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Kingdom of Rana
The afternoon sun cast a warm, dappled light across the palace garden as Princess Anya sought solace under a grand old tree, offering a temporary escape, taking a rare moment of respite after the busy morning and afternoon. The sweet scent of jasmine filled the air, mingling with the earthy aroma of the freshly prepared lunch that had just been served and the rest sent to the others as prasad. The maids, having finished their tasks, lingered nearby, their chatter filled with admiration for the man who had so unexpectedly charmed them.
Varun, the advisor to the fearsome Prince Ivaan, was known for his strategic brilliance and intimidating demeanor. But today, had surprised everyone with his willingness to help prepare the meal. His hands, more accustomed to drafting strategies and wielding power, had moved deftly through the kitchen, assisting with the preparation of the sacred offerings.
His demeanor, which was stern and intimidating, had softened as he worked alongside the maids and Anya, offering kind words and gentle smiles as he walked through the garden, there was something different about himâsomething softer, more approachable. He nodded politely to the maids, his smile warm and charming. "Good work, ladies," he praised them, his voice smooth and unhurried.
"I hope the day hasnât been too tiring."
The man who had once seemed so distant and fearsome had revealed a different side of himself.
As he spoke, the maids exchanged glances, clearly charmed by this new side of the advisor. Neha, the boldest among them, couldnât help but whisper to the others, "Who would have thought Advisor Varun of the great Virata could be soâ¦â¦â¦ down-to-earth? He seemed so different today." Anya observed Varun from the distance as she saw the maids swoon over him.
"Princess Anya," he greeted her, his voice as smooth and composed as ever, but with a warmth that hadnât been there before. "I hope the temple lunch was prepared to your satisfaction."
Anya looked up at him, her expression guarded despite the polite smile she wore. The forced alliance between their kingdoms had left a bitter taste in her mouth, and though she was trying to be cordial, there was still resentment in her heart. "It was," she replied, her tone cool. "Thank you for your help. It was... unexpected."
Varun smiled, though he detected the undercurrent of tension in her words. "It was my pleasure, Princess. The temple lunch is an important offering for you after all, and I was honored to be of service."
He inclined his head respectfully. "Princess Anya, I hope Iâm not intruding. The garden seemed like a much-needed escape from the formalities of the royal hall."
"Not at all," she replied, gesturing to the bench beside her. "Do, join me."
Varun took a seat, his movements graceful and measured. For a moment, there was a comfortable silence between them, the sounds of the gardenârustling leaves and distant birdsongâfilling the space. Anya couldnât help but notice how different he seemed from the last time they had met. He was still the advisor to the man who had forced this alliance upon her sister, but today, there was a gentleness in his demeanor that was disarming.
Unable to suppress her curiosity, and perhaps driven by a need to understand the man who had played a role in her kingdomâs plight, she broke the silence. "Advisor Varun, how is the Nanda kingdom faring? Forced Governances never usually is easy "
At the mention of Nanda, Varunâs expression subtly changed. Though he maintained his calm and composed exterior, there was a brief tightening of his jaw, and his eyes flickered with an emotion that he quickly masked. He looked away for a moment, as if collecting his thoughts, before turning back to her with a carefully measured response. "Nanda is holding on, Princess. It hasnât been easy, especially after Prince Ivaanâs capture. But weâve been working tirelessly to restore order. The people are slowly adjusting, though itâs a challenging process."
Anya noticed the shift in his demeanor and couldnât help but feel a pang of satisfaction at the thought that her question had unsettled him, even if just a little. "And... Prince Nayan?" she asked, her voice softer, betraying her concern.
This time, Varunâs reaction was more pronounced. He stiffened slightly, his gaze flickering downward as if the question disturbed him. When he looked up again, there was a hint of something unresolved in his eyes. "Prince Nayan is recovering, Princess. His injuries were severe, but Queen Nalini has been caring for him closely. Heâs receiving the best care possible."
There was a moment of silence as Anya processed his words. Relief washed over her, but she couldnât shake the feeling that Varunâs discomfort ran deeper than just the political implications of her question. "Iâm relieved to hear that," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Itâs strange... to think of Nanda as part of your kingdom now."
Varun nodded, though his posture remained tense, his hands clasped tightly in his lap. "I understand, Princess. Itâs a difficult transition for everyone involved. But know that despite the circumstances, weâre doing our best to integrate Nanda peacefully. The false the King had been feeding the country didnât go unpunished and with the Queen Nalini herself declaring acceptance of Ivaan the people have been very accepting "
Anya couldnât help but notice the slight edge in his voice, a tension that seemed to suggest he was holding back more than he was willing to say. Despite his charming exterior, there was something that seemed to trouble him deeply. "Advisor Varun," she said, her tone thoughtful. "The last time we met, you seemed so... distant. But now, you seem more... human."
