The Royal Crucible

Anahita's Coronation

Rajakumara Aditya, who was remarkably handsome, stole every girl's heart with just one look.
He had a golden complexion and a muscular body. Merely seeing him, one could tell of his extensive knowledge and war skills. He had been a great learner in his school days and was a favorite among teachers.
He was wearing a white dress.
Not only he, but even Anahita was wearing a white saree with gold borders and simple jewelry. Her hair was completely loose. As soon as everyone saw her, they were lost in their own world.
They were walking on a red carpet which was leading them towards the temple. It was an open temple where only the priest and the people who performed the puja could stand inside; everyone else had to stand outside.
Many priests were performing yajnas. Meanwhile, as everyone was busy in prayers, a man whose eyes were filled with lust towards Anahita whispered, "I don't know, Dad, what you will do, but I need her. Otherwise, don't expect me to be good."
His father nodded his head and said, "I know that. Now be silent and don't talk."
Sudhanshu overheard their words and was shocked, but soon the priest called out for another ritual, which distracted him.

Aditya and Anahita were performing every ritual one by one. The rituals for Yuvaraja Abhisheka and Yuvarani Abhisheka were different.

For Yuvaraja Abhisheka, Aditya performed the following rituals:

Abhisheka Snana: A holy bath to purify the body and mind.
Yajna: A fire ceremony to invoke the gods and seek their blessings.
Vedic Chants and Mantras: Sacred recitations to invoke divine energies.
Purnabhisheka: The complete coronation ritual, symbolizing the prince's transformation into a king.
Rajyabhisheka: Coronation with royal rituals, marking the prince's ascension to the throne.
Vedic Sacrifices (Yajnas): Offerings to the gods and ancestors to ensure prosperity and protection.
Offerings to Gods and Ancestors: Tributes to the divine and ancestral forces.

These rituals aimed to spiritually purify and empower the prince, invoking divine blessings and legitimacy for his rule.

Anahita performed the following rituals:

Kumari Puja: Worship of the divine feminine, honoring the princess's own feminine power.
Gauri Puja: Invoking Goddess Gauri's blessings for marital bliss and royal prosperity.
Vedic Chants and Mantras: Invoking feminine divine energies, like Goddess Saraswati's wisdom.
Abhisheka Snana: A holy bath for spiritual purification and rejuvenation.
Rajyabhisheka: Coronation with royal rituals, marking her ascension as queen.
Purnabhisheka: The complete coronation, symbolizing her transformation into a queen.
Blessings from Sages and Elders: Seeking wisdom and guidance from spiritual leaders.

These rituals aimed to empower the princess with divine feminine energies, wisdom, and royal authority, preparing her for her new role as a queen.

After all these rituals were done, they were handed clothes and jewelry to wear. The priest said all rituals were done, and they should wear these clothes and, after half an hour, they would be taking their vows before sitting on their thrones in front of the people.
As soon as the priest said this, Maharaja Shivendra agreed and announced to everyone that the rituals had ended and requested everyone to have their breakfast and be present in the great hall to witness the vow-taking ceremony.
He ordered Anahita and Aditya to wear the clothes and come to the great hall. Maharani Hemlata and Rani Ratna Devi took Anahita to help her dress.

After half an hour, everyone gathered in the great hall where people were very excited to see their Yuvaraja and Yuvarani.
Firstly, the royal herald announced the arrival of Yuvaraja Aditya. Everyone started to shout, "Yuvaraja Aditya ki jay!"
He was filled with pride. His walk resonated with the sound of responsibility, seriousness, bravery, and intelligence. He possessed the aura of greatness. He was wearing a royal blue dress with gold borders and adorned with gold jewelry decorated with red and white diamonds. He stood beside the king.
Then, the herald announced, "Yuvarani Anahita is arriving." The whole hall echoed with her name. The entire family was filled with pride. Anahita was a beautiful woman, divine in every look. But this time, she had surpassed all limits. She was truly divine. She was wearing a red saree with gold borders and heavy jewelry made of gold, decorated with red and yellow diamonds and precious gemstones. Her hair was free but styled with intricate designs, adorned with gold hair accessories and a flower as an additional touch to her style. Each step she took towards her father embraced his pride. She exuded the qualities of a great leader, brave, bold, and a formidable warrior in herself.
As soon as they were beside the king, the vote ceremony started.
Firstly, Yuvaraja Aditya took his vow: