41 Overwhelmed mother

A soft smile spread across Siddhant’s face. But before he could take the baby into his arms, Nayantara cried, ‘Give me my baby.’ She almost sat up, even if she was extremely exhausted.

The physician looked at her in wonder. She had never seen such an impatient mother.

Siddhant held her shoulders and gently laid her back. ‘Relax, my love. They will give you.’

The physician cut the cord and put the baby in the white cotton cloth. She looked at the King. It was a boy. An heir. So as per tradition, the king would hold him first.

Siddhant nodded with a smile. ‘Give her first.’

The physician placed the baby on her chest. The baby stopped crying the moment he came in contact with his mother.

Nayantara wrapped her arms around her newborn baby and kissed his head, her heart overflowing with love and relief. He was beautiful with a round face, chubby limbs, and dark hair. After overcoming all dangers, her baby was finally in her arms. Safe and healthy.

Siddhant lowered his head and placed a tender kiss on her forehead. ‘Thank you, my love.’ His voice was small, with love visible in it.

Vida and a few other maids congratulated the king and queen. Nayantara didn’t pay attention to anyone, too lost to admire her baby, but Siddhant appreciated everyone with a smile and nod.

The midwife stepped forward to take the baby.

‘No,’ Nayantara glared at her. For some unfamiliar anxiety, she didn’t want anyone near her baby.

‘I have to wipe the baby clean,’ the midwife said to the overwhelmed mother.

‘Then do it here,’ Nayantara said, not ready to detach the baby for a moment.

Everyone was so shocked with her behavior.

‘Nayantara, they are helping you, princess,’ Siddhant said softly.

‘It’s okay, my lord. I will wipe him here. It is good for the baby to stay close to his mother,’ the midwife said.

Siddhant looked at the physician. ‘Does she need stitches?’ he asked with concern in his voice. Nayantara tensed, not ready to deal with more pain.

‘No, my lord. Thankfully, there is no serious tear. She will recover soon,’ the physician said, and Nayantara sighed with relief.

Siddhant stood up from the bed. He knew he didn’t get the chance to hold the baby. ‘Nayantara,’ he said, and she tilted her head to him. ‘I will be back in some time. Dadi ma and Aditya are waiting outside.’

Nayantara nodded. Siddhant moved away, but she held his arm.

‘Maa shri?’ she said.

‘I will go to her. I’m sure now she will talk to us. You don’t worry,’ Siddhant reassured her and walked away.

Dadi ma was sitting with a pile of new clothes and had already started sharing her happiness with the staff. A broad smile spread across her face as her eyes fell on Siddhant. She stood up and walked to him. She raised her wrinkled hands to hold his face. Siddhant lowered his head, and she kissed his forehead.

‘It is a boy, dadi ma,’ Siddhant said.

‘I know, my son, congratulations,’ Dadi ma said with tears of joy in her eyes. ‘How is Nayantara?’

‘She is fine. You can meet her. But she’s not letting anybody touch the baby.’

Dadi ma chucked. ‘It’s okay. I’ll be satisfied just by looking at my great grandson.’

She walked inside, and Siddhant moved to Aditya. Aditya hugged him and patted his back. ‘Congratulations, brother. But next time it should be a girl.’

Siddhant laughed. How could he say that his bhabhi shri had hardly agreed to one. ‘Why don’t you marry someone and bless me with a beautiful niece!’

Aditya pouted. ‘Was it necessary to bring up my marriage topic in this?’

‘I’m giving you one year. Find someone you like, or you have to marry the princess I choose for you,’ Siddhant said in a warning tone.

Aditya rolled his eyes. ‘We will see.’

Siddhant shook his head and walked away. He didn’t know what was wrong with Aditya. He had fixed his marriage with a beautiful princess when he was twenty. He was so excited to marry her, but then nobody knew what happened that he backed off from the marriage for no reason, and after that he was never ready to marry anyone else.

He shook away Aditya’s marriage issue and walked towards his mother’s chamber.

But she was already asleep, so Siddhant didn’t disturb her and came back. He sat outside with his brother, discussing baby names and the upcoming celebration. After a short while, the physician emerged, assuring him that the queen was recovering well. Eventually everyone left the room one by one. Dadi ma, Vida, and the midwife were the last to leave the room.

Aditya stood up. ‘I will come tomorrow to meet bhabhi shri and my little boy,’ he said, and he joined Dadi ma to hold her hand.

As they went, Siddhant entered his chamber. The room had turned dark with just a few lamps to see the surroundings. The curtains were drawn around the bed. And there was a wooden, artistic crib beside the bed.

Siddhant parted the curtain, and his lips curled into a smile as he watched the adorable scene unfold before him.

Nayantara was in a half-seated position with the baby in her arms. She was in fresh clothes, and the baby was wrapped in white muslin. The bedsheet and mattress had been changed. Her bosom was visible, and the baby’s small lips were wrapped around her nipple. Her body, weary from labor, was limp against the pillows, yet her face radiated a peaceful contentment.

Siddhant sat beside her and wrapped his arm around her. Nayantara dropped her head on his strong shoulder. In a few moments, her eyes started dropping. She was on the verge of passing. Siddhant noticed the baby was also asleep. He slowly tried to detach the baby from Nayantara so he could put him in the crib. But Nayantara instantly woke up and held the baby close to her chest. ‘No.’ She looked distraught as she stared at Siddhant. ‘He is my baby.’

Siddhant shook his head in disbelief. She had lost her head. ‘Nayantara, he is asleep. I’m putting him in the crib. And you should also sleep properly.’

‘No, he will stay with me.’

Siddhant closed his eyes for a moment to control his irritation. ‘Okay, as you wish,’ he said and tried to lay on his side.

But Nayantara stopped him. ‘You sleep on the couch or floor.’

‘What? Why?’ Siddhant’s thick brows knitted in frustration.

‘I don’t want you to crush my baby under your heavy body.’

Siddhant didn’t know what was wrong with her. Had she forgotten that he already had Aayushi? He could take care of the baby. But right now he didn’t want to upset her. So without any word, he stood up from the bed. Nayantara put the baby beside her and then lied down. Siddhant took the comforter and covered them. He picked up a pillow and walked towards the couch.

A sudden cry shattered the morning silence, rousing Nayantara from her sleep. She sat up and tenderly picked up the crying baby. She changed the soiled swaddle with a clean one, wrapping the infant warmly.

The baby continued to wail, and she cradled him in her arms. ‘Oow, what happened to my baby? Are you hungry?’

Siddhant woke up with the noise and walked to the bed. Nayantara lifted her loose blouse and put her nipple in his tiny mouth. The baby quieted down the moment he felt his mother’s milk in his mouth. The baby started sucking, and Nayantara relaxed. Her eyes met with Siddhant, and she blushed. ‘Good morning, my lord!’

‘Good morning!’ Siddhant said, relieved that she looked in a good mood. ‘How are you feeling?’

‘I’m good,’ she said and looked down, admiring her baby again.

Siddhant sighed and sat on the edge of the bed. She was just too infatuated with the baby. The baby fell asleep again, and Nayantara lowered her blouse. She put the baby on her shoulder and gently patted his back, the way the midwife had instructed her.

‘He is beautiful, isn’t he?’ she said, kissing his forehead.

Siddhant narrowed his eyes. ‘Nayantara, do you know who is the father of your beautiful baby?’

Nayantara’s eyes shot up at him, stunned. ‘How dare you ask me such an inappropriate question?’

The baby slightly quivered with her loud voice, but Nayantara patted his back, putting him back to sleep.

‘Oh, so you know, who is the father?’ Siddhant teased.

Tears collected in Nayantara’s eyes. ‘Why are you talking to me like this?’ Her voice trailed off.

‘Aww, my princess.’ Siddhant shifted close to her and collected her in his arms. ‘I have no intention to hurt you. But you didn’t even let me see my baby’s face.’

Nayantara blinked at him confusedly. And then she realized what she had been doing unknowingly since the baby was born. ‘I… I’m so sorry, my lord. I was so exhausted. I was not in my right mind. The attack in the library and every past incident just disturbed me.’

Siddhant kissed her shoulder. ‘I can understand whatever happened to you is not easy to forget. But I’m not the stranger you…’ And suddenly, Siddhant remembered the way he threatened her to snatch her baby. ‘Hey, you think I will take the baby?’

Nayantara lowered her gaze. She didn’t even know why she behaved like that. ‘I don’t know. I was unaware of my own actions…’

‘Nayantara, it was an empty threat. You know it.’

‘Empty threat!’ Nayantara seethed in a whisper. ‘Who can give this kind of empty threat to his pregnant wife? Do you know how deeply your words hurt me? I carried him. I nourished him. I birthed him. How can you even think of separating him from me? How will you feel if I threaten you like that?’

Siddhant sulked. ‘Now I know how it feels.’

Nayantara glared at him, and then her face slowly broke into a smile. ‘Here, your son!’

Siddhant gazed down at the sleeping infant before he took him in his arms. Nayantara smiled. The baby looked so tiny in his beastly arms. The little boy looked so peaceful, his angelic face a stark contrast to his father’s rugged features. As if sensing his father’s touch, the baby yawned softly and nestled his head into Siddhant’s palm. He teased his tiny fist, and with surprising strength, the baby grabbed hold of Siddhant’s finger.

‘You stay with him. I will be back in a moment,’ Nayantara said and slowly rose on her feet.

‘Call Vida.’

‘No, I will manage.’ Nayantara walked into the bathroom, and Siddhant sat there with his boy.

She came back in a few moments and dropped herself on the bed.

Siddhant frowned. ‘Are you all right?’

‘I’m feeling weak.’

Siddhant nodded sympathetically. ‘It will take some time for you to recover completely.’

Suddenly, the curtains of the door parted, and Rajmata walked in. Siddhant and Nayantara exchanged a glance. She walked beside the empty side of the bed and sat on it. Her eyes fell on the baby, and Siddhant forwarded his hands. ‘Your grandson, maa.’

Without a word, Padmini took the tiny bundle in her arms. She stared at the baby, and silent tears rolled down her cheek.

She looked up at Nayantara. ‘Forgive me, daughter, for everything I did with you.’

‘No, maa shri. Why are you saying this?’

‘I’m your culprit. My daughter tried to kill you.’

Nayantara eyed her sadly. ‘It was not your fault, maa.’

‘It was my fault for whatever happened to you, Chitra, and Mrignayani. I did not give good values ​​to my daughter.’

‘Maa, please forget about it.’

‘I cannot, Nayantara. The guilt of tormenting you is killing me. I never accepted you. I never give you a mother’s love. I changed your medicine. And when you needed me the most, I didn’t take care of you.’

Siddhant thinned his brows. ‘Medicine?’

Padmini smiled weakly. ‘Oh, look like you did not complain to your husband about your mother-in-law, huh?’

‘Maa, leave it, na,’ Nayantara raved.

Siddhant looked at Nayantara and then his mother. ‘What she didn’t tell me?’

‘I had changed her medicine to get her pregnant,’ Padmini said.

Siddhant gaped at his mother. He wanted the baby, but not by cheating and forcing her. ‘Maa, you shouldn…’

‘Please, my lord,’ Nayantara cut him off. ‘I’m in a good mood. And now you all, please stop talking about all these.’

Siddhant nodded. Padmini shifted near Nayantara and asked her about her health.

The curtain of the door parted again, and Dadi ma and Aditya walked in. Aditya hesitated a little, as Padmini didn’t like his presence.

But to his surprise, Padmini smiled at them and then looked down at the baby. ‘Look, who is here! Your kaka shri and Badi dadi ma.’

Everyone surrounded Nayantara and the baby, and Siddhant excused himself to take a bath. He had to conduct the hearing after all.

Siddhant got ready and went to the throne hall. Aditya also left with him. Padmini and Dadi ma stayed with her until the midwife came for her checkup and massage.

Padmini had arranged a feast for the entire palace staff, and Dadi ma and Aditya had arranged donations. Money, clothes, food, and some other things. Siddhant gave special gifts to the physician, midwife, Vida, and some other maids who had helped Nayantara in her delivery. There would be a big celebration once Nayantara started feeling better.

According to the constellation, the royal astrology decided the baby’s zodiac. And Nayantara named him Yugvijay as per his zodiac. It was after her father’s name. Digvijay. However, Siddhant didn’t like this idea but accepted it anyway.

A week had gone by. The morning was still and serene. Nayantara stepped out of the dressing room, the fragrance of bathing oil clinging to her skin. She was feeling much better. Her mother-in-law cooked so many healthy dishes for her, so she could gain her energy and strength. Nayantara felt blessed to have the mother’s love she so yearned for. Padmini was softer with Aditya as well.

The chamber was empty, and she wandered into the garden. A smile immediately spread across her lips as she found Siddhant strolling through the garden with Yug peacefully asleep on his shoulder. She walked towards them.

‘Look, your mother is here,’ Siddhant said as he slowly lowered the baby and cradled him in his arms.

They settled down on the bench. The baby yawned and slightly opened his eyes. Siddhant smiled and caressed his head with his thumb.

Nayantara stared at father and son for a moment before she said. ‘My lord?’

‘Hum,’ Siddhant hummed without lifting his eyes from the baby.

‘Are you happy?’

He frowned at her. ‘What kind of question is this? Of course, I’m happy.’

‘No, actually, you always wanted a girl, so…’

Siddhant’s heart ached. No matter how hard he tried not to think about Aayushi, but that was not possible. Aayushi was a part of his soul. And that part would always remain wounded.

He put a smile on his face as he said, ‘Don’t worry, I will put a lot of babies into you. You have to give me a girl,’ he said in a straight manner.

Nayantara cringed at the thought of another pregnancy.

Siddhant chuckled seeing her bleached face. ‘Realx, relax, I was just teasing you. I won’t force you to have one more baby. But yes, I want many babies, so when you’re ready, just tell me.’

Nayantara blushed furiously and slapped his bicep. ‘Wish and expectation is also one kind of force.’

Suddenly, the baby started crying, drawing his parents attention back to him.

‘Here, now take care of your son. I’m getting late for hearing,’ Siddhant said as he put the crying baby in Nayantara’s lap. He stood up and walked away.

Nayantara slowly swung the baby in her arms, and he slept again. She was wondering how far she had come with Siddhant. She had never even dreamed that she would ever get married. Her uncle would never let that happen. But then Siddhant came into her life like a storm. He was the biggest enemy of Anhilwara. If it wasn’t a forced marriage, she would never have chosen him. But all these impossible things happened. And here she was, holding his child into her arms. She should feel complete. She had all the happiness a woman could dream of, but still a sense of incompleteness lingered. What was missing?

The answer was clear. Anhilwara.

She lovingly caressed the baby’s head, and he leaned his head against his mother’s warmth. ‘Do you know, my baby, you are the one I love the most in this world. But Anhilwara is my motherland. My kingdom. My pride. My responsibility. Our ancestors gave us a prosperous kingdom. But then my uncle sat on the throne, and everything ruined. Our economy has collapsed. Inflation has risen. The crime rate has increased. And then your father won it and threw a protection tax to control the damage of Maharav. There is no one to protect my motherland. If I don’t do anything, everything will be finished one day. Anhilwara will lose its glory.

42 She cries

‘Where are we going? Is everything okay in the kingdom?’ Nayantara asked, seeing her husband’s serious face.

‘Yes, everything is okay. I want you to meet someone,’ Siddhant said with a heavy heart.

The past month had been idyllic. Nayantara and Yug were blissfully happy, and Siddhant found peace in their joy. However, today, he was about to shatter her contentment. He could no longer keep Rajendra hidden from her. Both Anhilwara and Maharav people knew about this. But Nayantara didn’t know yet, as she was spending most of her time in her chamber, not interfering in any matter, but at any time, anyone could give her the news of his victory. So now he must tell her.

Nayantara narrowed her eyes. ‘Who?’

‘You will know.’ Siddhant said plainly. He knew this was difficult for her. But it’s time to break her shell, or she would never come out of her past.

They ventured into the south wing, and Nayantara’s curiosity piqued. She quickened her pace to keep up with her husband.

They halted before the imposing iron door, and the guards swung it open. They stepped into a vast, windowless chamber. The guards ignited the lamps, illuminating a stark room fitted with only a cot, a chair, and a water pot.

‘Nayantara…’ A familiar, acidic voice pierced the silence, sending a shiver down Nayantara’s spine.

It couldn’t be him. The clang of shackles echoed through the chamber as a figure lunged from the shadows. The guards, ever vigilant, intercepted the desperate man before he could reach the queen.

‘Uncle!’ Nayantara muttered in shock.

Rajendra was standing in front of her, chained to shackles.

‘What are you doing here?’

‘After doing everything, you are acting innocent?’ Rajendra shrieked.

Nayantara blinked at him confusedly and then looked at Siddhant. ‘What is this, my lord? What is he doing here?’

‘I abducted him, and brought him here. I was in Anhilwara when Aditya went to protect Gokar,’ Siddhant said her truth.

