Yaar, this chapter is around 10k words...

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For a moment, he didn't move away.

The air between them felt heavier now charged with something that wasn't just anger... not just control...

Something far more complicated.

Ruhani stood still in his hold Her breath uneven... Her anger still there But now tangled with a closeness she hadn't been prepared for.

Ruhani finally broke the heavy silence, her voice slightly strained as she tried to pull herself out of the moment.

"Chhodiye humein..." she said, breath uneven,

"humara haath... dard kar raha hai..."

For a brief second, Sultan didn't react.

Then His grip loosened And he let go.

Ruhani stepped back quickly, but the sudden release made her stumble slightly on her feet. She caught her balance just in time, one hand instinctively moving to steady herself.

A faint breath escaped her as she straightened.

Only then did her awareness fully return.

She looked down at herself the dampness from the bath still clung to her attire, her hair still partially wet, a few strands sticking softly against her skin. The moment felt more exposed now in the stillness of the tent, more real under his silent presence.

Her fingers instinctively tightened near her dupatta, adjusting it slightly.

Slowly She lifted her gaze.

And looked at Sultan.

He was still standing there Still watching her.

But not in the way she expected.

His gaze wasn't on her clothing, nor on her appearance It was on her face.

Sharp. Controlled. Silent.

As if he was reading every shift in her expression... every flicker of discomfort, anger, awareness... everything she was trying to hide without speaking a word.

Ruhani held his gaze for a second longer than she intended.

The air between them no longer felt like action It felt like understanding that neither of them had yet admitted.

And Sultan... didn't look away.

On the other hand

Ruhani's breath was still uneven from the moment before. She quickly stepped back a little, adjusting her stance, her eyes lowered as if avoiding his presence completely.

Her voice came out firm, but slightly shaken.

"A-aap yahan kya kar rahe hain... jaaiye yahan se..."

She didn't look at him while saying it, as if refusing to acknowledge how close he still was.

For a few seconds there was Silence.

Sultan didn't respond he didn't move.

Just watched her in that quiet, unreadable way that made the air feel heavier again.

Then

In one sudden, controlled motion-

He stepped forward and pulled her by the waist.

Ruhani's words broke mid-breath.

Before she could react, she was drawn straight into him.

Her palms instinctively pressed against his chest as her front collided with his firmly built frame, the impact soft but completely disarming.

Her eyes widened slightly.

For the first time, she fully realized his presence not just his authority, but his height, his strength. She barely reached his shoulder level. The difference between them felt suddenly undeniable in that close distance.

Sultan didn't let go immediately.

His hand remained steady at her waist, holding her in place not rough, not chaotic, but firm enough that stepping away wasn't an option.

Ruhani froze for a moment, her breath caught between surprise and awareness.

And Sultan He simply looked down at her , Calm and Composed.

As if this distance between them meant nothing... or perhaps meant far more than either of them was ready to accept.

Ruhani was still standing close to Sultan, her breath slightly uneven, her eyes lowered as she tried to ignore the intensity of the moment.

But then-

A soft, embarrassing sound broke the silence.

Her stomach growled and Ruhani froze instantly.

Her cheeks turned deep red with embarrassment, and she quickly looked away, almost as if she could disappear from the moment itself.

Sultan's gaze shifted to her, his eyebrows lifting slightly.

He spoke after a brief pause, his voice calm but firm.

"Aapne ab tak ghiza nahin li?"

Ruhani didn't answer.

She avoided his eyes completely, her silence itself revealing the truth.

Sultan studied her for a moment longer.

Then, without warning, he turned his head slightly toward the entrance and called out in a strong, authoritative voice.

"Nadia...!"

His tone carried weight.

From outside the tent, Nadia immediately stepped in.

She stopped a few steps inside and lowered her gaze respectfully, not daring to look up.

Ruhani, still flustered, quickly stepped a little away from Sultan, creating distance between them.

Sultan noticed the movement-but didn't react.

His attention shifted to Nadia instead.

His voice came steady and commanding.

"Sultana ke liye ghiza foran haazir ki jaaye."

Nadia bowed her head deeper, her voice humble and formal as she replied

"Ji huzoor-e-aali... foran intezaam kiya jaata hai."

She did not raise her eyes even for a moment, maintaining full respect.

Sultan gave a slight nod, dismissing her without another word.

"Jaaiye."

Nadia stepped back quietly and exited the tent.

Silence returned again-but now it felt different.

Ruhani stood a little apart from him, still embarrassed, still avoiding his gaze.

And Sultan remained where he was... watching her quietly, as if the earlier tension had shifted into something calmer-but no less intense.

Then he turned away from her and walked toward the bed.

With the same calm authority, he lay down again, one arm resting behind his head as he took a slow, measured breath-like everything that had just happened meant nothing to him , Or perhaps... too much.

After a moment, without opening his eyes, he called out-

"Begum..."

A slight pause.

"idhar tashreef laaiye..."

Ruhani didn't move.

The word Begum echoed in her mind.

For a second, she just stood there, her thoughts caught on it unfamiliar... yet binding.

Her eyes shifted toward him.

He was lying there, eyes closed, as if completely at ease.

She hesitated, then spoke, her voice slightly unsteady,

"H-hum kyun aayein...?"

"A-aap yahan se jaiye..."

There was a Silence for a few seconds

Then-

Sultan's eyes opened.

And this time, they weren't calm.

There was something darker in them... something sharper.

His gaze locked onto her, and when he spoke, his voice carried a quiet but clear threat.

"Shayad aap bhool rahi hain, Begum..."

A slight pause.

"ke hum aapke riyaasat se zyada door nahin..."

The words landed on her Not loud But heavy.

Making her stiffened as she understood his words completely.

Without another word, she quickly walked toward the bed and stopped beside it, her posture straight but tense.

Her voice came softer this time,

"Kahiye..."

Sultan didn't answer.

Instead He moved and Suddenly, he grabbed her wrist and pulled her.

Ruhani gasped softly as her balance broke, and in the next second She fell forward Straight onto him.

Her head bumped against his hard, warrior-built chest.

"Aaah-"

a small sound escaped her lips.

For a moment, everything stilled again.

Her hand instinctively pressed against his chest, her breath uneven from the sudden impact.

And Sultan Didn't let go.

Ruhani slowly lifted her gaze and Her eyes met his.

