Chapter 86: Tensions at the Khyber
August 1834 – Peshawar
The summer heat lay heavy over Peshawar, but the city continued its slow, steady recovery under Khalsa rule.
Nau Nihal Singh rode out early most mornings with a small escort, personally inspecting the outer defenses and speaking with garrison commanders. At thirteen, he had become a familiar and respected figure among the troops — the young prince who had helped hold the narrow pass and played a key role in securing the city.
One such morning, he met with Hari Singh Nalwa at the main fort overlooking the Khyber Pass.
"The situation is stable for now," Nalwa said, his massive frame leaning over a large map. "Trade is increasing. Most local chiefs have submitted. But Dost Mohammad Khan grows louder with every passing week."
Nau Nihal studied the map. "Raaz reports confirm he is rallying support among the Durrani and other tribes. He sends messengers almost daily demanding Peshawar's return, claiming it as Afghan land."
Nalwa let out a deep, rumbling laugh. "He can demand all he wants. Maharaja Ranjit Singh has made his will clear — Peshawar belongs to the Khalsa. We will not give it back."
Nau Nihal nodded. "Then we must prepare for the long standoff. I recommend strengthening the forward posts along the Khyber Pass and increasing patrols in the surrounding valleys. My Mobile Division can rotate between defense and rapid response."
Nalwa placed a heavy hand on the boy's shoulder. "You think like a seasoned general already. Do it. I will focus on fortifying the city itself."
Over the next few weeks, Nau Nihal threw himself into the work.
His riders conducted regular patrols, cleared out small bandit groups that had taken advantage of the chaos, and protected merchant caravans moving through the region. The Raaz network expanded aggressively, establishing informants in key villages and monitoring any movement coming from Kabul.
One evening, Gurbaaz brought concerning news to Nau Nihal's quarters.
"Dost Mohammad Khan is not idle," Gurbaaz said. "He has sent agents to several tribes, offering gold and promises of glory if they join him in retaking Peshawar. He is also strengthening his forces near Jalalabad."
Nau Nihal stared at the map for a long moment. "He wants war, but he is not yet ready for it. He hopes pressure and diplomacy will force us to yield."
Jawahar, leaning against the wall, crossed his arms. "Then we make it clear we will not yield."
"Exactly," Nau Nihal replied. "We continue strengthening our position. We win the loyalty of the local population. And we prepare for the possibility of a larger conflict."
A formal council was held a few days later with Hari Singh Nalwa, Nau Nihal Singh, and senior officers.
"The Maharaja has sent new instructions," Nalwa announced. "We are to hold Peshawar at all costs. No withdrawal. We are also authorized to strengthen the frontier defenses."
Nau Nihal spoke up. "I suggest we establish stronger forward bases in the key passes. My division can take responsibility for the more mobile defense — responding quickly to any raids or incursions while your main forces hold the city and the primary pass."
Nalwa nodded approvingly. "Agreed. You have proven yourself capable of both defense and rapid strikes. The Shadow Blade will guard our flanks."
As the meeting ended, Nalwa pulled Nau Nihal aside.
"You carry a great burden for one so young," the giant said quietly. "Most boys your age are still playing with wooden swords. You are already helping secure an empire's frontier."
Nau Nihal met his gaze steadily. "I was given responsibility. I will honor it. The Khalsa needs both its lions and its shadows."
Nalwa smiled. "Then we make a fine pair."
As August drew to a close, Peshawar stood stronger than ever.
Trade continued to grow. Local leaders were slowly accepting the new reality. And on the Khyber Pass, the standoff with Dost Mohammad Khan's forces continued — tense, but not yet broken into open war.
Nau Nihal Singh stood on the walls one evening, looking toward the distant mountains where new threats were gathering.
The conquest was over.
The long watch had begun.