Chapter-4 Royal surprises and delights

Chapter-4 Royal surprises and delights

As the three girls entered the palace, they were enveloped in warmth and grandeur. The high ceilings, adorned with intricate frescoes, seemed to stretch up to the sky. The air was thick with the fragrance of incense and the soft glow of candles cast a golden ambiance.

King Rudramadev Ariya and Queen Prabhavati, resplendent in their royal attire, greeted them with warm smiles. Sanyogita's eyes sparkled as she spotted her maternal uncle and aunt. With a gentle gesture, she bent to touch their feet, seeking blessings on her auspicious day.

The soft rustle of Sanyogita's silk garments mingled with the quiet murmur of the palace guards as they stood at attention. King Rudramadev's voice boomed with affection, "Happy Birthday, Princess Sanyogita!"

As he lifted Sanyogita to her feet, his arms enveloped her in a warm embrace. Sanyogita's face glowed with admiration as she hugged her maternal uncle tightly. "Thank you, Your Majesty," she whispered, her voice filled with gratitude.

Queen Prabhavati exchanged a loving glance with her husband before extending her arms to Sanyogita. The queen's eyes shone with affection as Sanyogita nestled into her embrace. "Happy Birthday, Rajkumari," she whispered, her voice sweet as honey.

Priyamvada and Manvi watched, their faces aglow with happiness, as Sanyogita basked in the love of her family.

"Thank you so much, Maa," Sanyogita said, her voice filled with affection, as she addressed her maternal aunt, who had been her guardian and mother figure since birth. Her biological mother's absence, due to postpartum haemorrhage, made Prabhabhati's love and care all the more precious.

As Sanyogita broke the hug, her eyes sparkled with curiosity and happiness, reminiscent of a child unwrapping a treasured gift. "So, tell me, what present do you have for me on my sixteenth birthday?" Her enthusiasm was infectious.

Prabhabhati exchanged a knowing grin with King Rudramadev Ariya, her eyes shining with amusement. Resplendent in her Rajput royal queen attire, she embodied elegance and confidence. The intricate embroidery on her attire shimmered in the soft light.

Rajkumari Priyamvada and Manvi stood by, smiling, as they witnessed Sanyogita's eagerness to unravel the mystery of her birthday gifts.

Maharani Prabhavati beckoned her favourite maid, who approached with a gold plate draped in red velvet cloth. The maid's footsteps echoed softly on the marble floor.

"Hail to you, King. Hail to the Queen," the maid greeted, her voice melodious, before standing beside Queen Prabhavati.

With a graceful gesture, Prabhabhati lifted the velvet cloth, revealing a dazzling array of gifts on the gold plate. The room fell silent, awaiting Sanyogita's reaction.

Sanyogita's gasp filled the air as her eyes widened in wonder. "Oh, Maa!" she exclaimed.

As Queen Prabhabhati lifted the velvet cloth, a breathtaking pearl necklace, infused with vibrant rubies, emerged. Morning light danced across the gems, casting a mesmerising kaleidoscope of colours.

Everyone stood awestruck, their gazes captivated by the stunning design. The Ruby and pearls harmonised in perfect unison, radiating elegance.

Prabhabhati gently placed the necklace around Sanyogita's neck. The cool, smooth pearls settled against her skin, complementing her ivory complexion.

Sanyogita's eyes sparkled with gratitude as she embraced the Queen. "Thank you, Maa. This is exquisite!"

Manvi stepped forward, her hands cradling a red velvety package. "My gift is humble compared to the Queen's," she said, her voice tinged with modesty.

As Sanyogita unwrapped the cloth, her eyes grew wide. A sharp, golden yellow dagger lay revealed, its hilt glinting in the light.

Manvi's voice took on a serious tone. "I crafted this dagger specifically for you, Rajkumari. It will protect you. Never let it leave your side."

Sanyogita's lips curled into a playful smile. "I'll never part with it, bestie. This dagger will be my companion, reminding me of you."

As she hugged Manvi, the dagger's golden hue seemed to warm against her skin.

Manvi's cheeks flushed, her expression sheepish. "Thank you, dearie. Your love for the dagger means everything."

Sanyogita's smile deepened. "You created something for me; I couldn't possibly dislike it."

The air resonated with the warmth of their friendship, as the palace's soft murmur and gentle light enveloped them.

Rajkumari Priyamvada stepped forward, her hands cradling a delicate, handmade idol of Maa Saraswati. The goddess's serene face and gracefully carved veena seemed to radiate divine energy.

"I crafted this with my own hands, Sanyogita," Priyamvada said, her voice filled with pride. "May Goddess Saraswati bless you with knowledge and wisdom."

Sanyogita's gaze was transfixed on the exquisite idol, her eyes shining with wonder. "It's breathtaking, Priyamvada. Your talent leaves me speechless."