And for a moment She forgot to breathe.

Sultan was already looking at her... not just watching, but holding her in that gaze. Intense. Unmoving. As if he could read every thought that crossed her mind.

There was something in his eyes-

Not just authority... not just control...

Something deeper. Darker. And dangerously close.

Ruhani felt her heartbeat quicken.

She had never been this close to any man before.

Never felt this kind of presence... this kind of closeness that made her both still and restless at the same time.

Her fingers pressed lightly against his chest, unsure whether to push away... or just hold onto something steady.

Before she could gather herself-

He moved and In one smooth motion, Sultan shifted, flipping her gently onto the bed.

Ruhani gasped softly as her back met the softness beneath her.

And the next second He was above her.

Not crushing. Not forceful.

Just... there Close enough that she could feel his breath.

His gaze never left hers Not even for a second.

It was as if the entire world had faded, leaving only that one silent exchange between their eyes.

Ruhani lay still beneath him, her breath uneven, her heartbeat loud in her own ears.

Then slowly Sultan lifted his hand.

His fingers moved toward her face.

Carefully... deliberately...

He brushed aside a damp strand of her hair that clung to her cheek.

The touch was light.

Almost hesitant.

But it sent a quiet shiver through her.

Ruhani's eyes fluttered shut the moment his fingers touched her skin.

Not out of fear But because the feeling was too unfamiliar... too close... too real.

The world around them faded again.

And for that one suspended moment-

There was no Sultan.

No Rajkumari.

Just two people... caught in something neither of them had expected.

After sometime....

Ruhani's eyes had barely adjusted to the closeness when his fingers moved again-

This time, sliding into her damp hair.

He gathered a soft fistful of it.

Not to hurt , Not to pull harshly.

But just enough to still her completely... to make her focus.

A quiet gasp escaped her lips.

Her lashes fluttered for a second before her eyes opened again and she found him impossibly close now.

Closer than before.

His face hovered just above hers, their breaths mingling in the narrow space between them. Every exhale of his brushed faintly against her skin, making her heartbeat stumble in a way she couldn't control.

Ruhani's fingers curled slightly against the bedsheet beneath her Her body had gone still Not frozen in fear-

But held... in something far more complicated.

Sultan's grip in her hair remained firm, yet measured. His thumb shifted slightly, steadying the hold not painful, but commanding enough that she couldn't look away even if she wanted to.

And he didn't let her.

His eyes were locked onto hers.

Deep. Intense. Unforgiving.

Yet somewhere beneath that cold surface... something flickered.

Something quieter.

Something he didn't show... but didn't hide either.

Slowly He leaned a fraction closer.

So close that the distance between their lips became dangerously thin But still untouched.

His voice came then Low and Controlled.

Wrapped in quiet authority.

"Ainda humare farman ko nazar-andaz karne ki jurrat mat kijiye ga, Begum..."

His face leaned a fraction closer, his voice dropping near her lips.

Each word fell softly... but carried weight.

His grip in her hair tightened just a fraction-not enough to hurt, just enough to remind her of his hold.

"aur humse faasla ikhtiyaar karne ki koshish..."

his voice dropped even lower, almost brushing against her lips,

"apne liye dushwar raah chun lena hai..."

Ruhani's breath trembled She didn't move she couldn't His gaze didn't break.

"kyunki hum sirf rokna nahi jaante..."

a pause-dangerously calm,

"balki anjaam tak pohanchana bhi khoob jaante hain."

Silence followed , Heavy Silence

Breathing space reduced to almost nothing.

Ruhani could feel the warmth of his presence, the steadiness of his hold, the unspoken tension that refused to break-

And yet Despite everything he still hadn't closed that final distance.

As if even in control...

He was choosing restraint.

For a few long seconds, neither of them moved.

Then Sultan slowly released her.

His fingers slipped out of her hair, his presence lifting away just as steadily as it had come. The sudden absence of his hold left a strange emptiness in the space between them.

He straightened up from the bed.

Ruhani remained still for a moment, her eyes still closed... as if her body hadn't yet caught up with the fact that he had moved away.

Then slowly She opened her eyes

And looked at him.

He was already standing, his posture composed, his expression once again unreadable. But his gaze... it was still on her.

Watching Not lingering... yet not completely detached either.

Then he spoke.

His voice had returned to that calm, controlled tone-distant, almost formal.

"Aaraam farmaaiye, Begum..."

a slight pause,

"agar kisi qisam ki pareshani ho... to Nadia ko ittelaa kar dijiye ga."

There was no threat now No intensity.

Just quiet authority.

Without waiting for a response, he turned. And walked toward the exit.

The tent flap moved And he was gone.

The silence he left behind felt louder than his presence.

Ruhani quickly pushed herself up from the bed, sitting upright, her breath still uneven.

Her fingers tightened slightly over the fabric beside her as she muttered under her breath, her voice low, uneasy-

"Kitne dusht vyakti hain yeh..."

A faint frown appeared on her face.

"Humein idhar-udhar patakte rehte hain..."

But her voice slowly faded.

Because the moment stretched.

And then It hit her.

The silence.

The stillness.

Ruhani's eyes slowly moved around the tent.The large space... the dim light... the unfamiliar surroundings...

No Nadia.

No Farukh.

No one. She was alone. Completely alone.

A sudden fear gripped her chest.

Her breath hitched slightly as realization settled deep inside her.

She had never slept alone.

Never.

Darkness had always been something she feared something she couldn't face by herself no matter how much she had tried. Every attempt had only left her more restless... more afraid.

And before Kaashi had always been there Always.

Like a shadow... like a comfort she never had to ask for.

The thought hit her heart sharply.

Her expression faltered.

Her mother.

Kaashi.

Everything she had left behind.

Her eyes filled with tears almost instantly This time She didn't stop them.

Because this time... there was no one to see.

No one to comfort her.

No one to distract her from the fear that now slowly wrapped around her in the quiet darkness.

Ruhani pulled her knees slightly closer, her fingers gripping the edge of the bed as tears slipped silently down her cheeks.

For the first time the tent didn't just feel unfamiliar.

It felt... lonely.

After sometime

The silence of the tent was broken by the soft sound of footsteps.

The flap moved And Nadia entered, holding a tray of food, with Farukh following just behind her.

