A warrior's heart

Part - 2

After dinner in the main hall, King Lokesh summoned Rahul to his private chambers. As they settled in, the king turned to his son with a serious expression.

"Rahul, it's time you familiarize yourself with our kingdom. You must know every corner, every stronghold, and every resource we have," King Lokesh instructed, his tone firm.

Rahul nodded attentively, knowing his father's expectations were always high. "Yes, Father. I will begin immediately."

But as Rahul turned to leave, King Lokesh called him back. "Wait, Rahul. Take Hardik with you."

Rahul raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Hardik? Why him, Father?"

The king smiled knowingly. "Hardik knows this kingdom like the back of his hand. His understanding of our resources and defenses is unparalleled. You would do well to have him by your side."

Rahul frowned slightly, trying to recall what he knew of Hardik. "I've heard his name mentioned countless times today. What is so special about him?"

King Lokesh chuckled softly. "Hardik Pandya is not just a warrior. He is dedicated, resourceful, and loyal. His bond with his dragon, Mahi, is a testament to his character. You will see for yourself why he is held in such high regard."

As Rahul made his way to his chambers, he couldn't shake off the curiosity about Hardik. The maids spoke of him with admiration, the officials respected him, and now even his father placed great trust in him.

Inside his room, Rahul stood by the window, gazing out at the moonlit kingdom. His thoughts wandered to the upcoming journey with Hardik and the dragon they were to choose together. Despite his initial reservations, Rahul felt a sense of anticipation growing within him.

"I wonder what makes this Hardik so special," he mused aloud, a hint of intrigue in his voice. "I can't wait to meet him and discover for myself.

"I can't wait to meet you, Hardik Pandya," Rahul whispered to himself. "And to find out what makes you so great."

The prince knew that tomorrow would bring new adventures and discoveries. For now, he let the moonlight soothe his thoughts, eager for the journey ahead and the chance to get to know the legendary Hardik.

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Hardik got the message in the morning: He had to accompany Prince Rahul to see the various places of their kingdom. Hardik's heart skipped a beat. This had to be a joke , a cruel one at that.

He couldn't even think about the prince without imagining fantasies, let alone talk to him. And now he was supposed to give his opinions on choosing dragons? Oh god, he was in trouble.

Pacing in his quarters, Hardik muttered to himself, "Why me? There are plenty of other warriors. Why did the king choose me?"

Mahi, his dragon, watched him with mild interest, its head tilted to one side.

"What am I going to do, Mahi?" Hardik continued, his voice rising in pitch. "I can barely speak to the prince without stuttering. And now I have to guide him around the kingdom and help him choose a dragon? I'm so screwed."

Mahi let out a soft snort, its eyes following Hardik as he continued his dramatic pacing.

"I mean, why did it have to be me? Does the king know I have a massive crush on his son? Is this some sort of test?" Hardik stopped and looked at Mahi, his eyes wide with panic. "What if I mess up? What if I embarrass myself in front of the prince? Oh, this is a disaster!"

Mahi blinked slowly, clearly unimpressed with Hardik's theatrics.

Hardik threw his hands up in exasperation. "You're no help, Mahi. You're supposed to comfort me, not just sit there looking like I'm overreacting."