Lotus among the Roses

🐎 Journey to KalyanPur 🐎

The morning sun had just begun to peek over the horizon, casting a soft, golden light on the winding roads leading to Kalyanapur. The air was crisp, carrying with it the earthy scent of dew-kissed fields.

Vyom, Kumud and Devsena had set out at dawn, their carriage rumbling steadily over the uneven path. The early hour ensured a quiet departure from the capital, with only the occasional chirping of birds and the distant hum of village life breaking the stillness.

Their servants on the other hand, followed the entourage of soldiers, who departed early through the main route, to reach their station where they were meant to honor the crown prince.

The road stretched out before them, flanked by verdant trees that seemed to sway gently in the morning breeze. The sky was a clear expanse of pale blue, promising a calm day ahead, though the weight of their mission kept the group focused. Inside the carriage, Vyom sat beside Kumud, while Devsena took the seat opposite them.

"This route should take us through a few smaller villages," Devsena said, peering out the window. " By mid-day, we shall reach the edge of the forest. From there we shall ride our horses, to get to our hide out. It's a less-traveled path, so we won't attract unnecessary attention....."Kumud nodded, her gaze drifting out the carriage window as they passed fields of ripening crops.

The scene outside was tranquil, a stark contrast to the  turbulence they were about to step into. Her mind, however, was already at work, thinking of their next steps.

The realization that they were nearing Kalyanpur weighed heavily on her. They had to uncover the traitor without compromising themselves.

Vyom, sensing her distance, leaned closer. "You seem deep in thought," he said softly, his tone teasing yet gentle. Kumud didn't turn her head, but her lips curved into a faint smile. "There's much to think about, Kotadhipati ..... Our mission is only beginning...... "

Vyom's smile broadened, his eyes reflecting a mix of amusement and something more...... "You always manage to focus on the mission, don't you? But you're allowed a moment's distraction, you know......" His voice lowered to a near whisper. "Especially if that distraction is me....." His breath splashing over her neck.

Kumud finally turned to look at him, her sharp eyes meeting his. "If you think I'll be distracted by you, KotadhiPati, then I'm sorry to inform you that you're underestimating me......"

Vyom, stunned by her sudden action, stiffened, while he stared at her bottomless eyes, which seemed to suck his soul in. His heart leapt, while he felt parched. After a moment, he started to laugh. His voice was soft, and it filled the carriage like a gentle breeze.

"Ah... I wouldn't dream of underestimating you. But let's see if that sharp focus holds when I'm around....."

Devsena, who had been silently observing the exchange, raised an eyebrow at Vyom's words, trying to stifle a grin.

She was completely aware of Vyom's unfathomable, yet immense fondness for Kumud and the subtle, often playful tension between the two.
It was hard to miss the way Vyom's gaze lingered on her or how he managed to find moments to speak to her in ways that were both respectful and personal......

As the carriage approached the edges of the forest, a few people with three beautiful ferghana horses stood there.
the subordinates bowed and quickly moved away, leaving behind the three horses behind.

Kumud, Vyom, and Devsena rode in silence through the narrow forest path, the carriage long abandoned behind them.

“ He is waiting for us here,” Vyom said, breaking the silence, his tone casual as they maneuvered their horses through the underbrush. “ That certain someone you might know quite well, Devsena.....”