CHAPTER 14

Nandini's POV:

I opened my eyes to the familiar voice of Jayanti Bai, a loyal helper from my kingdom. She is a middle-aged lady who has served my eldest sister-in-law since her maidenhood. Now, she is traveling with me to the new kingdom. We don't know what the future holds, but we are ready to face whatever challenges come our way. I am determined to fight for justice for my people and avenge the wrongs done to my family and kingdom.

The frustration within me intensified when I learned about Kaling's involvement in this unfortunate situation. "Princess??" Jayanti's voice broke my chain of thoughts. "Get a bath quickly before the sun rises and shines brightly on our heads."

"Hmm," I replied with a nod, getting up from the bed and asking her to guide me to the bathing area. "Princess, there is an area prepared for the royals to bathe. I will stand here on this side, but in case you need any help, then.." Jayanti hesitated, showing her concern for my well-being.

"No, it's okay. Just do me a favor by bringing my outfit here. The security is well arranged, and no other royals rest here besides the Crowned Prince. I will have my privacy. You don't need to stand here throughout the time," I assured her.

After a brief pause, I inquired about the arrangements for the Crowned Prince on the other end. Jayanti seemed unsure, replying, "I don't have any idea about it, Princess. None mentioned anything."

"It's okay. You may leave," I said, dismissing her gently, as I needed a moment alone to gather my thoughts and emotions.

I turned around and entered inside, leaving the outside world behind. The space was enveloped in a mysterious ambiance, draped in dark, blood-colored curtains. As I stepped through the first layer of curtains, I found myself in a rectangular area illuminated by soft, dim lamps placed at each corner. The light cast a warm glow, allowing me to see clearly within the space while keeping the outside world veiled.

Intrigued, I moved further, entering the second layer of curtains, revealing the bathing area. A small, rustic stool stood at the center, its simplicity contrasting with the richness of the surroundings. Metal containers adorned the side, filled with water for my bath. I took a moment to absorb the surreal beauty of the place before my practicality took over.

Feeling the weight of the day, I decided to cleanse myself and wash away the weariness. With a determined spirit, I slowly stripped off my dress, leaving behind the burdens of my past. The cool air caressed my skin, and for a moment, I felt liberated from the weight of responsibilities that had burdened me for so long.

Sitting on the stool, I took one of the small containers and dipped it into a nearby basin, allowing the water to flow gently into the container. The sound of water filled the air, providing a soothing melody that eased my mind.

But just as I was lost in the tranquility of the moment, a sudden noise interrupted the serenity. My heart skipped a beat, and my senses heightened as I listened intently. Was someone there, lurking in the shadows, or was it merely a trick of the imagination? My grip on the container tightened, ready to defend myself if needed.

Manik's POV:

As the first rays of dawn pierced through the curtains of my tent, I found myself awake, tangled in a web of thoughts about the tumultuous events that had unfolded in my life over the past few weeks. It felt as if I was sailing a once tranquil sea that had suddenly transformed into a tempestuous ocean, testing my every move and decision.

Shaking off the weight of the past, I took a deep breath, resolving to face the day ahead with a clear mind. I rose from my bed and stepped outside the tent, greeted by the cool morning breeze. Instructing an attendant to fetch my clothes, I proceeded towards the bathing area. Time was scarce; we had to leave early, and I needed to quickly freshen up and oversee the preparations for our departure.

Stepping into the bathing chamber, my mind was still occupied with the pressing matters that lay ahead. But just as I struggled with the sleeves of my kurta, a sudden metallic clang echoed through the chamber, jerking me out of my thoughts. Before I could comprehend what was happening, I saw her there – Nandini, standing right before me, her eyes wide with shock and her lips parted to scream.

Without a second thought, instincts took over. In a dramatic twist of fate, my fingers instinctively covered her mouth, preventing any sound from escaping. My other hand wrapped around her delicate waist, steadying her. Our eyes locked, and in that intense moment, time seemed to slow down around us.

CHAPTER 15

Manik's POV

Without a second thought, instincts took over. In a dramatic twist of fate, my fingers instinctively covered her mouth, preventing any sound from escaping. My other hand wrapped around her delicate waist, steadying her. Our eyes locked, and in that intense moment, time seemed to slow down around us.

A mixture of surprise, fear, and something unspoken passed between us, entwining our souls in an inexplicable connection. In that heartbeat, the world faded away, leaving only the two of us in that intimate encounter. Our hearts beat in tandem, dancing to the rhythm of the unexpected and forbidden encounter.

