AADRIKA : The writer of the story

Chapter 7 : A promise

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No-one

In the grand court of Indraprastha, The Crown Prince presided with a composed demeanor as political matters with neighboring kingdoms were debated fervently. He listened attentively as advisors and emissaries presented their arguments and concerns.

He possessed sharp and striking facial features. His jawline was chiseled and well-defined, giving his face a strong, angular look. His lips were perfectly shaped, neither too thin nor too full, and his eyes were clear and piercing, set beneath well-arched brows. His complexion was smooth and flawless.Despite his stoic expression, his beauty was undeniable, exuding an aura of royalty and grace.

"Your Highness," one nobleman argued, "the kingdom of Suryagarh seeks to renegotiate trade agreements which heavily favor them. We must stand firm."

Another countered, "But sire, Suryagarh holds strategic positions that could benefit us in the long term. Perhaps a compromise..."

The discussions echoed through the hall until a consensus was reluctantly reached, and the court was dismissed. Abhiraj, known for his calm and composed nature, proceeded towards the training grounds for his daily practice. However, before he could reach his destination, a palace worker hurried to intercept him.

"Your Highness," the worker bowed respectfully, "Her Majesty, the Queen Mother, requests your immediate presence in her chambers."

Abhiraj nodded and changed his course, making his way to the royal chambers where his grandmother, awaited him.

Abhiraj entered the sunlit sitting room where his grandmother, Queen Mother Rajeshwari, sat knitting. Her eyes sparkled with warmth as she saw her grandson.

"Abhiraj, my dear boy! Finally, you've come to see this old woman," she exclaimed, her knitting needles pausing mid-air.

"Grandmother," Abhiraj replied, a smile spreading across his face. "I've missed you. Court matters have been so demanding lately."

Her face softened, but a hint of a playful scowl appeared. "Nonsense, Abhiraj. You've been working yourself to the bone. You should know better than to neglect your family."

Abhiraj chuckled softly and sat beside her. "I know, Dadi. I'm sorry. It's just that—"

She cut him off, shaking a finger at him. "No excuses! You're the prince, not a slave to your duties. Look at you, so tired. When was the last time you had a proper meal, hmm?"

Abhiraj rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "I had something this morning, I think..."

"Oh, my poor boy," she sighed, placing a hand on his cheek. "You need to take better care of yourself. And spending time with me should be part of that. Who else will share all the family stories with you?"

"I promise I'll do better."

Her eyes lit up. "That's more like it!We can have tea, and I’ll tell you the story of how your grandfather and I once outwitted a scheming minister. But first, you must promise me something."

"Anything, Dadi Maa," Abhiraj replied earnestly.

Abhiraj settled beside her, curious about the promise she would ask. There were only few times she asked him to promise. He looked like a child with curious eyes.

Rajeshwari's eyes softened with nostalgia. "Abhiraj, do you remember the tales I used to tell you when you were a child? About our ties with the kingdom of Suryagarh?"

Abhiraj frowned slightly, trying to recall the stories from his distant childhood. "Vaguely, but why do you bring this up now?"

Rajeshwari sighed, realizing her grandson's lack of understanding. "Long ago, your grandfather made a promise to the King of Suryagarh. A promise that binds our royal houses through marriage."

Abhiraj's expression hardened subtly. Suryagarh was a kingdom he harbored resentment towards for reasons he had kept to himself. "Grandmother, I cannot agree to this. The promise is outdated and irrelevant in today's political landscape."

Rajeshwari's disappointment was palpable. "Abhiraj, please understand. This alliance is crucial for maintaining peace and prosperity. Besides, the princess of Suryagarh, Princess Aadrika, is truly beautiful, with a truly kind heart. She possesses remarkable political acumen, understanding the complexities of governance and diplomacy with ease.Moreover, her fighting skills are unparalleled, making her a formidable warrior. She has everything you could want in a partner."

Abhiraj's irritation grew as his grandmother continued to extol the virtues of Princess Aadrika. "I have my reasons, Grandmother," he stated firmly, "and I cannot fulfill this promise."

Rajeshwari's eyes welled with emotion as she spoke earnestly, "Abhiraj, life is not just about political maneuvering. A life partner is a source of strength and support. Trust me, my dear, love and respect can grow from the most unexpected unions."

Moved by his grandmother's heartfelt plea and unable to bear seeing her upset, Abhiraj relented reluctantly. "For you, Grandmother," he said quietly, "I will honor this promise."

Rajeshwari's face lit up with joy, her heart overflowing with pride for her grandson. She hugged him tightly, whispering words of gratitude and love.

As Abhiraj left his grandmother's chambers, he shook his head at the unexpected turn of events. Inwardly, he vowed to himself that he would make Princess Aadrika's life miserable, driven by his unresolved feelings towards Suryagarh.

Later that day, news of Abhiraj's impending marriage spread through the palace, and his siblings, Prince Vikram and Princess Meera, found great amusement in teasing him about it.

"Brother, marrying a princess from Suryagarh! Who would have thought?" Vikram teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Meera joined in, laughing lightly. "I wonder how you'll manage, brother. Princess Aadrika must be quite a challenge! I've heard she's an amazing fighter, the best anyone has seen. You better don't come in her bad books."

Abhiraj's patience wore thin, his calm demeanor slipping slightly. "Enough," he said tersely. "This is not a matter for joke. Leave me be."

His siblings, not sensing his seriousness, continued to tease until his temper flared. "I said, leave!" he ordered, his voice laced with authority.

Startled by their brother's rare display of anger, Vikram and Meera exchanged looks and reluctantly left him alone. As the palace corridors emptied, Abhiraj stood alone, his thoughts consumed by his promise to his late mother and his growing resentment towards Princess Aadrika.

"I promise you, Mother," he murmured to himself, "I will make Suryagarh regret this alliance. They will pay for what they've done to us. They will regret every wrong they've inflicted on our family."

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