The Royal Crucible

The Secret Garden Meeting

Yuvaraja Aditya and Anirvachaniya were on their way to Aditya's chamber when Yuvaraja Aditya asked Anirvachaniya, "So, when is your next meeting?"

Anirvachaniya replied, "Tomorrow evening in the garden."

"Garden? Which one?" Aditya asked in shock.

Anirvachaniya calmly replied, "Anahita's personal garden."

Aditya, taking a deep breath, said, "God only can save me. When my father finds out about this, he will throw me out of the kingdom."

Anirvachaniya burst into laughter. Aditya continued, "So when is your coronation?"

Aditya's question made Anirvachaniya fall silent. Anirvachaniya said, "I don't know. I may or may not be the heir to the throne of Dharmapuri. It never bothers me."

Aditya immediately replied, "But it bothers me and my father. Now Anahita is not just a princess; she is an heiress. Yuvarani rules tell us that a Yuvarani should marry a king or a Yuvaraja, not a common prince. She and her children will rule the kingdom of her husband."

Anirvachaniya nodded his head silently. Aditya continued, "My father loves Anahita more than you can imagine, my friend. He is very particular about the things Anahita uses, even small, silly things. He always wants the best. And this is the question of her life. You must think about it."

Anirvachaniya started to say something, but Aditya stopped him by saying, "Think peacefully. Take some rest. I will come once the event ends, and we can discuss it."

They used the secret path to reach the chamber so no one would know about Anirvachaniya's presence. Aditya left for the event.

Anahita had lunch and freshened up. Maids came to help her get ready. She wore a red and yellow saree with gold borders and heavy jewelry. She looked divine as usual. She was waiting for a call.

In the guest room, Sudhanshu and Rani Lalita Devi were resting. Lalita Devi observed that Sudhanshu was deep in thought. She called him, "Swami." He didn't respond. Finally, she placed her hand on his shoulder and called him again, "Swami."

Sudhanshu came back from his thoughts and asked, "Yes?"

Lalita Devi, with great concern, asked him, "Where are you lost? What is bothering you?"

Sudhanshu never kept any secrets from her. He said, "I guess Yuvarani Anahita is not in a safe place. A danger is awaiting her."

Lalita Devi said, "Yes, I know many evil eyes are around her, but it is a story for every royal family. Ordinary people think we lead the happiest, most luxurious lives, but actually, our lives are full of hatred and enemies. Life is not as easy as it seems, right? Just think about our family-how complex it is with unsaid truths, desires, etc."

After a deep breath, Sudhanshu said, "You are right. Everyone must battle in their own way. Okay, let's leave for the event and take the gifts along. We have to present them to the newly selected Yuvaraja and Yuvarani."

"Yes, I know," she said and left the room.

Meanwhile, Anahita was on her way to the hall where the event was taking place. She met Maharaja Shivendra and Yuvaraja Aditya waiting for her. Shivendra said, "Dear ones, follow me. I want you two to meet some guests and seek their blessings."

All three together entered the hall.

The grand hall was decorated with luxurious furnishings, colorful tapestries, and sparkling chandeliers. Maids were busy serving guests while musicians and dancers performed on stage. The air was filled with the sweet scent of flowers and the sound of laughter and music. The Yuvaraja and Yuvarani mingled with the guests, smiling and enjoying the celebration. A delicious feast was served, and the maids ensured everyone had enough to eat. It was a joyful night, one that would be remembered for a long time.