Chapter 3

Dhruv kissed Uma. Her body fit against his, warm and inviting. The only sound was Nandini’s soft snoring nearby. It created a strange contrast. Their kisses filled the room, a quiet rhythm echoing off the walls.

Uma’s hand slid to Dhruv’s thigh. She caressed him. Sparks ignited with her touch. Her other hand tangled in his hair, pulling him closer. The kiss deepened. Suddenly, a knock shattered the moment.

They pulled apart, breathless. Uma’s eyes flew open. Candlelight danced in her wide gaze. Leena, the chambermaid, stood at the door, head bowed, eyes downcast.

“Your Highness, I’m sorry to disturb you,” she said, her voice trembling. “There’s an urgent message from the spy master. He requests your immediate presence.”

Dhruv’s expression turned serious. He glanced at Uma. Her hand lingered on his thigh.

“Thank you, Leena. Give us a moment,” he replied, his voice steady.

Uma pulled her hand away. She understood. The moment felt heavy.

As Leena left the room, she closed the door softly behind her. Dhruv leaned back, his gaze fixed on Uma. “I’m sorry, Uma,” he said quietly. “Duty calls. I need to see the spymaster. Please rest. I’ll return as soon as I can.”

Uma nodded. Her eyes sparkled with unspoken thoughts. “Your Highness, I will await your return,” she replied, her voice soothing.

Dhruv swung his legs off the bed, still feeling the warmth of their passionate kiss. He dressed quickly, but his eyes lingered on Uma’s form.

He leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her cheek. “Goodbye,” he whispered.

As he stood and walked to the door, Uma watched him go.

Sahad, the spymaster and ex-mercenary, was known for his patience. But tonight was different. He felt a buzz of anticipation as Dhruv entered the royal library.

The library was dim. Candles flickered, casting shadows on ancient texts and dusty scrolls. It was a place steeped in secrets. Haki, the royal high minister, stood beside Sahad. They concentrated their attention on the maps arranged before them.

Haki spotted Dhruv first. “Your Highness,” he said, his voice breaking the silence.

Sahad lifted his gaze. His eyes were sharp and alert, despite the late hour. “Your Highness,” he nodded respectfully. “I apologize for disturbing your rest.”

Dhruv sat down on the throne chair across the desk. His mind was still racing, thoughts swirling from the events of the night. The warmth of the library felt cozy, a sharp contrast to the coolness of his chamber.

“What is so urgent?” he asked, striving to keep his voice steady.

Sahad’s gaze locked onto Dhruv for just a moment. Then, he focused on the scrolls spread out before them.

“The scrolls have revealed a plot, Highness,” he said, urgency in his voice. “We have information on Jayari’s activities in Athiratha.”

A cold shiver ran down Dhruv’s spine. “What has he done?” he demanded. His mind raced with the possible outcomes.

Sahad unfurled one of the scrolls. It displayed a detailed map of the northern outposts. His finger traced the line that separated Kirita from Athiratha. “Athiratha’s forces are gathering at the forest’s edge, just beyond our borders,” he explained. “They’re planning to target our weaker outposts.”

Dhruv leaned in, eyes narrowing. The thought of it under threat ignited a surge of anger within him. “How many forces are they assembling?”

“Not a full army, Highness,” Sahad said, his face serious. “But enough to cause trouble. They’re using guerrilla tactics.”

Dhruv turned to Haki. The high minister’s expression mirrored his worry. Their bond had deepened since Haki became high minister. He had played a key role in revealing which nobles were loyal to Jayari.

“What do you think, Haki?” Dhruv asked, breaking the heavy silence.

Haki studied the maps, then met Dhruv’s gaze, his brow furrowed. “It’s a strategic move, Highness,” he replied slowly. “Jayari isn’t just testing our defenses. If he captures even one of our outposts, the lords in the borderlands will push you to declare war.”

Dhruv nodded. He understood the seriousness of the moment. Could a war break out following the death of the king? That could break the spirit of the kingdom.

His mind raced to his mother, Kamala. He thought about his wife, Pari. To Nandini, Uma, and everyone in Kirita. Their safety was at stake. Just the thought of it made him furious. The weight of lives lost loomed over him.

The North was a brutal place. It was Athiratha’s territory. A war there wouldn’t be quick. It would be a hard-fought struggle in a land that had taken many lives.

Dhruv inhaled deeply. He needed to set aside his personal feelings. He realized he must be strategic.