‘You attacked Anhilwara? Why?’ Nayantara inquired in a whisper.

‘For you, my queen,’ Siddhant stated.

Nayantara thinned her brows.

‘You think I will not find out?’ Siddhant whispered, looking at Nayantara’s expression carefully.

Nayantara gulped as she realized what Siddhant was talking about. ‘What do you know?’ she mumbled.

‘Your Daai ma told me everything. I know how much this man tormented you.’

Nayantara lowered her eyes, her hands fisted on her skirt, too shocked to say anything.

Siddhant placed his hand on her shoulder to soothe her nervousness. ‘I want you to decide his punishment.’

‘Nayantara, you ungrateful girl. I took care of you, and this is how you are paying me. How dare you attack Anhilwara? What have you filled in your husband’s head?’ Rajendra shouted.

Nayantara flinched at his hatred tone.

‘My lord, this girl is a liar. She is spoiled and mannerless. What did she fill in your head against me? Why did you attack us?’ Rajendra asked in a flattery tone.

‘Shut up!’ Siddhant snapped. ‘Keep your mouth shut until you ask to speak.’

The guard grabbed his jaw and put a gag in his mouth.

Siddhant kept his angry glare at Rajendra as he asked, ‘Nayantara, would you like to decide his punishment here, or do you want to announce your judgment in the throne hall?’

‘Punishment!’ Nayantara’s voice came out lost and broken. ‘What punishment should I give to my dearest uncle? Even death punishment is small for him.’

Rajendra thrashed in the guards’ grip, trying to free himself.

Siddhant stroked his beard before he said, ‘Nayantara, I can understand your pain, but still, death is a big punishment…’

‘You think I hate him because he torments me?’ Nayantara cut him off. ‘You don’t know anything. He… he…’

Siddhant held her shoulders and turned her towards him. ‘Nayantara, what are you hiding from me? Is there anything else I don’t know?’

Nayantara’s breathing turned heavy, and fear covered her eyes. She looked at Rajendra’s hideous eyes, and all her courage died. He was glaring at her in a murderous way.

Siddhant grabbed her jaw and turned her face back to him. ‘Look at me, Nayantara. I’m here. You don’t have to be scared of him.’

Nayantara grabbed his arms to collect her strength. ‘My lord!’

‘Yes, tell me,’ Siddhant encouraged her.

‘He… He… killed my father.’ She burst out her pain and fear. Her voice was barely a whisper, but Siddhant heard it.

‘What? Was King Digvijay murdered?’ Siddhant asked in utter shock. Her secret was more darker than he thought. ‘How this happened? What do you know, Nayantara?’

Nayantara turned numb, and her palms started sweating as that traumatic incident replayed in her head. She didn’t want to talk about it as if speaking of it would recur that incident.

Siddhant cupped her face. She always seemed so mature, but in this moment, Siddhant felt like he was dealing with a little, scared girl. ‘Calm down, my love. You are safe. I’m here with you. Tell me, what had happened to your father?’

‘I… I…’ Her breathing came out rugged. Her mouth went dry.

‘My princess is very brave. C’mon, tell me,’ Siddhant cooed like he was talking to a small girl.

Nayantara took a shaky breath, feeling a shiver in her body. Rajendra was thrashing in the background, making a rattling sound of shackles. Nayantara tried to focus on her husband as she said, ‘I was… I was playing with my friends.’

‘Yes, you are playing with your friends. Then what happened?’ Siddhant asked, his voice soft and patient.

‘I came into my father’s chamber to hide. I hid behind the couch. Then my father and uncle came in. They were shouting at each other. Their voices were so loud.’

‘On which topic?’

‘I don’t know.’ Nayantara’s memories were of an eight-year-old child. So she didn’t remember the details.

‘Then what happened?’

‘Then my father started coughing. My uncle poured a glass of water and added something to it. My father drank that water and then he fell and never woke up. Uncle smirked seeing him like that. When my uncle left, I came out and shook my father. I called him. But he didn’t wake up. He didn’t take me into his arms. He left me,’ Nayantara cried out with a sharp ache in her heart. For the first time, her tears left her eyes in front of someone.

‘Oh, my princess,’ Siddhant pulled her into his arms and hugged her tightly.

Nayantara buried her face in his firm chest and cried even louder. ‘He killed my father. He ruined my life.’

Siddhant looked at Rajendra with Nayantara still against his chest. ‘Why did you kill your own brother?’ Siddhant demanded, and the guards removed the gag from Rajendra’s mouth.

‘Because I hate him,’ Rajendra burst out, accepting his crime without any shame. ‘He always got what I wanted. He got the throne just because he was elder. I wanted to marry Gayatri. But she chose my brother because he was the king. I had to always ask his permission for everything. Without his sign, I could even use a single coin. So I killed him. I thought after his death I got Gayatri. But no, she also died and left this burden on me,’ he shrieked, glaring at Nayantara with hatred.

‘Rajendra,’ Siddhant roared in warning. How could he call her niece a burden? ‘One more word against my queen and I will cut off your tongue.’

Nayantara was still sobbing against his chest, and Siddhant rubbed her back. She looked intensely vulnerable, unable to ask anything, so Siddhant interrogated on her behalf. ‘But when you got the throne, then why did you torment a little girl?’ he asked sternly.

‘Because I wanted revenge from my brother. I wanted to suffer his soul by torturing his daughter the way he did with me. I was the prince. But still, I had to give an account of my expenses. He had fixed my salary. I couldn’t take extra money from the treasure without his permission. He had made my life hell. So I made his daughter taste the same life that I had endured. But it was my mistake. I should have killed this sassy girl,’ Rajendra seethed bitterly.

Nayantara started crying uncontrollably, and Siddhant patted her head.

‘You sick man,’ Siddhant said with disgust. ‘She is your niece. She was just eight. You should have kept her away from the brother’s fight.’

Nayantara cried harder, and Siddhant immediately took her away from that room.

‘Shhh… calm down, my princess.’

Her lips trembled as she struggled to control her cry. ‘Let’s go back. I don’t want to stay near him.’

Siddhant nodded, wrapping his arm around her protectively as they walked back to their chamber. Nayantara kept her head low so nobody could see her tears. Her uncle’s hate and bitterness towards her was just heart wrenching for her.

They entered the chamber. Siddhant made her sit on the bed and brought her a glass of water. She was hiccuping badly, and he helped her drink a few sips, his other hand caressing her head.

Putting the glass aside, he sat beside her. ‘Are you all right?’ he asked, rubbing her back, and she again burst into tears.

‘Oh, my princess,’ Siddhant pulled her on his lap and cradled her against his chest. ‘It’s okay. Cry it out. Cry it out everything.’

Nayantara wrapped her arms around his neck and hid her face in the crook of his neck. She kept crying, and Siddhant didn’t say a word. He held her close and let her cry out all her pain, misery, and despair. His heart bled seeing her like this. The poor girl kept everything in for so long.

Slowly she quieted down, and Siddhant offered her more water.

‘Why didn’t you tell me, Nayantara, huh? You had to just ask me, and I would have killed your uncle.’

‘Because I didn’t trust you.’ Her voice was feeble. ‘My mother had told me not to trust anyone if I wanted to survive.’

‘Oh, my princess,’ Siddhant caressed her head and kissed her temple. Now that he knew the taste of betrayal, he could understand Nayantara’s pain and trust issues. She was just a child when she faced everything. She lived in fear all her childhood. Her father’s killer was in front of her all the time. And it was no one but her uncle.

‘I was not ambitious, my lord.’ Nayantara pulled back and wiped her eyes. ‘I didn’t have big dreams. I didn’t want the throne. I didn’t want to rule. I was a simple princess. All I wanted was my parents and a loving husband. But nobody protected me. My father left me on my own.’

‘I know, my love. I can understand. You are so strong.’

Nayantara slipped off from his lap and stood up, wiping her freshly rolled tears from her eyes. ‘All my dreams broke. All my hopes died. And when no prince came into my life, when no one rescued me, then I decided to kill my uncle and claim my rights on the throne.’

Siddhant eyed her proudly. It was really a brave move. He had never seen a princess like her who had the courage to dream of the throne.

‘But then you attacked Anhilwara,’ Nayantara continued to cry out her pain. ‘And ruined my plan. If my father were alive, none of this would have happened. You couldn’t dare to look at my kingdom. You couldn’t dare to look at me.’

Siddhant sighed. Why does she forget every time that her father killed my father? But this was not the time to fight with her.

‘I know you married me because you also wanted to hurt my father’s soul by crushing his pride, just like my uncle. You guys just want Anhilwara to show your power. You don’t care about Anhilwara’s people, and its development. You guys just want to suck its glory and wealth. But you guys could break me, not my kingdom. I will never let anyone ruin my kingdom. Anhilwara is mine. It is not yours. It is not my uncle’s. It is mine and only mine. I’m capable of taking care of my kingdom,’ Nayantara shouted maniacally.

Siddhant stood up and collected her in his arms. She was so wounded. ‘Yes, my princess, calm down. Anhilwara is all yours. I won it for you.’

Nayantara shook her head, and a few more tears rolled down her cheeks. ‘How could I take it now? If I would have killed my uncle, then it was mine. But you won it, so now it is yours,’ she wept.

‘No, my love. I won it for you,’ Siddhant said, wiping her tears.

‘You are the one who said the throne is not something to be given as a benefaction.’

‘This is not benefaction. I ruined your plan to kill your uncle, so now I’m trying to fix my mistake.’ He grabbed her shoulders and looked into her tearful eyes. ‘I promise you, Nayantara. You will sit on the Anhilwara throne.’

‘Nayantara,’ Suddenly, Rajmata’s voice caught their attention.

Nayantara immediately stepped away from Siddhant and quickly wiped her face with the edge of her dupatta.

‘Why didn’t you come to take Yug? He is hungry,’ Padmini cradled the baby, who was crying into his arms.

Nayantara almost ran to her mother-in-law. ‘Sorry, maa shri. I was about to come.’

Padmini stared at her washed-off face. ‘What happened to you? Are you crying?’

Nayantara shook her head. ‘No, no.’

Padmini looked at her son. ‘What happened, Siddhant? Were you guys fighting?’

‘No, maa, I just smelled a weird flower and started to sneeze,’ Nayantara immediately lied as per her nature.

Siddhant shook his head in disbelief. Same old lie.

Padmini regarded her for a moment before she put the baby into her arms. The baby started crying even louder as he came into his mother’s arms, as if complaining about his mother’s negligence.

‘Oh, my baby… no… no… don’t cry… I know. I know. Maa is so bad,’ she cooed and cradled the baby as she walked to the bed. She sat on the bed and unhooked her blouse. The baby quieted down as he got his mother’s divine milk.

Padmini looked at Siddhant. ‘Take care of her. Her bad mood can affect the baby.’

Siddhant nodded. ‘Yes, maa, I will.’

Padmini walked out, and Siddhant turned to Nayantara.

Nayantara was quiet now, watching her son lovingly. She hummed a tender lullaby, lulling the baby. She was always at peace when she was with her boy.

Now one thing he was sure of. If he wanted to heal his wife completely, he had to give her her kingdom. He had to let her rule on Anhilwara.

Siddhant had also experienced the taste of betrayal, but it didn’t make him lose his trust in everything and everyone. But Nayantara was dangerously ill. She didn’t trust her Daai ma, who had raised her. She didn’t even trust her husband. She hid her biggest pain and secret from everyone.

43 Separation

Nayantara had made her decision. She wanted life imprisonment for Rajendra. She didn’t want him to die. He had already lost everything. His son-in-law died. His grandchild was sick. She wanted him to live his entire life with all these painful memories. And moreover he had lost his throne for which he had killed his brother and sold his niece.

Rajendra’s chapter ended in her life. And Nayantara tried to focus on the grand celebration going to happen in the palace.

She was nervous. She had no idea how she would face Kathan and Vishakha. She was not responsible for their condition. But still, when someone was unhappy in the family, then it would affect your life as well. She wanted to mend her relationship with Kathan and Vishakha.

Kathan came to the celebration with some toys for Yug. First he tried to avoid Siddhant, but then ended up crying into his arms. Siddhant also cried and tried to explain to him that he also loved his sister, but she committed murders, and he was forced to punish her. Eventually Kathan accepted the reality. Siddhant assured him that he was not alone. His mama shri would always be with him through thick and thin.

Vishakha came with her son. And to Nayantara’s surprise, she looked happy. Her son was doing better, so she was content. Nayantara tried to talk about her father and husband, but she cut her off. She just didn’t want to talk about them. Her husband was abusive and a womanizer, and her father didn’t say a word to his son-in-law when he decided to marry again. They both were the reason of her pain. She asked for Nayantara’s forgiveness for whatever she and her parents did with her. She had no idea that her father killed Nayantara’s father. This news was shocking for her too. Siddhant and Nayantara expressed their plans to marry her again, but she released shocking news. She was in love with the spy Siddhant had sent for her protection. She requested her Jija shri (brother-in-law) not to call him back to Maharav, and of course, how could Siddhant say no to that beautiful face. However, Nayantara was not ready to accept this illegitimate relationship. She wanted Vishakha to marry him, so she didn’t have to face any problem in the future. But Vishakha was forced to keep their relationship a secret, as her in-laws would never let her go with someone else.

By the time the celebration ended, Nayantara was so happy. Kathan went to Gurukul with a smile on his face, and her little sister was finally with her side and happy with her spy lover.

---

A few days passed.

‘So? What is the news?’ Siddhant asked the informer. He had already dispatched his men to Anhilwara’s cities and villages. Their mission was to mingle with the people, spreading tales of Nayantara’s selfless work to Maharav’s people. He aimed to cultivate Anhilwara’s acceptance of her as their future queen, ensuring their enthusiastic welcome when he proclaimed her reign. He yearned to witness hope and anticipation, not skepticism, in their eyes.

‘The news is good, my lord,’ the informer said. ‘We didn’t have to do much. They already love Princess Nayantara as she is King Digvijay’s daughter. They think she will be as talented as her father. And when they found out what the Princess did for Maharav, they were angry and jealous that you snatched their princess. Actually, they… how could I say…’

Siddhant narrowed his eyes. ‘What?’

‘Your image is not good there. They hate you. They don’t like that you married their princess.’

Siddhant gave a small laugh. Anhilwara is never going to accept me. They won’t stay quiet until they separate me from my wife.

---

Outrage erupted within the family when Siddhant declared his intention to bestow the Anhilwara throne upon Nayantara. This time, not only Padmini but also Dadi ma got angry with Nayantara. They adamantly rejected the idea, deeming it utterly unacceptable.

It took Siddhant several days, but he eventually persuaded them to acquiesce. However, Dadi ma imposed a condition. Nayantara wouldn’t leave until Yug turned one. He was small and relied entirely on his mother. Dadi ma didn’t want her to ignore her baby in pursuit of the throne.

Siddhant agreed to this condition. At least he would have a year to spend with his wife and child.

Nayantara had nothing to do with this chaos. She knew Siddhant had promised her the throne, but she didn’t think it was a real promise. She was so overwhelmed with grief that day, and she had wept uncontrollably. Perhaps, in an attempt to soothe her, he had made the impulsive promise of the throne. She couldn’t even dare to ask about it as she didn’t win it. But whatever he did for her was just heart touching. She didn’t have words to express her gratitude for her husband’s extraordinary efforts. Though she always remained silent and hid everything, he still sensed her pain and sorrow. She felt blessed to have him as her husband.

---

A year flew by in a blink.

Nayantara couldn’t believe her husband’s promise was real until today, when they were finally leaving for Anhilwara. She looked around in her chamber, every corner of it had beautiful memories she had made with her husband. Her eyes were dry, but her heart was crying. She had never thought leaving Maharav would be this much difficult. She always wanted to go back. But now when this time had arrived, her heart was splitting.

Finally she had all the happiness. She wanted to forget everything and live this new life. There was a battle between her heart and soul. Her heart wanted to live here, in the comfort of her husband’s protective arms. Anhilwara never gave her anything, then why should she go there? But her soul was not ready to be selfish. Anhilwara was her motherland. She couldn’t forget about her existence. She couldn’t forget about her parents, who brought her into this world. She couldn’t cheat her people. She couldn’t just selfishly abandon her kingdom for a blissful domestic life with her husband. She had no elder brother or sister to inherit the throne. She was the only child of her parents, so it was her duty to safeguard her kingdom’s legacy. Her pride.

Nayantara sat in the chariot with a heavy heart. Siddhant didn’t take the horse. He also sat with Nayantara. He wanted to spend as much time as possible with his wife and son.

Padmini was also coming with them. She was angry with Nayantara, but she didn’t want to live without her grandson. Aditya had already left for Anhilwara to look after the arrangements of the ceremony.

Nayantara’s new journey started. She was not this sad even at the time of her bid farewell, when she was leaving Anhilwara. She rarely talked to anyone, her thoughts a whirlwind of uncertainty and hope.