But the moment their eyes fell on Ruhani-

They froze.

The tray in Nadia's hands stilled.

Ruhani was sitting on the bed, tears falling freely down her cheeks, her entire frame trembling slightly as she tried to hold herself together.

Both of them immediately rushed toward her.

Nadia quickly placed the tray aside and came closer, her face filled with concern.

"Sultana... kya hua aapko...?" she asked softly, then her voice grew more worried,

"aap ro kyun rahi hain...?"

Ruhani looked up at them.

And that was it.

The moment she saw someone near her-

Her control broke completely.

Her tears came harder this time, her voice shaking as she spoke between sobs

"H-humari Kaashi... wahi reh gayi..."

Her hands clenched slightly in her clothes.

"Humein... humein humare Maasa aur Kaashi ke paas jaana hai..."

Her words were broken, filled with longing and fear.

Nadia's expression softened deeply.

A helpless guilt flickered in her eyes.

She knew.

They both knew-

There was nothing they could do.

Nadia glanced at Farukh.

Farukh was already looking at Ruhani, her own eyes slightly moist, clearly affected by her pain.

For a moment, neither of them spoke.

Then Nadia slowly sat beside Ruhani, careful, respectful, her voice gentle and filled with quiet empathy as she spoke in soft

"Sultana... sabr farmaaiye..."

"humein maloom hai ke aap par kya guzar rahi hai..."

She hesitated slightly, choosing her words carefully,

"magar abhi is waqt... aapka wapas jaana mumkin nahin hai..."

Farukh moved a little closer too, her voice softer, almost comforting,

"Huzoor... aap tanha nahin hain..."

"hum dono yahin hain... aapke paas..."

Nadia gently placed her hand near Ruhani's, not forcing, just offering presence.

"Aap khud ko itna takleef na dein... Sultana..." she said softly,

"jo taqdeer mein likha hota hai... usey badla nahin ja sakta... magar uska bojh akela nahin uthaya jata..."

The tent, once silent and heavy, now held something else Soft voices Shared pain.

And a quiet attempt to comfort a girl who had just realized how far she was from everything she called home.

Nadia let Ruhani cry for a moment, not interrupting her pain.

Then gently, she shifted a little closer and spoke softly, trying to bring her back to the present

"Sultana..." her voice was calm, careful,

"zara nigah farmaaiye... hum aap ke liye ta'aam laaye hain..."

She gestured toward the tray placed beside them.

"Humein bakhoobi ilm hai ke aap ke riyaasat mein kis qisam ki ghiza pasand ki jaati hai..."

her tone carried quiet sincerity,

"humne wahan mushahida kiya tha... isi liye apni haisiyat ke mutabiq jo mumkin ho saka... taiyaar karwaya hai."

Ruhani, still caught between her sobs, slowly lifted her gaze.

Her eyes fell on the tray.

There were fresh fruits... neatly arranged... along with dry fruits placed carefully in small bowls.

Simple But thoughtfully chosen.

She looked back at Nadia, her eyes still wet, her breath uneven.

Nadia immediately spoke again, a hint of apology in her tone-

"Maazrat chahte hain, Huzoor-e-Sultana..."

"abhi tak aap ke zauq ke mutabiq mukammal ta'aam dastiyab nahin ho saka..."

"jab tak woh tayyar ho... barah-e-karam is se guzara farma lijiye ga."

Ruhani didn't reply immediately.

But this time She wiped her tears slowly.

Her fingers steadied.

She reached forward and quietly took the fruit bowl from Nadia's hands.

For a brief moment, she just held it.

Then softly, without looking up fully, she asked-

"Aap dono ne khaya...?"

The question hung in the air.

Unexpected.

Nadia and Farukh both froze slightly.

Their eyes instinctively lifted toward each other-surprised, unprepared.

No one had ever asked them that before.

Not like this.

Nadia quickly lowered her gaze again, composing herself, and replied in a respectful, formal tone-

"Ji, Huzoor... hum ghiza nosh farma chuke the... jab Sultan-e-Aali yahan maujood the..."

Farukh nodded slightly beside her, still a little taken aback, her voice soft-

"Ji Sultana... hum ne apna farz ada kar liya tha... aap be-fikr rahen..."

But their expressions had changed.

There was something new in their eyes now.

Not just respect.

Something warmer.

Because in the middle of her own pain-

Ruhani had still thought about them.

Ruhani slowly lifted a piece of fruit from the bowl, her fingers still faintly trembling from the emotional weight of everything that had happened earlier.

The tent around her remained quiet, with Nadia and Farukh standing a little distance away, giving her space, yet still watching her with concern.

At first, Ruhani's gaze was unfocused, as if her mind was still caught between fear, loneliness, and exhaustion. She brought the fruit closer to her lips, but suddenly her hand stopped mid-air. Something in her eyes shifted.

A small hesitation appeared, subtle but noticeable in the way her breathing changed.

Very slowly, her eyes moved back toward the bowl.

She looked more carefully this time.

The fruits were arranged neatly, almost respectfully, as if someone had taken time to place them with intention rather than haste. Most of the pieces were cut in simple, familiar shapes clean slices, halves, and cubes.

But then

Her eyes locked onto one piece.

It was different.

A small fragment of fruit, carefully carved into the shape of a rabbit.

Tiny. Precise. Almost hidden among the other pieces, as if it was meant only for someone who already knew what to look for.

Ruhani's breath caught instantly.

Her fingers tightened around the fruit she was holding, but she didn't move it further. Her entire attention shifted completely to that one shape.

A sudden memory flashed in her mind.

A softer time.

Her brother sitting beside her, smiling quietly as he cut fruits in playful shapes just to make her laugh when she was upset or afraid. She could almost hear his voice again, gentle and familiar.

"Yeh khargosh sirf humari Ruhani ke liye...."

Ruhani's throat tightened.

Her eyes flickered, and for a brief moment, all the fear she had been holding inside seemed to pause.

This was not random.

It could not be.

Her gaze slowly lifted from the bowl.

She began to look around the tent.

Not openly.

Not quickly.

But carefully like she was trying not to be noticed.

The tent was still the same from the outside... but now every corner felt different to her. Her eyes moved toward the dimly lit edges, toward the fabric walls, toward the faint shadows formed near the entrance and the support poles.

And then She noticed it.

