Chapter- 8 : A Royal welcome

Chapter- 8 : A Royal welcome

As Kamala led Sanyogita through the labyrinthine corridors of Madhavgarh Palace, the soft jingle of her ankle bells echoed off the marble floor. Candles flickered to life on either side of the corridor, casting a warm, golden glow. The fragrance of sandalwood and rose petals wafted through the air.

They arrived at Sanyogita's new chambers, the doors adorned with intricate carvings of lotus flowers. The room was a masterpiece of opulence, filled with expensive furniture crafted from dark wood and polished to perfection.

Candlesticks stood tall, their flames dancing in the gentle breeze. Diyas, tiny clay lamps, lined the shelves, their soft glow illuminating the space. The air was thick with the scent of incense sticks and jasmine.

The chamber's vastness was awe-inspiring, with high ceilings and expansive windows overlooking the palace gardens. Velvet curtains, embroidered with gold thread, cascaded down the windows.

But amidst the grandeur, Sanyogita's thoughts drifted to her Uncle and Aunty in Arya Nagar. A pang of longing struck her heart, her face clouding over.

Maanvi, attuned to her friend's emotions, noticed the sudden change. She, too, missed her parents. Without a word, they found solace in each other's embrace.

Their whispered conversation halted as footsteps echoed outside, growing louder. The marble floor seemed to reverberate with the approaching steps.

A maid, her sari rustling, entered with a respectful curtsy. "Princess, Rajmata Rukmini , Maharaj Sussanandan Badhrakal and Maharani Purnima, await your audience in your chambers."

Sanyogita nodded, her eyes locking onto Maanvi's.

The doors creaked open, admitting the regal pair. Rajmata Subarnamati's stately presence filled the room, her silk sari shimmering in the candlelight. Maharaj Sussanandan's strong features softened as he beheld his elder daughter for the very first time.

Sanyogita's heart swelled with emotion as she greeted her parents. Her composure is calm and collected.

The soft rustle of silk curtains of the large window echoed through the chamber.

Rajmata Rukmini's eyes locked onto her elder granddaughter, their gazes meeting for the first time. Sanyogita's elegance and poise left her breathless.

"Pranam, Rajmata..." Sanyogita's voice was gentle and respectful.

"Hail to your majesty," she greeted her biological father, Maharaj Sussanandan, her words laced with devotion.

As Queen Purnima entered the room, she took her place beside Rajmata Rukmini, her presence exuding warmth.

Sanyogita bent to touch Rukmini's feet, an Indian Hindu traditional symbol of respect. The delicate scent of sandalwood wafted from Rukmini's hands as she grasped Sanyogita's arms.

For the first time, Rukmini held her granddaughter close, her chest heavy with unspoken words. Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.

"Bhaut badhi hoyagei hai aap, aur kafi sunder bhi!" (You've grown up so much, and you're incredibly beautiful!) Rukmini's voice trembled with emotion.

Sanyogita's cheeks flushed, but she didn't show pride. Instead, her eyes shone with humility.

Rukmini's hands cradled Sanyogita's face, her touch warm and gentle. The soft glow of candlelight danced across their faces.

Maharaj Sussanandan's voice, warm and gentle, filled the chamber. "I hope you haven't encountered any trouble during your long journey, Rajkumari ."

Sanyogita's response was immediate, her voice laced with respect. "No, Your Majesty."

Rajmata Rukmini's eyes, filled with concern, locked onto her granddaughter. "You must be exhausted after travelling so far. Rest now, child."

The soft rustle of silk accompanied Queen Purnima's movement as Rukmini turned to her. "Maharani Purnima, arrange supper for Rajkumari Sanyogita and her entourage."

Purnima's nod was accompanied by a gentle "Yes, Rajmata." With a soft sway of her sari, she exited the bedchamber, leaving the royal family alone.

Sanyogita's weary eyes met her parents', gratitude shining brighter.

Rukmini's hands guided Sanyogita toward a nearby divan, adorned with plush cushions and intricate embroidery.

Maharaj Sussanandan's eyes lingered on Sanyogita, his mind racing with unspoken words. But hesitation held him back, as if unsure how to bridge the chasm between them. The distance he had created.

A sudden interruption broke the silence. A courtier entered, bowing low. "Your Majesty, an urgent meeting awaits at the governor's office."

Sussanandan's relief was palpable. He needed time to gather his thoughts before confronting his daughter's guarded emotions.

With a gentle nod, he departed, leaving Rukmini, Sanyogita, and Maanvi alone in the bedchamber.

