The journey was long, as Mehrangarh was a kingdom near the Him Ranges, but just a few miles from the northeast border of Indira.
It took us a whole day to get there. Since we weren’t travelling with women, we forewent tents and spent the night under the trees.
When we entered Mehrangarh Palace, the sun was shining brightly. Upon seeing everyone waiting at the door, I felt guilty as I realised how much had changed since my previous visit.
I arranged my marriage alliance with the Princess of Mehrangarh through Rudra Bhai-sa. Everyone, except Rudra Bhai-sa, thought I loved the Princess, so I wanted to marry her.
But the reality was completely different, even beyond Rudra Bhai-sa’s imagination.
I told him I would keep an eye on the borders with Mehrangarh’s help, but little did he know it was just a cover for my plans.
“Pranaam Raja-sa,”I smiled, joining my hands as I looked at the old King of Mehrangarh welcoming us.
“Kunwar Agastya,”he said, embracing me loosely and patting my shoulder.“How was your journey?” he asked, and I responded with a grin.
“It was fantastic. I missed you and your hospitality,” I attempted to smile, and he chuckled softly.
“We’re glad you’re here; come on in,” he said, welcoming me into the colossal palace of Mehrangarh. The towering red brick walls of Mehrangarh contrasted with the main palace, which was made of white imported marble.
Mehrangarh was a kingdom renowned for its remarkable connections to the outside world. There were rumours, possibly truths, that individuals from other continents had visited. They also possessed trade secrets.
And I was looking for one of them.
Actually, Two.
“How’s everything going?” I asked politely, and he smiled while placing his hand on my shoulder.
“Everything is good, and Princess is maturing faster,” he replied while I tried to remain calm despite his words.
My intended princess was the youngest sibling; seven elder sisters and two brothers, all married and well settled. However, the king's concern about her disinterest in marriage had worried him. He believed she hadn’t matured mentally.
“That’s good to hear,” I said.
“You should meet her,” he suggested.“We’ll arrange for your lunch in her chamber.” I nodded and spent time with them before heading to her chamber.
The princess and I got along well as future husband and wife. We were friends. I observed the soldiers standing outside her chamber as I passed through the corridors.
“I wish to see her,” I exclaimed, and they opened the door for me.
I stepped inside and noticed the silence of her chamber. As I walked through the large gateway area, I entered the guest chamber. The beautiful decorations caught my eye, and I saw her sitting on the couch, waiting for me.
“Rashmika,” I called, and she lifted her head to look at me.
“Agastya!” she shrieked, getting up from her couch and running toward me.“I was waiting for you for so long,”
I glanced around at the attendants watching us. She noticed my gaze and turned to look at them.
"Um… bring something for him to eat," she said. I watched some of her attendants leave, but not all of them.
"Can you leave us alone?" I asked, looking at the male soldiers on duty.
They walked out, leaving us alone, and I glanced at Rashmika, who was looking at me with an adorable expression.
I smiled, moving my hand back to take out the letter. Her lips widened into a smile, and she reached out her hand to take it.
I immediately pulled my hand back.
“Aye, please. I’m dying for this!” she pleaded, her sweet voice bringing me an ear-to-ear smile. I handed her the letter.
