! It was difficult to believe. Maa's image rose before my eyes and immediately my throat constricted and my breathing became short. I tried to calm myself. Shehzada Firoz was still standing next to me holding my hand tightly. It was evident he loved me and was pleased with the attention I was getting.

Malika Mariam ushered us to the door. "The hearing will start anytime now".

For the first time in my life I sat with the royal ladies behind a curtain for the court session. To our right was the throne and to our left the courtiers. I looked at Shehenshah on the throne and couldn't turn away. What had I done to deserve such a striking husband? SubhanAllah! He had given up the extravagant silk garments and wore simple yet elegant tunics. He looked regal, composed and sophisticated. Everything a Shehenshah should portray and more. His youth is what left people dumbfounded. To see such a young man occupy the throne with such authority and maturity is what had won him so many admirers.

Mir Jafar and Mir Tabrez were presented and the court fell silent.

"State the crimes against the accused", said Shehenshah.

"Mir Jafar, son of Mir Khader is accused of fooling and hoodwinking Shehenshah Sharf-ud-din Muhammad Hyder and then poisoning his food which led to his death. He is accused of collecting unnecessary taxes and oppressing people. He is accused of the abduction and attempted murder of a few months old boy called Rehan Hassan. He is accused of amending and tweaking the laws of the kingdom for his own benefit. He is accused of the attempted murder of Shehenshah Sher Shah. He is accused of betrayal and disloyalty to his Shehenshah and Mumlikat-ush-Shahi. He is accused of sharing confidential military information with enemies and joining hands with them to bring harm to his own kingdom. And lastly he is accused of domestic abuse".