As the seconds stretched into eternity, I found myself lost in the depth of her eyes. It was as if a storm was brewing within me, an overwhelming surge of emotions I had long tried to suppress. In that fleeting moment, the boundaries that separated us seemed to blur, and a hidden desire began to surface, beckoning us towards an unknown destiny.

Awkwardness hung heavy in the air, like an uninvited guest in the small, confined space. I knew I had startled her, and in my attempt to silence her, I found myself holding her close, our bodies unnaturally entangled. "Please don't scream. There are people around," I pleaded through my eyes, praying that she would understand the urgency of the situation.

As I slowly withdrew my hand from her soft lips, our eyes locked, and I could sense a storm of emotions swirling within her. Trying to maintain some semblance of dignity, I turned around, my heart pounding in my chest. I could hear her hurriedly dressing behind me, her words escaping in a breathless rush, "What are you doing here, Maan... I mean, Manik?"

"The exact same deed you were planning to do," I replied, my voice steadier than I felt. The mention of my name, even if mispronounced, sent a jolt of electricity through me, reminding me of the unspoken connection between us.

Though I refused to look at her, I could feel her irritation and imagined the adorable pout she was famous for. But right now, we couldn't afford to be normal. Our lives were entwined in a complex web of circumstances beyond our control.

"Can I turn around?" I asked hesitantly, my voice tinged with uncertainty.

"Ummm... I'm not in a stable condition though... I mean... please?" Her words were a mixture of embarrassment and shyness, and it only made her more endearing.

"Hmm, it's okay. I will just leave... you may finish your chores soon," I replied, trying to sound nonchalant, even though every fiber of my being wanted to stay by her side.

Leaving the bathing chamber, I stood at a distance, trying to collect my thoughts. It was hard to deny the pull I felt towards her, but the timing was all wrong, and our responsibilities to our kingdoms complicated everything.

Soon, her helper brought her clothing, and as she left the chamber, our eyes met briefly, a silent exchange of emotions passing between us. The day ahead seemed long, filled with unspoken words and unfulfilled desires. But I knew that fate had brought us together for a reason, and no matter how complicated things might get, my heart belonged to her and her alone.

CHAPTER 16

Manik's POV:

As the journey resumed, the destination loomed ever closer on the horizon. My heart pounded with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. We would reach my palace before the sunset, and I just hoped that everything would fall into place.

As the army entered the kingdom, triumphant horns echoed through the streets, announcing the prince's return. The day had been long, filled with tension and uncertainty, but the night that awaited us would be much longer, with the weight of decisions and responsibilities pressing upon our shoulders.

As we made our way through the bustling market roads, the townspeople couldn't believe their eyes. A woman riding boldly through their streets was an unprecedented sight. In their kingdom, tradition dictated that no woman ever rode on horseback, yet here was Princess Nandini defying norms with her presence. Her attire, more practical than conventional, exuded strength and determination. Her fierce aura seemed to set the world ablaze, leaving everyone looking at her in awe.

While the crowd gaped, the princess remained resolute, undeterred by their astonishment. She was ready to face her destiny head-on, unafraid of the challenges ahead.

As the convoy stopped before the grand entry podium of the palace, Nandini's eyes swept over the majestic surroundings. The palace stood before her, a vision of beauty with its blue and white color theme symbolizing peace-ironic, given the turmoil she felt within.

Despite the regal facade, she knew the palace held secrets, betrayals, and a web of political intrigues. Nandini steeled herself, knowing that behind those grand walls, she would have to navigate a delicate dance of power and deception to ensure the safety and future of her people.

In that moment, she vowed to draw strength from her love for her family and kingdom. The journey had just begun, and she was determined to rise above the challenges, to find her voice, and to become the queen her kingdom deserved.

The stage was set, and destiny awaited. Nandini, the fiery princess, was ready to embrace her role with courage and resilience. Her heart might be burdened with uncertainties, but the fire in her soul burned bright with hope and determination. And as she stepped into the palace, she knew that the journey ahead would test her in ways she could never have imagined.

As the palace gates opened to welcome the returning prince, the atmosphere filled with excitement and curiosity. Manik's parents, the King and Queen of Pratapganj, stood at the grand entrance, eager to embrace their son after his triumphant victory in battle. The sound of marching soldiers and the clatter of hooves echoed through the palace grounds as the royal army approached.

With a flourish of trumpets and drums, Manik rode his horse gracefully into the palace courtyard, his majestic presence commanding attention and admiration from the onlookers. His parents beamed with pride as they saw their son, the crown prince, leading the procession with a regal aura.

"Welcome back, my son," the King exclaimed, his voice filled with paternal pride. "You have made us proud with your valor and leadership on the battlefield."