Varun managed a small, almost rueful smile, though it didnât quite reach his eyes. "Circumstances have a way of changing people, Princess. When we last met, we were on the brink of war, and I had to ensure Prince Ivaanâs interests were protected. But now, things are different. The alliance between our kingdoms, though unexpected, doesnât have to be a source of resentment. We can build something better from it."
Anya regarded him carefully, sensing the sincerity in his words, but also the underlying tension that hadnât fully dissipated. She couldnât ignore the fact that despite his efforts to appear calm and composed, her questions had stirred something within him.
Gathering her courage, she asked, "And Prince Nayan... will he recover fully?"
This time, Varunâs reaction was more controlled, though there was a subtle tightening of his grip on the edge of the bench. He looked away, his gaze momentarily distant before he returned his focus to her. "It will take time, but yes, Princess, I believe he will. Heâs strong, and heâs surrounded by those who care for him deeply."
Anya caught the slight emphasis in his words, a faint hint of something unspoken. "Thank you, Advisor Varun. I appreciate your honesty. I didnât expect... this."
Varun inclined his head, his expression serious but still warm. "You deserve to know the truth, Princess. And Iâm glad I could provide some comfort, even if itâs just a small one."
Their conversation continued, touching on lighter topics as they both tried to ease the tension between them. Despite the underlying resentment Anya still felt towards Varun and Prince Ivaan, she couldnât help but notice how different Varun was from the man she had first encountered. His gestures were more open, his tone more sincere, yet there was a complexity to him that she hadnât fully understood until now.
As the afternoon light began to fade, casting a golden hue over the garden, Varun rose from the bench, his movements careful and deliberate. He offered her a respectful bow, his expression serious yet with a trace of that earlier warmth. "Thank you, Princess Anya, for allowing me to join you, Itâs been a enjoyable time for me... enlightening even."
Anya remained seated as, her gaze rose up to him steady as she replied, "The pleasure was mine, Advisor Varun. Perhaps... We could find a way to work this alliance with ease ."
Varun nodded, though his eyes flickered with that same unspoken emotion as before. "Indeed, Princess. Then let me take my lea-."
As he was about to walk away, the maids and soldiers were frantic and in a rush interrupted him.
"Anya! My doll I have been looking everywhere for you! Finally I found you!" Anya and Varun both were startled by the deep baritone voice which demanded respect paced towards them.
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Forest of Kanakpura
Indu couldn't help scold him despite her flustered state. "Just help me up, you idio- I mean my knight in shining Armor," she muttered sarcastically , even though she was feeling a mix of relief and warmth at his presence. "Hmm would you look at that, you still don't know how to ask for help, for someone who falls in so much trouble I suggest you learn that skill." With that he started moving up reaching for her.
Indu panicked and grabbed Ivaan's hand, her voice tinged with worry as she asked, "Where are you going?"
Ivaan laughed softly, his voice smooth and reassuring. "Relax, I'm not leaving you. I'm just trying to find something sharp to cut this."
"Oh, so you want something sharp?" Indu said, reaching into her waistband and pulling out a fishtail knife. "Here, use this."
"This is quite an interesting design for a knife," Ivaan remarked, his eyes twinkling with admiration as he examined the blade closely.
Indu's eyes sparkled with pride. "It's a gift from my brother. It's a unique knife that creates a V-shaped cut. I escaped the black-masked guy who was following me with this knife. I'm sure he is hurt from when I cut him before fleeing."
Ivaan nodded, impressed. "A remarkable tool indeed " he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. He carefully used the knife to cut away the obstruction, finally freeing Indu's leg. "There you go," he said, helping her to her feet with a charming smile.
Indu brushed off her clothes and teased, Huffing out air "You took your sweet time. It felt like forever."
Ivaan rolled his eyes playfully, his grin never fading. "I'm starting to regret helping you," he said with a smirk. "But I suppose I can't leave a princess in distress. It's against my princely duty or as you say."
As they walked , back towards the riverbank, the morning sun began to rise higher, casting a warm glow over the forest. The birds chirped melodiously, and the leaves rustled gently in the breeze. Ivaan was filling up the water in his wooden bottle when he heard Indu saying something hesitantly "Wait, can you turn around for a minute or like move away?" she asked, her little bit embarassed.
Ivaan raised an eyebrow, his expression both amused and curious. "Weren't you the one who didn't want me to leave you alone?" he thought, finding the situation both endearing and perplexing.
