Love & Betrayal

~ The Meeting

The night has turned darker with the cold breezes of wind flowing through the corridors. The soldiers stood attentively and took a check upon the surroundings. They bowed as the king came in the view. Yudhishthir warmly smiled and nodded his head while walking towards his room. He has been so lage tonight as there were many scrolls which needed his attention. He has been getting busy from few days as the work load has grown up. Rajasuya was on their head and with that the normal chores of their people has to be noted.

His feet stopped as he heard the sound of anklets. He furrowed his brows and looked around then taking few steps to the left saw a figure on the garden sides. Looking at her attire he was sure that it was none of the ladies from their family and hence it must be the princess of shivi.
As he reached there he maintained some distance and stood far from her before giving it a call.
"Rajkumari?"

Devika there exactly knowing who it was composed herself. She has guessed it before he called as his presence was felt already.

"Pranipaat Maharaj!" She folded her palms in respect as he gestured her with a formal smile only.

"Is there any problem princess? You here at this time?" He asked with the softness and calmness in his voice. Devika was feeling nervous and at the same time happy to have this face off with him.

"Nothing maharaj, just I couldn't sleep so decided to take a walk around." He nodded before suggesting her.
"It's not like I'm forcing you but you should not stand here as it's not safe for you and definitely not alone, if you can then ask any dasi to accompany you."

"It's fine, I'm just thinking to return." She said respecting his words. Her feet couldn't move as she felt blank at that time to even walk. Her ear again got alarmed by his voice.
"Let's go princess!" He said showing his hand and she nodded walking forward.

Yudhishthir walked by her side as he felt like to make sure about her safety.

"I heard from maharaj that you have taken great command over sword fight." She smiled at him and nodded immediately.
"Yeah, it was my wish from childhood to learn Yudhkala, before protecting my people I have assure them that I'm capable enough for their responsibility. Maharani is also a skilled warrior, isn't she?"

The mention about his beloved formed a beautiful smile over his lips, he couldn't stop but praise her valour. "She is! My yajnaseni is definitely a fierce warrior."

Devika noted his words and a smile played over her lips too. He admires her and that's what she admires about him. "I have heard many stories of you both. The love you both exchanges is definitely the talk of aryavarth."

"Is it?" Yudhishthir chuckled with embarrassed look as he has never knew that such private things could be spread over aryavarth. Devika giggled seeing his face, he has changed a lot. When last time they had met he was different as if that was a completely different person.

'He never met you. You have stalked him.'

Her brain reminded her and she just shook away the thought.

Soon they reached to the corridor where her room was, he stopped and looked before meeting his eyes with her.
"It won't be a proper move if I go till your chamber, I hope you won't mind."

"Definitely not! Thank you Maharaj!" She said and waited for him to leave.

Yudhishthir exchanged a smile and then left to the opposite side towards his room. Devika was looking at his back untill his figure faded. She sighed with a smile and went inside closing the doors.

..........

After coming into the chamber he found her sleeping. He changed into simple clothes then getting freshen up went to the bed. His arms instantly took her into them as he kissed on her nape and cheek. Draupadi groaned with a smile as she turned to face him wrapping her arms around his waist.