A very slight movement in the corner near the low light source. A faint shift in shadow, too controlled to be accidental, too precise to be ignored by someone who knew what to look for.

Her heartbeat quickened.

Her fingers loosened slightly.

And her eyes softened for a fraction of a second.

Bhaisaa...

The realization settled inside her like a quiet wave.

He was here , somewhere close ,hidden and watching.

Making sure she was safe.

The fear that had been gripping her moments ago did not vanish completelybut it changed. It softened. It became something she could breathe through instead of drown in.

Ruhani quickly lowered her gaze back to the bowl, forcing her expression to remain steady, careful not to reveal anything that might alert Nadia or Farukh.

But her hand still hovered near that rabbit-shaped piece, as if holding onto a secret only she could feel.

Nadia, who had been observing her closely, stepped forward slightly. Her voice was gentle but filled with concern as she spoke,

"Sultana... kya sab theek hai? Aap achanak se khamosh si ho gayi hain..."

"kya ghiza mein koi kami ya na-pasandeedgi mehsoos hui hai?"

Farukh also leaned in a little, her brows drawn together in worry, speaking softly and respectfully,

"Huzoor-e-Sultana... agar kisi cheez ne aap ko pareshan kiya ho to barah-e-karam humein irshaad farmaiye... hum foran durustgi kar denge..."

Ruhani blinked once.

The moment passed, but the feeling remained inside her.

She slowly straightened her expression, gently shaking her head as she answered in a calm but controlled voice,

"Nahi... sab theek hai... chinta ki koi baat nahi..."

But even as she said it, her eyes briefly returned to that small rabbit-shaped piece and somewhere deep inside her chest, a quiet understanding settled.

She was not alone in this place.

Not entirely.

Ruhani sat quietly for a few moments, her eyes lowered, but her mind restless. The earlier realization still lingered in her thoughts, but she forced herself to stay calm on the outside.

Her gaze slowly moved toward Nadia and Farukh.

For a brief moment, she hesitated.

She thought of telling them.

Asking for help.

But then she stopped herself.

The thought of putting them in danger held her back. She knew very well that if anything went wrong, they would be the ones who would suffer first.

So she swallowed her concern and kept her expression steady.

After a pause, she spoke softly,

"Humein... shauchalaya jaana hai..."

Her voice was calm, but slightly unsure.

Nadia immediately looked at her, nodded respectfully, and replied in a gentle tone,

"Ji Sultana... chaliye... hum aapko wahaan le chalte hain..."

Ruhani then turned her gaze toward Farukh. Her voice softened a little as she instructed,

"Farukh... aap Kanha ji ke paas hi rahiye..."

Farukh lowered her head immediately and replied with respect,

"Ji huzoor... jaisa aap ka hukm..."

Without wasting more time, Ruhani stood up and quietly followed Nadia.

As they walked, Ruhani's eyes kept moving subtly around the surroundings, carefully observing every corner, every shadow, every possible sign.

Her steps were controlled on the outside, but inside her mind was alert.

She was not just going.

She was searching.

Hoping.

Quietly, carefully... looking for any trace of her brother hidden somewhere within the unfamiliar surroundings.

As they stepped out of the tent, a cooler breeze touched Ruhani's face, making her pause for a fraction of a second. The outside world felt wider, more open, yet far more uncertain than the enclosed safety of the tent.

Instinctively, her hands moved up.

She quickly pulled her dupatta forward and adjusted her veil over her head, covering herself properly. Her fingers moved in a practiced, slightly hurried motion, making sure not a single strand of her damp hair remained visible.

Her breathing steadied as the veil settled into place.

Nadia, walking slightly ahead, slowed her steps and glanced back to ensure Ruhani was following safely. The corridor outside the tent was dimly lit, with soft torches flickering along the sides, casting moving shadows on the fabric walls of other tents nearby.

Ruhani's eyes shifted carefully from one side to another.

Every movement, every shadow, every faint sound made her more alert.

Her earlier realization still echoed in her mind.

He is somewhere here...

She kept her face lowered, but her gaze remained active, scanning discreetly without drawing attention.

Nadia, unaware of her inner thoughts, spoke softly while guiding her forward,

"Sultana... is taraf... zara ehtiyaat farmaiye... raasta thoda tang hai..."

Ruhani simply nodded faintly, her steps measured.

Ruhani walked carefully behind Nadia, her veil properly adjusted, her steps quiet but alert. The narrow path outside the tent complex was dimly lit with flickering torches, their light casting moving shadows on the fabric walls of nearby tents.

Every sound felt amplified in the silence the soft rustle of cloth, distant footsteps of guards, and the occasional whisper of wind moving through the camp.

Nadia led her a little further ahead, unaware of the growing tension around them. Ruhani's eyes kept shifting subtly, scanning every corner, every half-visible figure in the distance. Her heart carried a strange mix of hope and caution, as if she was walking on a line between fear and something she couldn't yet name.

And then she saw him.

A faint movement near the darker edge of the corridor.

A familiar posture.

Controlled.

Still.

Ruhani's steps slowed instantly.

Her breath caught in her throat.

Her eyes narrowed slightly as she tried to confirm what she was seeing. The shadows shifted again, and for a moment, a silhouette became clearer someone standing still, partially hidden behind one of the large tent poles.

Her heartbeat quickened.

Bhaisaa...

Before she could move forward, before she could even react properly a sudden presence emerged from the side.

Fast.

Silent.

Nadia didn't even get time to turn fully.

A strong hand came from behind and covered her mouth, pulling her slightly back into the shadows.

Her eyes widened instantly in shock, her body tensing as she struggled instinctively but within seconds, a controlled force applied pressure, and her movements slowed.

Her grip loosened.

Her resistance weakened.

And just like that her body went limp.

She collapsed quietly into the arms of the attacker, unconscious, before she could even make a sound.

Ruhani turned sharply at the sudden movement.

"Nadia...?"

Her voice came out tense, confused.

But when she saw Nadia's motionless body her breath stopped completely.

For a second, the world around her froze.

Her eyes widened in shock as she stepped forward instinctively.

"NADIA!" she called out, her voice rising with panic.

But before she could reach her a figure stepped into clearer view from the shadows.

Abhiraj.

His presence was controlled, calm, yet sharp. He adjusted his stance slightly, ensuring Nadia was safely held and not falling, while his expression remained unreadable.

