The Evening
Golden hour was nearing.
The gardens were bathed in a soft, warm light—the kind that made everything look calmer than it really was. Long shadows stretched across the stone paths, slipping between trimmed hedges and old trees that had likely stood there for generations. A light breeze moved through the leaves, carrying with it the faint scent of wet earth and flowering plants.
Hamsa walked through it all at an unhurried pace, hands loosely behind his back, his steps steady and measured.
A step behind him, Gopal followed.
Not officially appointed, not by title—but in practice, he had already taken on the role of Hamsa's secretary. Tablet in hand, posture straight, always ready.
"How is the production?" Hamsa asked, not turning.
"It is proceeding as planned, Yuvraj," Gopal replied immediately. "The Royal Workshop is handling the mana crystals. The barrier you placed over it is still functioning as intended—even during your unconscious state."
He adjusted the tablet slightly, scanning through notes as he continued.
"For the remaining components, production is being carried out through Jinadatta's workshop and the Guild, which is now operating under him. We've also distributed Royal Workshop smiths across those locations for quality control, along with small army escorts to maintain quality and security. There have been no disruptions so far. Everything remains on schedule."
Hamsa gave a small nod. "Good."
They walked a few more steps, the sound of gravel shifting softly beneath their feet.
"And the personal equipment?" Hamsa asked.
Gopal glanced down again. "Still under construction, Yuvraj. The materials are proving difficult to refine to the required standard. Current estimate—at least three more weeks."
"Three weeks…" Hamsa repeated under his breath.
His gaze dropped briefly to his hand—the bracelet and ring resting there, simple in appearance, anything but in function.
"Send a letter to my grandmother," he said. "Tell her I need another pair."
Then, after a short pause—
"And that she'll be seeing her grandson soon."
Gopal's stylus moved quickly across the tablet. "Understood, Yuvraj. When shall we be preparing to travel?"
"That won't be necessary," Hamsa said. "I have other plans."
He didn't slow down.
"Wait until evening. I'll decide after I look at a map."
"As you command, Yuvraj."
Silence settled between them again, natural this time, not forced.
The garden opened slightly ahead, revealing a wider clearing. A few figures were visible at a distance—nobles and visitors taking advantage of the evening air—but none came close.
After a while, Hamsa spoke again.
"Before I forget—did you deliver the instructions I gave?"
"Yes, Yuvraj," Gopal replied. "They have been delivered to Mahadevi's personal aide, Lata. She acknowledged receipt and said she would ensure everything is carried out as instructed."
"And the other matter?"
This time, Gopal hesitated—just for a fraction of a second.
"I regret to report," he said carefully, "that it is proving more difficult than expected to bring all the guilds to the table. Some are cooperating. Others… are delaying. A few are avoiding direct response altogether."
Hamsa's expression didn't change.
"Why?" Hamsa asked.
Gopal adjusted his grip on the tablet before replying.
"Officially, the Guild Masters claim they are unavailable—some say they are unwell, others that they don't have the time to travel," he said. "But that is only on the surface."
Hamsa didn't interrupt.
"In reality," Gopal continued, "they are unwilling to sit at the same table. This is the first time anyone has tried to bring all of them under a single arrangement… and they don't like it."
A brief pause.
"Each guild prefers to operate independently. Being placed under one umbrella means shared oversight, reduced control… and uncertainty about where they stand compared to the others."
Hamsa let out a quiet breath.
"So they're stalling."
"Yes, Yuvraj."
Silence fell as they walked a few more steps.
The light had shifted slightly now—deeper gold, edging toward dusk.
Then Hamsa spoke again.
"Well, Gopal—get ready."
Gopal looked up from his tablet.
"We're going to dig up some dirt tomorrow."
_____________________________
Next Day
Upper District
Hamsa finished his morning routine, though it had taken longer than usual.
Today was one of the days he personally checked on Padmavathi's studies. He reviewed her progress, gave her new material, and guided her where needed. When it came to experiments, however, he stayed mostly as a safeguard. If he involved himself too much, he would end up doing everything himself—and that would defeat the purpose.
By the time he was done, the morning had stretched further than expected.
He finished his meal early and didn't linger.
Soon after, he headed out.