“War is what Jayari wants,” he said, his voice steady.

“They want to pull us into their land. There, they hold the advantage. We will incur significant losses, and we cannot guarantee victory.”

Haki and Sahad exchanged worried glances. They had witnessed war before. Kings had fallen. The destruction tore apart families. The destruction was unimaginable.

“We need to think this through,” Dhruv said, his gaze fixed on the map. “We must predict Jayari’s moves. No traps.”

Haki nodded slowly, understanding the weight of the decision.

“Call a meeting,” Dhruv ordered. “Bring the border lords and northern nobles together. We need to stand as one.”

Dhruv focused on the map. He had traveled far from the streets where he grew up. But the thought of war pulled him back. It reminded him of his cold, harsh childhood.

He glanced at Sahad and Haki. A determined smile crossed his lips. “Before they target our outposts,” he said, “we will strike at their capital.”

Haki looked shocked. His hand froze in the air. “Your Highness,” he said slowly, “that’s risky. It’s a clear declaration of war. Others might perceive us as the aggressors.”

Dhruv’s smile widened. His eyes sparkled with excitement. “Exactly,” he replied, his tone calm. “But we won’t attack directly. The Daki mercenaries will take action independently.”

Sahad leaned back, stroking his beard. He considered the plan. “A clever move, Highness,” he said. “It gives us a way out. We can deny any involvement.”

Dhruv’s smile turned icy. His eyes sparkled with a desire for revenge. “Indeed,” he whispered, his words as incisive as a blade. “Our mercenaries will ensure Jayari’s downfall.”

Silence filled the room. Candle flames danced, casting strange shadows on the walls. Haki broke the stillness. “Your Highness, Jayari is clever. He will be ready for any threat.”

“But even the most careful prey makes mistakes,” Dhruv replied, firm and clear. “We must be ready to strike when he falters.”

Sahad nodded in agreement. “The Daki are skilled. They will enter Athiratha without leaving a trace of Kirita.”

Dhruv focused on the map. His finger traced the location of Athiratha’s capital. “Send them,” he ordered, voice low but commanding. “Tell them to approach the nobles who support Jayari. There should be no needless violence. Target only those who pose a real threat.”

Sahad nodded. “As you wish, Highness.” He carefully rolled the scrolls and hid them away.

His eyes met Dhruv’s. The steel in Dhruv’s gaze was clear. “We will prepare the message right away. They will leave at dawn.”

Tension filled the library. The three men worked through the night, focused on the plan. Candles flickered low, casting shadows on the table. The sound was the scratching of quills on parchment.

As dawn neared, sunlight crept through the windows. It painted the dusty books and scrolls in a warm glow. They had reviewed every detail—every backup plan.

Satisfied, Dhruv dismissed the men. Haki took the scrolls to call the northern lords to the Kirita palace. Sahad left with orders for the Daki mercenaries.

Dhruv walked through the royal corridors. The decision he made the previous night was weighing heavily on him. He reached the concubines’ chamber and paused. His hand hovered over the door. Memories flooded his mind. He remembered the softness of Nandini’s skin. He was captivated by the sweetness of Uma’s kisses. But last night, duty stood in the way of his union with Uma.

He opened the door slowly. Morning light spilled into the room, lighting up the marble floor and silk curtains. The air was thick with the scent of jasmine and a hint of musk. Uma sat on the bed, just as he had left her. The sheets tangled around her waist left her torso exposed. Her skin glowed in the soft light.

She looked up at him. Her eyes, heavy with sleep, sparkled with excitement. “Your Highness,” she said. Her voice mixed desire with submission. It was an invitation to continue where they had left off.

Dhruv stepped closer. But Nandini was missing. He scanned the room. The candles were reduced to stubs, casting only a faint light in the chamber. “Where is Nandini?” he asked, his voice soft.

Uma smiled gently. “She went to the bathing chamber. She said she would return soon. As I promised, I’m waiting for you.”

Dhruv nodded. His gaze lingered on Uma’s beauty.

Her youth stood in sharp contrast to the woman he had known all his life—his mother, Kamala, had a different spark.

The warmth emanated from his wife, Pari, and Nandini. But with Uma, there was something about the younger version of Nandini—each of them felt alive.

Uma had a captivating presence. Her body showcased soft curves. A cinched waist led to hips that flared out gracefully. Her breasts, firm and inviting, caught his attention immediately. They seemed to beckon for his touch.

