The Girl and The Stone

04. The Royal Mess

I'm not Dara?
I don't belong here?

Zia's thoughts were racing. Finally, I can stop pretending and get some answers.

Ankul spoke up, "Yes, you're not…"

Naman added with a grin, "And we've known that all along."

The Finance Minister frowned. "Why do you kids-"

"Father," Ankul cut him off, "It's time we tell her."

Vyhan stepped forward, looking serious. "Dara… you're right. You're not Dara, and you don't belong here."

Zia's heart raced. Finally, the truth!

"You are… a thief! And you belong in prison."

Zia froze, stunned and confused.

Suddenly, they all burst out laughing, teasing her.

"Guys…" Zia crossed her arms, trying to look stern. "This is serious!"

Vyhan stepped closer, smirking. "Oh, is it? Well then, get ready. We're entering the palace now, and I hope you're prepared for an even bigger punishment for the theft-maybe a lifetime supply of… laundry!"

Zia glared at him. That jerk. She muttered under her breath as she reluctantly followed.

Vyhan's smirk only widened as he led the way.

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The Palace

The palace was breathtaking, a masterpiece of architecture with intricate paintings, marble columns, and carved stones that seemed to tell the story of centuries past.

The ministers were already gathered, their gazes fixed on the king as he made his entrance.

Zia's heart raced as they entered the palace and stood before the king.

"I heard you were unwell," the king said gently.

The King
Ruler of Kingdom and Vyhan's father
Age: Around 65

"Yes, Your Majesty. But I'm fine now," Zia replied, trying to stay composed.

Suddenly, one of the ministers stepped forward. "Your Majesty, while we understand the second prince is to marry Dara, her connection to the missing Soulstone cannot be ignored. This theft is a grave matter, and punishment is necessary."

The king paused, deep in thought. Before he could respond, the Finance Minister hurried forward. "Your Majesty, my daughter is innocent!"

Next, Vyhan stepped forward. "Your Majesty, Dara could never steal the stone, and she's been unwell, as you've heard."

Zia thought, Why is he defending me? After all that talk?

Vyhan knew that the punishment wouldn't be as simple as the laundry he joked about. Even a smaller consequence was more than she could handle.

The king's gaze swept the room. "Shouldn't we hear what Dara has to say?"

All eyes turned to Zia. She had to act fast. Stepping forward, she said, "Your Majesty, I admit I visited the palace that night-but not to steal the stone."

Vyhan's eyes darted to her. "What are you doing?" he whispered.

"I came to see the second prince," Zia declared.