Chapter 130: New Morning, New Directions
Pakistan sultanate, Fort of Lahore, Palace Garden, 9th March 1557
As the first rays of the morning sun bathed the garden in a golden glow, Bairam Khan sat at a lavishly adorned table, enjoying the greenery around him. Dressed in regal attire, he reclined comfortably in a high-backed chair, savoring the rich flavors of a lavish breakfast. The table was a feast of kebabs and fruits, with the aroma of grilled beef mingling with the fragrant scent of fresh produce.
The garden was filled with blooming flowers and well-trimmed plants. Soldiers stood at a vigilant distance ensured his safety.IN front of him, the villagers, lined up in anxious, pleading positions. Their faces filled with desperation.
An elderly villager glistening with sweat, stepped forward. His voice trembled as he spoke. "Hazoor, please give us some more time. We didn’t get enough yield due to the rain."
Bairam Khan sipped his wine ignoring the pleas. "Three chances were given, and this is how you repay me?" His voice, dripping with disdain.
As elderly man lost his face , a young man with age no older than twenty stepped forward. unable to resist his pent up anger he blurted out his inner thoughts , "That’s because you’re asking us within five days. It takes time for crops to grow. How can we manage in such a short time?"
The elderly man’s eyes widened in shock, and he quickly turned to reprimand the young man. "Bhuwan, mind your tongue. We are speaking to Hazoor."
Bairam Khan’s gaze shifted to the young man. His eyes narrowed with cold irritation. The atmosphere suddenly filled with tension. The soldiers exchanged uneasy glances, ready to intervene if needed.
Bairam Khan leaned back in his chair with contempt and amusement. "You dare question my decisions, boy? The time given was more than sufficient. Your inability to manage your affairs is your own fault."
Bhuwan’s face flushed with anger, but he remained silent sensing his powerlessness. The elderly man bowed deeply in apology and asked for forgiveness of his son.
Bairam Khan’s amusement flickered as he set aside his wine and took a sizable bite of the beef kebab. With a casual gesture, he cut a chunk of the meat, placed it on a plate, and passed it to the trembling villagers. "Well, I’m very generous, you know. You all must be hungry. How about some delicious cow meat? I’m sure you’ll enjoy it."
A murmur of unease rippled through the crowd. The villagers, visibly shaken, exchanged fearful glances. At that moment, a guard approached and announced, "Your Excellency, Prince Zayne of Kashmir seeks an audience."