chapter 9 : Fencing and Fun

The rain outside pitter-pattered against the windows, the soft hum of droplets adding to the calm ambiance of the grand college. I had always admired the sheer opulence of this place, one of the richest and most expensive colleges in the world. The walls seemed to whisper stories of centuries-old traditions, and the sprawling campus had an almost magical aura. But, as I sat in class, I realized that I had never truly explored the full extent of it. My mind wandered, thinking of all the corners I had yet to discover.

Tanu, who was sitting next to me, seemed to read my thoughts. She turned to me with a knowing smile. "Why are you looking so lost, anshi ?" she asked.

"I was just thinking I've never really explored the college," I replied, my voice drifting off as I stared out the window. "There's so much more to it than just the classes. Like Exams that were the day after tomorrow. "

Tanu raised an eyebrow, a teasing grin spreading across her face. "Of course. Princess Aaradhyanshi never forgets anything after a single glance." She chuckled, and I couldn't help but laugh too.

"Well, that's true," I said with a smirk. "then , I will meet you in the canteen then ."

The bell rang, signaling the start of our first class. It was still early, and only a handful of students were present. As Tanu got lost in her books, preparing for the upcoming exams, I decided to take a quick break and explore the college. The halls were vast, and I passed by the fencing club, judo, archery, and even a basketball court. Each one piqued my interest, but it was the fencing club that caught my attention the most.

I pushed the door open quietly and stepped inside, my eyes immediately drawn to the sight of swords clashing. My heart raced with excitement. Swords had always been my first love. I stood by the sidelines, mesmerized by the graceful movements of the fencers.

Then, I saw him- Karan . He was sparring with Nive, and from the way they were moving, it was clear that Karan was good. But as I watched him, a smirk tugged at my lips. I knew I could take him on. It had been my passion for almost 17 years in my past life , and no one could beat me at it.

I approached him, a playful challenge in my voice. "I think I can take you on," I said, crossing my arms.

Karan raised an eyebrow. "Oh really? Are you sure you can handle it?"

I grinned. "Let's make a bet. Whoever wins buys food for the other."

He nodded, accepting the challenge. "You're on. But just so you know, I won't go easy on you."

I laughed, feeling a rush of adrenaline. "Your sword won't even touch me."

The match began, and the sound of clashing swords filled the air. The students gathered around, watching us with eager eyes. Karan was quick and skilled, but I was faster. Each move I made was calculated, precise. I could tell he was trying to throw me off, but I was always one step ahead. The fight ended quickly, with Karan losing. I smirked, my victory sweet.

We shook hands, and he said, "You're good, I'll give you that. Wait for me I'll just get changed and come with me to the canteen."

"Sure," I replied, still basking in the satisfaction of my win.

As we walked towards the locker rooms, I noticed the other students staring at us, some in awe, others in disbelief. They probably hadn't expected me to be friends with my bullies . I shrugged it off. They were just surprised.

But then, I remembered something. Those students weren't just strangers to me. They were the ones who had bullied her in the past. I felt a pang of bitterness, but I forced it down. I wasn't the same person She was back then. I had changed.

As we made our way to the canteen, Karan and I chatted casually. He told me about the college's history, some of the fun memories he had here, and even mentioned the basketball court where Aryan played. I was surprised to hear that Aryan was into basketball, but before I could say anything, Karan pulled me along to the court.

When we arrived, Aryan's team had just finished a game and were celebrating their win. They spotted us and came over, giving high-fives all around. Karan quickly told them about our fencing match and the bet, and Aryan, with a teasing grin, complimented me on my skills.

"You really beat Karan?" Aryan asked, his voice full of mock disbelief. "I'm impressed."

I chuckled, enjoying the playful banter. "It wasn't even close."

Karan smirked, but I could tell he was enjoying the moment too. "Yeah, well, I'll get you next time."

We all walked together to the canteen, where I sent Tanu a quick text letting her know we were heading there. I couldn't resist adding a teasing message about Karan. I could tell she had a soft spot for him, and I couldn't help but have a little fun with it.

When we entered the canteen, I saw Rohan and Vikrant sitting at a table, working on their laptops. The moment they saw me with them, their faces were a mix of surprise and confusion. I couldn't help but smirk as Karan pulled out a chair for me. Aryan dusted off an imaginary spot on the seat, and I sat down, feeling a strange sense of satisfaction. Vikrant looked like he had seen a ghost.