Ruhani's heart pounded violently in her chest as she looked between Nadia and him.

Her voice trembled slightly, but fear quickly turned into concern and confusion.

"Yeh... aap kya kar rahe hain...? Nadia ko kya hua hai. Aapne kya Kiya hai ...?"

Her hands instinctively tightened at her sides, her body shifting protectively forward, as if she could shield Nadia even from a distance.

Abhiraj didn't react immediately.

He simply looked at Ruhani for a brief moment, his gaze steady, calculating, as if assessing the situation and her reaction at the same time.

The torches flickered around them, casting shifting light over all three figures one unconscious, one frozen in shock, and one standing in quiet control.

Ruhani's eyes stayed fixed on Nadia, fear rising in her chest.

Abhiraj's grip on Nadia's unconscious body remained steady as the night air around them turned heavier, almost suffocating with emotion. Ruhani stood frozen for a second, her breath caught in her throat, her eyes searching his face as if trying to understand what was happening.

And then From behind Abhiraj, another figure stepped forward.

Slowly.

Carefully.

As if afraid of what she might see.

Ruhani's eyes shifted instantly.

And the moment she saw her her breath broke.

Her eyes widened in disbelief.

"Kaashi...?"

Her voice came out like a whisper, shaken and fragile.

Kaashi stood there.

Her face was pale, exhaustion carved into every feature. Her eyes were red from crying, tears still clinging to her lashes and drying on her cheeks. Her expression carried both relief and pain, as if she had been holding too much inside for too long.

Ruhani's gaze immediately moved back to Abhiraj.

She looked at him properly this time.

His posture.

The slight injuries on his body fresh marks, signs of recent war, bandages partially visible beneath his clothing. Yet he stood firm, as if pain had become something secondary to him.

Ruhani's eyes filled slowly as realization settled deeper.

Both of them were here.

Both Kaashi... and Abhiraj.

Alive.

Before she could process further, Abhiraj gently lowered Nadia's unconscious body onto the ground, ensuring she was safe and stable.

Then he stepped forward.

One step.

Then another.

Ruhani didn't wait.

The moment he came close enough-

She rushed into his arms.

Her body collapsed against his chest as if all her strength had finally given up. Tears she had been holding back for so long broke free instantly, falling without control.

Abhiraj's arms wrapped around her immediately.

Firm and Protective.

He gently patted her head, his touch steady, trying to calm the storm inside her.

His voice came low and controlled, yet warm-

"Shant ho jaiye, Ruhani..."

"hum aa gaye hain na... ab aap akeli nahin hain..."

"hum aapko yahan se le jaayenge..."

Ruhani tightened her grip around him at his words, as if afraid he might disappear again if she let go.

Her tears soaked his shoulder as she clung to him, her voice breaking silently.

Before the moment could settle a familiar voice called out through tears.

"Ruhani...!"

Kaashi.

Ruhani immediately pulled back from Abhiraj's arms, turning toward her.

The moment she saw Kaashi properly.

She broke again.

And rushed forward.

Kaashi opened her arms just in time as Ruhani collapsed into her embrace. Both of them held each other tightly, crying silently, their emotions pouring out after what felt like endless separation.

Kaashi's voice trembled as she held her, half emotional, half overwhelmed.

"Aap humein bina bataye... bina mile... yahan chali aayi..."

"hum aapke liye dusre rajya tak kitaabe lene kya gaye the... aap... aapne to vivah hi kar liya ... woh bhi is prakar..."

She pulled back slightly, still holding her shoulders, tears in her eyes but a faint, emotional frustration in her tone.

"Hum batana bhi zaroori nahi samjha aapne ...?"

Ruhani just shook her head slightly through tears, unable to respond, holding Kaashi again tightly.

Behind them, Abhiraj stood quietly for a moment, watching both of them reunitehis expression softened, but still alert.

The night had finally given her something back...

But it was far from over.

Abhiraj's gaze shifted from Kaashi and Ruhani for a brief moment, his expression still composed, but his tone carried a quiet seriousness.

He spoke, his voice low yet clear, drawing Ruhani's attention back to him.

"Aapki priya sakhi ne hume yahan akele aane hi nahi diya..."

He paused slightly, glancing toward Kaashi as if recalling everything that had happened before they reached this point.

Then he continued, more firmly this time-

"jab se woh rajya vapas aayi hain... unhone kuch bhi grahan nahi kiya hai... na ann, na jal..."

The words landed heavily in the silence between them.

Kaashi, still holding Ruhani's hand, quickly looked away, slightly embarrassed and emotional, but didn't deny it. Her eyes were still red, her face tired from everything she had endured.

Ruhani immediately turned toward Kaashi, concern rising sharply in her eyes.

"Kaashi...?" she whispered softly, her voice filled with worry now more than shock.

Kaashi tried to smile faintly, shaking her head as if to dismiss it, but her weakness was visible.

Abhiraj stepped a little aside, giving them space, but his eyes remained alert, observing both of them carefully.

The night wind moved gently through the corridor, carrying the faint rustle of tents around them.

And in that moment Ruhani's earlier fear, confusion, and emotional collapse slowly shifted into something else.

Concern.

For Kaashi.

For the friend who had come all this way for her... and forgotten herself in the process.

Ruhani was still holding Kaashi tightly, her tears refusing to stop, her breath uneven from everything that had happened. Kaashi, equally emotional, was trying to steady her, gently stroking her back.

But suddenly a voice broke through the night silence again. Distant, alert, and unfamiliar.

All three of them tensed instantly.

Abhiraj's expression changed in a split second.

He stepped forward and quickly caught Ruhani's wrist, his grip firm but controlled, pulling her slightly away from Kaashi to get her attention.

His voice dropped, urgent and steady.

"Chaliye, Ruhani..."

"humare paas zyada samay nahi hai..."

His eyes were sharp now, scanning the surroundings as if calculating danger that hadn't fully arrived yet.

Ruhani, still shaken, blinked at him in confusion. Her hand instinctively tried to pull back.

And then she said it softly, but firmly, despite her tears.

"Hum kahin nahi jaayenge, Bhaisaa..."

The moment the word left her lips

Abhiraj froze for a fraction of a second.

His eyes snapped back to her.

Not anger.

Not irritation.