Indu huffed, crossing her arms. "I just want to wash up a little bit okay, Until then, can you hold my bunny?" she asked, handing over the small, fluffy creature.
"You brought this baby bunny all the way here?" Ivaan asked, looking down at the tiny animal with a soft smile.
Indu looked down, her voice softening. "It's you who said that the bunny baby alone in the forest is odd. How could I leave it there? Wouldn't it be killed without its mother?"
Ivaan smiled, looking away. "That's the nature of how it works," he mused, admiring her compassion.
Indu sighed. "I know that, but let me help those who I can, at least."
Ivaan chuckled, turning his back to her. "Alright, alright. Just let me know when you're done, princess." He wrapped the bunny in a cloth piece and kept it inside his cloth bag with aeration. He found it amusing that the bunny slept through it all.
As Indu washed up cleaning her exterior a little bit in the cool, clear river, she couldn't help but smile at their banter. Despite the situation, Ivaan was warming up to her it somehow made her feel safe. The sun climbed higher, signaling the transition from morning to noon. The forest was now bathed in a bright, golden light, and the river sparkled under the sun's rays.
"Okay, you can turn around now," she called out.
Ivaan turned back, with a soft smile"Feeling better?"
"Much better," Indu replied, her eyes twinkling.
Ivaan handed over her knife. "Where is my bunny?" Indu asked.
"Don't worry about it. I'll carry the bunny until we go our separate ways," Ivaan said, his voice soothing and confident.
Indu smiled, feeling a sense of relief. "Thank you........ Prince Ivaan. "
Ivaan gave a small bow, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I guess, At your service, the great princess of Rana"
Indu wanted to slap his back but she settled on pushing him forward on the way. Ivaan and Indu ventured deeper into the dense forest, their path leading them to a couple of abandoned huts and an ancient armory. The sight of the armory, incongruously situated in the heart of the forest, aroused Ivaan's suspicion. He turned to Indu, his expression grave. "Stay behind me this time," he instructed, his voice firm and commanding. For once, Indu complied without protest, sensing the gravity of the situation.
As they cautiously approached the huts, Ivaan's eyes darted around, scanning for any signs of danger. The air was thick with tension, and the forest seemed to hold its breath. Suddenly, he felt a tap on his shoulder. He spun around quickly, only to find Indu pointing towards a shadowy figure moving among the huts. "Someone's here," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. Ivaan nodded, drawing his bow and nocking an arrow with practiced ease. "Stay close," he murmured, positioning himself protectively in front of her. The figure vanished into the shadows, leaving an eerie silence in its wake they explored the area more with caution, As night approached, Ivaan and Indu concluded it could be a trick of the light. Yet, Ivaan kept sensing movement, looking around only to find nothing. He suggested they stay the night in the huts, where they found some makeshift bedding crafted from woven leaves and Paddy straws. Indu, famished and having not eaten anything, refused to ask Ivaan for help for quite some long but even her pride wasn't holding up as Time went by "I want to take a look around the other huts to see if there's something edible," she said, her voice tinged with determination.
Ivaan nodded at first but suggested feeling a bit unsafe even though he chad examind the whole place "It's dangerous for us to be in separate huts," Ivaan replied, his tone brooking no argument. "Even if there is food, it could be poisonous or old. Stay here, I'll go find something."
He looked at Indu who was waiting at the doorway of the hut He ventured outside, the feeling of being watched gnawing at him. The forest seemed to close in around him, every rustle and creak amplifying his unease. After a few meters, worry overcame him, and he decided to turn back. To his surprise, he found Indu right behind him. "I told you to stay," he said, a mix of frustration and relief in his voice.
"I couldn't just sit there," Indu replied stubbornly. "If something happens, we face it together I'm not letting you bail out on me." Ivaan smiled at her determination, a flicker of admiration in his eyes. "Alright, but stay close."
As they ventured deeper into the forest, the light began to fade, casting long shadows around them. The dense canopy above made it difficult to see, so Ivaan quickly gathered some dry leaves and twigs to make a makeshift torch by collecting few items from the armoury With a spark from his flint, the fire roared to life, illuminating their path.
The forest was alive with the sounds of nocturnal creatures. The rustling of leaves, the distant hoot of an owl, and the occasional snap of a twig underfoot created an eerie yet enchanting atmosphere. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and blooming flowers.
After a while, they stumbled upon a clearing where a tall coconut tree stood, its fruits hanging high above. Nearby, there were several fruit-bearing plants within reach. Ivaan looked up at the coconuts which was out of reach and the vibrant fruits just at arms length to get, then back at Indu, a little puzzled as to why wasn't she moving towards the fruits she was definitely famished.
