Rashid Sheikh casually sat with legs folded to the right on sofa facing the balcony in his royal palace. He was relishing dates while the cool breeze blew on his face, making him relaxed. It was tiring morning. He had heated discussions with his advisors on his meeting with the disgraced prince, Vijay Singh as well as planning strategic attacks with his commanders on weaker kingdoms to gain territory.
He had almost closed his eyes to take short nap when one of his guards arrived suddenly. "Your highness, the prince Vijay Singh has arrived. He says he wants to meet you personally.", the guard said. Rashid opened his eyes and signaled him to come in. The guards bought Vijay Singh in. He looked tired and wounded. His lips were dried. His face was heavily tanned and bearded. His hair looked scruffy. He was shaking due to hunger.
Rashid had no empathy generally. But he always took good care of the ones whom he saw as his potential benefits. Vijay Singh was his weapon against his rival. He had to take good care of him. "Guards, He is our guest and I want you to take good care of him. We will speak once he is better.", he said as he ordered them to take him to royal guest room and treat him well.
Rashid took personal interest into getting him back to health. He always checked on him before he started and ended his day. It took a week for Vijay Singh to recover his health. Rashid immediately held a personal meeting with Vijay and one of his trusted advisor, Abdul. "So, tell me my friend, how are you feeling now ?", Rashid asked. "Much better! Thanks for your concern. I was well treated and looked after. My brother would be grateful with your gestures as he watches over me.", he said as he smiled.
"Great ! Let's get back to business. How will you help me defeat the king of Rawalgarh when you had fled from the battle scene while your brother fought the battle against him? " , Rashid asked."We couldn't defeat him single handedly. But if you join hands with him, we can defeat him easily. I have a plan that can work. If you follow it , we will definitely win." , Vijay replied. "Fine ! But you haven't come to me for help without any personal interest. Have you come here to seek revenge only or do you have any motives behind this visit?", Rashid asked.
Vijay knew Rashid was cunning and clever. He had to be careful with what he asks for. "I want you to give me Rawalgarh.", he said. The enraged advisor raised his sword against him. Rashid ordered him to put down his sword. "Cool down Abdul. I needed someone able to be in charge of Rawalgarh and neighboring cities so that I can concentrate on the Deccan conquest. You will be in charge of Rawalgarh but only after you help me defeat Amar Singh Rawal.
(To be continued)
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