But the moment she entered the capital of Anhilwara, she forgot about all her pain as the Anhilwara people erupted in a jubilant welcome. There was a huge crowd, cheering, howling, and showering flowers on her chariot.

Nayantara opened the window of her chariot to acknowledge the people’s enthusiasm and love. She graced them with a smile and a wave.

They reached the palace, and it was decorated like a new bride. The priest decided the time for the coronation, which was after two days. Nayantara was so overwhelmed with her surroundings that she couldn’t even see how broken Siddhant was.

The day of the crowning ceremony came. Nayantara was splendidly dressed in red attire and gold ornaments. She left Yug with his grandmother. She made sure that Yug was well fed and rested before she left for the ceremony, so he didn’t bother his grandmother.

Siddhant was ready to take her to the throne hall. Nayantara sat on her knees and touched her husband’s feet.

Siddhant placed his hand on her head. ‘May you find your inner peace.’

Nayantara looked up. ‘What is this, my lord? I want the blessings of success.’

‘You will need this,’ Siddhant whispered in a barely audible voice.

‘What?’ Nayantara blinked at him confusedly.

Siddhant smiled and raised her on her feet. ‘You are going to sit on the Anhilwara throne. How much more success do you want, huh?’

Nayantara smiled and hugged her husband tightly. ‘Everything seems like a dream, my lord,’ she muttered. She had never thought Siddhant would give her her kingdom back, which he had won twice.

Siddhant’s warm hand enveloped Nayantara’s small one as they walked towards the throne hall. A surge of nervous energy coursed through Nayantara as they stepped into the grand hall. Every eyes were looking at her with different expressions — proud, judgment, envy, anger, happiness. She took a sharp breath to calm her racing heart. Sensing her nervousness, Siddhant gently squeezed her palm in his huge hand. His reassuring grip on her hand filled her with strength. She smiled, finding solace in his comforting presence. He led her to the throne and made her sit on it. Nayantara’s eyes roamed on the guests. Her entire maternal family was there. Vishakha was also there with her spy lover. Her son was with Yug. The priest performed the crowning ritual, and then Siddhant placed a magnificent gold, diamond-studded tiara upon Nayantara’s head.

A surge of awe swept through the hall witnessing the historic moment.

Nayantara looked at Siddhant’s eyes and gave a big smile. She was so happy. She held his arm to make him sit beside her. But Siddhant stepped back. He took her soft palm in his and kissed her knuckles. ‘Rise and shine, my queen,’ he said with a small proud smile on his lips.

Before Nayantara could say something, he turned around and walked out of the hall, leaving her alone on the throne.

Nayantara wanted to run behind him, but the throne didn’t allow to show that kind of weakness. So she remained seated and kept a smile on her lips. Aditya was still there, cheering for her.

There was a massive crowd gathered outside the palace, eager to catch a glimpse of their new Queen. Nayantara came to the porch of the palace to address her people. Seeing their love for her, Nayantara’s heart swelled with both joy and responsibility. As she addressed the crowd for the first time, her voice carried the weight of their hopes and dreams.

In all this glamour and pomp, she forgot that she had lost her husband.

---

The next day, Siddhant rose with the dawn. Nayantara was sleeping peacefully beside him, and Yug was in his crib. After a quick bath, Siddhant returned to the room, finding Nayantara still undisturbed in her slumber. He peeked in the crib and found Yug’s eyes were wide open.

‘Oh, my baby is up.’

Yug blinked and yawned before he smiled at his father.

‘Do you want to go for a walk in your mother’s rose garden, huh?’ Siddhant asked, and Yug got excited. He kicked his arms and legs to come out of the comforter, making gurgling baby noises.

‘Shhh… quiet, or you will wake up your mother,’ Siddhant said as he picked the baby up. He took him to the bathroom so he didn’t wet his clothes. After putting him in some warm clothes and giving him some honey water, Siddhant took him to the garden.

The garden was filled with all colors of roses. There were few narrow paths to walk in the garden. And a grand, artistic wooden swing that offered a panoramic view of the garden.

Yug was thrashing in his father’s arms. He wanted to come down and grab the colorful roses.

‘No, Yug, you cannot pick those roses, or your mother will kick us out of the palace.’

The baby made a cute pout, but quieted down.

Siddhant pushed back Yug’s hair from his forehead and kissed his temple. ‘Today, I’m going to leave, Yug. Will you miss your father?’

Yug’s smiling face fell as he sensed his father was sad. His lips pursed as if he was about to cry.

‘No, my boy, don’t cry. I will come to meet you. I promise,’ Siddhant said, kissing his chubby cheek.

The baby smiled again and grabbed his father’s beard, trying to kiss back.

‘But you have to take care of your mother, okay? Don’t bother her much,’ Siddhant said. However, he was a quiet baby. He smiled and played with everyone and only cried for his mother when he was hungry or sleepy. He could now walk a few steps even.

Yug waved his tiny hands in agreement. ‘Maa… ma…’ he blabbered. That was the only word he could speak clearly. And then made some incoherent voices as if saying so many things.

Siddhant smiled. ’When will you learn to speak Pita shri, huh? Say Pita shri.’

The baby pursed his lips, trying to speak. ‘Pa… paa…’

‘Pita shri,’ Siddhant repeated, loud and clear.

‘Paa aaah…aaiiii…’ The baby got irritated as he could form the word.

Siddhant laughed. ’Your mother has such a sharp tongue. And you cannot speak a few words. Do you know, your sister Aayushi could clearly speak Pita shri at the age of one.’

The baby blinked at him, and then he started crying, fat tears rolled down his chubby cheeks.

‘Okay, okay, you can take your time.’

Yug stopped his fake crying and looked at his father with hurt in his eyes. Then again, he spoke so many incoherent words as if proving himself.

Siddhant laughed and kissed his cheek strongly. The baby squealed with delight. Siddhant threw him in the air and caught him back in his arms. The baby giggled and laughed open-heartedly. ‘Paa… pa… shi…’ He grabbed his father’s cheeks in excitement and Siddhant kissed him again.

They walked a little and then stood before the wall. There was a magnificent view of the city. ‘Your mother’s kingdom is beautiful, isn’t it?’

Yug again wriggled in his arms and pointed his tiny finger towards the roses. Siddhant sighed and put him down to play in the garden. The baby crawled away, and Siddhant stood there, observing the city. His gaze frequently looked back at Yug to make sure he didn’t try to put anything in his mouth.

In some time, Yug genuinely started crying. Siddhant picked the toddler up in his arms and cradled him.

‘Maaa… mum mum…’ Fat tears filled in his eyes.

‘Okay, okay, let’s go to your mother.’ Siddhant rubbed his back. He turned around and found Nayantara walking in, freshly bathed and dressed in yellow attire.

Yug stopped crying and extended his arms to her mother. ‘Mum… mum…’ Nayantara smiled and walked to them. The baby immediately leaned towards his mother, and Nayantara picked him in her arms. He grabbed her blouse, trying to open it.

‘Patience, Yug.’ Nayantara scolded softly, but Yug ignored his mother and continued to tug on her clothes.

Nayantara sighed and walked to the swing. Sitting down, she uncovered her breast and laid Yug in her arms. The baby started sucking, and Nayantara looked up at her husband.

Siddhant sat beside her and wrapped his arm around her. ‘Your kingdom is beautiful.’

A smile spread on Nayantara’s lips. ‘It is. Do you know Anhilwara has…’ Nayantara started chattering about her kingdom. Anhilwara this and Anhilwara that.

Siddhant sat quietly and just gave a hum and nod at the appropriate places. Her entire face was smiling, and Siddhant felt contentment seeing her like this.

Soon Yug was full, and Nayantara called Vida.

‘Come, Yug baby, let’s go for a bath,’ Vida said, extending her arms to pick him.

‘Nah…’ Yug waved his tiny arms annoyingly.

‘Are you sure you don’t want to come? We will play in the water,’ Vida said.

Yug blinked and then leaned towards her.

‘Oh, the great prince doesn’t do anything unless it benefits him, huh,’ Vida said as she picked him up.

Once she went inside, Siddhant turned to Nayantara. He pulled out a dagger from his waistband and placed it on Nayantara’s hand. ‘This is for you.’

Nayantara drew the dagger from its ornate sheath, admiring its gemstone-studded hilt and sharp edge. The blade shimmered under the sunlight. ‘This is beautiful,’ she muttered, tracing the keen edge with her fingertip.

Siddhant cupped her face and kissed her forehead. ‘May this protect my wife from all evil eyes.’ His deep voice was wet with emotions.

Nayantara looked into his eyes. A shiver ran down her spine as she realized the meaning behind his blessing.

‘Yes, I’m leaving today,’ Siddhant said, giving voice to her fear.

Nayantara’s heart gave a horrible jolt, and she stood up abruptly. ‘What do you mean by leaving?’ She knew this would happen, but still she foolishly wished it wouldn’t happen.

Siddhant also stood up. ‘Oh, c’mon, you can’t expect me to stay here.’

‘Why not?’ Nayantara demanded as she put the dagger aside.

‘If you love your pride, so do I. I cannot live under my wife’s shadow,’ he stated.

Nayantara grabbed his arms in desperation. ‘But, my lord, I cannot leave without you.’ Her voice quivered.

‘The throne comes with the cost, Nayantara. You should be glad that I let Yug stay with you.’

Tears collected in Nayantara’s eyes. ‘No, no, my lord, please don’t say that. You cannot leave me. I love you. I love you so much.’ She lifted on her toes and pecked his lips.

Siddhant’s arm immediately wrapped around her waist, lifting her up in the process. He took charge of the kiss. All demanding and consuming, as if he were trying to devour her, to claim every part of her. Her mind spun, her senses overwhelmed by the warmth of his body. Instinctively, her hands fisted his overcoat. As usual, he was dominant, showing her who was in control.

By the time he pulled back, Nayantara was badly breathless.

‘I love you too,’ he muttered, putting her back on the ground.

‘Then don’t leave me. Please, my lord. I need you. I cannot do this without you. I have no experience,’ Nayantara pleaded.

‘You are my lioness. You can do anything.’

Tears rolled down Nayantara’s cheeks, her hands clenched on his overcoat. ‘No, no, please, my lord. I will not let you go. I cannot leave without you.’

Siddhant eyed her sympathetically. There was a time when she never let him see her tears, and now she was crying freely in front of him. ‘Nayantara, please don’t make this difficult for both of us.’

‘Then don’t go.’

Siddhant’s chest compressed uncomfortably. He wanted to pull her into his arms and wipe her tears. But he had to be strong, or she wouldn’t be able to detach herself from him.

‘Please, please, my lord… You will like here,’ she continued to plead.

‘Stop this nonsense, Nayantara,’ Siddhant snapped, his jaw hardened. He pushed her away and stared into her eyes. ‘You have made your decision. Now you should face the consequences like a brave queen.’

‘Then we will always stay like this?’ Her voice broke.

‘I don’t know. You can stay here your entire life, but if you want to stay with me, you have to come to me. I will never live here,’ Siddhant cleared in a stern voice, making her cry even more.

Nayantara fell on her knees. Anhilwara throne cost her too high. Siddhant was her everything. Her love. Her life. Her fortune.

Siddhant walked away. His heart broke into a million pieces. Deep down, he wanted her to choose him. But she chose the throne.

He suddenly stopped and turned back. ‘And remember one thing,’ he said, and Nayantara lifted her teary gaze to him. ‘Don’t come back to me defeated. I will not accept you that way.’ With that, he walked out of the garden, leaving his young wife and child behind. A lone tear slipped from his eye. He was scared for his wife. How she would survive in the world of men. She couldn’t even ride a horse or lift a sword.

44 Ordeal by the throne

Soon, Nayantara realized she had sat on the burning throne. Anhilwara’s condition was worse than she’d anticipated. Crime rate and corruption were so high. Everyone was corrupt from top to bottom. Ministers, officials, businessmen, shopkeepers, employees. There was so much inequality in the society.

Nayantara ignored a few things in the beginning. So she could settle down first. If she tried to be aggressive from day one, she would make a lot of enemies.

Now she realized handling one or two matters was easy, but taking care of the entire kingdom and its safety was challenging. Her previous life seemed like a distant dream, a time of luxury and ease. Then, her husband had borne the weight of the kingdom, and she could rest and pursue her interests without constraint. But now, she was constantly under pressure, forced to work tirelessly. She had no time for her son even. The weight of responsibility chained her to a life beyond her own desires. But she could complain to anyone as she herself chose this life.

She was so grateful that at least her mother-in-law was here. They didn’t get along with each other, but still her presence was a big support.

Aazad and Abhay were also with her, even if they were Maharav’s citizens.

The days passed, and once Nayantara figured out who was trustworthy, she started making changes in her ministry. She fired corrupt and lazy ministers and officials, and did some new recruitment in every field. She made some changes in state policies and stopped the protection tax to Maharav.

On the other side, Siddhant knew this was the first thing she would do after sitting on the throne.

The common people of Anhilwara were happy with the new governance. The new changes were positive and refreshing, giving them hope of a bright future.

But the biggest obstacle in the way of this progress was the constant threat of war. Since Nayantara ascended the throne, the neighboring kingdoms were trying to violate Anhilwara’s borders. They thought her husband had left her, and that’s why she was in Anhilwara and trying to rule her kingdom. They thought a woman couldn’t protect the kingdom. So other kingdoms were itching to attack Anhilwara, as now it was unaided.

Anhilwara’s western border was protected by the ocean. To the east lay Maharav, while to the north was connected with Jasthan, with whom they maintained friendly relations. To the south were Patyal and several smaller kingdoms. And one of them was Telum. Telum King, Yashunath, was continuously attacking Anhilwara’s villages near the border. Nayantara had sent the extra army there, but Telum was not fighting directly. Their men came to the village through the forest area and then attacked the villagers. Tribals in the forest helped Anhilwara and caught some of them, but still some escaped and entered Anhilwara.

Nayantara wanted to take revenge for those who died in the attack, but she also had to think about those who were alive. The war wouldn’t just affect one village, it would affect the entire kingdom. She had now pure power. There was no one above her. There was no one to overpower her. But still she was feeling helpless.

Three months slipped away.

It was late evening. Nayantara was seated on the couch with the plate. ‘Yug, don’t bother me. I’m so tired. C’mon, finish your food,’ she said, making a small bite for him. Her mood was spoiled.

Siddhant used to meet them once a month and stay there for two to three days. He spent his entire days with Yug and celebrated his nights with Nayantara. That time was blissful for Nayantara, even if she was very sore by him. But then he left, leaving her in the pit of deep sadness. He just left yesterday, so she was missing him terribly.

Yug was sitting on the wooden horse and swinging it front and back. He stepped down from the horse and came running to his mother with his tiny, wobbly legs.

Nayantara forwarded her hand, but he shook his head. ‘Ladoo,’ he said, pointing his finger to the sweet.

‘Later. First, finish the roti.’

‘Ladouu…’ Yug cried.

‘You want to be strong like your father or not?’

‘Paa shi!’ Yug looked around in the chamber.

A wave of guilt filled Nayantara’s heart. She knew Yug missed his father and tried to find him in the chamber when he left.

‘Paa shi,’ he repeated.

Nayantara forced a smile on her face. ‘Yes, if you want to be like your father, then you have to eat vegetables and roti. Then I will give you ladoo,’ she said, forwarding her hand.

He opened his small mouth and took the bite. He fisted his mother’s skirt, trying to climb on her lap. Nayantara wrapped her arm around him and pulled him on her lap. ‘Mik,’ He reached for her breasts.

‘By the time of sleeping,’ Nayantara said and fed him another bite.

Yug finished his food, and Vida took him away so that Nayantara could eat. Yug and Vida settled on the floor, making a pyramid.

Yug started clapping as he stacked up all the pieces. Some were not correct, but still he managed to make a tower. ‘Maa… maa…’ he squealed.

Nayantara smiled, chewing on the food. ‘Yes, good job. It looks wonderful. What did you make?’

Yug blinked and then looked at Vida for an answer.

Vida chuckled. ‘Castle.’

‘Ca-tle,’ Yug repeated and turned back to his mother. ‘Maa, ca-tle.’

‘My lady,’ Suddenly a guard interrupted them. He stood on the other side of the curtain. ‘One man has come at the palace gate. He wants to meet you. We told him that the queen meets the commoner once a week and he could come at that time. But he wants to meet you right now. He says he is a scientist. And he has something to show you.’

‘He can meet the minister,’ Nayantara said.

‘We told him, my lady. But he said your presence is necessary.’

‘Then send him away. I cannot meet everyone who comes to the palace gate,’ Nayantara said annoyingly.

‘Okay, my lady,’ the guard turned around.

Nayantara inhaled a sharp breath. Can’t she spend some time with her son? Can’t she eat in peace? Why did they bother her all the time? She was feeling too lazy to go, but if this man was really a scientist, then she shouldn’t ignore him. There was a moment of hesitation before she said, ‘Wait.’

The guard stopped and turned back.