Her flat stomach glowed in a warm golden hue. It reminded him of endless summer days. Her face was striking. A small, straight nose complemented her wide, expressive eyes. Those eyes sparkled with mischief, hinting at secrets beneath the surface. High cheekbones framed her full mouth. She had lips that were a shade deeper than her skin, perfect for soft whispers.

Her hair flowed down her back like a dark waterfall. Dhruv’s gaze followed the elegant curve of her neck to her chest.

Her eyes searched his, looking for something. He understood what she wanted. Reassurance. Desire.

He stepped closer. His hand reached out, gently cupping her cheek. Her skin felt warm against his palm. That touch sparked something deep inside him.

“You are mesmerizing,” he said. His voice was soft.

Uma smiled. Her cheeks turned a light pink. “Thank you, Your Highness. You have a way with words.”

Dhruv reached out. He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

“Uma, you’re extraordinary,” he said softly. “I feel like I’ve known you forever.”

Uma looked into his eyes. Her breath caught in her throat. “I feel the same way.”

His hand slid down, resting on her waist. Her skin felt smooth, like silk. He moved closer. Their lips met. The kiss started soft, a gentle brush.

As they kissed, their passion ignited. Their tongues danced together.

Dhruv’s hands roamed. He traced the curves he had admired from a distance. Each touch sparked something deep inside.

Uma let out a soft moan. She felt alive, her body responding to his every move.

Dhruv helped Uma out of her sari. The intricate henna designs on her body caught his eye. He moved slowly, kissing every inch of her skin. His tongue traced the delicate patterns.

Uma shivered. Anticipation filled the air. Her breath came in short gasps. She reached out, her hand resting on his chest. She felt the rapid beat of his heart.

Then, she pushed him back gently. “Your Highness,” she whispered. Her eyes sparkled with desire but also something deeper.

“I need you,” she said, her voice steady yet soft.

Dhruv smiled back, passion igniting in his gaze. “And I need you, Uma.”

He eased her back onto the bed. The pillows cradled her. They were soft and warm.

His gaze stayed locked on hers. Slowly, he took off his clothes.

Dhruv parted her legs. His fingers traced the moistness between Uma’s thighs. Her breath hitched. He circled her clit. Teased her.

He slid a finger inside her. Her eyes rolled. A low moan escaped her. She felt tight. His digit explored her depth.

Her moans grew louder. Her hips rose. He added another finger. He stretched her gently. He watched her face, the way her eyelids fluttered and her mouth parted.

Uma’s moans grew louder. Her hands tightly gripped the mattress. “Deeper, Dhruv. I want you deeper.”

Dhruv paused. He pulled back his fingers. Then, he leaned in closer. His tongue darted out instead.

He kissed his way down her body. His mouth found her ass. He licked from her tight, puckered hole to her clit. Uma’s body jolted at the sudden contact.

Her hips bucked against his face. Dhruv continued, his tongue dipping into her pussy.

He licked her folds, savoring every part of her. His thumbs parted her cheeks, exposing her most intimate place to his hungry gaze.

Her moans grew louder; her legs quivered around his head. “Ahhh,” she gasped.

“Your taste, Uma,” he murmured, his voice hoarse with desire. “It’s like nectar.” His tongue still danced around the delicate folds of her sex.

Her hips rocked upward, begging for more, and he delivered. His mouth moved back and forth around her clit. He was flicking and sucking.

He leaned back. Dhruv’s cock, thick and hot, found her entrance. It replaced his tongue. He paused for a moment.

He pushed forward, his cock sliding into her. Uma’s eyes rolled back in her head. A keening cry escaped her as he filled her completely.

The feeling was almost too much for Dhruv to bear. Her tightness gripped him. Her heat enveloped him. He groaned, the sound a mix of pleasure and pain.

He began to move, slowly at first, then faster. Their bodies moved in sync.

Uma’s legs wrapped around his waist. She pulled him closer. Her nails dug into his skin.

Each thrust sent waves of pleasure crashing through her body. Dhruv’s eyes locked with hers.

“Harder, Your Highness. Fuck me harder.”

He obliged, his thrusts becoming more forceful. Each time he entered her, it was like coming home. Her moans filled the air.

They switched positions. Uma straddled him now. Her thighs were a warm embrace around his hips.

Uma took control, setting a rhythm that was both fiery and mesmerizing. Her breasts bounced. Her eyes never left his.

Dhruv’s eyes trailed the curve of her waist, the swell of her hips, and the way she took him in.