"So How are we supposed to get those?" She asked pointing towards the coconut, while Ivaan raised his eyebrows had she not seen the other fruits which was right before her.
Ivaan started walking towards the other tree trying to get some of them.
Indu, disinterested and famished, warned, "It's of no use. Those fruits are poisonous."
Ivaan looked back confused. "How do you know?"
Indu sighed, pointing to the vibrant red fruits. "My grandfather taught me about them. They look tempting, but they contain toxins that can cause severe illness. We need to avoid them."
Ivaan nodded, amused at her talent she clearly was quite knowledgeable to be put in just one box of as a mere Princess. "Alright, so coconuts it is then."
Indu looked up at the towering tree and then back at Ivaan. "I can't climb all the way up there. What else can we do neither do you look like you could climb so what do we do?"
Ivaan scanned the area, his mind racing. "Give me your knife for a second."
Indu handed over her fishtailed knife, curious about his plan. Ivaan found a long, sturdy branch and began to work. Using his wit, he fashioned a hook by securely tying the knife to the end of the branch.
He tested the makeshift tool, giving it a few experimental swings to ensure the knife was firmly attached. Satisfied, he positioned himself under the tree, aiming carefully the sunlight was far too low and almost diminished making it even more harder to aim. With a determined look, he swung the branch upward, trying to catch the coconut stem with the knife. The first few attempts missed, but Ivaan didn't give up. He adjusted his stance, focusing intently.
Sweat trickled down his forehead as he swung again, this time hooking the stem. He pulled down with all his strength, the branch bending under the weight. The coconut resisted at first, but Ivaan's persistence paid off. With a final, forceful tug, the coconut snapped free and fell to the ground with a satisfying thud.
"ah Finally, Got it!" he exclaimed, handing the coconut to Indu.
Indu's eyes sparkled with joy as she clapped her hands together. "You did it! That was really incredible, Prince Ivaan!" she exclaimed, unable to contain her excitement. In a burst of emotion, she threw her arms around him, hugging him tightly. Ivaan stayed stunned for a few seconds unable to process while Indu realizing what she had done, she quickly pulled back, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.
Ivaan, trying to hide his own flustered feelings, crossed his arms and looked away, a slight smirk on his face. "Well, you are welcome I guess." he muttered, though his eyes betrayed a hint of satisfaction. "Anyone could have done it."
Indu, noticing his reaction, couldn't help but smile. "Well, I'm still grateful. You really saved me from dying of hunger."
He glanced at her, his expression softening. "Yeah, well... I think I taught you a trick or two for the next time you get lost in the forest ," he said, his tone a mix of teasing and banter.
Indu giggled, her embarrassment fading. " Don't put a curse on me but I guess I'll try to remember that, I'm really learning a lot under your guidance." she replied, her voice light and playful.
Ivaan's smirk turned into a genuine smile as he reached out to ruffle her hair gently. "Good. Now, let's start moving before it's completely dark "
Indu nodded, a warm feeling spreading through her as she wolfed down the coconut water, while moving behind him. Ivaan carried the rest of the Coconuts with him.
Upon reaching the hut, Ivaan went inside and set the coconut in a corner. He quickly began to make the hut warm and illuminated. Using the remaining oil, he lit the lanterns and started a small fire by the door to keep the cold away. After a while, he realized Indu was still outside. He looked out and saw her pacing back and forth, visibly distressed. He understood her reluctance; she was his betrothed, but royal rules forbade a princess from spending the night with a man she wasn't married to. He looked at her far a little amused.
Meanwhile Indu stood outside, her thoughts in chaos. The cold wind nipped at her skin, but her mind was preoccupied. She was well aware of the royal protocols. A princess should never spend the night with a man who isn't her husband or close family. It was a question of honor and reputation. If this became known, it could cause scandal and disgrace. Minister Rajnath would be enraged, her mother devastated, and her sister Anya would never stop teasing her.
She recalled the strict codes they were taught of they were raised to prioritize their family's dignity above everything else. Staying the night with Ivaan, even though he was her betrothed, could be viewed as violating these ancient traditions. Could she truly defy such deeply rooted principles?
But then there was Ivaan. He was technically her brethroned, and he had shown himself to be resourceful and harmless............. maybe???? She felt somewhat secure with him, and the idea of spending the night in the cold was intolerable. Her heart and mind were in conflict. "Why must it be so complicated?" she murmured to herself. "Why can't I simply do what feels right?"
