Contingent : Unforeseen, Uncontrollable, Unpredictable

Chapter 3

"Hmmm, Impressive!" Exclaimed Alex as we entered the great hall.

Total 68 different kings were present there along with their families. And 45 princes were in a race to win Alex. No wonder she is flattered.

" Welcome to the empire of Lavan" Said king Roshan, Alex's father, as Alex stepped towards him. "This is my daughter Alex, princess of Lavan. Thank you all for coming here. The first task of competition will start within a half an hour. So, all the deserving princes, be prepared!"

The great hall filled with sound of chat as King Roshan's speech ended.  I was observing people praising Alex and wishing to marry her as I moved towards her. But suddenly, the chats changed.

"Excuse me." Said someone to me," You are princess Eva aren't you?"

"Yes" I replied.

"Hello! I am prince Veer. You are far more beautiful than what I heard."

"Thank you. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to see my friend." I could feel most of the eyes glued to me by the time I reached Alex.

"Why are they staring me?" I groaned.

"Oh come on Eva, this is your first public appearance since you were 8. Of course they all find it amusing. You know what, I think we will find a groom for you here only."  said Alex.

" Oh Please NO way. Now, do you want to see the arrangements?" I proposed.

I could overhear talks of some people as we took a round in the great hall.

       "Oh my god, princess Eva is finally out. "

       "Such a well shaped body "

       "Yeah? But I was looking at her midnight black curls"

       "Dad, can I opt out of this competition? I think I should try to pursue princess Eva."

" Alex I need some air. And don't follow me" I said and stormed out of the hall. I felt sick. Why is everyone so OBJECTIVE? Can't they see anything beyond my body parts?  Can't they just focus on the competition?  I hate to be the center of attention. I shouldn't have accompanied Alex to the hall. After all, it's her day. She must have felt bad.

I could hear the signal of start of competition. Everyone is there only. Finally, I can find some peace.

I continued to walk until I realized that it has started to pour. I looked around. My train of thoughts has brought me quiet far from the Great hall. I am almost near the ground. There is some construction work going on here, at the porch surrounding the ground. The workers guards have gone inside too, for a shelter. I am getting wet.

Should I head back?

"No, you can't."

I didn't realize I said that aloud. I turned around. There's this guy.....

"Why not?" I asked.

"Because we have some unfinished business here. Princess Eva" He smirked, emphasizing the letters of my name " Let me introduce myself, I am prince Ashok. Brother of prince Kar. You remember Kar right?"

I nodded as I heard footsteps from a distance. Like a group of soldiers. Oh god! I am in trouble.