But pure shock.

As if he hadn't expected her to refuse like this... not now... not after everything.

Behind them, Kaashi's breath caught slightly, watching the exchange in silence.

Abhiraj's grip on Ruhani's wrist tightened slightly not enough to hurt, but enough to make his urgency clear. His jaw clenched, and for the first time his calm control cracked into visible anger.

His voice dropped, sharp and firm

"Aur aapko lagta hai hum aapko yahan chhod denge us rakshash ke saath...?"

He paused, his eyes darkening as he glanced around the dim corridor, as if the very mention of danger had made it closer.

Then he looked back at her, his tone turning colder, more final-

"Kabhi nahi..."

The word fell like a command, not a request.

Ruhani flinched slightly at his tone, her eyes widening, still confused and overwhelmed. Her wrist was still in his hold, but her gaze didn't drop.

Behind them, Kaashi stood frozen, wiping her tears quietly, sensing the tension rising again.

Abhiraj exhaled sharply, as if forcing himself to stay controlled. His hold on Ruhani's wrist loosened just a fraction, but he didn't let go completely.

His voice lowered again, this time more measured, but still intense-

"Ruhani... yeh waqt behas ka nahi hai..."

"yahan rukna matlab khud ko khatre mein daalna hai..."

He stepped slightly closer, his presence protective yet commanding.

"Hum aapko yahan se nikaalne aaye hain... aur hum apna waada poora karke hi jaayenge..."

Ruhani looked at him for a long moment.

Her breathing was uneven, torn between fear, attachment, and the stubborn refusal to leave without understanding everything.

But Abhiraj's eyes didn't waver.

And for the first time that night his urgency made it clear that whatever was approaching... was already too close.

Abhiraj didn't wait for another argument.

Still holding Ruhani's wrist firmly, he turned and began walking forward with steady, purposeful steps. His grip was controlled protective, but unyielding, as if he had already decided there was no time left for hesitation.

Ruhani stumbled slightly at first, trying to keep up.

"Bhaisaa... rukiye... hum..." she tried to interrupt, her voice trembling with confusion and urgency.

But Abhiraj didn't slow down.

His focus remained ahead, scanning the path, alert to every shadow and movement around them. His voice didn't soften either.

"Ruhani... ab ek bhi pal zaaya nahi hoga..."

Behind them, Kaashi quickly followed, wiping her tears and adjusting her pace to match theirs. She kept looking back nervously, as if afraid something might appear out of the darkness at any moment.

The corridor of tents and torches stretched around them as they moved away from Sultan's area. The atmosphere gradually shifted the heavy presence of his encampment slowly fading behind them.

Ruhani still tried to pull her hand back once, her voice breaking slightly.

"Aap humein aise zabardasti... kahin le jaa rahe hain... hum samajh nahi pa rahe... humare kanha bhi vhi hai "

Abhiraj finally spoke again, without turning his head.

"Samajh baad mein aayega... abhi sirf zinda rehna zaroori hai... or aapke kanha ko hum le aaege phle aap chaliye"

His words were blunt, but not cruel-filled with urgency that left no room for negotiation.

Step by step, they crossed beyond the guarded area.

The torchlight behind them grew dimmer.

The sounds of the camp softened.

And slowly Sultan's territory was left behind in the distance, swallowed by the night.

Ruhani looked back once, her heart still unsettled, but Abhiraj tightened his grip slightly and kept walking forward.

And this time she didn't stop him.

They had just reached the edge where the horses were waiting.

The night air was colder here, quieter, as if even the encampment's chaos had been left behind. Two horses stood ready, their reins loosely held.

Abhiraj quickly spoke, urgency still in his voice.

"Ruhani... Kaashi ke saath baith jaiye..."

Kaashi immediately moved toward one horse, glancing back at Ruhani with anxious eyes.

Ruhani stepped forward as well, lifting her hand slightly to hold the saddle, preparing to mount.

Ruhani had barely managed to step toward the horse when everything changed in a fraction of a second.

The cold night air, the distant torches, Kaashi's worried presence all of it faded into a blur as a firm hand suddenly closed around her wrist.

But it wasn't Abhiraj.

It was stronger. More controlled. More familiar in its unsettling certainty.

Before Ruhani could even process the touch, she was pulled sharply back.

Her body turned mid-step, her balance breaking instantly, and in the next moment she collided straight into a solid chest.

The impact stole her breath.

Her hands instinctively pressed against him to steady herself, fingers gripping the fabric of his clothing as her heart pounded in confusion and shock.

For a few seconds, she couldn't even register what had happened.

The world felt paused.

The horses stood still in the background.

Kaashi's anxious expression froze in place.

Even Abhiraj, who had been guiding them, stopped abruptly as his eyes locked onto the scene unfolding in front of him.

Ruhani slowly lifted her gaze.

And the moment she saw him everything inside her tightened.

Sultan stood there in the dim torchlight, his presence as still and commanding as ever. One hand remained firmly around her wrist, holding her close enough that there was no space left between them, while his other arm rested by his side in complete control.

His face was unreadable.

Calm... but sharp.

Not rushed.

Not panicked.

Just dangerously composed.

His eyes didn't move away from hers, not even for a second, as if he had been waiting for this exact moment.

Ruhani's breath trembled slightly as realization hit her fully now.

She whispered, shaken-

"Aap... yahan...?"

Her voice was soft, confused, almost disbelieving.

Behind her, Kaashi's eyes widened in alarm, and Abhiraj immediately stepped forward, his expression tightening as tension flared between the three men and the situation became heavier.

But Sultan didn't acknowledge them.

His attention remained entirely on Ruhani.

His grip on her wrist was still steady not cruel, not chaotic but firm enough that she couldn't pull away even if she wanted to.

Abhiraj's patience snapped the moment he saw Sultan holding Ruhani like that.

He took a sharp step forward, his entire body tense, hand already moving toward his weapon with instinctive speed.

His jaw was clenched so tightly that the veins near his temple became visible, and his eyes carried a clear warning this was not someone who would back down easily.

But before he could take even another step the air around them shifted completely.

From the darkness between the horses and surrounding tents, movement erupted.

Sultan's soldiers appeared from every direction at once.

It was not chaotic it was controlled, strategic, and frighteningly precise.

They didn't rush.

They surrounded.

