We both dashed toward the crowded area of the nearby village, where this facility was available.
Since it was late at night, the market was closed.
After a while, we reached our destination, and I secured Ashwait away from the old palace.
“What is this place?” she asked.
I took her hand and led her inside.“Remember, you cannot speak,” I reminded her as I guided her through the busy crowd toward an old haveli41.
I sensed her slight nervousness through her hand, but the way her eyes scanned the crowd and the late-night market showed her curiosity.
“This way,” I said, guiding her down a narrow lane toward the back door of the haveli and knocking on the wooden door.
She looked at me, and I smiled at her flushed cheeks.
“Who is this?” A manly voice caught our attention as the door opened.
“Is Dance Under Moon open?” I asked slowly, and he scanned us briefly before nodding.
“Yes,” he replied, then asked,“What is your name?”
“Bhan Singh,” I said, watching his gaze shift to her.“This is Eklavya. He can't speak and is getting married next month, you know,” I added with a smirk, and he chuckled.
“All right,” he welcomed us, and I noticed her taking in the place’s surroundings.
It was a well-hidden spot in the kingdom, accessible only to princes and individuals from wealthy territories.
I saw her eyes widen as she noticed the women mingling with the men.
“Public or private?” he asked, turning back to me.
I looked at her and muttered,“Private. No disturbances, dim lighting, and some food.”
He nodded before guiding us to the third floor of the haveli.
He opened the door for us, letting us into a spacious room adorned with red carpets and curtains, and a stage surrounded by fire torches mounted on stands. There was a couch with minimal lighting, meaning the performers would overlook the audience.
“You two wait here,” he instructed.
We walked toward the couch as he drew the curtains, leaving a two-foot gap to let us watch.
“They’ll be here in a few moments,” he said, and I noticed a few attendants entering with dried fruits and peanuts to snack on.
“Thank you,” I said softly, dismissing them.
“Is this a brothel?” She asked in a low voice once they left, and I shook my head.
“No, it’s not a brothel. Sex for money is prohibited here. It’s intended for entertainment and educational purposes only. Young princes come here for grooming, you know…” I explained slowly, and she nodded.
“Oh…”
“Are you okay?” I asked, leaning back against the couch and pulling her closer so her head rested on my chest.
She hesitated for a moment, but then relaxed.
“Yes, just feeling different,”
I watched as the performers entered the room and locked the door behind them.