"What's going on here?" Vikrant asked, his voice laced with confusion.

Karan, ever the playful one, answered with a grin. "She's our princess now. We have to obey her."

Vikrant, Rohan, and Tanu's eyes widened in shock, and I couldn't help but laugh. The tension between me and Vikrant was palpable, and I was enjoying every second of it. Karan returned with the food, and I smiled when I saw the hot chocolate he had gotten for me. It was the perfect touch. Our bet .

As we all sat down and began eating, the teasing didn't stop. The boys couldn't resist poking fun at Vikrant, and I could see the frustration building on his face. He was trying to act casual, but I knew he was seething inside. And I was kinda enjoying .

Tanu leaned over and whispered to me, "What happened? Why is he acting like this?"

I shrugged, enjoying the moment. "We had a bet. I won, that's why Karan got me the hot chocolate and for him . now he has to deal with it."

Tanu chuckled, clearly enjoying the drama. "You're really riling him up, aren't you?"

I nodded, feeling a sense of satisfaction. I wasn't going to let him get away with his smug attitude so easily. Not after actually what he did yesterday with me .

As we finished eating, I noticed that the boys were still teasing Vikrant, and I couldn't help but smile.

“What exactly happened yesterday?” I asked, my eyes scanning Aryan, Rohan, and Karan.

They exchanged glances, hesitating. Aryan, the most outspoken of the trio, finally broke the silence.

“We found some clues through our sources. There’s a network, but tracing the head is proving to be... complicated.”

I nodded, listening intently as they elaborated. Their words painted a grim picture—girls being trafficked, lives destroyed. It was sickening. I clenched my fists under the table. This wasn’t just some crime I could ignore; it was a blatant attack on humanity, on women like me.

“I want to help,” I declared, my tone leaving no room for argument.

The room fell silent again, but this time it was heavy with tension.

“No,” Vikrant’s voice cut through the air like a blade. He had been quiet until now, leaning back in his chair, observing. His sharp gaze locked onto mine. “You’re not getting involved.”

He stood abruptly, his chair scraping against the floor, and walked out without another word.

We all watched him leave, the door swinging shut behind him. Aryan sighed, rubbing the back of his neck.

“Great. Now he’s angry.”

“Angry? No,” I said, standing up. “He’s  stubborn.”

The three of them exchanged confused glances, but I didn’t wait to explain. I followed Vikrant, my steps echoing down the empty hallway.

I found him in an empty classroom, leaning against the far wall with his arms crossed. His jaw was tight, and his eyes were fixed on the floor. He didn’t acknowledge my presence as I entered, but I wasn’t going to let him ignore me.

“Why are you acting like this?” I demanded, closing the door behind me.

He didn’t respond.

“Vikrant,” I pressed, stepping closer. “I said I want to help. Why is that such a problem for you?”

His head snapped up, his eyes blazing with frustration.

“Because it’s dangerous!” he said, his voice rising. “You don’t understand what you’re getting into.”

“Dangerous?” I scoffed, folding my arms. “Do you think I’m some fragile doll? I’ve handled worse in my life.” oops ! My tongue again slipped.

“You don’t get it,” he growled, pushing off the wall and closing the distance between us in a few long strides. Uff ! He didn't notice ! Before I could react, he had me pinned against the wall, his hands braced on either side of my head.

I stared up at him, my breath hitching at the intensity in his gaze. He was too close, his presence overwhelming.

“You don’t belong in this world,” he said, his voice low but fierce. “You’re too innocent for this.”

“Innocent?” I echoed, my temper flaring. “Do you think I can sit back and do nothing while girls are being sold like property? What if the next victim is someone I know? Or me?”

His jaw tightened, and for a moment, he didn’t say anything. Then, to my surprise, he reached up and cupped my cheek. His touch was gentle, a stark contrast to his earlier anger.

“No one will touch you,” he said softly, his voice carrying a promise. “Not while I’m here.”

His words left me momentarily speechless, but I quickly regained my composure. “This isn’t about me,” I said, my tone firm. “This is about doing what’s right. I can’t just sit still knowing this is happening.”