Dhruv flipped Uma onto her stomach with a gentle yet firm touch, his cock still buried inside her.

He placed a hand on the small of her back, guiding her hips to meet his thrusts from behind.

“Yes, my King. Yes,” she cried out, her voice filled with pleasure. The sound was intoxicating. It fueled his desire. “Fuck me. Fill me with your seed,” she moaned loudly.

Dhruv’s orgasm approached. His cock swelled. His balls tightened. He could feel it, that sweet release, just out of reach.

His hips moved faster. Deeper. Each thrust sent waves of pleasure crashing through him.

He watched Uma’s face. She squeezed her eyes shut, her teeth biting into her bottom lip.

“I’m going to cum,” she gasped, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Cum for me, my love,” Dhruv urged, his voice thick with lust.

With a final, desperate push, he felt her walls tighten around him. She screamed out her orgasm, her body shaking with the force of it. It was all he needed to push him over the edge.

Dhruv’s own release washed over him.

His hot seed filled Uma’s pussy. A warm flood surrounded her pussy. Each pulse sent her into another spasm of pleasure. Her cries were muffled by the pillow beneath her head.

He watched her. Her back arched with each spurt. Her body shivered with pleasure.

As the last of his orgasm left him, Dhruv collapsed onto the bed beside her. Dhruv collapsed onto the bed beside her. He pulled her close, her body sticky with sweat and cum. They lay there, panting, hearts racing in sync.

Dhruv felt the weight of his own body. His cock slipped out of her, leaving a sticky trail of cum on her inner thigh. He reached down and painted it up her body, marking her as his.

Her skin was slick with sweat and their combined juices. It was a delicious sight. He took a moment to appreciate the beauty of her form. Her curves glowed in the soft light. Her breasts heaved with each breath she took.

Dhruv leaned back, his hand still tracing lazy circles on Uma’s back.

Uma turned to face him, and her fingers laced through his chest. He looked into her eyes. They were filled with something more than just satisfaction. He kissed her neck. He could feel her pulse beneath his lips.

“You’re incredible,” he whispered.

Uma leaned in closer. Her breath was warm against his skin.

“Thank you,” she murmured. There was silence for a moment.

Finally, Uma spoke. Her voice was soft, almost a whisper. “You truly are the son of a god,” she said. There was awe in her tone, but also a hint of teasing.

Dhruv’s eyes narrowed. He searched her face, looking for answers. “What do you mean?” he asked.

Uma inhaled deeply. “Your Highness,” she started, her voice quivering. “I was once the concubine of the late King Chandra.”

She paused. She let her words linger in the air. “But I always wanted more.”

Dhruv’s eyes locked onto hers. Concern filled his face. His hand rested on her back, steadying her. “What do you mean?” he asked softly.

Uma took another shaky breath. “King Chandra was kind. But he lacked passion. His age held him back. I was his ... companion,” she admitted, her voice a mere whisper.

“But I’m young. I craved more than just his fleeting affection. I wanted a child. A family of my own.”

Her eyes locked onto Dhruv’s. She was searching for something. Understanding, maybe?

“When you became king, I saw my chance,” she said softly. “I want to find true love—to find a man. A husband.”

Dhruv’s heart tightened. The woman he had just been intimate with was his concubine. Yet, she was talking about love and a future together. He felt the weight of her words. He knew he couldn’t give her what she wanted. Not now.

“Uma,” he replied, his voice low.

Her gaze held his, hope shining in her eyes.

“What is it, Dhruv?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

He paused to gather his thoughts. “What you’re asking for, Uma, is a lot.” His voice was calm, each word deliberate. “A king can’t rush into matters of the heart.”

Uma nodded, her gaze steady on him. “I understand, Your Highness.”

There was sadness in her voice. Her voice pulled at Dhruv’s heart. He felt the weight of her longing. But he knew he couldn’t give her what she wanted. Not yet.

Uma slept uneasily beside him with exhaustion taking over.

Dhruv felt a mix of emotions. Desire still hung in the air, a reminder of their passionate lovemaking. Yet, something deeper tugged at him.

He watched Uma sleep. Her breathing was slow and steady. Her cheeks curved softly, and her eyebrows gently arched. Her hair spread around her head like a halo.

A pang of regret hit him. He had cherished their moments together. He knew he couldn’t stay.

He leaned in, kissing her forehead softly. Her skin was warm from their closeness. Her breath was calm and even. He carefully pulled away from her embrace. Uma stirred but remained asleep.