Maanvi's return had gone unnoticed until Rukmini's inquiry. "Rajkumari, who is this lovely lady accompanying you? Is she your maid?"

Maanvi's expression stiffened, her eyes flashing with momentary hurt.

Sanyogita intervened, her voice infused with warmth. "She's my childhood friend, Your Highness, and my most trusted bodyguard."

The chamber's warm glow, courtesy of candles and diyas, cast a golden light on the trio.

Rukmini's eyebrow arched, her expression a blend of surprise and curiosity. "Bodyguard? A woman?"

Sanyogita's response was steadfast, her voice filled with conviction. "Yes,Your Majesty. Maanvi is one of the finest warriors in the Arya Nagar Kingdom."

The soft glow of candles danced across Rukmini's face, highlighting her thoughtful pause.

Maanvi's eyes warmed, her gaze locked onto Sanyogita, as she heard her princess praise her skills.

Rukmini's voice resumed, laced with a hint of irony. "I'll assess your dear bodyguard's capabilities in protecting you, Princess."

Sanyogita and Maanvi exchanged a fleeting glance, acknowledging the undertone.

Rajmata's command followed, her voice firm but gentle. "Maanvi, ensure Rajkumari Sanyogita's safety."

Maanvi bowed her head, her dark hair falling like a curtain. "Yes, her Majesty ."

Sanyogita's gaze shifted from Maanvi's bowed head to Rukmini's discerning eyes, her eyes locking onto the warmth and longing reflected within.

"Rajkumari, I'm overjoyed to see you after so long," Rukmini's voice trembled. "You were just an infant when I last held you. I've missed you every day, every moment." Her words hung in the air like the fragrance of incense.

Rukmini's pause was palpable, her emotions threatening to overwhelm her. She swallowed hard, composing herself.

"Tonight, I'm thrilled to behold the beautiful woman you've become," Rukmini's eyes shone with unshed tears. "We must soon find a worthy suitor, a brave king to cherish and protect you."

Sanyogita's expression remained serene, her voice steady. "Grandmother, you loved me so deeply, missed me so profoundly... why didn't you visit me in Arya Nagar, even once?"

The chamber's silence grew heavy, punctuated only by the soft crackle of candles and the gentle rustle of silk. Rukmini's hands, adorned with intricate henna designs, trembled slightly.

Maanvi's gaze dropped, her presence as a silent witness to the emotional exchange.

Rukmini’s smile slowly faded, the vibrant warmth of joy giving way to a deep shade of embarrassment that coloured her cheeks. Her eyes, once bright and engaging, fluttered downwards, casting a shadow of guilt that seemed to envelop her spirit.

“Is it not as if we didn’t try? We are helpless, Rajkumari,” she murmured, the weight of her words hanging in the air like a thick fog “ we are helpless bound by the prophecy of Rajpurohit “

Sanyogita swallowed hard, her throat tight with unspoken emotion as she fought back the rising lump. “Alright... Grandmother,” she finally said, her voice steady despite the tumult within. “I understand. But now that I’m back, I want to spend more time with all of you. I really would love to explore the entire kingdom, meet the wonderful people of Madhavgarh, and learn about the rich culture and customs that make this place so special.”

At her words, Sabarmati’s face transformed, a radiant smile breaking free from the previous cloud of embarrassment. Her eyes sparkled with delight, illustrating the joy in her heart.

“It's alright, Rajkumari. Your wishes will be considered ,” she replied, her voice beaming with enthusiasm. “You will be joining us for supper tonight. And tomorrow morning, we will formally introduce you to everyone in the courtroom. We have so much to celebrate on the occasion of your return, our new Princess!”

Maanvi and Sanyogita exchanged glances, their faces lighting up with shared excitement and delight as they envisioned the forthcoming celebrations and moments spent together.

Rukmini's eyes, brimming with emotion, met Sanyogita. The air was thick with unspoken words, the weight of years apart.

The chamber's silence was punctuated only by the soft crackle of candles and the gentle rustle of silk.

***********

Throughout the long, restless night, Sanyogita tossed and turned, her mind racing with a mix of anxiety and excitement about finally meeting the people of her birthplace. Memories and dreams swirled around in her head, making it impossible to find any peace or sleep. Each tick of the clock felt like a reminder of the approaching dawn, amplifying her anticipation.

As the first rays of sunlight broke over the horizon, the sky transformed into a canvas brushed with warm shades of yellow and orange, resembling the golden yolk of an egg. The sunlight seemed to spill across the vast expanse, infusing the world with a sense of renewal and hope, whispering promises of adventure and connection.

