A warrior's heart

Part -13

The door to the library clicked shut behind them, leaving Hardik feeling more alone than ever. His heart was heavy, and the weight of their conversation with Rahul sat like a boulder on his chest. He knew they had done the right thing by telling him, but the thought of his prince's anger was unbearable. Without a word to Rohit or Krunal, he turned and made his way to the stables, seeking refuge in the one place he had always felt safe , by Mahi's side.

Mahi sensed his distress the moment he approached . The dragon's eyes, filled with an ancient wisdom beyond his years, searched Hardik's tear-stained face as he entered the stall.

"Mahi," Hardik choked out, his voice thick with emotion. "I think I've lost him."

The dragon nudged him gently, his snout pushing against his chest. Hardik wrapped his arms around Mahi's neck, burying his face in the soft scales as the sobs came in great heaving gasps.

Mahi's warm breath washed over him, a gentle comfort in the cold, unforgiving world of castle politics.

"He's so mad at me," Hardik whispered into Mahi's ear, his voice muffled by his sobs. "I don't know if he'll ever forgive me."

Mahi made a low, rumbling sound that seemed to resonate through the very core of his being. It was a sound of understanding, of comfort, and it made Hardik's shoulders relax just a fraction. He didn't know how, but Mahi always knew just what to do.

"I'm so scared," Hardik continued, his voice breaking. "What if the spy finds out about us? What if they use us against him?"

Mahi's wing curled around him, enveloping him in a warm embrace. It was as if the dragon was trying to shield him from the world, to keep him safe from the fear and doubt that plagued his mind.

For a long while, they stood there, man and dragon, sharing a silent bond that transcended words. Mahi's scales glowed a soft, pulsing light, and Hardik felt a warmth spread through his body, soothing his raw nerves.

"Thank you," he murmured, his voice hoarse. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

Mahi's response was a gentle nuzzle, his nose pressing into Hardik's neck. It was a silent promise that he would always be there, no matter what the future held.

💞💞💞

Rather than going to his chambers, Rahul found himself wandering the deserted castle corridors, his thoughts racing like wildfire. His heart ached for Hardik, and he felt a pang of guilt for his earlier outburst.

He knew his love had only ever wanted to protect him, but the revelation of secrets and the impending danger made him feel vulnerable and exposed.

"What am I to do?" he murmured to himself, pacing the cold stone floor. "Father must know, but the festival... I can't risk it."

The thought of the festival brought him to a halt. The joyous event was supposed to be a symbol of unity and peace, but now it felt like a ticking time bomb, waiting to shatter their lives. He clenched his fists, willing the anger to dissipate. It was a tumultuous mix of emotions-fear for his kingdom, anger at the deceit, and a deep, profound love for the man who had bravely come to him with the truth.

"Hardik," he whispered, the name a benediction on his lips. "I'm sorry I shouted. I miss you so much."

He leaned against the wall, his head in his hands, feeling the coolness seeping into his skin. "But what if Father finds out?" he mused aloud. "What if he sees this as a betrayal?"

The fear of his father's reaction was a stark reality that he couldn't ignore. The king had always been a firm believer in the law, and the idea of dark magic and a forbidden romance would not sit well with him. But Rahul knew that he couldn't hide the truth forever, not when it concerned the very foundation of their kingdom.