KING'S QUEEN

Beneath the veil of duty

Happy reading 🎀

Third person pov

The days following Meera's conversation with Arad were a whirlwind of activity. Word had spread throughout the palace that the new queen was to take a more active role in court affairs, and the response was mixed. Some whispered that it was a bold move, while others, particularly those loyal to the first two queens, viewed it with suspicion.

Meera, however, had no time to dwell on the opinions of others. She threw herself into learning the intricacies of the kingdom's politics, the delicate balance of power, and the alliances that Arad had carefully cultivated. Each day, she spent hours in the royal archives, poring over documents and scrolls, absorbing as much information as she could.

Her efforts did not go unnoticed. Rani Nafeesa, who had initially been cold and distant, began to show a grudging respect for Meera's dedication. Even Rani Shabnam, who had always been openly hostile, seemed to soften, though her eyes still held a wary edge.

One evening, after a particularly long day in the archives, Meera returned to her chambers to find a visitor waiting for her. It was Malik Arif, Arad's most trusted advisor and a man who commanded respect within the court.

"Meera Begum," Arif greeted, rising from his seat as she entered. "I hope I am not intruding."

Meera shook her head, curiosity piqued. "Not at all, Malik Arif. Please, have a seat."

Arif sat back down, his expression thoughtful as he regarded her. "I have been observing your efforts over the past few days. You have shown great determination in understanding the matters of the court."

Meera smiled slightly, grateful for the recognition. "Thank you, Malik Arif. I believe it is important for me to be informed if I am to fulfill my duties as queen."

Arif nodded, though his expression remained serious. "Indeed. However, I must caution you. The court is not just a place of politics; it is also a battlefield. You must tread carefully, especially with those who may not be pleased with your new role."

Meera's smile faded as she absorbed his words. "Do you believe there are those who would seek to undermine me?"

Arif hesitated for a moment before speaking. "There are always those who resist change, especially when it threatens their own position. You must be vigilant, Meera Begum. Trust is a rare commodity in this palace."

Meera's heart sank at his warning, but she knew he spoke the truth. "I understand, Malik Arif. I will be careful."

Arif studied her for a moment, as if weighing his next words. "There is something else you should know," he said finally. "The king has many enemies, both within and outside the court. Your marriage to him was seen as a political move, but it has also made you a target."

Meera felt a chill run down her spine. She had known that her marriage to Arad was more about power than love, but the idea that she could be in danger had not fully occurred to her. "Do you believe there is a real threat?" she asked, her voice steady despite the fear gnawing at her.

Arif nodded solemnly. "I do. You must be cautious in all that you do. There are those who would seek to use you as a pawn in their schemes, and others who would prefer to see you removed altogether."

Meera clenched her hands in her lap, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on her. "Thank you for your counsel, Malik Arif. I will take your warnings to heart."

Arif rose to his feet, his expression softening slightly. "You have a strong spirit, Meera Begum. Do not let fear rule you. But do not underestimate the dangers that lie ahead."

With those parting words, Arif left her chambers, leaving Meera alone with her thoughts. She sat in silence for a long time, processing everything he had said. The palace, with all its grandeur and beauty, had begun to feel like a gilded cage, a place where every move she made was watched and judged.

That night, sleep eluded her. She tossed and turned, her mind racing with thoughts of the dangers Arif had warned her about. She thought of Arad, of the burden he carried as king, and wondered if he ever truly rested. Did he ever allow himself a moment of peace, or was he constantly plagued by the weight of his responsibilities?

In the quiet hours before dawn, Meera made a decision. She would not allow herself to be consumed by fear. She had come to this palace as an outsider, but she was determined to carve out a place for herself. She would prove her worth, not just to the court, but to Arad as well. If there were those who sought to undermine her, she would face them head-on, with courage and determination.

As the first light of morning crept into her room, Meera rose from her bed, her resolve hardened. She would meet this challenge, and she would not be defeated. The road ahead would be difficult, but she was ready to walk it, no matter where it might lead.

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Dear readers 🎀
Hope you liked this chapter.
See you in the next chapter
Till then take care 😘
-DB<3