69 ways To Fall In Love: Saanvi [Book I]

01|

A wide-eyed and hysterical man of unknown bearing stormed past the courtroom guards. His world seemed shaken, but he held his ground firm. The chill air and unpredictable flashes of lightning visible through the palace's windows illuminated his ghost-like face.

"Your Majesty!" He cried as he fell to the king's feet. The guards tried to drag him out, but amid his struggle, he managed to get three words out. The entire court let out a collective gasp, followed by murmurings. With a crooked index pointed at the ceiling, the unknown man repeated those three words, "Gilli and Kundi." His gaze was now fixated on the king, who then gestured to his guards to let go.

At once, he collapsed, as the tears glossed over his eyes and he continued his sob story, "Your Highness, I am Maxanand, the owner- "

His words were cut off by an uproarious laugh from the King, "Shree Maxanand! I will always remember this auspicious day when you stepped into my court! Good ol 'pal, how dumb of me to not recognize you. Go forth and tell me what brings you here. "

"It is well known that there is only one Gilli-Kundi farm in this kingdom. But it's the largest one known to mankind. Recently, my sleep has been disrupted by certain looters stealing from my farm," the rest of his words were hard to make out because he kept breaking in between. The atmosphere in the courtroom was pretty tense at this point. While stroking his beard, the King ordered for Maxanand to be taken for refreshments while he pondered further on the matter.

"Sita, Laasya, and Daksh, I assign you the duty to go catch the thieves after our investigative team does their job." Beside him, his daughter objected, "Father, this is a matter of great importance. With your permission, I wish to go catch those thieves myself. It will be my first step towards being the future Queen. I promise to not disappoint. "

"You show courage, but you are well aware this is a dangerous mission. I can't let you go there for your first mission. "

Saanvi pulled out her sword and bowed before him, "I swear upon this sword that you gifted me, either I will return successful or I will forever erase my memory of this kingdom. Thus marking the end of my life as the Crown Princess." Thunder roared in the distant sky. The courtroom let out a second set of gasps.

For the first time in several years, tears welled in the King's eyes. "You have grown to be a brave warrior, my daughter. Take two other people of your choice on this mission and return successfully. You have my blessings. "

With one final bow to the king and putting her sword back in the scabbard, Saanvi made her way to her room. Preparations had to be made.

The sun was barely up on the horizon when, the next day, Saanvi was already seen in the archery yards practicing. She spotted Laasya walking toward her and momentarily put her bow down. "You didn't have to wake up so early."

"Hey, princess, I didn't wake up early to stare at you while you practice. I just wanted to let you know that I am coming with you on this mission. Besides, I have my own set of skills I can utilize. " Saanvi stared at her for a moment, then spoke, "I thought I was supposed to choose who I wish would accompany me." She almost sounded defeated.