In seconds, Abhiraj's men were disarmed by positioning rather than force, weapons pressed against their chests and backs before they could even react properly. Steel glinted under torchlight, reflecting across tense faces.

Kaashi, who had been standing slightly behind, froze instantly as a blade was angled in her direction. Her breath caught in her throat, and her hands lifted slightly in fear, her eyes darting between Abhiraj and the armed soldiers around her.

The space that had felt like escape just moments ago now felt like a cage.

Abhiraj stopped.

Not because he was weak.

But because the situation had turned into one where a single wrong move could cost lives.

His breathing was controlled, but heavy. His fists tightened at his sides as he slowly looked around, taking in the complete encirclement. Every exit was blocked. Every angle covered. There was no gap, no distraction, no weakness to exploit.

And then a voice broke through the silence.

Cold.

Deep.

Unshakable.

"Ek qadam bhi aage badhaya... to tumhare tamaam saathiyon ki laash yahin gira di jaegi ."

The words didn't rise in volume.

They didn't need to.

They landed like finality itself.

Abhiraj's gaze snapped toward the source.

Haider stood a short distance away, partially illuminated by torchlight. His expression was calm, almost indifferent, but his eyes were razor-sharp, reading every movement, every breath of the situation like a man who already knew the outcome.

Abhiraj's jaw tightened further.

His anger was visible now raw, restrained only by necessity. His eyes flickered across the soldiers, then back to Haider, calculating rapidly, searching for even the smallest possibility of breaking through.

But there was none.

Not without loss.

Not without blood.

And then His gaze shifted To Ruhani.

That single moment changed everything in his expression.

Ruhani was still in Sultan's arms.

Held close, not violently, but firmly enough that there was no space left between them. Her wrist was still in his grip, but her body had gone still not resisting now, just overwhelmed by the sudden collapse of control around her.

Her face reflected confusion, fear, and shock all at once, her eyes moving between Abhiraj, Kaashi, the soldiers, and Sultan himself.

And Sultan he hadn't looked at anyone else since the moment the soldiers arrived.

Not Abhiraj.

Not Haider.

Not the weapons aimed in every direction.

His entire attention was locked on Ruhani.

His expression remained unreadable, but his gaze carried something far more dangerous than visible anger.

It was calm dominance, absolute certainty, as if he already knew that no one here could take her away from him in this moment.

Even the grip on her wrist wasn't frantic it was controlled, steady, almost possessive in its stillness, like he was anchoring her in place more than restraining her.

Abhiraj saw it.

And his expression hardened further.

Because this wasn't just a standoff anymore.

It had become something deeper.

Something where Ruhani stood at the center of everything without even fully understanding how quickly the world around her had turned into a battlefield of silence, control, and threat.

The air had turned unbearably heavy, as if even the night itself was holding its breath.

The circle of soldiers stood firm, their weapons unmoving yet threatening, pointed with deadly precision at Abhiraj's men and Kaashi. No one dared to shift even an inch. The flickering torchlight only made the scene more intense, shadows dancing across tense faces and drawn steel.

Haider stepped a little forward, his presence calm but commanding. His gaze briefly swept across the captives before settling respectfully on Sultan. There was no hesitation in his voice when he spoke, his tone deep, formal, and edged with quiet brutality-

"Huzoor-e-Aali... irshaad farmaaiye... in afraad ke muta'alliq kya faisla manzoor hai...?"

He paused slightly, then added with a colder undertone,

"kya inhein yahin par ibraat ka nishaan bana diya jaye... ya kisi aur andaaz mein saza di jaye...?"

His words did not need to be loud.

They carried enough weight on their own.

Ruhani felt her heart drop.

Her eyes widened instantly as fear gripped her from within. She turned quickly toward Abhiraj and Kaashi both surrounded, both helpless under the sharp aim of swords and spears.

A wave of panic rushed through her.

Without thinking, she turned back to Sultan, her voice trembling, breath uneven-

"H-Humare Bhaisaa aur Kaashi ko chhod dijiye..."

Her words came out broken, desperate,

"woh bas... woh sirf..."

But before she could complete her plea Abhiraj's voice cut through sharply, firm and unyielding.

"Inse humari jaan ki sifarish mat kijiye, Ruhani..."

There was no fear in his tone.

Only pride.

Only refusal.

His eyes remained locked on Sultan, burning with restrained anger, as if he would rather accept death than be spared by someone he considered an enemy.

The moment those words settled Something changed.

Sultan's gaze shifted. Slowly. Deliberately.

For the first time since all of this began

His eyes left Ruhani.And landed on Abhiraj.

The transformation in his expression was immediate and chilling.

The calm, composed exterior that had held until now faded away, replaced by something far more dangerous. His eyes darkened, a fierce intensity igniting within them, as if Abhiraj's words had struck a nerve that should not have been touched.

When Sultan spoke, his voice was low, but every word carried a sharp, cutting finality

"Pichli martaba... hum ne aap ko zinda rehne ki mohlat ata ki thi..."

His gaze remained fixed, unblinking,

"magar is dafa... aap ne had se tajawuz kiya hai..."

He took a slow step forward Measured,

Controlled. Yet every movement carried authority.

"aap ne humari Begum ko yahan se le jaane ki jurrat ki hai..."

The word Begum echoed in the tense silence.His tone dropped further, turning colder, almost lethal

"aur is gustakhi ka anjaam... sirf maut hai."

The surrounding soldiers didn't move.

They didn't need to. The command was already understood.

Then Sultan's gaze shifted again.Back to Ruhani.But this time There was no softness No restraint Only burning intensity ,Possession ,Anger.

"aur is martaba... koi rehmat... koi dar-guzar... mumkin nahin hai..."

The words struck her like a blow.

Ruhani's breath faltered, panic rising uncontrollably inside her chest.

Without thinking She moved.

Her hands immediately reached out, gripping Sultan's arm tightly, as if she could physically stop him from giving the order.

Her voice trembled, but it carried desperation strong enough to break through her fear

"Nahi...! Aap aisa nahi kar sakte...!"

Her eyes filled again, tears spilling over as she shook her head faintly.

She stepped slightly forward, almost placing herself between him and the others, her body instinctively trying to shield them despite knowing her own position.

"Woh humare Bhaisaa hain...!"

