SLIPPING SANDS [ COMPLETED]

I

The tribal clashes continued. Day after day, with an unimaginable increase in the death toll, yet neither of the tribes wished to retreat.

The clouds seemed to be in pain, unable to carry their burden & hence let loose its tears. The grief of the mother, sister & the child was unbearable. The sight of the hardening blood, it could not endure. Erasing the stains of hatred off the earth , washing the dead bodies whom no one claimed, the nature took upon itself the duty of burying them.

The houses awaited the return of their breadwinners except for the Qorama household, where the eyes anticipated the sight of their beloved daughter, Yarima.

~~~~~~~~~

"Have u ever thought how it feels to be in contact with the king directly rather than his ministers?? Proud, happy, lucky isnt it?? Yes, thats the feeling." After a long lecture Adiba paused.

" I hope to heed your advice dear. I can feel the sweetness in your words. But now I have to leave. I have got a long journey ahead of me." Smiling with a heartfelt gratitude she left her (4-day old) friend.

As she left the ghalib tribe towards her own, Rudab tribe , she pondered over the words of Adiba. Assuring herself to consider her words she made a firm determination to return to her as soon as possible.

But who could fight fate??

********

Panting heavily, grasping for breath, as she was ushered in the door was locked behind her. She took off her raincoat & let it to dry.

"Yarima, what would I have done if anything had happened to you? Were had you been to? Just recalling the past few moments I shudder with fright."
Hugging her tight, Amr cried out of happiness.

"On a visit to my uncle at the Dulaar tribe."

"O' Azza(name of a saint )! How thankful am I to you."

"When did this begin?'' She questioned him, eyes wide with fear, still unable to overcome the shock.

"3 days ago!"

"Ohh!! My family... they must be worried for me."

"You are mine dear. Stay here. I need you. I cannot lose you Rimi." Cupping her face in his hands he confided passionately.

*******

The Rudab tribe (idol-worshippers) & their neighbour Murad tribe (saint-worshippers) once again were engaged in a fierce clash. While the hatred between the two tribes had no limits the two souls forgot the term hate. It was only love that blossomed within them.

*******

"What if the Murad tribe has taken her as a captive or worse .... has harmed her??" Harem, Yarima's mother voiced her fears.

"Mama! Amr her friend is from the same tribe. Is it not possible that he will help her?" Replied Seema trying to console herself & mother.

"No. Not when the seeds of hatred & jealousy makes their way into the hearts." Harem sighed.

"But mama, He loves her!" She revealed in a low tone.

A look of surprise came over her face and then she relaxed.
"Then I hope she is taken well care of ."

"Mama! So she will return right?"

"If only what you said is true & what we predict happens!"

"Then I am surely going to fast for 5 days to thank Giria(the idol)."

*******

"I have to go, my tribesmen await my presence," squeezing her shoulder with affection he informed sadly with a smile displayed on his lips."

"But what if anything happens to you? Where will I go? You know that I am an enemy to your tribe..."

"Hushh... I will return & be there for you. Take care of yourself. Make yourself comfortable. Never open either the doors or windows." Cautioning her, with a soft kiss on her fingers he bade her goodbye.

The fear of losing him didnot leave her. The rain splashed mercilessly as she hurried to secure the bolt firmly. Wiping off her tears she headed towards the washroom to refresh herself.

Sitting on his sleeping mat her thoughts drifted to her home.

'Oh mom... you might be worried but dont worry. I am safe here. Will be coming to meet you, not soon but after sometime for sure.'

A soft smile made its way on her lips. But suddenly the smile dissappeared. The voice grew louder & louder.