‘Take him to the meeting room. I am coming.’

‘As you say, my lady.’

She quickly finished her food and headed towards the meeting room. He was already there.

Nayantara narrowed her eyes as he didn’t even stand up when she entered. It was an insult. But Nayantara swallowed her anger and took her place.

He was a short middle-aged man. He had a lean body, disheveled gray hair, tired eyes, and stubble on his face. It seemed as if he had come after a long journey.

Nayantara signaled the maid to bring something for him. The water jug and glass was already there, and he had drunk some water.

He didn’t say anything and just looked around like a fool. Nayantara rolled her eyes. The queen was in front of him and he behaved like she was invisible. This freak could be a scientist?

The maid came with some snacks and placed them before him.

‘Have this,’ Nayantara said, drawing his attention towards her.

‘I’m not here to enjoy your hospitality,’ he said shortly.

Nayantara shook her head in disbelief. ‘You are so rude.’

Without replying to her comment, he took out some notebooks, charts, and papers from his sack and spread them on the table.

‘At least tell me, where are you from and what is your name?’ Nayantara asked, trying to stay calm. He didn’t even introduce himself.

‘I am from this state. My name is Prakashkar.’

Nayantara nodded with a smile. ‘So you are from Anhilwara. How can I help you, Prakashkar ji?’

‘I don’t need your help. But if you care for Anhilwara, then you should listen to me,’ he said, his voice so direct, emotionless, and rude.

Nayantara took a deep breath to calm her rising temper. He had no manners. ‘That’s why I’m here. Speak up,’ she said curtly.

He looked unaffected by Nayantara’s resentment. ‘Do you want to call some scientist, minister, or official, who is highly educated and helps you to understand my subtle invention?’

‘You can explain to me. If I need help, I will call them.’

Prakashkar regarded her for a moment before he started explaining.

Nayantara listened quietly. She just asked some questions here and there.

It had been one pehar (three hours) by the time Prakashkar finished.

Nayantara smirked. ‘I had thought you were a freak scientist. And I was right. Every genius is a little crazy. I’m so impressed with your invention, Prakashkar ji.’

‘I’m also impressed with your knowledge in physics, chemistry, and mathematics,’ he said in his flat tone.

‘I’m not that good. But, yes, I can understand a few things.’

‘No, you are really intelligent. I had gone to many kings and princes. But they were so dumb and arrogant. Even their ministers were dumb. They couldn’t understand my plan and made fun of me. Some didn’t even meet me. King Rajendra did the same. But when I heard that he was gone, and you are the new Queen. I came back. I was almost expecting the same behaviour from you but you understood me,’ Prakashkar said. She was wise, patient, and intelligent. She had all the qualities to be the head of Anhilwara.

‘Have you been to Maharav as well?’ Nayantara asked.

‘How could I take that chance? I didn’t go to our neighboring kingdoms. What if they used it against my motherland? I wouldn’t have gone anywhere if King Rajendra had listened to me.’

‘Well, that thing has changed now. I will provide you with everything you need.’

He adjoined his hands. ‘Thank you, my lady, for giving me a chance.’

Nayantara smiled. ‘Finally some politeness.’

‘I was never rude. I was just lost in my thoughts.’

Nayantara laughed. He was really a freak genius. She adjoined her hands too. ‘Now I have to go. From now on you will stay in this palace. Your security is very important. The rest of the things we will discuss later.’

---

Seven months later.

Nayantara was on the throne with her head low. Telum’s relentless assault was not stopping, his courage growing with each passing day. Anhilwara had lost some of its army men. Telum also lost its men. But Telum King didn’t care. And now the people of Anhilwara were annoyed with their Queen as she failed to protect them. They started gossiping that King Rajendra was better than her. And if this was not enough, Jasthan also started violating Anhilwara’s border, who was once a friend. Nayantara knew in politics there was a very thin line between friends and enemies. She also knew why they were provoking her. They wanted a direct war. They were so sure that Nayantara wouldn’t be able to win.

‘My lady, Telum will not stop like this. We have to fight a direct war,’ the general, Ashvin, said.

‘Direct war will affect the economy,’ Nayantara muttered. She was not like her father and husband, who were always eager to fight wars. But now the war seemed unavoidable, and she had to present for it.

‘Can I give you a suggestion, my lady?’ the minister said.

Nayantara gave a slight nod.

‘We can ask Maharav for help.’

Nayantara narrowed her eyes. ‘Why should we beg in front of Maharav? We have our own army.’

‘Exactly,’ Ashvin snarled. ‘We can fight with both kingdoms simultaneously. We don’t need Maharav’s help.’

Ignoring Ashvin, the minister said to the queen, ‘Apologies, my lady, but you know why they are attacking us.’

‘Because of me. I know.’ Nayantara said curtly.

‘If they will see the Maharav army with us. They will stop permanently. Otherwise they will keep attacking us even if we won the war.’

‘What a cowardly suggestion you are giving to the Queen. You want to prove in front of everyone that our Queen is weak. Our kingdom is weak.’ Ashvin’s young blood boiled. ‘Give me permission, my lady. I will teach both of them a lesson.’

‘I know, Ashvin, you can. But Anhilwara is not stable yet. I want happiness for my people, not tax burden and inflation,’ Nayantara said weakly. She was wondering if Maharav’s involvement could put an end to this problem, then she should ask for its help. Putting her ego aside, she nodded. ‘All right. Send Maharav a letter.’

‘But, my lady,’ Ashivin interjected restlessly.

‘Ashvin, war should be fought only when there is no other option available. If Maharav’s help could solve this problem, then we should do this,’ Nayantara stated.

---

Nayantara was seated on the bed and gazing out the long glass window. Beside her, Yug played innocently with his toys.

It was winter days, but the sky was raining out of season. The morning sun was obscured by dark clouds, giving the night-like effect. The relentless, chilly rain and hail battering the palace walls and windows. Once beautiful rose garden was completely destroyed because of hail.

But Nayantara’s inner turmoil was far more intense than the raging storm outside. Maharav’s answer had come. Their response was a bitter blow: without the protection tax, Anhilwara could no longer count on their support. And if this answer was not enough, Siddhant sent her a personal letter, which was still on the side table. It read. If my wife had asked me for something, I would have given her the world. But you sent an official letter. I have nothing to do with the queen of Anhilwara.

This news leaked and spread like wildfire that Maharav refused to help Anhilwara. And now every neighboring kingdom was ready to attack Anhilwara. When all avenues were closed, Nayantara sent a treaty message to King Yashunath, to give him the last chance. If he had a brain, then he would accept her peace proposal.

Suddenly, Yug dropped his head on her lap and started crying.

‘Oh, my baby,’ Nayantara picked him up in her arms and pressed him against her chest. He had caught a cold because of the bad weather and was crying every now and then.

Nayantara couldn’t go to the throne hall as Yug was not ready to leave her for a moment.

‘Maamaa…Aoouuhhh…’ Yug clung to his mother and buried his face in the crook of her neck.

‘I know, my baby, I know.’ Nayantara’s heart ached seeing him suffering. She cradled him against her chest. His body was slightly warm. He was not ready to eat anything and was only taking his mother’s milk.

Nayantara wiped his running nose with soft cotton, and he tilted his head, crying even harder.

‘Calm down, my baby. You will be alright. Everything will be alright,’ she said, assuring herself more than Yug.

Vida was beside the fireplace, putting more wood in it to keep the chamber warm.

Nayantara laid Yug on her lap and took a bowl of decoction the physician had given for Yug. Mixing some honey in it, she grabbed Yug’s cheeks to open his mouth and then poured the liquid with the spoon.

Yug cried even louder and tried to move his face away to avoid the bitter medicine. ‘Yug, it is not that bitten. C’mon, baby. Aren’t you my brave boy?’ Ignoring his cry, Nayantara gave him another spoonful of decoction and then put the bowl aside.

‘Okay, okay, it’s finished. My Yugvijay is very brave,’ she cooed and wiped fat tears from his chubby cheeks.

Yug sat up and spoke so many incoherent words angrily, but Nayantara understood him.

‘No, please, don’t complain to your father. He will punish me. Do you want your mother to cry?’ Nayantara said, making a sad face.

Yug blinked at his mother and then stood up on her lap. Wrapping his tiny arms around his mother’s neck, he kissed her, trying to make her smile.

Nayantara hugged him tightly. ‘Aww, my sweet sweet baby, maa loves you the most.’ She kissed his head. ‘Now you should sleep.’

‘Nah!’ Yug moved away and reached for his toys.

‘I will tell you a wonderful story of a brave warrior. Don’t you want to listen?’

Yug waved his hands. ‘Sto-ry… sto-ry…’

‘Then lie down.’

Yug followed the instruction. Nayantara started a story; meanwhile, she lifted his small shirt and rubbed eucalyptus oil on his chest and back, and then she covered him in a warm blanket. Yug fell asleep in some time.

Nayantara kissed his forehead, praying for his well-being.

‘My lady,’ Vida called her in a muted voice.

Nayantara looked up.

‘A guard has come with a message,’ Vida said. No one was allowed in the chamber as the prince was sick.

Nayantara groaned in frustration. Now what happened? She stood up. ‘You stay with Yug. Don’t leave him alone for a moment.’

‘Yes, my lady,’ Vida said as she went beside the baby.

Throwing one last glance at her sleeping baby, Nayantara walked out.

The guard was waiting for her and bowed his head.

‘What happened now?’ Nayantara asked irritably.

‘The minister needs your presence in the throne hall. Just for a while.’

Nayantara nodded and walked on. Perhaps King Yashunath’s letter has arrived.

Everyone stood up as she entered the throne hall. Sitting on the throne, she looked at the minister. His face was tense. The other courtiers were also looking at him, confused and waiting to proceed.

‘What happened?’ Nayantara asked.

‘We got King Yashunath’s letter. You should read it,’ the minister said as he climbed the steps to the throne.

Nayantara thinned her brows. What was there in that letter that he couldn’t read in front of everyone? She took the letter, and the minister went back to his place.

Nayantara opened the letter.

Hey, little princess. It’s okay if you cannot fight. I can understand. You don’t have to worry about anything. So what your husband left you. I’m ready to accept you and your poor lamb. Come to me, and sit on my lap. I will protect you and your helpless kingdom.

Nayantara smouldered. She felt her body ignited with fire. Her hands fisted on the letter. She stood up abruptly.

‘Now there will be no mercy,’ she roared like a lioness.

‘Abhay,’ she said, her eyes were burning embers.

Abhay sprung forward. ‘Command, my lady.’

‘I want Prakashkar ji and my special commandos in the meeting room right now.’ With that, Nayantara stormed out of the throne hall.

45 Goddess of Destruction

Siddhant’s life had become desolate once more. The absence of Nayantara and Yug was a constant ache. Without them, his mind was a captive of the past: his wives, his daughter, his past mistakes, all swirling in his mind whenever he was alone. But still, somehow, he was living his life in hope that one day his wife would come back to him. His people were upset with him as he had sent their Queen away. They wanted Queen Nayantara for Maharav, not their enemy’s kingdom.

The past few days had been more restless for him. His wife asked him for help, and he refused her rudely. This lesson was important to her. She must understand that the person who sat on the throne was always alone. The problems would continue to come into her life one after another, and every time she couldn’t run to her husband. If she had to rule, she had to learn to deal with it on her own.

He knew Nayantara couldn’t fight, but he was sure she would figure out something. She could light up any dark path with her intelligence. But if she took Maharav’s help, nobody would respect her. Her ministers, officials, and her people — everyone would consider her weak, and he didn’t want that. His bitter answer was for her own good. So she could rise and grow.

However, if anything went wrong, he would take the situation in his control. Nayantara didn’t know, but some of Siddhant’s men were always around her. They would come out if her or Yug’s life was in danger.

---

Nayantara, in the meeting room, leaned forward, resting her arms on the table, observing the map of Telum one last time. She looked at Prakashkar. ‘Is the launch pad ready?’

‘Yes, my lady. We just want your orders,’ Prakashkar said.

‘We really have this kind of weapon,’ Ashvin asked. This was the third time he asked this.

‘Yes, we have,’ Prakashkar said in a bored voice, repeating himself. ‘We could shoot it to 400 km, and it covers an area of 300 km².’

‘Amazing. I have never seen this kind of cannon,’ Ashvin said, his eyes lit in excitement.

Prakhashkar chuckled. ‘This is not a cannon. This is projectile.’

Ashvin looked at the queen. ‘When will we do this?’ His young blood was excited for war, to show his strength and power.

‘Tomorrow morning. On Telum’s capital,’ Nayantara said, her voice flat.

‘Exactly in which pehar, my lady,’ Ashvin asked.

‘Some things you can decide on your own, Ashvin. Don’t ask me every little thing,’ Nayantara shouted irritably. She was burning from inside. Her husband refused to help her, and then Yashunath sent her an abusive, vulgar letter.

‘Yes, of course, my lady,’ Ashvin muttered.

Nayantara looked at the legal executive. ‘Is the order ready?’ Her voice was sharp.

‘Yes, my lady,’ the legal executive said.

‘Then what are you waiting for? Give me,’ she snarled.

‘Yes, my lady,’ the legal executive flustered, and placed a parchment before her.

Nayantara looked down, roaming her eyes on the order. Her eyes blurred with tears as she tried to read it, but she made her posture straight, unaffected. ‘Aazad, my stamp.’ Her voice barely a whisper.

Aazad opened a small box and took out a royal stamp.

Nayantara’s fingers turned numb as she forced them to hold the stamp. She dipped it into the ink and stamped it on the parchment. As this was a war-related matter, the order needs double signatures. So she removed her signet ring and made a mark with it.

Leaving the order on the table, Nayantara stood up and walked out with deadly steps. Only she and Prakhashkar ji knew what she just signed. Today her pure soul turned dark.

That day she barely ate anything and spent her day with her baby. She wanted nothing but to run into her husband’s protective arms and asked him to take control of everything. Her soul was too delicate to handle bloodshed.

The next day, she sat up with the first ray of sun. The storm had passed, leaving a clear sky and a trail of destruction. The ruined garden stood as stark proof. How long would it take for life to return? The sleepless night had left her with more than just fatigue. There was a strange chill in her body, but that was not because of winter. The feeling was utterly foreign and deeply disquieting. She checked on her son, who was sleeping soundly beside her. A wave of relief washed over her as she touched his forehead. There was no fever, and his breathing was even and peaceful.

She kept staring at her little bundle. Yug was a blessing God gave her without even asking. She was always fond of power and politics. She had never thought or planned for a child, but still, Yug came into her life.

She chuckled softly, remembering how her mother-in-law tricked her.

Placing a gentle kiss on his forehead, Nayantara stepped down from the bed. She went to the bathroom to get ready. Since she had come here, she had never taken a long bath or any beauty treatment. She just didn’t have time for it. After taking a bath, Vida dressed her in beautiful orange attire and made an elegant bun of her hair.

By the time she came out, Yug was up. Nayantara sat on the bed and picked him up in her arms. Giving a kiss on his chubby cheek, Nayantara handed him to Vida.

‘How is my little prince? Are you feeling better?’ Vida cooed him and took him to the bathroom.

Nayantara just sat there. Her heart was so heavy, she didn’t want to go to the throne hall. She didn’t want to meet anyone at all, so nobody could give her the news she didn’t want to listen to.

In a few moments, Vida came out with Yug.

‘Mik… mik… maa…’ Yug chirped, extending his hand towards his mother.

Nayantara took him in her lap and uncovered her breast. ‘Today, you have to eat, or I will not give you the milk, okay?’

Yug ignored her warning and started sucking the luscious liquid.

Nayantara shook her head. ‘From where do you get this attitude, huh? You cannot ignore me like this.’

Yug just blinked at her with his small lips wrapped around her nipple.

‘How is my son?’ Padmini walked into the chamber.

‘Pranam, maa shri. He is fine,’ Nayantara said. Yug looked at his grandmother with the corner of his eyes but continued to suck.

‘And why are you without a shawl? You want to get sick as well?’ Padmini scolded, and signaled Vida.

Vida quickly came with a shawl wrapped around the queen.

As Yug finished, he crawled away and reached for his grandmother. ‘Dadimaa…’

Padmini’s face broke into a big smile as she collected him in her arms. ‘My son!’ She looked at Vida. ‘Give me his warm clothes, so we can go to the temple.’

‘Cow! Cow!’ Yug waved his tiny arms in excitement.

‘Yes, we will go to the cowshed and feed them. But you promise me you will not try to remove your hat, or you will have to take that bitter medicinal decoction. And I will never take you anywhere next time,’ Padmini said in a slightly scolding tone.

‘Nah… nah… nah… no, medi… no, medi…’ Yug squeaked with fat tears in his eyes.

‘Okay, okay, no medicine for my baby. My Yug will always stay healthy,’ Padmini said, hugging him lovingly and kissing his temple.

Nayantara sat quietly. She was so grateful that her mother-in-law decided to stay with her. Rajmata was angry with her, but at least she didn’t leave her like her son.

