Dhruv-Tara: Ek Agnidivya (Slow Updates)

Chapter: 14

The morning sun bathed the courtyard of Kalayani Bai Ji's palace in a soft golden glow as the attendee came in and announced the arrival of Yuvraj Veer "Yuvraj Veer has arrived and is asking for your permission to enter"

Kalayani Bai Ji nodded in affirmation an indication of permission, the attendee came out and passed on the message.Crown Prince Veer stood at the threshold, a mix of emotions churning beneath his composed exterior, as Yuvraj Veer made his way towards his Choti Ma, his every step a carefully measured stride. The tension in the air was palpable, a silent echo of the years that had passed since their last encounter still lingered.

Kalayani Bai Ji plastered a polite smile on her face seated on her high chair as the Crown Prince entered the courtyard she said " Yuvraj Veer, after a prolonged absence, the dawn brings a reunion. Your presence graces my palace."

Yuvraj Veer made a courteous bow with folded hands and said "Pranam Choti Ma, the dawn indeed heralds new beginnings. Time has woven intricate tales since our last meeting."

Kalayani Bai Ji nodding said "Indeed Tales of a prince who chose the wilderness over the throne. I trust your sojourn has been enlightening, and yes there's no need for such formalities..... You know that you are dear to me more then Aaryaman himself right."

Veer chuckled inwardly at this false praise and comparison, maintaining his normal voice with formal tone he said " I know very well that you never differentiate between us but customs needs to be followed right be it in the four walls of the palace or not and about staying in the wild then I can assure that The wilderness teaches valuable lessons, Choti Ma Lessons of survival and alliances that may serve the kingdom well."

Kalayani Bai Ji noticing the glint in Veer's eyes said "Your return is timely. The kingdom weaves its destiny, and your presence adds a new thread to the tapestry."

Veer With a diplomatic smile replied " Duty calls, Choti Ma. The kingdom stands at the precipice, and unity is paramount."

The conversation shifted towards courtly matters, alliances, and the looming war that had brought Veer back. The delicate dance of words mirrored the complex interplay of emotions beneath the surface.

Kalayani Bai Ji said with a sigh "Your father has managed the affairs in your absence, but your return carries a weight of responsibility."

Veer replied with a composed demeanor " My mother's insistence spurred my return. The kingdom faces a storm, and I am here to weather it."

As they spoke, Veer subtly shifted the conversation towards his recent victories in the war, the alliances he had forged, and the strategic marriages that had strengthened the kingdom.

Veer said with a hint of pride "The recent conflict tested our mettle, but victory was attained. The alliances I forged in secret proved pivotal."

Kalayani Bai Ji raising an eyebrow asked  "And your recent marriages? Princess from foreign realm and a slave girl ?"

Veer choosing his words carefully replied "Unity can be achieved through many bonds, Choti Ma. It is the kingdom's prosperity that guides my choices."

The conversation drifted towards personal matters, and Veer found himself subtly defending his first wife.

" A non-royal spouse brings challenges. The court's whispers have not gone unheard." Kalyani Bai Ji said with arrogance and distence clear in her voice

Veer replied firmly "Arunika Bai Ji, has proven her worth. Her strength matches that of any royal."

Kalyani Bai Ji retorted "She is not just an ordinary girl, she is a slave, a slave from enemy land how can we trust her? "

Yuvraj Veer replied firmly making his stand clear "I do not want to insult you, you don't take offense at my words but the truth is that, she is not a slave any more Choti Ma she may not bear a royal title, but her strength surpasses that of many royals I've known, and about trusting someone I don't think you have much experience in that"

This morning meeting unfolded as a symphony of carefully chosen words, veiled emotions, and strategic maneuvers.

There was a silence between them for few moments when Kalyani Bai Ji didn't reply or said anything for few moments Veer decided to conclude this meeting "Well I guess than this is enough for today...... I shall take your leave now Choti Ma.... Take care of yourself and rest"

Kalyani Bai Ji just nodded in affirmation and smiled clearly showing that she was not happy with the behaviour and words of Yuvraj Veer but can't do really much about it. While Yuvraj Veer made his way out of her chambers she sat there on her royal seat thinking about her next moves.