Her voice cracked, raw and pleading,

"kripya... unhe chhod dijiye... hum aapse vinati karte hain..."

Her grip tightened on his arm.

Her entire being now focused on stopping him.

Behind her, Kaashi stood frozen, tears silently slipping down her face, her hands trembling as she watched the situation spiral beyond control.

Abhiraj, however, remained unmoved.

His posture was straight.His jaw clenched His eyes locked firmly on Sultan, refusing to bend, refusing to show fear even now, when death stood just a command away.

And in the center of it all Sultan stood still Unshaken Ruhani's hands on him.

Her desperate plea echoing in his ears.

But his gaze Still fierce Still unwavering.

As if her words had reached him...

But not enough to change what he had already decided.

The moment stretched into something suffocating, as if time itself had slowed to witness what was about to unfold. Sultan's gaze remained fixed, unyielding, before he finally spoke, his voice calm yet carrying an authority that allowed no refusal.

"Haider... inhein le jaya jaye... aur inhein saza hum apni Begum ke saamne dena munasib samajhte hain."

The command was not loud, yet it echoed with a finality that sent a chill through Ruhani's entire being. Her breath hitched instantly, her fingers trembling where they still held onto him.

In that very moment, she understood completely this was no longer anger that would fade, no longer a warning that could be softened. This was a decision, and he would not take it back.

Before she could gather herself, Haider signaled the soldiers. They moved without delay, tightening their hold around Abhiraj, Kaashi, and the men, forcing them forward. The faint clinking of weapons and the heavy footsteps against the ground filled the silence.

Kaashi's tear-filled eyes remained locked on Ruhani, fear and helplessness clearly visible, while Abhiraj, even in restraint, held his head high, his gaze still fierce and unwavering as if refusing to bow even in this moment.

Ruhani's heart pounded violently in her chest. Panic rose uncontrollably, and without thinking, she tried to move forward. Even though Sultan's grip still held her, she managed to take two hurried steps ahead, her body leaning desperately toward them. Her free hand lifted instinctively, reaching out as if she could stop them from being taken away.

"Kaashi...!"

Her voice trembled, breaking under the weight of fear. Her fingers stretched forward, so close... just inches away from touching her.

But before that distance could close, a sudden force pulled her back.

Sultan's grip tightened, and in one swift motion, he yanked her toward himself. Ruhani's body lost its balance instantly, her forward movement breaking as she stumbled back and collided straight into his chest. The impact stole her breath for a second, her hand falling weakly from the air. Before she could steady herself, his hold shifted-his hand leaving her wrist only to move around her waist, gripping her firmly and pulling her even closer.

This time, there was no space left between them.

His arm around her waist was unyielding, secure, as if anchoring her in place. Ruhani froze in his hold, her breath uneven, her body tense yet unable to resist. Her eyes, however, did not move.

They remained fixed ahead, watching helplessly as Kaashi was taken further away, her figure slowly disappearing into the dim torchlight. Abhiraj followed, still surrounded, still unbroken, until even he vanished into the darkness beyond.

Ruhani's fingers curled slightly against his hold, her entire being filled with a helpless ache she could do nothing about. The distance between her and them grew with every passing second, and all she could do was watch.

Behind her, Sultan did not loosen his grip Not even for a moment.

His hold at her waist remained firm, controlled, and absolute as if silently reminding her that no matter how much she tried to reach out, she was not leaving his grasp.

Sultan's hold around her waist remained firm, unyielding, as if her attempt to move away had only strengthened his control over her. Ruhani stood frozen in his grasp, her breath still uneven, her eyes distant for a moment as they followed the direction where Kaashi and Abhiraj had just disappeared.

But before her thoughts could settle, his other hand slowly rose toward her face. His movements were deliberate, measured, carrying a strange contrast to the anger still burning in his eyes.

His fingers reached her cheek, gently brushing aside the damp strands of hair that had clung to her skin. The touch was slow, almost careful, as if he wanted to see her clearly every expression, every flicker of emotion. Ruhani trembled under that gaze, her lashes lowering instinctively as his thumb moved across her cheek, wiping away the tears that had not yet dried.

For a fleeting second, the gesture felt soft, almost comforting but the intensity in his eyes told a completely different story.

Then, without warning, his hand slid down to her jawline. For a brief moment, his fingers rested there, and before she could react, his grip tightened suddenly. He held her jaw firmly, lifting her face upward, forcing her to meet his eyes.

A soft gasp escaped her lips as fear flickered through her expression. His hold was not careless it was controlled, but strong enough to make her completely still.

And when he spoke, his voice was low, yet edged with a dangerous authority that sent a shiver through her entire being.

"Aap ki jur'at kaise hui... humari hudood se baahir qadam rakhne ki koshish karne ki, Begum...?"

His eyes did not waver, his gaze piercing straight into hers.

"Ab aap sirf ek rajkumari nahin rahi... aap Sultan ki Begum hain... aur Begum apni marzi se rawangi ikhtiyaar nahin karti..."

His face moved slightly closer, his tone dropping further, heavier with control.

"Aap ne kaise soch liya ke hum aap ko yun hi jaane denge...?"

His grip tightened just enough to remind her of his hold before he continued, his voice calmer but far more dangerous.

"Humein ibtida se hi ilm tha... ke aap ke bhaisaa yahan tak zaroor pohanchne ki jurrat karenge... aur us lamhe se le kar ab tak... aap ka har qadam, har saans... humari nigraani mein thi..."

A faint pause followed, his gaze still locked on her, unblinking.

"Aap par humari nazar thi, Begum... aur rahegi..."

Ruhani stood completely still, her breath uneven, her heart pounding violently against her chest. It wasn't just his grip or his closeness that shook her it was the certainty in his words, the undeniable truth that he had seen everything, known everything, and still allowed it to happen... only to stop her at the very end.

.........................................................................

Ruhani kitna kosti hogi mujhe .....

Aisa sasural or pati de diya maine......🫠

🫣

Bechari roth kr apne mayke bhi nhi Jaa skti.....

Is chap ko likhte samay mujhe gaana yaad aaya bhai log jo ki Ruhani pr bilkul suit nhi krta.....😌

Main mayke chali jaungi tum dekhte rhiyo.....💃💃

Silent readers apne emotions bhar lao or Bechari Ruhani ke liye comment section me bhet me de dijiye......👹