Manvi's awe-struck expression mirrored the others. "Rajkumari Priyamvada, you're incredibly gifted."

Prabhabhati and Rudramadev Ariya exchanged warm glances, their hearts swelling with joy. The love and camaraderie among the three friends was palpable.

Prabhabhati's voice was laced with maternal affection. "Rajkumari Priyamvada, you deserve a brave King as your groom." She teased, "Maharaj Abhay Singh will soon return from his Digvijay Yatra and arrange your swayamvar."

Priyamvada's cheeks flushed, her face aglow like a rose. She protested in a playful, teenage tone, "No, I won't marry yet! Rajkumari Sanyogita and Manvi are sixteen; they need suitors first. I'm only fourteen!"

The room erupted in laughter, the sound waves resonating through the palace. The warmth and joy were infectious, filling everyone's hearts.

Queen Prabhabhati playfully teased, "I think Priyamvada has already spotted someone in her dreams."

Priyamvada's cheeks burned brighter, her eyes darting around the room in mock desperation. "Your majesty, no! Don't embarrass me!"

Sanyogita and Manvi giggled, their eyes sparkling with mischief. "Come on, Rajkumari Priyamvada, confess!" Sanyogita teased.

Priyamvada's laughter mingled with hers. "You're my best friend, but I'll never reveal my secrets!"

Manvi grinned. "We should start a competition – who can make Priyamvada blush the most!"

The room filled with laughter again, the warmth and camaraderie palpable.

Sanyogita whispered to Priyamvada, her warm breath tickling her friend's ear. "Don't worry, bestie, your secrets are safe with us."

Priyamvada's smile lingered, her cheeks still flushed like rose petals. "Thanks, Princess," she said, her voice dripping with playful sarcasm. "I'm thrilled everyone's concerned about my love life, but let's prioritise yours first. I wish God would give my two besties some sadh buddhi (good sense) for their new Journeys ."

She winked at Sanyogita and Manvi." And also I pray to the gods for two brave grooms to sweep you both off your feet. May they possess the wisdom to handle your daily tantrums and stubbornness"

Sanyogita rolled her eyes, laughing. "You're impossible, Priyamvada!"

Manvi playfully nudged Priyamvada. "You're trying to escape the marriage talk, aren't you?"

Priyamvada feigned innocence. "Who, me? Never! I just want my besties to find true love, and then I'll consider focusing on myself."

Queen Prabhabhati chuckled. "Well, Rajkumari Priyamvada, it seems you've got your friends' interests at heart."

King Rudramadev Ariya smiled. "Perhaps we should start searching for suitable grooms for our lovely princesses?"

Sanyogita and Manvi exchanged a horrified glance, their eyes wide with a mock alarm. Sanyogita's jaw dropped, her lips parting in surprise.

Priyamvada grinned mischievously and also muttered underneath so only could Sanyogita and Manvi hear her "Now it's called tit for tat besties"

King Rudramadev Ariya's deep laughter resonated through the room, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "We'll consider your wishes, little one."

In unison, Sanyogita and Manvi protested, "No, Mamaji!" Their voices echoed through the palace, mingling with the soft clinking of jewellery.

Priyamvada's eyebrows danced in teasing amusement, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Queen Prabhabhati chuckled, her eyes twinkling like diamonds. "I absolutely agree with Princess Priyamvada."

Sanyogita's expression turned incredulous, her jaw still dropping. "Maa!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with dismay.

Manvi remained silent, but her stern glance pierced Priyamvada like a dagger. Priyamvada, however, revelled in her friends' reactions, her heart swelling with playful triumph.

The room vibrated with laughter and warmth, the bonds of friendship and family strengthened by the lighthearted banter.

Sanyogita turned toward her maternal uncle, her eyes sparkling like polished gemstones, filled with curiosity. "Uncle?" she asked, her voice tinged with anticipation.

Rudramadev Ariya's cheeks creased into a clever smile, his eyes glinting with amusement. "I'll not tell you, rather I'll let you discover your gift yourself, my dear."

Sanyogita's eyebrows drew together, her face a picture of intrigue. "Okay, Uncle, as you wish."

With a gentle touch, Rudramadev Ariya covered Sanyogita's eyes with his hands, leading her through the palace. The soft rustle of silk garments and the creaking of wooden floorboards beneath their feet filled the air.

Sanyogita's curiosity grew with each step, her excitement palpable. "How much longer, Uncle?" she asked repeatedly.

Rudramadev Ariya's warm chuckle resonated through the corridor. "Hold on to your patience, just a little longer."

Prabhabhati, Manvi, and Priyamvada followed closely, their footsteps quiet, their faces aglow with curiosity.