Now, he moved through the capital's upper district at a leisurely pace, seated on horseback. The horse walked steadily beneath him, its hooves making a rhythmic sound against the stone-laid road.
Ten Royal Guards followed, positioned with practiced precision—close enough to respond, far enough to remain unobtrusive. Gopal rode along slightly behind him, tablet still in hand.
As they moved forward, the character of the city unfolded.
The upper district was wide and open, its roads laid out with intent. On either side stood large residences and estates built with carved stone and polished wood. Pillared verandas faced the streets, some shaded by extended roofs, others framed with detailed railings. Open gateways offered glimpses of inner courtyards—green, quiet, and carefully maintained.
Temple spires rose above the skyline at intervals, catching the light. Faint bells carried through the air now and then, blending into the background without breaking the calm.
The streets were active, but controlled.
Nobles moved in palanquins or on horseback. Wealthy merchants walked with attendants. Ministry officials, off duty, spoke in low voices as they passed.
Servants moved along the edges—dasis and dasas on assigned work, careful not to draw attention, but always aware.
Kid question—why are you so into this? Adi asked. They're just buildings.
Hamsa shrugged slightly. Yeah, they are. But for me, this is interesting.
Adi didn't interrupt
In my old world, there wasn't much left to actually see, Hamsa said. Mostly temples and rough city layouts. Everything else got built over.
He glanced around.
And the records weren't that great either. Half the time, you're just guessing what things looked like.
Adi nodded a little.
So yeah, Hamsa said, seeing all this properly… it's nice.
Suddenly loud noise echoed from the direction of the elephant stables. This brought Hamsa's attention back form his chat with Adi.
Hamsa's attention did shifted for a moment, but before he could change direction, they had already reached their destination.
A Courtesan House.
It stood slightly apart from the surrounding residences—not louder, not excessive, but unmistakably refined. The structure was elegant, with carved pillars, open balconies, and a presence that drew attention without asking for it.
Courtesans here were not merely entertainers.
They were educated, trained in music, literature, and conversation. Many were wealthier than nobles, and some even received state support—stipends, tax exemptions, and in certain cases, pensions after retirement.
Their houses were places of influence.
Men of rank visited openly. Conversations flowed freely. Information moved quietly.
If you had their backing, learning about rivals—or anything else—became much easier.
Hamsa stepped down from his horse, handing the reins to one of the guards.
As he turned, he saw her.
The owner. Ratnavali.
A woman in her 40's, though she looked younger at a glance. Her presence was composed, deliberate. Her hair, long and dark, fell freely down her back. Her eyes were steady—sharp without being harsh.
She didn't try to stand out.
She didn't need to.
Hamsa was about to start walking.
Then—
A sudden disturbance to his left.
People gasped. Some stepped back. Others moved away quickly.
Hamsa turned, his mana already beginning to spread—
But he didn't need it.
A large white blur rushed toward him.
Massive and fast.
Thick snow-white fur. Golden eyes.
Chotu.
Before Hamsa could react, the beast reached him.
And the next moment—
He was on the ground.
Pinned beneath it.
"—!"
A large tongue dragged across his face.
Once.
Then again.
"…Chotu."
The beast didn't stop.
Is he a big cat or a dog…? Hamsa thought as Chotu finally let him go.
-----------------
Inside The House.
Hamsa was seated in one of the most extravagant rooms money could buy.
The furnishing alone was enough to put nobles mansions to shame. Carved pillars, layered fabrics, low seating arranged with care—everything spoke of wealth, but more than that, of taste.
At his feet, Chotu lay stretched out, head up, eyes moving as he observed the room. He had been pacing earlier, but Hamsa had made him settle—partly out of concern for the people present, and partly because he wasn't sure what Chotu might break if left alone.
Across from him sat Ratnavali, composed as ever, with attendants standing quietly at either side.
Refreshments had been served.
Hamsa was already halfway through them.
"I apologize for bringing him here," Hamsa said, glancing briefly at Chotu. "He has… attachment issues."
Ratnavali smiled lightly. "No need, Yuvraj. You've visited before—your presence is hardly unfamiliar."
She studied him for a moment, a hint of amusement in her tone.