He exhaled sharply, his frustration evident. “You’re Stubborn .”

“Let me help,” I insisted. “What do I have to do to prove myself?”

He smirked then, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Fine. Let’s settle this the old-fashioned way. Archery. Tomorrow at the shooting arena. If you win, you’re in. If you lose, you stay out of it.”

I couldn’t help but smile at the challenge. “Deal. And when I win, you’ll see I’m not as fragile as you think.”

He leaned closer, his smirk widening. “Why do you even care so much?”

“Because I’ve spent my whole life fighting for what’s right,” I said, meeting his gaze without flinching. “And I’m not going to stop now.” I trained my whole past life to be proved worthy of the throne and I couldn't see crimes and injustice .

He studied me for a moment in confusion , then stepped back, his smirk softening into something almost resembling admiration. “You’re something else, kitten.”

I bristled at the nickname and, without thinking, kicked him lightly in the stomach.

He let out a surprised grunt, doubling over slightly. “What the—”

“Don’t call me that,” I warned, smirking as I turned to leave. “See you tomorrow at the arena.”

Behind me, I heard him chuckle. “Confident, aren’t you? Don’t be late.”

The evening sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink as we returned from college. Despite adapting to this modern era, I always felt most at ease in traditional attire. It wasn’t the heavy lehengas or ornate jewelry of my past, but the simplicity of a saree that made me feel like myself.

I chose a baby pink saree, its soft fabric draping effortlessly around me. The blouse was simple yet elegant, with delicate embroidery that caught the fading sunlight. As I adjusted the pleats, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. I needed this—the quiet, the peace that only a temple visit could provide.

A knock at the door broke my thoughts. I glanced at the mirror to see Tanu standing there, her expression a mix of surprise and curiosity.

“Where are you going all dressed up?” she asked, stepping inside.

“To the temple,” I replied, turning back to adjust my bangles. “There’s one nearby, and I thought I’d visit.”

Tanu hummed thoughtfully. “Why are you so eager to help them with the girl trafficking case?” she asked, her tone soft but probing.

I paused, meeting her gaze in the mirror. “Because I can’t stand injustice against women,” I said firmly. “I can’t sit still knowing they’re being sold like property for...” My voice trailed off, the thought too horrifying to complete.

She smiled knowingly. “That’s the princess Aaradhyanshi Raghavendra talking.”

I couldn’t help but smile back. “Maybe it is,” I admitted.

“Want to come with me?” I offered, turning to face her.

She shook her head. “I have to study,” she said, then added with a teasing glint in her eyes, “Besides, Aaradhya doesn’t believe in gods.”

“But Aaradhyanshi does,” I said simply, my voice steady.

She smiled again, this time with a touch of admiration, and waved me off.

The air outside was cool, carrying the faint scent of flowers and earth. I walked to the bus stop, the saree’s pallu draped gracefully over my shoulder. The ride to the temple was short—only about twenty minutes—but it gave me time to reflect.

When I arrived, the sight before me was breathtaking. The temple was made entirely of white marble, its intricate carvings glowing softly in the evening light. Tall spires reached towards the heavens, and the faint sound of bells echoed in the air, signaling the start of the aarti.

Vendors lined the path leading to the temple, selling garlands, incense sticks, and sweets. I bought a small bouquet of flowers for the pooja and began walking towards the temple steps.

That’s when I heard it—a familiar voice, loud and unmistakable.

Turning around, I saw Vikrant and his friends standing a few feet away. Their expressions were priceless—eyes wide, mouths slightly open, as if they’d just seen a ghost. Aryan was the first to recover, patting Vikrant’s back with a grin.

“Breathe, idiot,” he said, clearly enjoying his friend’s stunned silence.

I walked over to them, trying to hide my amusement. They still hadn’t moved, their eyes fixed on me as if I were some celestial being. Finally, I flicked my fingers in front of Vikrant’s face, snapping them out of their trance.

“Are you all going to keep staring, or are you planning to say something?” I asked, raising an eyebrow.

Aryan was the first to speak, his grin widening. “We’re just... surprised, that’s all. Didn’t know you could look... this different.”

“Different?” I repeated, feigning offense.

“Beautiful,” Karan corrected quickly, earning a glare from Vikrant.