Within the palace walls, the maids flitted about, their laughter echoing as they indulged in gossip, eagerly sharing the latest tales about the new Princess. With excited chatter, they spoke of her charm and grace, their eyes sparkling with admiration as they rummaged through silk gowns and intricate jewellery to prepare her for the day's festivities.

Meanwhile, Maanvi stood in front of a mirror, her eyes darting playfully between the reflection of Sanyogita and herself. A mischievous grin spread across her face as she leaned closer to her best friend.

“Rajkumari,” she teased, her voice full of mock seriousness, “I can't quite tell if this is your welcome ceremony or your wedding day! Maybe we should go ahead and arrange for your swayamvar while we’re at it.” She winked dramatically, her laughter ringing out like a joyful chime.

Sanyogita couldn't help but roll her eyes, even as a faint blush crept up her cheeks at the playful jab.

Seeing Maanvi's cheeky grin in the mirror only intensified her embarrassment. “Maanvi, please don’t start with those silly ideas right now,” she replied, trying to sound exasperated, though her lips twitched with a reluctant smile.

The warmth of camaraderie filled the air as the two friends shared this light-hearted moment, the excitement of the day ahead bubbling just beneath the surface.

Sanyogita rolled her eyes in exasperation, catching a glimpse of Maanvi's mischievous grin like a playful spark reflected in the ornate mirror that adorned the chamber’s wall. The sunlight was filtered through the intricate latticework, casting delicate patterns on the floor. "Maanvi, don't start here," she warned, her cheeks warming with a rosy hue of shyness that deepened with every playful tease.

Maanvi's eyes sparkled with delight, dancing with mischief. "Why not, Rajkumari? The Mahara Rudramadev Ariya has begun seeking suitors for you, which is quite a significant development in our palace! I can't help but imagine the lucky man who will manage to capture your beautiful heart." Her dramatic flair made Sanyogita grin despite herself.

With a playful toss of her hair, Sanyogita twirled, her brightly coloured bangles jingling like tiny bells. "You're relishing this, aren't you? These suitors who parade through the palace in their finest armour are a bit too much," she replied, a hint of laughter in her tone.

Maanvi's laughter rang out, echoing through the opulent chamber decorated with rich tapestries and golden accents. "Absolutely! Just picture it: a dashing prince, with chiselled features and piercing eyes that seem to see right through to your soul," she elaborated, her imagination painting a vivid picture of romance and adventure.

Sanyogita's playful giggles danced in the air, cutting through Maanvi’s whimsical daydream. "Alright, in that case, I decree that we shall get married in the very same palace," she declared with mock seriousness, "unless I don't agree with any of this matchmaking nonsense."

Maanvi’s grin broadened, her enthusiasm infectious. "Deal! We must make it a royal double wedding, then. I promise to find a groom who is not only charming but worthy enough to be your husband’s closest confidant and best friend," she said, her eyes gleaming with excitement at the thought of shared happiness.

Their continuous playful banter infused the room with warmth and laughter, illuminating the otherwise serene ambiance. The golden light from the chandelier danced around them as if celebrating their friendship.

Sanyogita looked at Maanvi, her eyes twinkling with affection and mock exasperation. "You’re absolutely impossible, Maanvi," she said, shaking her head with an affectionate smile.

Maanvi executed an exaggerated curtsy, her laughter ringing like music. "That’s precisely why you have such a wonderful friendship with me, my dear Rajkumari," she replied, pride glimmering in her voice.

As the two friends basked in the joy of their bond, the world outside seemed to fade, with their friendship shining brighter than the polished mirrors and glittering jewels that surrounded them in the lavish chamber.

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Sanyogita entered the grand courtroom, its high ceilings and ornate chandeliers reflecting the kingdom's opulence. The air was heavy with anticipation, thick as the velvet drapes that adorned the walls.

The king and queen were sitting in the cushion as a centre of power and attraction of the courtroom.

King Sassandan through the gesture of his hand ordered his emissary to announce the importance of the invitation of the all noble man and royal woman of harem who sat across the one large corner of the courtroom.

The man declared the announcement amongst all the people present in the courtroom.

A hush fell over the gathered noblemen and ladies, their whispers and murmurs ceasing as they beheld their princess. Their eyes widened, captivated by her regal presence, as if the very radiance of the sun had entered the room.

Sanyogita's footsteps echoed through the hall, her heels clicking on the polished marble floor. The sound resonated through the silence, a declaration of her arrival.