After bundling Yug in warm clothes, Padmini picked him up in her arms and walked out. Vida also went away.

Nayantara remained seated. She had lost her appetite but still asked for breakfast. Since she had come to Anhilwara, she was losing the weight she had gained in pregnancy. Yug needed her milk, so she had to take care of herself.

She quickly swallowed a paratha with a big glass of milk.

She knew it was time to go to the throne hall, but her legs were feeling weak. Now she realized why Siddhant had given her the blessings of inner peace. First she burned in revenge and craved the throne. She had thought once she got the throne she would rule peacefully. Instead, she was immediately confronted with war. The harsh reality was clear: no one truly valued peace. Peace was a fragile thing, easily shattered by the relentless ambition of others. Everyone wanted to prove themselves superior to others. Tears rolled down her cheeks, feeling helpless. She was forced to do this. It was not that she couldn’t lead the army. She could. She knew all the battle formations. But she wanted to do something that nobody would ever challenge her in the future. She sat there and kept crying over the order she signed until Aazad appeared at the door.

‘My lady, it’s time for the hearing. Everyone is waiting for you in the throne hall,’ he said.

Nayantara quickly wiped her tears and forced herself to stand. ‘Vida…’ she called. Vida ran out from the dressing room. She removed her shawl and made her wear a long overcoat. It was maroon with heavy embroidery and fur on its edge.

Nayantara squared her shoulders and straightened her back. Lifting her head high in the air, she walked on, knowing weakness had no place on the throne.

Everyone stood up as she entered the great hall. Masking all her emotions behind the stern face, Nayantara walked to the throne and ascended it with grace. She looked splendid in her long overcoat.

Today, every eye held a different light. The eyes that once held doubt and apprehension now regarded her with pride, respect, and a clear submission to their queen.

Once everyone settled, Ashvin entered in his military uniform with his head high. He bowed his head in front of the queen before he said, ‘It is done, my lady. Telum’s capital is wiped out from the map of Hind.’

Blood drained from Nayantara’s face, and a coldness like she had never felt before seeped into her skin. She closed her eyes for a moment to gain her strength. Ashvin was telling her how devastating the attack was, but his voice sounded in the background.

‘But my lady, at that time Yashunath was not in the capital of his kingdom,’ Ashvin continued, and Nayantara forced herself to focus on what he was saying. ‘And after the attack he tried to run away to his neighboring kingdom, but our men grabbed him from the border.’

‘Present him,’ Nayantara ordered, trying to keep her voice stable.

Ashvin took his place, and the soldier came in with Yashunath in heavy shackles. They threw him on the floor, forcing him to sit on his knees. He was covered in mud, and his royal clothes were torn.

Nayantara inhaled sharply before she said, ‘I had sent this man a peace letter and invited him for deliberation, even if I have the power to destroy his entire kingdom.’ Her voice was wet with pain. ‘I want the well-being of both the kingdoms. But this vile man just showed insolence in return. He insulted my Anhilwara. He called King Digvijay’s grandson a lamb. He invited me to sit on his lap.’

‘You bastard,’ Ashvin smouldered, drawing his sword from the sheath and jumping forward. Aazad and Abhay’s swords also drew, but they didn’t move without order.

‘How dare you insult the queen! How dare you insult my great kingdom!’ Ashvin growled, lifting his sword high, ready to strike.

‘Wait, Ashvin, wait,’ the minister said calmly. ‘First break his thighs, he had invited our Queen to sit.’

‘Good idea, Malik,’ Ashvin said, and he asked for the hammer.

‘No, no, kill me… Please… kill me…’ Yashunath yelled, looking at the queen.

Nayantara just sat there, her eyes cold, emotionless.

‘You don’t deserve an easy death.’ Ashvin seethed, his hand fisted on the hammer’s handle.

‘No, no, no…’ He crawled back, fear shining in his eyes.

Ashvin stepped up, and with just one strike, he broke Yashunath’s thigh bone.

‘Ahhhhh…’ Yashunath’s bloodcurdling scream filled the throne hall. And before he could recover from the pain, Ashvin struck his another’s thigh. ‘Owhhhhhh…’ he bawled in pain.

‘Now remove his clothes,’ the minister said.

‘No, no, no, please, my lady, kill me… I’m begging you,’ Yashunath cried, trying to move away. But the soldiers grabbed his upper clothes and tore them away.

All the courtiers laughed at his condition. ‘Look at him… this kitten wanted to fight with the lioness… You think you can win the great Anhilwara… What are you guys waiting for… remove his lower.’

Yashnath looked at the queen with tears of humiliation and pain in his eyes. He underestimated this delicate woman. He had forgotten the brain was the strongest weapon of the human body, which could destroy anyone without lifting a finger. He had no idea this woman would use such a devastating thing against them. The soldiers grabbed his lower, and he folded his hands to the queen. ‘Please, my lady, show some mercy,’ he begged one last time.

Soldiers were about to pull his lower, but Nayantara held up her hand. ‘Stop!’ she said, and the soldiers retracted their hands.

‘My lady, he deserves this,’ the minister said.

‘Malik, we are living in a civilized society. This is not right,’ Nayantara said, her voice monotonous. ‘Ashvin, cut his head and hang it on the longest tower in the city. So everyone could see what happens when you challenge Anhilwara.’

‘As you command, my lady,’ Ashvin said. He gestured to the soldiers. The soldiers grabbed his biceps and dragged him out of the hall, his thighs dripping blood all the way out.

‘Mister Minister, anyone else want to fight with me?’ Nayantara sneered.

The minister scoffed. ‘Who will dare to fight with the Goddess of destruction!’

Nayantara thinned her brows.

‘That is what the people are calling you now,’ the minister said with a smile.

Nayantara’s heart felt a sharp sting. Her people thought she would bring destruction to everyone’s lives. She didn’t want this kind of fame.

‘Most of the kingdoms got this news by the evening. I’m so excited to see their reaction,’ the minister said excitedly. ‘Nobody has this kind of weapon, not even Maharav. Our people are so proud of you. Half of the Anhilwara already got this news, and they are celebrating.’

Other courtiers started praising her too. ‘You did the impossible thing, my lady… You proved you are King Digvijay’s daughter… Anhilwara has never been this powerful before…’

Nayantara ignored their delirium of joy as she said, ‘Send the help in Telum. We will soon crown someone as their new king.’

‘We will not take it under our control, my lady?’ one of the courtiers asked politely.

‘No. The new king will be Telum’s citizen. So there will be no revolt from the people. But that new king will be our man and work according to us,’ Nayantara said. This would send the message to every kingdom that she didn’t want hegemony. If they lived in peace, she would be good to them. ‘We will discuss this matter later. Right now send the help in Telum,’ she said, looking at the health minister and the disaster minister.

‘Yes, my lady. All work will be done as per your wishes,’ the health minister said.

‘Auh, my lady,’ Malik cleared his throat. ‘You have to get ready for the city tour. We will go after lunch.’

Nayantara narrowed her eyes. ’City tour for what?

‘The news of your courage is spreading everywhere like a fire. Everybody wanted to celebrate your victory procession. They wanted to see you.’

‘I don’t want to do any victory tour. Cancel it,’ Nayantara stated firmly.

‘Please, my lady, we all want this. You must respect our wishes,’ the minister said.

‘Yes, my lady, we want this,’ all the courtiers said in one voice.

Nayantara wanted to shout at them. This was not the time to celebrate. Thousands of innocent people died. So what if they were not Anhilwara’s people. They were still human beings. Today she has committed an act against humanity. But the minister was right in his place. She can’t let this opportunity go by. It would be better for her if she would make her image as a cruel Queen, so the next time, nobody would underestimate her and try to attack her kingdom. ‘All right,’ she said with a heavy heart.

As soon as Nayantara’s chariot entered the street of the city, people surrounded her. Today she was on the open chariot so everyone could see her. The guards were alert but let people come near the queen.

Nayantara sat like a statue as the people touched her feet and garlanded her like she was a goddess or something. For the common people, what Nayantara did was a miracle. They were not educated enough to understand the science behind it. Her people hailed her greatness. Today, she stood as a savior to her people, but the victory was poisoned by the stain on her soul. She had no hesitation to kill evils, but she had never thought to spill innocent blood.

Once Nayantara reached the heart of the city, her eyes fell on Yashunath’s severed head. It was hanging on the longest tower, where every passerby could see it.

Nayantara stood up and addressed her people. ‘Today we have avenged the deaths of our soldiers and civilians. Whenever any enemy casts their evil eye on Anhilwara, this will be their fate.’ Nayantara roared like a lioness, and people cheered her to the skies.

46 Rue

The attack sent shockwaves through every kingdom. Frightened kingdoms had already dispatched envoys to Anhilwara with a peace message. They were now desperate for reconciliation with Queen Nayantara. They even invited her to visit their realms and gave them the honor of her hospitality.

And not just other kingdoms, Maharav was also shaken by this attack.

‘What kind of weapon is this? Why don’t we have this kind of weapon? Find out everything about this weapon and try to make it as fast as possible,’ Siddhant shouted in the throne hall. Unlike other days, many scientists were present in the throne hall today.

Siddhant was proud of Nayantara. His wife was born to rule. He didn’t make any mistake by choosing her for the Anhilwara throne. She proved she was worthy of the crown. But that didn’t mean he would accept defeat from his wife. His man’s ego was hurt. Right now she was capable of ruining Maharav in a blink.

He looked at his brother. ‘Aditya,’

‘Yes, my lord.’

‘You have roamed so many places. You don’t even know about this weapon?’

‘No, my lord, this is new to me as well. No kingdom has this kind of weapon,’ Aditya said. He was so impressed with the weapon Nayantara used in the attack. He was also desperate to know everything about it.

‘I don’t want this kind of answer,’ Siddhant said, sulking. ‘I want this weapon at any cost. And not just that, try to make something that could eliminate this kind of attack. That could stop this cannon before it strikes on our land.’

‘Auh, actually, my lord, they didn’t call it cannon. They call it projectile,’ one of the scientists said.

‘Projectile,’ Siddhant repeated, his voice laced with determination and jealousy. ‘I want this projectile. Even better than Anhilwara.’ With that, Siddhant stood up and stormed out of the throne hall. He was beyond angry. Angry with his failure. Once again, Anhilwara defeated Maharav. And this time even without attack. Maharav was never this vulnerable, not even after his father’s death. A feeling of insecurity surrounded his heart. His wife’s eminence was now bigger than his. Her rising prominence loomed over him, fueling his fear that his wife would still consider him worthy of her. What if she left him permanently? She was the queen. She had her kingdom. She had her son. She didn’t need him anymore.

On the other side, Nayantara’s tears weren’t drying up. Nayantara didn’t have the strength to go to Telum and visit the site of the attack. But an unknown person sent her a painting of the attack site. It was so realistic. So loathsome. The painting very clearly depicted the havoc. The city lay in ruins, a destructive power of war. There was smoke and burning debris. The once-grand buildings were now crumbling shells, their windows shattered and their walls scarred by the impact of attack. The land was covered in blood. Severed limbs were scattered everywhere. The corpses were almost unrecognizable. Men, women, children, birds, animals, trees — every life was over. There was no one to offer water to the dead souls.

After seeing this painting, Nayantara lost her sanity completely.

---

As usual, Siddhant forced himself to wake up from the bed and got ready for the hearing. But before he could step out of his chamber, a guard handed him a letter. Siddhant rolled his eyes as he found the letter was from Anhilwara. Of course, Nayantara would have sent it to boast about her success. But to his surprise, it was from his mother.

How are you, my son? Yug and I are fine. But your wife is not good. She is hardly talking to anyone. She is not even eating properly. I’m so worried for her. I know she is sassy and stubborn. But still she is your responsibility. I want you to come here and spend some time with her.

Siddhant’s brows shrink in worry. Nayantara was not good. But why? After this great victory she should be happy. Or was she physically sick? Siddhant felt irritated as his mother didn’t clarify her condition. He immediately ordered his man to prepare his horse. He would leave right now.

When he passed through the streets of Anhilwara’s capital, he noticed some fallen trees. There might be a storm. But thankfully, the buildings looked unaffected. And suddenly, his eyes fell on the hanging head of Yashunath. It had begun to decompose, and birds like vultures and crows were trying to eat the rotten meat of his face.

It was a bold act. His wife had become very ferocious.

Late evening had fallen by the time Siddhant arrived at the palace. The maids lined up to attend to the King, each bearing a different refreshment: one with water, another with juices, a third with a damp towel, and a fourth with dried fruits and other snacks. Siddhant ignored all of them and went straight to his wife’s chamber. He found her sitting on the chair, facing a destroyed rose garden. Her long, beautiful hair was open and dishevelled.

His eyes searched for Yug, but he was nowhere to be seen. He walked in, but this time Nayantara didn’t react to his footsteps. His mother was right. She was not herself.

‘Nayantara!’

The moment, Siddhant’s voice reached her ears. She stood up abruptly. Picking up a flowerpot beside her, she turned swiftly and threw it to her husband.

‘Woh! Nayantara! What are you doing?’ Siddhant stepped aside in time, and the earthen pot hit the floor and broke into pieces.

She seized another gold vase and hurled it at him violently. The violent motion caused her dupatta to fall from her shoulder, revealing her blouse, perfectly clung to her voluptuous breasts. Her eyes were blazing with rage. She wasn’t wearing any jewelry, except for her nuptial chain.

Siddhant escaped again and the vase fell to the ground with a loud clunk. ‘Nayantara, if it had hit me, you would have become a widow,’ Siddhant said, amused by her fierceness. She was more attractive when she was angry.

‘If you have nothing to do with the queen of Anhilwara, then what are you doing here? Get out of here,’ she yelled insanely.

‘You are still angry with my letter. I thought you were celebrating your victory.’

‘What victory. I lost everything,’ Nayantara cried and hid her face in her palms.

Confused by her behaviour, Siddhant approached her and placed his hand on her shoulder, feeling her body tremble with sobs beneath his touch. ‘What happened?’ His voice tender, laced with worry.

Nayantara buried her face in his chest and cried harder.

‘Hey, what happened?’ Siddhant stroked her back, shocked. Pushing back her beautiful hair out of her face, he cupped her cheeks and made her look into his eyes. ‘Tell me, what happened? Why are you crying? Today everyone is proud of you. I’m proud of you. Your father would be proud of you. And you are crying.’

‘Proud for what? Killing innocent people.’ Her voice was raw and broken. ‘This all happened because of you. Why didn’t you help me? Why?’

‘If I had helped you, then the world couldn’t see this destructive form of yours. What do your people call you now? Goddess of destruction, right?’

‘I’m not Goddess,’ Nayantara shouted, pushing against his chest. ‘I’m human. And I have committed a grave sin. Do you know many children die in that attack?’ she said, and her eyes shifted at the corner. Siddhant followed her gaze and found a huge painting.

‘Who gave this kind of painting to you?’ Siddhant asked, taking in the distorted details of the painting.

‘It doesn’t matter. This painting shows my sins,’ she muttered.

‘What nonsense!’ Siddhant marched to the painting and broke it into two. He called a maid and asked her to take the painting and broken flower pot away.

He waited until the maid cleaned up everything and walked away.

Nayantara was still in her place, frozen, lost in thought.

Siddhant turned to her. ‘Listen, Nayantara, you shouldn’t burn yourself like this. You did what a ruler should do.’

Nayantara looked up at him, and some fresh tears filled her eyes. ‘What I did is an unpardonable sin, my lord.’

Siddhant placed his hand against her cheek. ‘Don’t think like this. You did it for your motherland, then why are you regretting it now?’

Nayantara’s lips quivered, and her hands fisted on his overcoat as she raved, ‘What happens if my Yug has to pay for my sins?’

Siddhant sighed, looking at her with pity in his eyes. Her soft woman’s heart was not letting her enjoy her victory. ‘Nayantara, calm down, my princess. You know all the political maneuvers, then why are you talking like a naive? Without showing your strength, you cannot rule.’

Nayantara shook her head in distress. ‘I don’t want to rule. I want to come back. I cannot do this.’

‘That is not possible, Nayantara.’ Siddhant’s voice turned harsh.

Nayantara’s eyes filled with tears, hurt by his unacceptance. ‘Why not? Maharav is my home. I can come there anytime. Without anyone’s permission.’

Siddhant’s jaw hardened. ‘Didn’t I tell you that I won’t accept you like this. One day you want to sit on the throne, and the next day you want to come back. What is the throne for you? A toy that you’re now bored of! The throne is a responsibility, Nayantara. And the person who sits on it has to carry that burden, no matter how heavy it is. And sometimes you have to make decisions that could even wound your soul.’