Ivaan stepped out, leaning against the doorframe. "What are you doing out here? Do you plan to stay outside all night?" he inquired. Indu looked at him, uncertain. "If you're offering me that hut, wouldn't it be better if I stayed in another one?" she responded, her voice trembling. Ivaan sighed, his expression becoming gentler. "It's your decision, but I won't be able to gaurd you if you stay in another hut."
"But isn't it wrong to spend the night together? Minister Rajnath would interrogate me first, then my mother, and worst of all, my sister Anya. I don't want to break the rules," Indu said, her voice anxious.
Ivaan chuckled softly. "So you're saying rules are more important than your safety?.....................Ofcourse it should be after all you are a princess " he teased her more instead of helping her out of the dilemma with a logical explanation.
Indu bit her lip, trapped in a dilemma. "No,, Yes, but..."
"Alright, tell me one thing. Why do they need to know you spent the night with me?" Ivaan asked, raising an eyebrow. "You could simply lie to them." Indu glared at him. "I never lie to them, especially my sister. They would know I was lying just by looking at me."
"So you're a poor liar," Ivaan said with a fake yawn "Alright, whatever it is, it's your choice. I'm going inside to sleep. Enjoy the cold outside."
Indu decided to stay right beside the hut, wrapping herself in her dupatta. As the night grew darker, the cold wind howled, striking her with its icy fingers. Her lips began to tremble from the cold. "Idiot," she muttered to herself. "Couldn't he have insisted a little more? It's almost like he didn't care at all if I lived or died. I would have given in if he asked and then I could have blamed it on his insistence." The wind grew stronger, and Indu shivered, her body trembling from the cold. She glanced at the hut, seeing the warm glow of the fire inside. Her stubbornness was waning, and she knew she couldn't last the night out here. Finally, she stood up, her resolve breaking.
She tapped gently on the weathered wooden door of the modest hut. The walls, made of aged timber, creaked slightly in response. Ivaan opened the door, his face a blend of concern and amusement.
âChanged your mind?â he inquired, the dim light from the lanterns casting soft shadows on his features.
Indu nodded, her teeth chattering from the biting cold outside. âItâs too cold out here,â she admitted, shivering as the cold night air seeped through her clothes. Ivaan stepped aside, allowing her entry into the warm interior. âI thought youâd come around,â he remarked, closing the door behind her, sealing out the harsh cold.
Indu settled by the crackling fire in the stone , feeling its warmth seep into her bones. She glanced at Ivaan, who was adjusting the lanterns hanging from the wooden beams. âThank you,â she murmured softly. Ivaan looked at her, a small smile playing on his lips. â get some rest,â he advised, his voice gentle in the quiet room.
Indu was relieved that he wasnât teasing her anymore. The dreadful cold had drained all her energy, leaving her exhausted. Ivaan took his place beside the fire near the door, choosing the earthen floor over the makeshift bed of paddy straw, which lay in the corner with a worn blanket.
Indu nodded, feeling a wave of relief wash over her. Despite the rules and her own stubbornness, she was grateful for Ivaanâs silence, which allowed her to relax. She realized the bed was left vacant for her. She attempted to argue, âYou donât have to give up the bed. Iâll stay by the fire,â her voice soft in the cozy room. Ivaan waved his hand dismissively, âNo need. Iâm more accustomed to the ground,â he said, settling comfortably on the floor. Indu began to argue but decided against it she walked up to the bedding settling down silently thanking the gods for the warmth she felt.
They remained silent, the only sound being the flickering of the firewood in the fire.Frustrated and unable to sleep, Indu began to speak, âYou know, Beside my elder brother, I have a younger brother too, Amir. He is the youngest,â she said, her voice breaking the quiet.
Confused, Ivaan looked at her, wondering why she was sharing this information, his expression curious in the dim light. âWell, Iâm sharing some of my personal information first before I ask you something. So, Prince Ivaan......how many siblings do you have? Is Advisor Varun your sibling?â she inquired, her eyes reflecting the firelight.
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Someone's Jealous and that's not Ivaan ð
Anya and Varun are still very distant,
As compared to Ivaan and Indu who have started to warm up to each other. â¨â¨ðª
I would like to show the difference between Anya and Indu.
While Anya is not very forgiving and still suspicious.
It is very easy to gain Indu's trust, she still believes in the good of people.
Similar to Ivaan and Varun,
Ivaan althought quite kind and helping is very straightforward and rude at times.
While
Varun, is very calm and tactical, very careful and overall a charming character.
Just a little bits of information about the character.
Regarding the dedication page I'll be creating a separate page to tag all my loyal voter and readers, ð⨠thankyou for reading.
See you soon.
Might update next chapter early.