With one last look, he stood. He gathered his clothes and dressed quietly. After that, he turned and left the room. The heavy door closed softly behind him.

The palace corridors were cold and empty. Torches flickered along the walls, casting an odd glow on the old stones. Dhruv felt unsettled. Uma’s confession rang in his mind. His heart ached, heavy with power and unexpected emotions.

The library was different. It was his escape. The aroma of aged parchment and ink enveloped him. It felt safe. It stood in stark contrast to the sweet, musky scent of his moments with Uma. Dhruv sank into his chair. Thoughts swirled in his mind. Uma’s words weighed heavily on him.

The crown on his head felt heavier with every tick of the clock. Just then, the door creaked open. His mother, Kamala, stepped inside.

Her eyes scanned the dim room. She spotted him, lost in thought. She walked closer, her steps quiet on the cold stone floor.

“Dhruv,” she whispered. “What troubles you?”

He turned to her, his expression heavy. “Ma,” he said, voice strained. “I’m confused.”

The orb around Kamala’s neck glowed softly. A whisper floated through the air. At first, it was just a sound. Then it grew clearer.

“Dhruv, we know your challenges,” it said. The voice belonged to Aatma. It felt like the wind’s gentle touch—soft, yet strong.

Dhruv gazed into his mother’s eyes. They sparkled with a strange light. It was the light of Aatma’s souls that sparkled.

“The path ahead is full of danger from Jayari and Athiratha, Dhruv,” Aatma said.

Dhruv nodded. The candlelight flickered, casting shadows on his face. He listened closely. Aatma’s voice filled the library—a soft yet strong whisper.

“Dhruv, don’t let fear or doubt cloud your thoughts. Urvi has chosen you. You have a divine purpose. Your reign will bring prosperity to Kirita. Trust in the power within you. Trust in our bond. Together, we will win.”

Dhruv felt his mother’s eyes on him. They seemed heavy, full of unspoken words. He understood what she meant. Their love had changed them both.

He took a deep breath. He whispered, “Aatma, I need to tell you something.”

Kamala’s expression shifted. Her eyes narrowed as sharply as a knife. The light from the orb around them brightened. “What is it, Dhruv?” Aatma pressed.

Dhruv inhaled deeply. “Uma ... she wants more than just a king’s favor. She wants a husband. Someone who will truly love her, someone who can give her a family.”

The orb’s light intensified. Aatma’s voice resonated. “Your reign needs unity, Dhruv. Marry Uma.”

Dhruv was taken aback.

Aatma spoke with a voice that rang through the library. “Dhruv, your reign will be one of unity and strength. You must also take Nandhini and your mother, Kamala, as your queens.”

Dhruv’s stomach twisted. “What about Pari?” His voice trembled.

The orb’s light dimmed. Aatma’s tone softened.

“Pari will understand, Dhruv. The people of Kirita will feel the power of Urvi through you. They will accept your union with them. Your reign will usher in peace and prosperity. The love you share will symbolize unity and divine favor.”

Dhruv nodded. Aatma’s words hit him hard. He understood his path. He was ready to face his destiny.

His love for Pari was real. But he couldn’t overlook the bond he had with Aatma and his mother.

He left the library and headed to Pari’s chambers. In his palm, he held the orb of Aatma.

The corridors were silent. Only his footsteps broke the stillness, echoing against the cold stone walls. The orb warmed with each heartbeat, guiding him toward Pari’s door.

He felt a mix of excitement and fear. As he approached, he took a deep breath. The moment was near.

He knocked softly. A moment later, Pari’s maidservant opened the door. She looked at Dhruv and smiled knowingly. “Your Highness, she’s been expecting you.” She stepped aside, welcoming him in.

The room was warm. It felt good compared to the cold hallways outside. The air was thick with the scent of sandalwood and jasmine. There, on a large bed, lay Pari. She wore a sheer nightgown that highlighted her beauty. Her eyes widened when she saw him.

Dhruv moved closer. The orb in his hand felt hot. “Pari,” he started, his voice shaky. “There’s something I must tell you.”

Her gaze searched his, curiosity sparking in her eyes. He held out the orb, feeling its power pulsing.

Pari hesitated for a moment. She reached out and grasped the warm crystal. As her fingers made contact, the orb pulsed with a light that brightened gradually. It illuminated her face softly.

Aatma’s voice echoed in her mind, the same comforting tone from the hidden cave. “Pari, Dhruv will ask you for something. It will show his love and strength.”