Her royal attire shimmered, intricate embroidery and jewels glinting in the light. The nobles' gazes roamed over her, drinking in the majesty of their princess.

She entered the grand courtroom, its high ceilings and ornate chandeliers reflecting the kingdom's opulence. The air was heavy with anticipation, thick as the velvet drapes that adorned the walls.

As she approached through the palace’s reception hall , the room held its breath. The scent of old parchment, wood polish, and nobility filled her nostrils. Sanyogita's heart pounded, each beat resonating through the hall.

The nobles' faces reflected a mix of awe, curiosity, and apprehension. Their eyes locked onto hers, searching for signs of weakness or resolve. Sanyogita's steady gaze met theirs, unwavering as the stone pillars that supported the hall.

With each step, her confidence grew, her presence commanding attention. Her voice, clear and melodious, rang out across the courtroom. "I, Princess Sanyogita, have come to reclaim our kingdom's honour and dignity."

As Sanyogita stepped forward, the atmosphere transformed, electric with awe. Eyes darted toward her, drawn like magnets to her radiant presence. The air vibrated with whispered gasps and murmurs, a gentle hum of amazement.

The nobles' gazes roamed over her, drinking in the striking beauty that seemed to glow from within. Her skin shimmered like a polished alabaster, illuminated by the soft light streaming through the stained glass windows. Her raven-black hair cascaded down her back, a waterfall of night that framed her oval-shaped face.

But it wasn't just her physical appearance that mesmerised them; it was the piercing intelligence in her gaze, a spark that revealed the depth of her character and wisdom beyond her years. Her black streaming eyes shone like polished jewels, reflecting a sharp mind and unwavering determination.

As she moved, her silk attire rustled softly, releasing the subtle scent of rose petals and sandalwood. The nobles' nostrils flared, inhaling the enticing aroma, their senses captivated.

Each nobility felt a mixture of admiration and reverence, recognizing not only the royal lineage she carried but also the promise of a strong and enlightened leader poised to guide their kingdom. Their faces reflected awe, their eyes locked onto hers, searching for signs of weakness or resolve.

The courtroom's opulent decorations—velvet drapes, polished marble, and glittering chandeliers—fade into the background, eclipsed by Sanyogita's regal presence. Her confidence was palpable, a gentle warmth that spread throughout the room, reassuring the nobles of her unwavering commitment

Rajmata Rukmini stepped forward with an air of undeniable majesty, her every movement exuding the grace and authority befitting a queen. The soft rustling of her richly embroidered gown accompanied her approach, drawing the gazes of all present. Nearby, a group of attentive maids stood poised, each cradling gold-plated trays adorned with lush velvet cloths, their deep crimson, opulent purple, and delicate pink shades creating a breathtaking spectacle.

With a regal wave of her hand, Rukmini commanded the maids to unveil the treasures concealed beneath the velvety fabric. The moment was electric, the atmosphere thick with anticipation as the maids complied, lifting the clothes with a graceful flourish.

As the velvet coverings fell away, an astonishing array of jewels was revealed, sparkling brilliantly in the warm golden light. Diamonds dazzled like a constellation of stars scattered across a midnight sky , their facets catching the light in a mesmerising dance.

The rich, warm hue of the gold glinted with an inviting radiance, reminiscent of sunlight filtering through leaves. Emeralds stood out, their vibrant green tones shining with such intensity that they seemed to pulse with life. Rubies, with their fiery red depths, radiated a warmth that ignited the air around them, evoking feelings of passion and vitality. Lastly, pearls rested softly among the treasures, their luminescent surfaces reflecting light in a gentle, inviting glow.

As Rukmini extended her hands to bestow these magnificent treasures upon Sanyogita, it was as if she were a queen bestowing her blessings upon a favoured subject. The gesture was filled with both generosity and significance, a moment imbued with the weight of tradition and the joy of sharing a royal legacy.

"This welcome ceremony shall commemorate your arrival in Madhavgarh, Rajkumari," Rukmini declared.

The courtroom erupted in a symphony of joy:

Trumpets blared

Drums pounded

Conch shells blew

Angad, an imposing figure clad in the crested uniform of a senior officer, stood at the periphery of the bustling courtroom, his eyes wide with disbelief. He was in his eighteen years of age , holding the position of junior royal officer serving under the Prince,

Sudarshan, the eldest son and the prospective heir to the throne.