“Shut up, Karan,” Vikrant muttered, his voice unusually low.

I turned to him, tilting my head. “What’s wrong, Vikrant? Cat got your tongue?”

He opened his mouth to say something but closed it again, his eyes flickering between me and the ground. Aryan, ever the instigator, smirked and nudged him.

“Say something, man. You’re making it awkward.”

“Stop it,” Vikrant hissed, his ears turning a shade of pink.

I couldn’t help but laugh. “You boys act like you’ve never seen a saree before.”

“It’s not the saree,” Rohan  said, his tone teasing. “It’s you in it.”

Vikrant shot him another glare but still didn’t say anything. His silence was... interesting. I turned to him again, crossing my arms.

“Are you going to stand there all evening, or are you coming in?”

He finally looked up, his gaze meeting mine. For a moment, I thought he was going to argue, but instead, he nodded, his expression softening ever so slightly.

“Let’s go,” he said, his voice steady but quieter than usual.

As we walked towards the temple, I couldn’t help but smile. Whatever had rendered Vikrant speechless.

The temple was alive with the sound of bells and the rhythmic chanting of mantras. The evening aarti had begun, and the air was filled with the heady aroma of incense and fresh flowers. I held my bouquet tightly as I stepped into the sanctum, the marble cool beneath my feet.

Vikrant walked beside me, his casual attire—a simple black t-shirt and jeans—making him look entirely out of place amidst the grandeur of the temple. Yet, there was something oddly fitting about him being here, his presence commanding attention even in the serene setting.

We approached the priest, who was holding the aarti plate, the flames dancing beautifully in the dim light. Vikrant stood close to me, his shoulder brushing against mine. I tried to focus on the prayer, but the awareness of his proximity was distracting.

As the priest handed the aarti to us, he paused, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “A lovely couple,” he said warmly. “May your bond grow stronger with each passing day.”

I froze, the words echoing in my ears. “C-Couple?” I stammered, my cheeks instantly heating up.

Vikrant, on the other hand, didn’t even flinch. He simply accepted the aarti plate with a calm expression, as if the priest’s words didn’t bother him in the slightest.

“Uh, no, you’re mistaken,” I said quickly, shaking my head. “We’re not—”

“She’s right,” Aryan interrupted from behind, his voice laced with amusement. “They’re not a couple... yet.”

Karan burst out laughing, and even Rohan, usually the quiet one, had a grin on his face. I shot them a glare, but it only seemed to fuel their teasing.

“See, she’s blushing,” Aryan pointed out, nudging Karan.

“I am not!” I protested, but my voice lacked conviction.

Vikrant finally spoke, his tone low and steady. “Are you all done?”

His words were directed at his friends, but his gaze was fixed on me. There was something in his eyes—an intensity that made my heart skip a beat.

The priest, clearly enjoying the exchange, chuckled. “Young love is always a delight to see. You two look like you’re made for each other.”

I opened my mouth to deny it again, but Vikrant surprised me by saying nothing. Not a single word of denial escaped his lips. Instead, he held the aarti plate steady and gestured for me to take the offering with him.

“You’re not going to say anything?” I whispered, my voice barely audible over the chants.

He glanced at me, his lips curving into a faint smirk. “Why should I?”

His calmness only made my blush deepen. I quickly took the offering, trying to focus on the prayer instead of the teasing smiles surrounding me.

As we turned to leave, Aryan and Karan were waiting at the temple steps, their faces lit with mischief.

“So, Vikrant,” Aryan began, “how does it feel to be blessed as a couple?”

“Must be fate,” Karan added, winking at me. Huh ? fate ?

“Enough,” I snapped, trying to sound stern, but my flushed face betrayed me.

“Don’t tease her too much,” Rohan said, though his grin suggested he was enjoying this just as much. “She might run away, and then Vikrant will actually have to chase her.”

Vikrant’s gaze flicked to me, his expression unreadable. “She’s not running anywhere,” he said simply, his voice carrying a weight that silenced the others for a moment.

I felt my heart flutter at his words, even as I tried to dismiss them. “You’re all idiots ,” I muttered, walking ahead of them.

As I descended the steps, I caught a glimpse of myself in a reflective surface. To my horror—and maybe a little delight—I realized I was smiling. Okay what's happening?