Manik dismounted from his horse, bowing respectfully before his parents. "Thank you, Father. It was my duty towards our kingdom and its people," he replied humbly, feeling a mix of pride and a sense of duty fulfilled.

As Manik's parents praised him for his achievements, their attention was drawn to the enigmatic figure standing beside him-Princess Nandini. The Queen furrowed her brow, exchanging a puzzled glance with the King. They had heard rumors of a defeated princess from a rival kingdom but hadn't anticipated her presence at their son's homecoming.

Manik sensed the tension and quickly stepped forward, introducing Nandini to his parents. "Allow me to introduce Princess Nandini of Maheshgarh," he said, trying to ease the awkwardness in the air. "She is a dear friend and an esteemed guest of mine."

Manik stepped forward, standing beside Nandini in a display of support. His eyes locked with hers, conveying a silent promise that he would stand by her side no matter what challenges lay ahead. "Mother, Father, Princess Nandini is here under my protection," he declared firmly, his voice resonating with determination. "Her kingdom may have faced defeat, but she is a princess of great strength and resilience."

The King's gaze shifted between his son and Nandini, his expression reflecting a mix of surprise and intrigue. "Manik?" he inquired, his tone curious yet cautious, and spoke after a brief pause, "Princess Nandini, I hope you understand that our kingdom upholds traditions and customs. We shall respect your presence here as our guest, but there are certain protocols to be followed."

Nandini straightened her posture, meeting the King's gaze with unwavering resolve. "Your Majesty, I am well aware of the customs, and I assure you, I shall abide by them during my stay in your kingdom," she replied, her voice steady despite the tumult of emotions inside her. "I seek no special treatment, only safety, and refuge for my people who have suffered the consequences of war."

The Queen's eyes softened further, seeing the determination in Nandini's words. "You have our word, Princess Nandini. As long as you are within the walls of our kingdom, you and your people shall be treated with respect and dignity," she said warmly, her motherly instinct recognizing the strength in the defeated princess before her.

Manik's heart swelled with pride, both for Nandini's resilience and for his parents' understanding. He knew it wouldn't be easy for Nandini to adjust, but he was willing to walk beside her through every challenge. Together, they would navigate the complexities of their intertwined destinies and bridge the gap between their kingdoms.

As the days passed, the palace prepared for an evening event to celebrate Manik's victorious return and to honor Princess Nandini's presence in their kingdom. The palace grounds were adorned with colorful flowers and shimmering lanterns, casting a magical glow over the festivities.

In the midst of the preparations, Sunaina, the Queen of Pratapganj, found a moment to approach Nandini in her private quarters. As her attendants knocked gently on the door, Nandini's helpers welcomed them inside with a warm smile.

"Princess Nandini, may I have a word with you?" Sunaina asked, her eyes reflecting kindness and understanding.

"Of course, queen Sunaina. Please come in," Nandini replied graciously, offering her a seat.

As they sat down, Sunaina's gaze softened with empathy. "I know that coming to a new kingdom after facing the defeat of your own must be overwhelming. I want you to know that you are not alone here," she said reassuringly.

Nandini nodded, touched by the Queen's compassion. "Thank you, Your Majesty. Your kindness means a lot to me and my people," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of gratitude despite of her heart being heavier than ever.

Sunaina smiled warmly, taking Nandini's hand in hers. "You are a brave and strong young woman, Princess. I see that in your eyes and in the way you carry yourself," she said, her admiration evident.

"You have faced great challenges, but I believe that together, we can build a new future for both our kingdoms. Let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead," Sunaina continued, her words carrying the weight of sincerity.

Nandini felt a surge of hope as she listened to the Queen's words. It was a relief to find someone who understood her position and offered genuine support.

"I would like to invite you to the evening event tonight," Sunaina said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "It is a celebration of Manik's win. I know it is awkward for you but it will give us a chance to get to know you better."

Nandini's heart wanted to refuse the invite but because of the promise made to King, she decided to accept the invitation with gratitude. "I would be honored to attend, Queen," she replied, her voice tinged with enthusiasm.

"Good! And I have something for you," Sunaina said, signallling for a beautiful wooden box on a nearby table. Maid placed it in front of Nandini with a smile.

Curious, Nandini opened the box to find a set of exquisite royal outfits, each more stunning than the last. "Oh, they are breathtaking!" she exclaimed with a sad smile.

"These are gifts from my end" Sunaina said. "I hope you will wear them tonight and feel like the true princess that you are."

Touched by the Queen's gesture, Nandini thanked her with heartfelt gratitude. She remembered the motherly love of her bhabhi at this moment and tears fell from her eyes which she wiped quickly. She didn't want to show her weak side to any of them as she didn't know whom to trust and whom not to.