Angad carrying the responsibilities :

1. Carrying out the Prince's orders and decrees.

2. Maintaining law and order in the kingdom, particularly in the capital city.

3. Supervising the city guards and night watchmen.

4. Investigating crimes and reporting to the Prince.

5. Assisting in tax collection, trade regulation, and other administrative tasks.

Angad is a loyal, ruthless , curel and ambitious young officer. He's fiercely dedicated to the Prince and the kingdom, often taking his responsibilities seriously. However, his youth and inexperience might sometimes lead to impulsive decisions. The weight of his position bore heavily upon him, but today, it felt as if the ground beneath him had shifted.

Just yesterday, during a heated debate that echoed through the chambers of power, Angad and his men had ventured into the outlying villages to collect tithe and taxes, fulfilling their duty to the crown. It was there, amidst the dusty streets and wary faces of the villagers, that he first encountered her—a mysterious girl whose presence had captivated him entirely. Now, to his astonishment, she stood before him in the heart of the courtroom, radiating a magnetic energy that seemed to draw the gaze of everyone present.

Her raven-black hair tumbled down her back like a cascade of shadows, contrasting vividly with the soft golden light that enveloped her porcelain skin. It seemed to glisten, enhancing her ethereal beauty. Her eyes, deep and shimmering like polished onyx, held a depth that spoke of untold stories and adventures. Angad felt his rugged heart skip a beat, an emotion he had long buried beneath the armour of duty and responsibility.

In his wildest dreams, he could never have envisioned being in the presence of such captivating beauty, for she was not merely a guest of the village—she was none other than Madhavgarh’s long-awaited Princess Sanyogita. Her identity struck him like a thunderclap, leaving him in a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions as the reality of the moment settled in. He realised that this encounter would forever alter the course of his life and the fate of the kingdom.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

As the sun rose over the village, a sense of jubilation filled the air. Generous hands began distributing an array of foods and garments to the local inhabitants, their faces lighting up with gratitude and joy. Kheer, a sweet and creamy rice pudding, along with an assortment of mouth watering sweets, were lovingly offered at the feet of the deities in the temples, as villagers gathered to pay homage and express their thanks.

Among the throngs of villagers, a curious woman caught wind of the arrival of the kingdom's new princess. Driven by a mix of excitement and reverence, she made her way through the crowd, eager to catch a glimpse of this remarkable figure. As the palanquin was carefully set down, the woman’s breath caught in her throat as Sanyogita emerged.

With an ethereal grace, the princess stepped into the sunlight, her presence commanding instant admiration. Her angelic face, radiant and serene, seemed to embody hope, particularly for those who had suffered under the cruel tyranny that had plagued their lives until just yesterday.

The woman felt a shiver run down her spine, goosebumps rising on her skin, as she absorbed the sight of the princess who had bravely intervened, leading the charge to free them from their torment. In that magical moment, the two worlds—the common village and the royal court—seemed to intertwine, bridging the gap between despair and newfound hope.

At the behest of Sanyogita, the Mother Queen graciously approved her request for a visit to explore the enchanting city. With utmost care and affection, Rukmini, the queen, took it upon herself to make all the necessary arrangements for her beloved granddaughter's adventure.

On a bright and sunny morning, Sanyogita and her dear friend Maanvi set out to wander through the vast and vibrant kingdom, their spirits high and laughter echoing through the air. The king, filled with joy at the sight of the young girls enjoying their freedom, observed them fondly from a distance, his heart swelling with pride as he watched the child of his cherished wife explore the realm.

To ensure their safety and to enhance their sense of adventure, a group of loyal soldiers discreetly accompanied the girls, providing both protection and a sense of grandeur to their expedition. Sanyogita sat gracefully atop her majestic white horse, its coat glistening in the sunlight, while Maanvi rode her strong steed, equally proud and spirited.

Their journey took them through picturesque villages, where they marvelled at the intricate drinking water systems that served the local communities. The sound of laughter filled the air as they ventured into lush fields adorned with vibrant crops swaying gently in the breeze. They paused to admire the breathtaking valleys that stretched far into the horizon, and the meandering rivers glistening under the radiant sun.

As the girls explored, their eyes widened in wonder at the magnificent monuments that stood as testaments to the kingdom's rich history. Each structure had its own story to tell, and Sanyogita and Maanvi could hardly contain their excitement as they imagined the tales of valour and heritage that lay within the stones of their kingdom.

Filled with awe and delight, the two friends continued their journey, their hearts brimming with a sense of belonging and adventure, ready to uncover more hidden treasures of the kingdom as the day unfurled before them.

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