Nayantara lowered her gaze, silent tears rolled down her cheeks. Why Siddhant was so harsh to her. Why didn’t he try to understand her condition? She was feeling so suffocating. There was a constant ache in her heart. She ordered the killing of innocent people. It happened with her sign. And Siddhant just didn’t care. Unbothered that his wife’s hands were covered in innocent blood. But of course, what could she expect from a ruthless warrior. He loved bloodshed. And suddenly she grew even more sad when she realized even Siddhant had never killed so many people. He just fought on the battlefield. Not women and children.

‘Why did you ask for the throne if you can’t handle it?’ She cursed herself in a barely audible voice.

‘Enough now, Nayantara.’ Siddhant cupped her face and wiped her tears with his thumb. ‘You still have to do many things for your kingdom. Focus on that. You don’t have time or space for weakness. You are queen. You cannot expose your vulnerability to anyone.’

‘Not even you,’ Nayantara asked, her voice feeble, laced with pain.

Siddhant pulled her into his arms, setting a palm against her head to press it against his chest. ‘I’m always behind you, my love. Whenever you turn around, you will find me.’

Nayantara inhaled sharply, taking in her husband’s comforting aura.

Siddhant kissed the top of her head, rubbing her back to soothe her. She was a true queen. He had never seen a ruler moaning over the people of an enemy country like this.

‘Have you eaten?’ he asked with concern in his voice.

Nayantara shook against his chest.

‘Let eat. I’m starving.’

Nayantara pulled back, taking in his appearance. ‘First you take a bath. You are covered in dust.’

Siddhant’s eyes darkened as he said, ‘Only if you give me.’ His deep voice was laced with lust. His gaze lingered on her cleavage for a moment and then back to her face.

Nayantara rolled her eyes and pulled her dupatta back on her shoulder to cover her chest. ‘I will not.’

‘Why?’

Nayantara beamed. She could clearly see his intentions. She lifted her head arrogantly. ‘Stay in your limit. I’m the Queen of Anhilwara. I don’t serve anyone.’

‘Then I will serve you, my Queen,’ Siddhant said as he scooped her up into his muscled arms.

‘Ahhhh… my lord…’ Nayantara cried in delight. ‘Don’t you dare get me wet.’

‘What? Clothes or…’

‘Shut up!’ Nayantara slapped against his chest, her cheek turned crimson.

Siddhant laughed in amusement as he carried her to the bathroom.

After a long, hot bath, Siddhant walked out with Nayantara in his arms. Siddhant was in a towel, wrapped around his waist, while Nayantara had her dupatta wrapped around her wet body. All her curves were visible beneath the thin material. He gently lowered his exhausted wife onto the chair and reached for the cupboard to take out his night clothes.

‘Get dressed or you will catch a cold,’ he said, pulling down the kurta from his head.

‘I will take revenge for this,’ Nayantara seethed.

Siddhant smirked. She was flushed with pleasure. Her cheeks were rosy, and her lips were parted, trying to catch her breath.

‘Oh, I would love to enjoy your revenge,’ he said silkily, a devilish glint in his eyes.

Nayantara glared at him for a moment, and then her face broke into a smile, a soft blush crept up her cheeks. ‘You are so bad.’ She pouted and stood up to take out her clothes. Siddhant’s presence made her forget about her pain and worries. His protective aura was a soothing balm to her wounded soul. His dark, ravenous gaze, his rough palms on her body, and his giant member inside her were unforgettable.

Once they dressed in night clothes, they came out. Siddhant’s eyes searched the chamber once again for his son. ‘Where is Yug?’

Before Nayantara could answer, he heard Yug’s chirp. ‘Pit-a shr-i…’ He came running inside.

Siddhant’s face broke into a big smile. Picking the little boy up in his arms, he kissed his cheek affectionately. ‘How is my son?’

An excited Yug talked in incoherent words. ‘Hor-se there… bi-g horse… running… clo-p cop…’

Siddhant looked at Nayantara to translate his language.

Nayantara chuckled. ‘He did a horse ride with Ashvin,’ she said.

‘Oh, so you are having a lot of fun without me, huh?’ Siddhant said, keeping a smile on his face. His heart ached that he couldn’t enjoy with his son. ‘And are you taking care of your mother or not?’

Yug blinked at his father before he looked at his mother. His face fell as he pointed his tiny finger towards his mother. ‘Maa cries… Pit-a shi, maa cries…’

Nayantara eyed him in shock. How does he know? She had never cried in front of him.

Siddhant regarded his wife for a moment before he kissed Yug’s temple. ‘Don’t worry. Now she will not cry. I’m here. We will make her laugh all the time.’

Yug waved his arms in joy. ‘Maa… we sit on hor-se… and fee-d cows…’ Yug lost to convince his mother how he would make her smile.

Nayantara gave a weak smile. She kissed Yug’s tiny hand before she placed her hand on her husband’s strong forearm, which was tucked around Yug. ‘Thank you for coming.’

‘Your thanks will not fill my stomach. Now will you give me some food or not? I must say Anhilwara’s hospitality is very poor. You guys don’t even know how to take care of your son-in-law. You should come to the main gate to welcome me.’

Nayantara rolled her eyes. ‘Yeah, yeah, I remembered how Maharav had welcomed its daughter-in-law.’

Before Siddhant could answer her, a maid interrupted their heated conversation. ‘Dinner is here, my lady.’

Nayantara nodded, and the maid served the food.

Siddhant settled on the couch with Yug on his lap and Nayantara beside him.

This time Siddhant stayed there for three weeks to make sure Nayantara was alright.

47 A new dawn

A pink sunrise painted the sky—peaceful, gentle, beautiful, mirroring the feeling in Nayantara’s heart. Sitting on the perch of the garden swing, she watched the city view stretched out below. Today, after five long years of separation, she was returning to Maharav, to her husband’s embrace.

The past five years had been a tumultuous period for her. Soon after her ascension to the throne, Telum violated Anhilwara’s border. It forced her to become ruthless, prioritizing her kingdom’s security above all else. Obsessed with controlling her weapon’s technology, she pursued every avenue — persuade, purchase, punish, exploit weakness — targeting not only rival kingdoms but Maharav as well. She had kidnapped Maharav’s chief scientist. But despite Anhilwara’s all efforts, Maharav still succeeded in developing a far more destructive projectile within just a year and a half.

Later Siddhant’s spies succeeded in finding their scientist’s location and rescued him. They found him in Telum. New Telum King was in Nayantara’s control. So it was not difficult for Siddhant to understand Nayantara’s involvement in this.

When Nayantara got this news, she was filled with dread. Even after all these years, Siddhant’s anger still terrified her. She had plotted against Maharav, her own home. Would he seek revenge on her personally, or would he unleash his fury on Anhilwara and Telum? But instead he just sent her a sweet letter: My little lioness is now showing me her claws.

Within three years, Nayantara had transformed Anhilwara, restoring it to the prosperity it had lost under Rajendra’s tyrannical rule. Her relations with neighboring kingdoms were stable, although the foundation of these relationships was perhaps more out of fear of Anhilwara’s growing power than genuine amity. But still, the peace was a welcome change.

Nayantara also opened the door to trade with nations across the seas. The economy was good. Agricultural business was going well. She had good control over the food chain and hoarding, so the food cost stayed in control and farmers got good prices for their harvest.

Only one thing was bothering her, the significant expenditure on weaponry and the army. While unavoidable, it was a drain on the treasury. However, she didn’t need to raise taxes as she had her uncle’s immense wealth, amassed through years of self-indulgent living. Now she could use it for the well-being of her people.

She would make sure everyone had food, clothes, and shelter. She successfully balanced socialist and capitalist principles, believing that strict adherence to either model would be detrimental in the long run.

However, corruption was a big challenge for her. Officials took bribes like it was their right. The luxurious life they were leading with that corrupt money was a slow poison for the society. It inspired others to do wrong. When she tried to be strict with them, they started troubling people. So as a last resort, she gave the death penalty to some of the most corrupt officials. After that, corruption reduced considerably, not completely, but it was much less than before. Officials were now in her control and didn’t bother the people unnecessarily. People were happy, so the crime rate also reduced.

She was wondering how far she had come. A few years ago, she was a little, starry-eyed princess, who wanted to sit on the throne to make her father proud and take revenge for his death. She used to roam in this palace, wearing someone’s old clothes and doing all the chores. Her humiliation and burning for revenge provoked her to gain power. And now she was the head of Anhilwara. All her wishes and dreams were fulfilled. Her parents would be proud of her. She survived the throne game. She survived the war. She survived everything.

But to fulfill her dream, her husband made profound sacrifices. After learning of her past, her pain, and her aspirations, he selflessly let her go, prioritizing her growth and healing above his own loss. She could see a deep, unspoken sadness in his eyes. She could see how much he was missing her and Yug.

A chilling thought would sometimes creep into her mind: What if one day Siddhant gave up on her and married someone else? A sweet, beautiful, obedient princess who would be ready to serve him in every way. Not like her, who left everything to rule her kingdom. Maharav was powerful, and Siddhant was still devilishly handsome. The other princesses were dying to marry him. She always felt a pang in her heart whenever she imagined him with someone else. But all her thoughts turned out baseless. He didn’t do anything like that, instead he tirelessly waited for her.

She had no regret that she chose Anhilwara over everything. But now her purpose of life, her work here was completed satisfactorily. And now she had to go back to her husband. She couldn’t make him suffer like this. She couldn’t deprive Yug of his father’s love.

‘Maa, I’m ready. When are we leaving?’ Yug’s excited voice broke the chain of her thoughts.

Nayantara looked on. Her little boy was standing with a wooden sword in his right hand.

Nayantara smiled and stood up. ‘First I have to look after the arrangements, then we will leave.’

‘Okay, I will help you,’ Yug said as he walked with his mother. He was now six and quite mature for his age. He was thrilled to be going to Maharav. Last year Siddhant had taken him with him for a few weeks, but at that time Nayantara was not with him. He was bursting with excitement that finally he would be with both his mother and father under one roof.

‘Maa, can I ride on the horse?’ he asked, looking up at his mother.

‘No, Yug, you are too small to ride on a horse.’

‘I’m not small, maa. Please.’

‘Okay, you can sit with Aazad or Abhay,’ Nayantara said as they came to the courtyard, where baggage was ready to load into the cart.

Yug pouted. ‘No, I will sit alone. Pita shri never sits with others.’

‘Yug, I don’t want any argument on this,’ Nayantara said as she signaled the maids to put extra water.

‘Maa, I feel shy. No man travels like this,’ Yug cried, pulling his mother’s dupatta to grab her attention.

Nayantara gave a small laugh. ‘Oh, my little man, why don’t you sit with me in the chariot? I’ll be bored alone.’

Yug thought for a moment before he said, ‘If you let me ride your chariot, then I will sit with you.’

Nayantara shook her head in disbelief. ‘Okay, I will let you ride my chariot.’

‘And, maa, my friends are coming with me and their parents too.’

‘Yes, Yug, I’m aware of it. I have done their arrangements.’

‘And, maa, don’t forget to take my Badal with me,’ Yug said. Badal was his horse who was born a month ago.

‘Yes, he will reach there in a few days.’

‘And cows?’

Nayantara sighed tiredly. ‘Why don’t we uproot this entire palace and take it with us?’

Yug blinked at his mother before he said, ‘I know, maa, you don’t want to leave your home. But we cannot move the palace. It is fixed.’

Nayantara hit her head with her hand. ‘Fixed or movable, living or nonliving, we cannot take everything with us.’

Yug hung his head. ‘I will miss them.’

Nayantara went on her knees and pulled him into her arms. ‘I know, my baby. But we don’t get everything in life. Some things we have to give up.’

Yug nodded sadly. ‘Okay, I will take just one cow with me.’

Nayantara couldn’t help but laugh. He wasn’t mature enough to understand the meaning behind her words.

Suddenly, Yug jumped with joy. ‘Maa, once we reach there we will invite everyone. Kathan bhai, Bhavya bhai, maasi, kaka shri, and kaki shri, everyone.’

‘Yes, we will invite everyone,’ Nayantara said, ruffling his hair.

Aditya was now married and taking care of the south region of Maharav.

‘Nayantara, when are we leaving?’ Padmini walked towards them. ’If you take so long, we won’t be able to reach even in two weeks. Or you want to do a vidaai ceremony?’

Nayantara shook her head, smiling. Mother-in-law is mother-in-law. She stood up. ’What, maa shri, my vidaai happened years ago. And at that time even your son didn’t give me time to cry. He was in such a hurry that I couldn’t even feel my marriage.’

Padmini glared at her. ‘Yeah, yeah, everything is my son’s fault. And you are a saint.’

Nayantara chuckled and wrapped her arm around her mother-in-law, hugging her with affection. ‘I know. I know, maa. I’m your most stubborn child.’

Padmini smiled softly and slapped her cheek lightly. ‘Hurry up now. I’m waiting in my chariot.’

‘Yes, maa. We are just leaving.’

‘I will sit with Dadi ma. I will ride her chariot,’ Yug said and walked away to his grandmother.

One last time, Nayantara checked everything. The convoy was ready to leave, and she sat in her chariot. Yug stubbornly sat with the charioteer, so he could get a chance to ride the chariot. Once the convoy entered the city, people surrounded Nayantara’s chariot, forcing the charioteer to stop it.

The guards tried to shove them away, but Nayantara stopped them and came out of the chariot. She stood on the shaft of the chariot, so she could see everyone.

‘You are our queen, our mother, our goddess. Why are you leaving us? How we will leave without you.’ The people started crying. ‘If we have made any mistake, then forgive us. But don’t abandon us.’

Tears collected in Nayantara’s eyes seeing people’s love for her. ‘How could I abandon my people! I will now just live in a different place. That’s it.’

After a little emotional conversation, the people decided not to be selfish and let her go to her husband. Nayantara promised them that she would visit Anhilwara. She was the princess of Anhilwara, and she was forever bound to serve them.

With wet eyes, the crowd parted and let the chariot go. Nayantara wiped her tears and started her journey to Maharav.

On the other side, Siddhant didn’t know Nayantara was coming. He had news that his mother and Yug were coming to spend a few days with him.

‘My lord, we just got the message that Prince Yugvijay and Rajmata will be here within one pehar,’ the guard informed.

Siddhant nodded. He decided to go to the throne hall as there was still time in their arrival. He was sad. Five years had passed, and Nayantara hadn’t come even once to visit Maharav. Dadi ma was very weak, at least she should have come to see her.

Nayantara’s convoy reached there by the mid morning. The guards were shocked when they saw Queen Nayantara.

‘My lady, if we had known you were coming, we would have arranged a big celebration,’ the guard said.

Nayantara smiled. ‘Where is the lord?’

‘The lord is in the throne hall,’ he informed.

‘Don’t disturb him,’ Nayantara said almost in an order as she walked on. First she went straight to Dadi ma’s chamber.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Dadi ma wept at the sight of her daughter-in-law and great-grandson. With trembling, wrinkled hands, she cupped Nayantara’s face, kissing her forehead repeatedly, tears streaming down her cheeks. When Yug touched her feet, she pulled him into her arms and cried and cried, unwilling to let him out of her sight. Nayantara asked for her forgiveness and promised her that now she would never leave Maharav.

After a short conversation, Yug stayed with Dadi ma, and Nayantara went to her chamber. Today she would take a long, relaxing bath.

In a short while, Siddhant came out of the throne hall. ‘Yug has arrived?’ he asked the guard.

‘Yes, my lord, Prince Yugvijay is in Dadi ma’s chamber.’

As Siddhant reached there, Yug was playing chess with Dadi ma. The moment his eyes fell on his father, he jumped down from the bed and ran to his father. ‘Pita shri!’ He bent down and touched his father’s feet. ‘Pranam, Pita shri.’

Siddhant smiled. He bent and lifted the little boy into his arms. He was so well-mannered towards everyone. ‘God bless you, my son,’ he said, hugging his son tightly and kissing his chubby cheek.

‘I have a surprise for you, Pita shri,’ Yug said, wrapping his arms around his father’s neck.

‘What is it?’

‘Now I will forever stay with you.’

Siddhant gave a sad smile. ‘That is what I want. But I don’t think your mother would like to live without you.’

‘No, Pita shri, maa will also stay with us. We three will stay together,’ Yug said, cheerily.

Siddhant sighed. ‘Yug, how many times do I have to explain to you that your mother cannot live with me. She has to take care of…’

‘Nayantara is here, Siddhant,’ Dadi ma interjected.

‘What!’ Siddhant’s heart jolted. He looked at Dadi ma, wondering if she was making fun of him. She was smiling at him, and Siddhant looked back at Yug. ‘Your mother is here?’

‘Yes, Pita shri.’ Yug had a soft, innocent smile on his face.

Siddhant stared at Yug and then his grandmother. ‘Are you guys playing with me?’

Dadi ma chuckled. ‘Why don’t you go and check yourself.’

Siddhant just stood there, aghast, unable to digest this news. Nayantara is here!

Yug wriggled in his arms. ‘I’m hungry. I will eat with Badi Dadi ma and Dadi ma,’ he said, and Siddhant put him down. He ran away, and Siddhant turned to go to his chamber. His heart was thumping in his chest. After five long years, she was back. How long would she stay here? A few weeks, perhaps? I would convince her to stay longer, he resolved.

