3. Shadows of Doubt

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Third person pov-

Manik entered the dining hall, his presence seemed to command the attention of all who were present. Clad in a traditional Indian kurta, the fabric draped elegantly over his broad shoulders, accentuating his tall, commanding figure.

He made his way to the dining table, the servants of the palace bowed their heads in deference, their movements respectful yet efficient.
Manik acknowledged them with a nod, his expression remaining impassive, but there was a subtle warmth in his eyes that betrayed a deep appreciation for their dedication and service.

Each step he took was measured and deliberate, his movements fluid and graceful, like a king surveying his kingdom with quiet authority. The soft fabric of the kurta whispered against his skin with every movement, the gentle rustle a testament to the regal aura that surrounded him.

 The soft fabric of the kurta whispered against his skin with every movement, the gentle rustle a testament to the regal aura that surrounded him

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The atmosphere seemed to shift, the air crackling with an unspoken tension." Pranam baba sa, pranam masa," Shrikanth's eyes gleamed with pride as he greeted his son, while Neyonika practically vibrated with excitement, her eyes shining with adoration.

"Good morning, bhaisa," Cabir greeted with a cheerful grin, but Manik merely passed him a simple nod, his expression stoic and unreadable. With a quiet efficiency, he began arranging his own plate, his movements precise and deliberate as he selected fruits and sprouted pulses, pouring himself a glass of milk.
Despite the bustling activity around him, the dining hall fell into an uneasy silence, the clinking of cutlery the only sound that echoed in the space.

"How are the preparations going on for the ceremony, Yuvraj?" Shrikanth inquired, breaking the tension with his measured voice.

"It's going good," Manik replied, his tone confident and assured. "Cabir is in charge of accommodation and guests. Abhijeet will look after all the events, Vikram will handle the border force and security."

"And what about finance, Cabir?" Shrikanth turned to Cabir, curiosity evident in his gaze.

Cabir grinned mischievously, raising his eyebrows in a playful manner. "Finance, food, items that are supposed to be distributed among the villagers-everything is done, Baba sa. When I'm here, you just cheer, kun bhaisa?"

Manik ignored Cabir's antics, his focus unwavering as he continued with his meal. The others simply shook their heads, accustomed to Cabir's lighthearted banter.

"What about kaka sa and kaki sa? When will they be back?" Mukti interjected, her voice filled with excitement. "After so long, dadi sa will be here! I'm so excited."

"Yes, finally, my partner in crime is back from her yatra!" Cabir exclaimed with a grin. "I'll go and pick them up."

"Even I'll join you, Cabir," Mukti added quietly. "I have to pick up Shivansh from his school, which is also on the way."

After their breakfast and discussion, the group dispersed, each heading off to their respective tasks.

As the morning sun cast its golden rays over the bustling streets of Udaipur, Manik made his way through the vibrant marketplace, his attire now transformed into that of a commoner. Clad in simple yet well-worn clothes and scarf that blended seamlessly with the crowd, he moved with purpose and determination, his keen eyes taking in every detail of the bustling scene around him.

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