Empire of Ash and Silk

Chapter 2

Chapter 2: The Messenger's Call

The day passed quietly in the ashram after Aarav's surprising encounter. The children resumed their studies, the familiar rhythm of chanting and soft footfalls grounding them. Anaya and Laxmi, still excited by Aarav's story, had a hard time concentrating.

After their morning lessons, the children took their midday meal in the ashram's shaded courtyard. As they sat beneath the broad-leaved trees, Anaya glanced at her older brother, who seemed deep in thought, absentmindedly nibbling his rice. The encounter with the foreign men had clearly left an impression on him, but Aarav hadn't spoken much about it.

"Aarav," Laxmi ventured, leaning closer, "do you think those men were warriors?"

Aarav shrugged, keeping his voice low. "I don't know. They were well-dressed, like nobility, but they were... different. They said they were Mughals, and the man who spoke to me seemed important."

"Maybe they're here for a wedding!" Anaya offered, her young mind leaping to the exciting possibilities. "Or perhaps they want to trade silk. I heard the Mughals like fine things."

Aarav chuckled but didn't reply, casting another thoughtful look over the ashram grounds as the afternoon sun slanted through the trees.

The quiet afternoon was broken when, around sunset, a royal dooth appeared at the ashram's entrance, clad in a deep-blue robe embroidered with the Bengal royal insignia. He approached the children with a solemn expression.

"Rajkumar Aarav, Rajkumari Anaya, Princess Laxmi," he said, his voice carrying the weight of his message, "the king has sent word for your return. You are to leave for the palace without delay."

The children exchanged surprised looks but felt no sense of alarm. The royal summons was an unexpected excitement, not cause for worry. They quickly gathered their few belongings, eager to be back at the palace.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the children traveled back to the palace in ornate palkis. The city streets were busy with the evening bustle, with vendors calling out their wares and children darting between stalls. Anaya peeked out of her palki, taking in the familiar sights and sounds of home.

When they arrived at the palace, they were greeted by Rani Meera, their mother, waiting at the entrance with a warm smile. "Welcome back, my children," she said, extending her hands to them. "Go freshen up, and we'll meet for dinner in the great hall."

Anaya and Laxmi made their way to Anaya's chambers, chatting eagerly. Inside, they found Mira, Anaya's friend, who was helping her mother lay out freshly prepared clothing. Mira's mother was a maid in the palace, and Mira was learning under her, hoping one day to serve the Rajkumari.

"Mira!" Anaya called, rushing over to her friend with a delighted smile.

Mira curtsied, then laughed, embracing Anaya. "Rajkumari! You've been gone so long!"

Anaya shook her head. "It's only been a few weeks. But next time, you should come with us to the ashram!"

Mira's mother, standing nearby, chuckled softly. "That won't be possible, Rajkumari," she said gently. "Mira is not of royal blood, so she wouldn't be permitted to attend."

Anaya frowned, glancing at Laxmi, who nodded in agreement. "I'll talk to Ma and Baba," Anaya declared, her small chin set with determination. "I'll make sure you're allowed to come with us."

The girls laughed as they prepared for dinner, each slipping into fresh attire. Anaya and Laxmi wore simple yet elegant ghagras in soft colors, with matching embroidered cholis that were light but still hinted at the dignity of their royal station.

Meanwhile, in the grand court, King Bhaskar sat upon his throne, ready to receive Malik, the foreign dignitary, who entered with a small retinue. Malik, with his stately presence and watchful council, bowed respectfully.

"Sultan Malik," the king greeted, nodding with respect. "We received your letter, and I am glad to finally welcome you to our court."

Malik inclined his head. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I have come to discuss matters of trade and the mutual prosperity of our kingdoms. My court wishes to build lasting relations with the people of Bengal."

The king smiled and nodded. "And we with yours. Please, let us discuss this further."

Turning to his advisor, the king added, "Prepare a message for the Peshwa of Maharashtra, and inform him of Sultan Malik's arrival. We would be honored to host him here as well."

The court's air was relaxed, filled with diplomatic respect and anticipation of alliances that would strengthen both empires. And as the children made their way to the dining hall, unaware of the courtly exchange unfolding nearby, a new chapter for their kingdoms was quietly beginning to take shape.