48 His princess

Deafening silence filled the chamber as Siddhant and Nayantara stared at one another.

Siddhant just kept looking at her without a blink, unable to believe she was actually here. She looked beautiful in simple pink attire with no jewelry. Her loose and slightly wet hair framed her face. She had never been fond of embellishments. Her glow was her kindness illuminated by wisdom and knowledge.

A frown creased Siddhant’s brow as he noticed her blouse was torn from the shoulder, and it reminded him of their very first meeting.

Nayantara glanced at her torn blouse and then back to Siddhant’s eyes. Her eyes overwhelmed with emotions as she muttered, ‘Your princess is back, my lord.’

Siddhant’s heart skipped a beat. Is she really… No, he shouldn’t raise his hope.

Nayantara’s face fell when Siddhant didn’t say anything. ‘I didn’t come defeated, my lord,’ she said further. ‘I won in war, politics, economy, everything. My people are happy. Anhilwara is in its best time.’

Siddhant inhaled sharply. He couldn’t believe his ears. Nayantara really wanted to come back to him.

Tears collected in Nayantara’s eyes when she didn’t get any response from Siddhant. He just stood there with no expression on his rugged face. ‘Has the distance between us become so great that you no longer want me in your life?’ Hurt clearly visible in her voice.

Siddhant shook his head. ‘I’m dying without you, Nayantara.’ His voice broke as he spread his arms wide open.

A soft smile came its way to her beautiful face as she ran into his embrace.

Siddhant engulfed her in his massive arms, his palm resting protectively against the curve of her head as he kissed the top of her head. Nayantara buried her face in his chest, inhaling his masculine scent.

‘Promise me now you will never leave me. And even if you want to, I will not let go. Not anymore. You are mine. Only mine. Anhilwara has no right on you. Do you get it?’ His voice was loud and aggressive, with frustration, anger, and pain he had suffered in the past five years.

Nayantara chuckled at his possessiveness. She placed her hand on his chest, rubbing him to calm. ‘Yes, my lord, I’m all yours. I’m so sorry. I make you suffer a lot.’

‘I had lost all hope. I thought you…’ His voice trailed off.

Nayantara pulled back to look into his eyes. She cupped his face and muttered under her breath, ‘How do I not come back! I am also incomplete without you.’ She rose a few inches, lifting her face to his and placing her lips to his.

Siddhant sighed in bliss. She smelled fresh, purely feminine. His large, calloused hand went to her hips, lifting her off the ground for better access. She held onto his shoulders, her feet dangling in the air as she struggled to keep up with his kiss. His kiss told her everything without using a word. How much he missed her. How much he suffered.

She pulled her lips away to rasp, ‘Bed.’

Siddhant chuckled and walked to the bed with Nayantara dangling in his arms. He threw her on the bed and quickly removed his overcoat followed by his kurta and pajamas.

Nayantara felt warmth on her cheeks as he stood tall in front of her, unaffected by his nakedness. He was still intimidating with broad shoulders, a sturdy, muscular physique, and a commanding presence.

Siddhant smirked. ‘Why are you blushing like a newlywed girl? Like you are seeing me for the first time.’

Her cheeks turned a deeper shade of red as she giggled. ‘I don’t know why everything is feeling new.’ She was feeling lighter so the environment around her looked more beautiful to her. She didn’t know when was the last time she was this much stress free.

A thunderous laugh rumbled from Siddhant’s chest as he climbed on the bed and rushed to pull Nayantara’s clothes off. His eyes darkened as they wandered down her body. His ruggedly handsome features sharpened with hunger as he leered at all her curves and swells — breasts, waist, hips, thighs. After Yug’s birth, he found her even more attractive.

Nayantara’s stomach twisted badly, and wetness leaked from her core as she felt his intense eyes drinking her naked body. Even after all these years, she still felt a shiver whenever he looked at her with those dark, ravenous eyes.

He leaned forward, looking into her brown orbs. ‘Thank god I married you before you could kill your uncle and grab the throne. Otherwise you would never have accepted my marriage proposal even if I had begged on my knees.’

Nayantara chuckled, tracing the scar on his face. ‘Now your and my past don’t matter to me. All I know is you are my husband, and I love you,’ she whispered, holding on to his shoulder and pulling him close.

Siddhant pecked her lips with affection. His mouth caressed her, and his tongue penetrated her in deep, demanding strokes. His one hand was caressing her cheek while the other went between her legs. He groaned with want. She was all wet, making him rock-hard for her.

His thumb rubbed her clit and his lips slowly moved down to her slender neck, nibbling supple skin under her jawline. Nayantara whimpered in pleasure, her stomach twisted in a tight knot.

Suddenly, Siddhant pushed her legs apart and thrust into her all at once.

Her soft walls stretched all of a sudden and she bit down her lip to suppress her cry. ‘Easy, my lord, or I have to stay in bed all day,’ she panted, trying to move her hips to adjust around his monstrous cock.

Siddhant gave her a lascivious smirk. His huge, calloused hands were squeezing and teasing her breasts. ‘Day! I intend to keep you in bed for a week, my love.’ His thick voice was dangerous, laced with lust and dominance.

Nayantara’s eyes widened in fear. ‘No, Siddhant,’ she heaved, feeling weak on her knees. She couldn’t believe, even after ruling her kingdom with an iron fist and striking fear into the hearts of her ministers and officials by her very gaze, she still felt vulnerable whenever her barbaric husband overpowered her and fucked her in missionary.

‘Aww, my princess got scared even before I started.’ His voice was teasing as he grabbed her wrists in his hand and held them above her head.

Nayantara’s breath hitched as he pulled back and jerked into her again, hard and deep. Soon her moans of tormented pleasure filled the room. He was ramming her with a demonic speed, but careful enough not to cause her any serious harm.

He fucked her until she burst into a strong orgasm, and her empty womb was flooded with his seed.

Nayantara’s body went limp with a shudder, and Siddhant released her wrists. He slowly eased out of her and rolled to his side. Adjusting himself in a half-sitting position, he rested his back on the headboard. His breathing calmed in a few moments, and he glanced at Nayantara. Her cheeks were red, her lips were parted, her eyelids were half closed, and her body was faint from exhaustion. Siddhant smiled and pulled her on his lap. His seed was dripping from her hole.

‘Cover me,’ Nayantara muttered, resting her head against his warm chest.

Siddhant pulled the comforter up with his leg and covered themselves before wrapping his arm around her and slowly rubbing her back. She closed her eyes in contentment. Finally she was in her husband’s protective arms, safe and snug.

Siddhant couldn’t take his eyes off her. His fingers were caressing her hair, recalling the moment she’d fallen into his arms amidst the chaos of battle. Seeing her clothes and dust covered body, nobody could say that she was a princess. Yet, her eyes were telling a different story. They spoke of a queen — sharp, fearless, full of purpose.

Nayantara slightly lifted her gaze and gave him a soft smile. His thick, rough fingers moving through her hair were deeply relaxing.

Siddhant was captivated by the dreamy look in her eyes. The eyes that once glared at him with hate and anger now shone with love and respect. His mission, his sacrifice, had succeeded. The wounds of her past had healed, and a look of contentment graced her face.

Travel fatigue mixed with an orgasm and Siddhant’s gentle massage on her head pushed her to the verge of sleeping, when Siddhant broke the silence. He didn’t want her to sleep as lunch would arrive soon.

‘What is wrong in Anhilwara’s land? I had sent a healthy Nayantara, and they sent me back a skeleton,’ Siddhant said, running his finger on her thin wrist. It was slightly red from strife.

She slightly opened her eyes. ‘It happened in the grief of our separation. You thought I had fun there, but there wasn’t a day that went by when I didn’t miss you.’

Siddhant held her delicate hand and kissed her knuckles. He knew she suffered as much as him, plus she had small Yug to look after. ‘So what inspired you to come here? My queen is born to rule, so what made you leave the throne?’

‘I’m born to rule, but not on the land but on the heart of my people, and for that I don’t want the throne. I proved what I wanted to. But now I want to stop this power game before it’s too late. Without the burden of the crown, I could do better things for our people.’

Siddhant smiled. ‘You look in peace.’

‘Peace,’ Nayantara heaved, repeating the word like it was foreign. ‘Peace is a fragile thing, my lord. It can be shattered in an instant by a single harsh word or a painful memory.’

Siddhant knew what Nayantara was talking about. ‘You should try to forget about it. Now Telum people also like you. They will forgive you one day.’

Nayantara sighed. The weight of her past actions pressed heavily upon her. Yes, she did a lot of development in Telum, and her image was getting better there. But it couldn’t wipe her sins. What was wrong was wrong. She was not a coward. She would never justify or turn away from her sin. She was not worried about herself. She was worried for her son, her people, and her kingdom. Sometimes she woke up from a horrible dream that Anhilwara was turned into a crematorium just like Telum.

‘I know they will forgive me.’ Her voice was barely a whisper. ‘Those dead souls will forgive me one day. Even God will forgive me one day, but my karma will not. It will come with me even after my death. I have to pay for my sins. If not in this life, then the next. But I have to,’ she said, feeling a burn in her chest. She was always in rags, first her clothes, and now her soul.

‘Oh, my princess,’ Siddhant pushed loose strands of her hair behind her ear. ‘I wish I could ease your pain,’ he muttered, placing a tender kiss on her head, feeling helpless that he wasn’t able to soothe her mind. She was a wise woman. She knew the eternal truths of life. There was nothing he could advise her.

Nayantara wiped the corner of her eyes as she said, ‘No, I’m sorry, my lord. I shouldn’t spoil your mood.’

‘You can share anything with me,’ Siddhant said, knowing how much of an overthinker she was. The adverse circumstances and evil people around her made her like this. And her overthinking nature helped her to survive everything. She could even solve the baffling mystery of his wives and children’s deaths.

Nayantara tilted her head to look into his eyes. Her lips curled into a smile as she said, ‘For now I want my husband to fulfill my wish.’

‘What is it that the Great Queen Nayantara doesn’t have?’ Siddhant said, tapping on her small, pointy nose.

‘Still, every wife wants her husband to fulfill her wish.’

Siddhant chuckled. ‘Okay, tell me what my princess wants? But remember, Maharav is not as wealthy as Anhilwara, so ask according to that. Maintaining a rose garden costs a lot.’

Nayantara slapped against his chest, pretending to be angry. ‘Be serious, my lord. You don’t care about my wishes at all.’

Siddhant gave her a cold look. ‘Your wishes scare me. I know what kind of wishes and demands you have.’

‘Fine, I will not ask,’ she seethed, trying to move away.

But Siddhant held her arm and pulled her back against his chest. ‘Oh, my fierce princess, I was just teasing you. What is it? I will grant my princess’s wish right away,’ he said sincerely, caressing her cheek.

‘Do you remember you had promised me an excursion, but it never happened,’ she complained with a pout.

‘Yes, I remember, my love. Sorry, I couldn’t keep my promise.’

‘I want to go for a pleasure trip again,’ she demanded, tracing a scar on his chest.

Siddhant raised his brows in amusement. ‘Pleasure trip?’

Nayantara giggled. ‘Yes, that is what everyone calls it in the palace.’

Siddhant’s laughter filled the air as he squeezed her sensually in his strong arms and kissed her cheek lovably. ‘Of course, my princess, we will go on a pleasure trip, and exactly nine months after the trip, you will bless me with a baby girl.’

A deep blush warmed Nayantara’s cheeks, and she hid her face in the crook of his neck. She wondered how fate had played a cruel and beautiful trick on her, that led her to love this man, this beast, her sworn enemy.

Now Epilogue

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49 Epilogue

The early evening air was still warm when Siddhant returned from his political tour. He jumped down from his horse and climbed the steps to the palace. Inside, a maid offered him water and juice. He picked up a glass of water, taking a quick gulp. Before he could finish, another maid came running, her voice urgent as she said, ‘My lord, the queen is in labor.’

Siddhant’s eyes widened. He placed the glass back on the tray with a clatter and ran to his chamber. The guards opened the door for him. Pushing the curtains aside, he barged in and met with the distinct sound of an infant’s cry. His heart quickened. His child had arrived. Nayantara was hardly visible as she and the newborn were surrounded by the physician, midwife, and a cluster of maids.

Before he could walk to her, Padmini stopped him. ‘No, don’t come.’ She stood up from the bed and came forward. ‘Are you here straight from outside?’

Siddhant looked confused and irritated.

‘Go wash yourself first. You are covered in dust. You cannot touch Nayantara and the baby like this.’

‘But maa,’

‘Go, Siddhant, I don’t want you to infect the baby. And go somewhere else. We need this space for Nayantara.’

Siddhant groaned in frustration and walked out with quick steps. They didn’t even let him see his wife and baby. Were they fine or not? He went to the other chamber to take a quick bath. He cursed himself for leaving her. He knew her time was near, still he left her for a political tour. It was avoidable. He could postpone it or send the foreign minister on his behalf. Why did he become so dry towards her? What if something had gone wrong in his absence?

A lot happened in the past seven years.

Though Anhilwara and Maharav were now united under one law, Anhilwara still retained its own flag and certain distinct laws.

Nayantara gave birth to her second child, exactly nine months after returning from Anhilwara. Well, it was not one. Yes, they were twins. Two boys. The moment the physician announced that there were two lives inside the queen, Nayantara got shocked and Siddhant got worried as twin pregnancy was high risk. Nayantara had hoped that one of them would be a girl, while Siddhant had wished for two girls. Despite these hopes, the children were both sons. Though the boys were healthy and robust, Nayantara was left utterly depleted by the arduous labor.

After that Siddhant had accepted that girl was not his fate. He couldn’t bear to put Nayantara through another pregnancy, not for his own sake. He had made up his mind. He was happy with his three boys. He didn’t want more children.

He was grief-stricken. It was his sins. God had given him a beautiful daughter, and he couldn’t protect her. Why would God trust him again? Why would he bless someone so irresponsible like him with a girl? He would die without feeling a daughter’s love, and that was his punishment.

It was not that he didn’t like his boys, but they couldn’t fill the void left by his daughter. They couldn’t replicate the unique bond he’d shared with Aayushi. Her love and care for her father were just divine. At the tender age of five, she seemed to intuitively understand him. When he was tired, she would offer him water and food. When he was stressed, she would attempt to massage his head with her tiny fingers. When he was sleepless, she would cradle his head in her small lap and sing for him.

Nayantara was aware of her husband’s condition. Her heart ached for him. She knew he was still blaming himself for everything. She consoled him many times: Don’t blame yourself, Siddhant. Your heart is too pure, and that’s why you didn’t doubt your sister. That’s it. It was not your fault.

Siddhant always listened to her silently. He had nothing to say. No one could understand his pain. Nobody knew that his stillborn child was also a girl. He had lost two girls. No father could bear this much pain. He always cursed himself, why he did not die instead.

A small celebration marked the twins’ arrival. This time Kathan chose their names: Shivansh and Devansh. Unlike their quiet older brother, Yug, these two were bundles of naughtiness—and utterly devoted to their mother. They clung to Nayantara all the time, refusing to be separated from her, not even staying with their father or grandmother. Juggling her queen’s duties with the constant demands of the twins left Nayantara utterly exhausted. They never gave her a moment’s peace.

After the twins’ birth, all the spark was gone between Siddhant and Nayantara. Their days became a monotonous cycle of waking, performing their duties for the kingdom, parenting their boys, and sleeping, only to repeat the same routine the next day.

Yug was seven and had gone to gurukul. He was allowed to come home only once a month. Although Nayantara felt a deep sadness at his departure, the presence of the twins helped distract her and eased her heartache somewhat.

Their routine cycle broke a little when Aditya’s wife gave birth to a beautiful girl. Siddhant, Nayantara, and three princes went to Saraspur, the southern state of Maharav, where Aditya was living in a castle. The newborn girl was a soothing balm on Siddhant’s wounded soul. He announced a seven-day celebration throughout the kingdom. He had never organized such a big celebration for anyone, not even for his sons.

Aditya wanted his big brother to do his daughter’s naming convention. He knew how much this girl mattered to him. Siddhant picked a beautiful name for her. Aaradhna. If it were up to him, he would have taken his niece with him. When he was leaving Saraspur, he warned Aditya to fulfill Aaradhna’s every wish even before she asked.

Twins started growing fast. Their mischief continued to increase with their age. They burned curtains, mixed extra salt in everyone’s food, threw a rabbit into the pond, and even sneaked into the study room and tore some important documents.

Dozens of maids were needed to take care of two little devil princes.

Siddhant was so tired of them. He punished them many times, but still they didn’t change.

Time flew by, and Shiv and Dev turned five. One day, they were playing with their wooden swords. Suddenly their play turned into a fight, and they started hitting each other. When Vida saw them, she ran over to separate them, but in the process, Dev’s sword accidentally struck her left cheek.