As they walked, the scent of jasmine and rose petals wafted through the air, mingling with the faint aroma of sandalwood.

The sound of soft music drifted from ahead, growing louder with each step. Sanyogita's heart quickened, her anticipation building.

Rudramadev Ariya removed his hand from Sanyogita's eyes, his voice filled with excitement. "Now, open!"

As Sanyogita's thick eyelashes lifted, her gaze unfolded like a blooming flower. Her breath caught in her throat, suspended in wonder.

Before her stood a majestic white horse, its coat shimmering like moonlight. The horse's muscular physique gleamed, its mane adorned with intricate gold ornaments that sparkled like diamonds. A delicate garland of jasmine flowers encircled its neck, releasing a sweet fragrance.

Sanyogita's voice barely whispered, "Mamaji, it's for me?" Her eyes locked onto Rudramadev Ariya's, searching for confirmation.

He nodded, his smile warm and affectionate, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

In an instant, Sanyogita's feet touched the ground, and she sprinted toward the horse. Her laughter echoed through the courtyard, mingling with the horse's soft neigh.

She wrapped her arms around the horse's neck, her fingers delving into its silky mane. The horse's soft hair caressed her skin, sending shivers of delight.

Sanyogita's face bent to meet the horse's forehead, her lips brushing against its soft coat. The horse nuzzled her gently, its warm breath dancing across her skin.

"Mamaji, I love it!" Sanyogita's voice soared, her happiness radiating like sunlight. "You remember, I wished for this horse at the fair! And you brought it for me!"

Tears of joy glistened in her eyes as she gazed at Rudramadev Ariya. Her heart swelled with gratitude, her love for her uncle overflowing.

Rudramadev Ariya's voice resonated with parental affection, "My Rajkumari Sanyogita loves something, and her Uncle won't rest until it's hers." His eyes shone with warmth.

Sanyogita's smile broadened, her heart swelling with happiness and nostalgia. The love of her Uncle, Aunt, and friends enveloped her like a gentle embrace on this momentous occasion.

"Uncle, may I take a ride now?" Sanyogita asked, her voice tinged with eagerness.

Rudramadev Ariya's cautious tone mingled with a smile. "It's yours now, do as you please. But be careful, my child."

"I'll heed your words, Mamaji," Sanyogita promised, her eyes sparkling.

With a fluid motion, Sanyogita gracefully lifted her legs and swung them over the robust back of the magnificent horse. As she settled into the saddle, she could feel the powerful muscles beneath her, shifting and rippling with a life of their own. The sunlight shimmered off the well-groomed coat of the animal, casting a radiant glow that highlighted its impressive stature.

Looking over at her friends, Sanyogita couldn't suppress the playful challenge in her voice as she asked, “Girls, would you like to have a race?” Her eyes sparkled with mischief, promising an exhilarating adventure.

Manvi’s and Priyamvada’s eyes widened with a mix of excitement and surprise, their expressions illuminated by the golden rays of the sun that bathed them in warmth. They exchanged glances, the thrill of competition buzzing in the air.

Priyamvada, with a teasing smile dancing on her lips, retorted, "Rajkumari, this confidence you're exhibiting isn't exactly becoming. But since today is your birthday, I suppose you’re free to do as you wish."

Manvi chimed in with her playful tone, laughter evident in her voice, “Yes, Rajkumari! On your special day, I shall grant you the luxury of a sparing day—just so you can taste the joy of losing.”

The light-hearted banter invigorated the moment, and the anticipation of the race hung tantalisingly in the air, ready to unfold under the bright sky.

Sanyogita turned toward her friends, her hands deftly grasping the reins as she balanced effortlessly on her horse. The sunlight danced across her face, illuminating her radiant smile.

"Girls, no drama. Forget it's my birthday and accept the challenge," Sanyogita said, her voice tinged with playful arrogance.

Manvi shot back, her voice laced with determination, "Rajkumari, you'll regret this!"

Sanyogita's laughter echoed through the courtyard, mingling with the horses' soft neighs. "Let's see. First, come and chase me!" She beckoned, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Manvi and Priyamvada exchanged a knowing glance. They saw the unbridled joy and confidence in Sanyogita's demeanour and knew they couldn't resist. Despite their private doubts about beating the skilled warrior Sanyogita, they accepted the challenge.

The air crackled with anticipation as Manvi and Priyamvada mounted their horses. The sound of hooves on stone echoed through the courtyard.

Priyamvada grinned, her voice filled with resolve. "Let's show Rajkumari we're not to be underestimated."

Manvi nodded, her eyes flashing with competitive spirit. "Time to teach our princess a lesson."

Sanyogita's smile grew wider, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Then let the chase begin!"

The air filled with laughter and anticipation. The horse's neigh echoed through the courtyard.