She listened closely. Aatma continued, “Nandini raised you after your mother passed. She has been a true mother to you.”

Pari nodded. A sense of understanding washed over her. She glanced at Dhruv. The goddess Urvi had chosen him for a purpose. She trusted Urvi’s wisdom.

Aatma’s voice pressed on, “Uma was like an elder sister when your father brought you to the palace. She cares deeply for you. Her love is genuine.”

“Remember Kamala?” Aatma’s voice grew firmer. “You shared special moments with her. After you made love with her, you called her mother.”

Pari felt a rush of emotions. Each name held weight. Each connection mattered.

Dhruv raised his eyebrows. This was the first time he got to know about Pari, and his mother, Kamala, shared a special bond.

“Aatma,” he said. His voice mixed admiration with surprise. “What are you saying?”

Pari blushed. She nodded slowly as the truth sank in. Her eyes searched Dhruv’s, seeking understanding. He just smiled, accepting the love between Pari and his mother.

“Aatma said, ‘Pari, these women—Kamala, Nandini, and Uma—need love and happiness. They’ve sacrificed much for the kingdom. They deserve a husband who can provide for them, protect them, and cherish them.’”

Pari frowned. “What are you suggesting?” Her voice wavered, but the strength in her spirit shone through.

Dhruv took a deep breath. He held her gaze. “Aatma is proposing a union. It would bring unity and power to our reign. I must marry Uma, Nandini, and my mother, Kamala.”

Pari’s eyes searched Dhruv’s face. The silence hung heavy between them.

Dhruv reached for her hand. He squeezed it gently. “It’s a lot to ask, I know,” he whispered.

Aatma’s voice rang out, steady and powerful. “Pari, joining these three women will create a sacred bond. It’s a union blessed by the love of Urvi. They’ll be your sister wives and queens. But remember, the first queen will be you. As the High Queen, your job is to unite them. You’ll support them and share both the burdens and joys of ruling Kirita.”

Pari inhaled deeply. The orb in her hand grew warmer, pulsing with Urvi’s power. She felt the goddess’s acceptance.

She turned to Dhruv. “I ... I understand,” she whispered. “For the kingdom and for you, I will do this.”

Dhruv felt both relief and anxiety. The road ahead was different. But with Pari beside him, he found a new purpose. He leaned down and kissed her. Her warmth calmed him.

“Thank you,” he whispered against her lips. “Together, we will rule with love and strength.”

In Pari’s hand, the orb began to warm. Its light faded until it was just a faint glow. Aatma’s voice filled the air. It was softer, yet still strong.

“The power of Urvi will resonate in the minds of the people,” she said. “Their love for you, Dhruv, and their trust in the divine will lead them to acceptance.”

The next day, Dhruv entered the library just as the sun peeked over the horizon. The light was soft and warm.

He settled onto a couch. His heart raced. He watched the women with both worry and determination. In his hand, the orb of Aatma glowed faintly.

Beside him sat Pari, his wife. She was calm.

Uma and Nandini sat close to each other on the plush velvet couch. They whispered, heads together. When he walked over, they looked up. Their faces showed hope but also doubt.

A few steps away, his mother sat on another couch. The morning light streamed through the windows. It danced in her eyes, creating a calm atmosphere.

Dhruv’s heart raced. He felt the weight of the moment. Three women stood before him. They were about to become his queens.

He took a step closer to Uma. She looked up, her eyes shining with hope.

“Uma,” he began, emotions flooding his voice. “I have something to ask you.”

Silence enveloped the room. The tension was thick.

“Uma,” he repeated, trying to steady his thoughts. “I know our paths have crossed under less than ideal circumstances. But I trust Urvi’s guidance. I believe she brought us here for a purpose.”

He paused. A deep breath filled his lungs. “Will you honor me by becoming my queen and my wife?”

Uma searched his eyes. Shock, hope, and longing flickered across her face. She had asked for a man like Dhruv. He was powerful but also kind.

Her heart raced. It felt like a mix of excitement and fear.

“Your Highness,” she whispered, her voice shaky. “I would be honored to be your wife and queen.”

Kamala and Pari exchanged smiles. Their support was clear. Nandini’s eyes widened. Shock washed over her face.

Dhruv faced Nandini, his tone calm. “Nandini, you’ve served as concubine to the late King Chandra all your life. You raised Pari as your own. You’ve been a friend and a strong support for the kingdom.”