The twins panicked and made her sit on the couch. They applied the ointment on her cheek and asked for her forgiveness again and again.

Vida reassured them that she was alright. But she had no idea how she would hide her bruise from Nayantara. She was so dumb when it came to lying. She couldn’t even hide her affection for Aazad from the queen. It was one-sided love. She had no strength to go to Aazad and confess her love. What if he didn’t like her? She knew one day Aazad’s parents would do his marriage to someone else, and she would lose him forever. But nothing could hide from the queen’s eyes. She didn’t speak a word, but still the queen figured out about her love interest. Without informing Vida, the queen called her mother and Aazad’s parents and fixed her marriage. When her mother told her that the queen had fixed her marriage, she got scared. She didn’t even have the courage to tell her mother that she liked Aazad and she didn’t want to marry anyone else. But later she found out that the queen fixed her hand with Aazad. She ran straight to the queen and cried in her arms. She really acted like her elder sister. The queen scolded her for hiding her feelings from her. Vida felt blessed that she got a chance to serve such a generous queen. She was so happy with her husband, Aazad. Without saying a word, the queen granted her wish.

As Vida had feared, Queen Nayantara noticed her cheek. She tensed and asked her about her bruise. At that time the King and the twins were also there. Vida lied that she hit the cupboard handle.

Nayantara’s eyes immediately narrowed on her, and Vida gulped in fear. She knew how sharp the queen was. Nobody could make her a fool. But she didn’t want to put the princes in trouble.

But before Nayantara could interrogate her, the twins came up and accepted their fault. They were not cowards. They couldn’t lie.

It was Siddhant’s breaking point.

Siddhant’s eyes shifted to Vida, who had a bruise on the right below her left eye. The twins were standing in front of their parents with their heads low. Before Nayantara could scold them, Siddhant’s big hand swiftly met with their cheeks. However, it was a measured blow, but still, his heavy hand left an imprint on the kids’s soft cheeks.

Nayantara gasped but didn’t stop her husband. She knew Vida could have lost her eye.

Vida prayed to the king to let them go as it was an accident. But this time Siddhant had made up his mind. The Maharav princes should be responsible and disciplined. One day, they had to serve the kingdom. He decided to send them to gurukul early.

The boys cried a lot. They had never been without their mother. They implored their mother to change their father’s mind.

Nayantara stood strong with her husband’s decision, but once the boys left, the mother inside her was completely shattered. Yug assured his mother that he would take care of his little brothers. And as they were small, they were allowed to come home every week.

Nayantara cried and cried for her little boys. She wasn’t even able to focus on her work. Siddhant could see how much Nayantara was yearning for her sons, but he didn’t change his decision. Siddhant was so harsh when it came to his sons’ training. Yug lived up to his father’s expectations. He has his father’s valor and his mother’s sharpness. His Guruji always called him his best student. But the twins were stormy, hyperactive children.

One day, Nayantara overheard her mother-in-law advising someone to have another child. The first child would be responsible on its own when the second child arrived.

Nayantara did not want more children, nor did she believe in this theory. But, in her grief over her sons’ separation, she began to yearn for one more child. When she shared her feelings with Siddhant, he clearly refused.

A grief-stricken mother tried to give up on her wish, but she couldn’t. She wanted a baby.

She had a long, aggressive argument with Siddhant and finally he gave in to her will. And here she was, delivered his fourth child. But during this pregnancy, Siddhant was so distant with her. He took care of her, but like a responsibility, there was no intimacy in his behaviour. He barely acknowledged the baby growing within her.

Shaking away the feeling of guilt, he quickly rubbed his body. A thought had been nagging at him for the past few days. He considered reversing his decision and calling Shiv and Dev home from gurukul. Almost a year had passed since they’d been sent away—surely they’d learned their lesson. They used to be sad even when they came home, and their sadness made their mother sad too. He couldn’t punish them anymore. It wasn’t just for Nayantara’s sake. The truth was, he too missed his two little mischievous sons deeply, a feeling he kept concealed all the time. Now they would go back when they turned seven.

He finished the bath and wore a simple white kurta and loin. He rushed towards his chamber. The door was open. He pushed the curtains aside and dashed in. Padmini, Vida, Savita, and the midwife were still there.

An exhausted Nayantara was lying on the bed, her face pale but radiant. The newborn baby clung to her chest, sleeping peacefully.

Siddhant looked at the midwife. ‘Both of them are fine?’

‘Yes, my lord,’ the midwife said.

Padmini kissed Nayantara’s forehead before she stood up from the bed and looked at Siddhant. ‘Congratulations, son,’ she said with a smile and turned to the others. ‘We should go now.’

‘Yes, the queen is now okay,’ the midwife said, and everyone quickly left the chamber.

Siddhant stepped near the bed. The baby was barely visible as he was covered in swaddle and his face buried in his mother’s chest.

Siddhant sat beside his wife and caressed her head. ‘Are you all right?’ His voice was tender and concerned.

Tears welled in Nayantara’s eyes. ‘My lord…’ a soft sob escaped from her lips.

Siddhant tensed. ‘What happened? You aren’t feeling good? Should I call the physician?’

Nayantara shook her head. ‘I’m fine, but…’ She felt a lump in her throat as she looked down at her baby, and a few more tears slipped from her eyes.

Siddhant followed her gaze and then looked back at her. He wiped her tears as he said softly, ‘Calm down, my love. It’s okay if it is a boy again. Boy or girl, I want my baby and you healthy, that’s it. I had already told you I’m happy with my sons.’

Nayantara shook her head. ‘It is a girl, my lord.’

Siddhant gave a reluctant nod. ‘I know,’ he said, and then his eyes widened in surprise as his brain processed the information.

‘What did you say?’ he asked.

A big smile spread across Nayantara’s lips. ‘Yes, my lord, it is a girl.’

Siddhant looked at the baby. My girl! My daughter!

‘Here, my lord,’ Nayantara said as she detached the baby from her chest. The baby cried a little as she lost her mother’s warmth. Siddhant carefully took her in his arms and cradled her against his chest. The baby stopped crying the moment she felt his father’s aura.

Tears freely flowed down from Siddhant’s eyes. He had never talked to her, but still she recognized her father. ‘My daughter, Nayantara, my daughter.’ He could keep his eyes away from her. She was so adorable. So fragile. So pure. Her cheeks were rosy. Her nose was small. Her lips were more delicate than the rose petals. Her closed eyes were peaceful in sleep. Tiny wisps of dark hair clung to her head, and her miniature fists were curled up near her chin.

My daughter! My daughter! A wave of emotion washed over him. She gripped his finger in her tiny fist, and it almost took his breath away. He wanted to say a lot, but no words came out of his mouth. His wife had given him a world.

Nayantara just adored the beautiful scene before her. Her heart swelled with love. Siddhant was behaving as if he was a father for the first time.

Nayantara cleared her throat, drawing his attention back to her. ‘Now give me my daughter back,’ she said.

Siddhant narrowed his eyes at the word my.

‘Oh, don’t look at me like this,’ Nayantara taunted. ‘She is an unwanted child for you. So I will give her my name.’

A strong growl erupted from Siddhant’s chest. ‘How dare you call my daughter unwanted. She is Agnivanshi. The Maharav princess.’

The heated voices made the baby mewl.

‘No, no, my baby.’ Siddhant immediately quieted down and slowly swung her in his arms. ‘It was not for you. My daughter is not unwanted. Your mother is lying. She is jealous that I love you more than her.’

Nayantara rolled her eyes. Siddhant ignored her and kept his gaze on his baby girl.

‘She looks like me, isn’t she?’ he muttered, and Nayantara couldn’t help but laugh. That tiny, beautiful thing was nowhere near Siddhant.

Siddhant glared at her, and she immediately pressed her lips tight to prevent her smile and nodded with seriousness on her face. ‘Yes, she is just like you, my lord.’

A satisfied smile spread across Siddhant’s face, and he continued to adore his daughter. She was the elixir for his wounded soul.

---

One year later.

The sun had risen in the sky. Nayantara walked out of the dressing room and found the father-and-daughter duo awake. Siddhant lying with his head on the pillow and his baby girl, Amruta, perched on his chest. She was a bundle of cuteness, all plump with fat and chubby cheeks. She had a small comb in her tiny hand and was carefully combing her father’s beard.

Nayantara burst into laughter. It was hilarious.

Siddhant glared at her. ‘Why are you laughing? See how much my daughter is taking care of me. Have you ever spent time grooming my hair?’

Nayantara burst into another fit of laughter. ‘What is there in your hair to groom? Nobody can fix your shaggy hair. And even if I waste my time to set them, you will still look ugly.’

Siddhant gritted. ‘I don’t want your certificate. My daughter finds me handsome, and that is enough for me.’

‘Hansum,’ Amruta repeated the word and put the comb aside, satisfied with her work. She looked at her mother. ‘Maa… Maa…Pita shi…’

‘Yes, my princess, very well done. Your father looks handsome for the first time,’ Nayantara scoffed.

‘My father hansum.’ Amruta clapped.

‘Oh, my sweet sweet baby! Pita shri loves you the most!’ Siddhant lifted her up in the air before he pulled her close and kissed her cheek strongly.

Amruta squealed with delight, and Siddhant gave her a few more kisses. She giggled and laughed as her father tickled her with his beard.

Nayantara just watched their joyful interaction with a smile on her face. When Amruta’s cheeks turned red from laughter, Siddhant gently ceased his tickling.

Amruta complained in incoherent words for making her laugh so much. She made an angry pout and gave three kisses on her father’s rugged cheek as revenge. Siddhant laughed in amusement. It was a reward for him.

Amruta slipped down from his chest and dropped herself on the mattress. She crawled to her mother.

Nayantara knew why she was coming to her. She only left her father when she wanted milk. Nayantara sat on the bed and took her in her lap. Siddhant stood up with a sigh and went away to take a bath.

Nayantara gave him a teasing smile as if saying, mother is mother.

By the time Siddhant came out, he found Amruta sprawled on the floor, playing with the dolls, and Nayantara was on the couch with some papers in her lap. He couldn’t help but admire his wife, so serene and focused in her work. Who could say that she couldn’t get a proper education in her childhood. Even after giving up on the throne, she was still dedicated to the people. For the sake of her people, she even cancelled her daughter’s birthday celebration. It was Amruta’s first birthday next week, and Siddhant wanted a big celebration, but Nayantara clearly denied the idea. There was flooding in the north-east states of Maharav. It didn’t feel right for the royal family to celebrate while their people were suffering. Instead she decided to use the celebration fund for flood affected people. However, Siddhant had already visited the affected areas and released a fund, but still her mind didn’t agree for celebration.

Nayantara looked up as she found Siddhant’s intense gaze on her. ‘What?’ she said.

‘You look beautiful,’ he said lavishly as his eyes roamed on her body. She was not skinny anymore. Her curves turned luscious. But it was her spicy attitude that always attracted him the most.

Nayantara waved her hand neglectfully. ‘These days everything looks beautiful to you as your daughter is coming.’

Even though there wasn’t a big celebration for Amruta’s birthday, they would still mark the occasion with family. Vishakha would come with her son and spy man. Adiya and his family would be here by tomorrow. And Siddhant was eagerly waiting for his first daughter. Aaradhna.

‘Yes, Nayantara, yes, I’m so happy. My daughters are my life,’ he said with a smile. He sat beside her and wrapped his arm around her. ‘But the source of all my happiness is you. You purified my life. You gave justice to my Aayushi and my wives. You blessed me with lovely children. Thank you for loving someone like me.’ His voice was thick with emotions. He leaned forward, his hand placed on her cheek as he pecked her lips softly. His life was now filled with greater joy, but the memories of his wives and daughters and the guilt of not being able to protect them would stay with him till his last breath.

Nayantara gave in to his touch, but before Siddhant could deepen the kiss, he felt a tug on his lower. He broke the kiss and looked down. Amruta was there, blinking at her father with a pout on her face.

Nayantara sighed. Amruta didn’t like it if her father showed affection to someone else. Like only she had the right to his love.

‘Yes, princess?’ Siddhant asked.

The toddler stood up with the support of his father’s leg. ‘Bhai shi,’ She pointed towards the garden.

Yug was here. As it was Amruta’s birthday, Siddhant requested Yug’s Guruji to allow him to come home for a week. Amruta had the same possessiveness for Yug. Every time she cried her eyes out when Yug went back to gurukul. Nayantara always put her to sleep before Yug’s departure, but upon waking and discovering her brother’s missing, she burst into vociferous cries.

Shiv and Dev were also here. Siddhant had called them back right after Amruta’s birth. They both were her partners in crime.

‘You cannot go there. They are playing with the ball. It can hit you,’ Nayantara said.

‘Bahi shi,’ she chirped angrily.

Nayantara narrowed her eyes. ‘Wait a little. Vida will be here in some time. She will take you out.’

‘Nah! Pita shi,’ she tugged at her father’s overcoat.

‘Pita shri is getting late for the throne hall,’ Nayantara said.

‘Nah… nah… nah… Pita shi…’ She stomped her feet.

Nayantara gave a scolding look. ‘Don’t show me this stubbornness. It is not going to work.’

Amruta’s eyes welled up and her lower lip started trembling, but before she could burst into tears, Siddhant picked the tiny bundle up in his arms. ‘Okay, but we will watch them for a while and then back,’ he said as he stood up and carried her to the garden.

Nayantara shook her head. He would never say no to his daughter. She put the papers aside and followed them. She had to bring her back, or she wouldn’t let the boys play, nor would she leave her father.

Yug, Shiv, and Dev were playing with some of their friends.

Amruta got excited and called her brothers. ‘Bhai shiii… Bhai shiii…’

The boys were lost in playing. One team was engaged in collecting the stones and arranging them in a tower, while the opposing team was hitting them with a ball, trying to prevent its completion.

Amruta’s soft voice died in their clamor.

‘What did I say, Amruta, we’ll just see,’ Siddhant said. Nayantara came and stood beside him.

Amruta ignored his father and called her brothers again, but when they still didn’t listen, she began to cry loudly.

Her voice grabbed Yug’s attention, and he immediately ran to her.

‘Oh, my baby is up. What happened? Why are you crying?’ Yug asked and extended his arms to take her. She immediately leaned towards her brother.

Yug picked her up in his arms, and she buried her face in his brother’s neck, crying harder. ‘Bhai…’ She was crying as if the entire world had ended and everything in her life was over.

Yug cradled her in his arms. ‘Oh, why is my sister crying?’

‘She was calling you and you didn’t listen,’ Nayantara said with disbelief. Her daughter was not like her at all. She was so dramatic, attention seeking, and sociable girl. She loved people around her all the time.

‘Oh, I’m so sorry, my little fairy. I didn’t hear you. You want to play with us?’ Yug cooed, wiping fat tears from her cheeks.

When Yug’s friends noticed the king and queen, they halted their game and approached the crown heads to offer greetings, then quickly excused themselves and fled the garden. Nayantara knew it was Siddhant’s imposing presence that had sent them away.

‘Pita shri,’ Shiv and Dev ran to their father and latched onto his arms. ‘Come play with us.’ Their muddy hands left a trail of dirt across the sleeves of Siddhant’s overcoat.

Nayantara shook her head. Now they would be scolded. Siddhant was getting late for the throne hall. But instead, Siddhant smiled and walked with them. ‘Okay, but only for a while.’

The twins made their father sit on his knees and then blindfolded him.

‘Now you have to grab us,’ Shiv said.

Yug rolled his eyes. ‘You both are stupid. Pita shri can even fight with the blindfold. This game is nothing for him.’

‘We run fast. He cannot grab us,’ Dev said as they both ran away.

Siddhant ran behind them, deliberately letting them escape every here and there so they could enjoy their victory.

Amruta got excited and started chirping and clapping.

Yug smiled. ‘You want to play.’

‘Play… play…’ Amruta chirruped.

‘Let’s see if Pita shri could grab us or not,’ Yug said as he stepped into the game with his baby sister in his arms. ‘We are here, Pita shri,’ he said, grabbing his father’s attention.

A smile touched Nayantara’s lips as she watched her husband chase their children. Leaving them to their joyous chaos, she turned back toward the chamber, her thoughts drifting to cherished memories. Lost in her reverie, she abruptly collided with a familiar, mountain-like figure. She nearly lost her balance, but a strong arm immediately encircled her waist, preventing a fall. ‘Where are you going, my love?’ Siddhant’s deep voice rumbled as he removed his blindfold.

Nayantara blinked at her husband. His touch still had the power to accelerate her heartbeat. ‘You were there. How did you come here?’ She knew he intentionally caught her.

Siddhant smirked. His dark gaze met hers as his hand tightened around her waist and pulled her close, leaving no space between them. ‘No matter where you run or what path you choose, you will always end up in my arms.’

Nayantara blushed and slapped against his chest. ‘Leave me, my lord. You are crushing me.’

Kids cried in the background. ‘Pita shri caught you. Now your turn, maa.’

🜲🜲🜲

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