"Though I didn't expect you in person this time. Usually, you send others."
Hamsa let out a small breath, a faint smile forming. "It's been a while. Thought I should come myself."
He leaned back slightly.
"I'm here to arrange a few entertainers… and it wouldn't feel right sending thanks and gifts through others," he said. "Not after everything you've done—for me and for the people."
Ratnavali inclined her head. "You're generous as always, Yuvraj."
Her smile didn't fade as she spoke.
"What manner of entertainment are you in search for?"
Ratnavali had once been one of the most influential courtesans in the capital—wealthy beyond what most could even imagine.
Now retired from taking clients regularly, she had shifted her focus. Much of her time and resources went into supporting younger courtesans—those just starting out—and providing shelter to those who had nowhere else to go.
Even so, she hadn't completely stepped away.
She still received guests… though rarely, and only by choice.
Her influence hadn't faded with her retirement.
If anything, it had settled into something quieter, but deeper.
Between her past connections and her current position, she had access to information that even the Royal Court would sometimes struggle to obtain.
"I want musicians," Hamsa said.
"Very well," Ratnavali replied. She turned to one of her attendants, leaned in, and whispered something. The attendant nodded and slipped inside.
Ratnavali looked back at him. "Would you like dancers as well, or will musicians be enough?"
"Musicians will be enough," Hamsa said.
The room stayed quiet for a moment, broken only by faint movement from deeper inside—preparations already underway.
Ratnavali didn't let it sit for long.
"Yuvraj," she said lightly, a hint of amusement in her voice, "if I'm being honest… I was expecting something else."
Hamsa didn't look at her, but he heard it.
"With everything people have been saying about you these past few days," she continued, "I thought you might… indulge a little."
Hamsa let out a small breath.
"Your circles have a very active imagination," he said. "Nothing is as dramatic as they make it sound."
There was a pause.
Ratnavali smiled faintly. "A pity. I had prepared for a very different kind of visit."
"Then consider this a disappointment," Hamsa replied dryly.
Soon, a group entered and lined up before them.
Most were women, though a few men stood among them, each carrying themselves with quiet confidence.
"Yuvraj, these are among the best I have when it comes to music," Ratnavali said. "If you'd like, they can give a demonstration."
Hamsa gave a slight nod.
"Very well," he said. "Let's see what they can do."
They moved to another hall.
Larger, built for gatherings, with a raised stage at the far end and enough seating for a hundred. Now, it stood mostly empty—only Hamsa, Ratnavali, Gopal, a few attendants, and guards at the edges.
The performers took their places, and the music began.
One after another, they performed.
Hamsa watched for a while.
Then, between transitions—
"I want some information," he said.
No one reacted.
The music continued.
Only Ratnavali heard him.
The air around them shifted subtly—sound flowed inward, but not outward. Their conversation remained contained, hidden beneath the performance.
"I assume this is about the merchants and guilds," Ratnavali said quietly.
"As expected," Hamsa replied. "Yes. I need something I can use against them."
A brief pause.
"As for payment… you'll receive it with the gifts I've sent."
Ratnavali gave a small nod, her expression unchanged.
"Very well. You can expect something by the end of the week."
They fell silent after that, letting the performances continue.
Music filled the hall, one act flowing into the next, until the final performance began.
"Yuvraj…" Ratnavali spoke again, her voice quieter this time. "Please be careful. Your blood is becoming more valuable by the day."
Hamsa gave a small nod.
She watched him for a moment before continuing.
"I know you may not trust me, but please understand—the situation is worsening. It has reached a point where even some within the temples are involved."
Hamsa didn't respond.
For a brief moment, Ratnavali took his silence as dismissal. But before she could press further, he spoke.
"It's not that I don't trust you," Hamsa said.
He shifted slightly, turning just enough to face her.
"I'm aware of your ties to my birth mother's family. My grandmother mentions you so often that it feels strange when she doesn't."
A faint pause.
Then his gaze steadied as he looked up a little.
"It's also not something I didn't expect."
He turned back toward the stage, the music continuing as if nothing had changed.
"As I move forward, people will oppose me—regardless of where they stand. And that number will only grow."
His tone remained calm. Matter-of-fact.
"So…" he said quietly, "don't worry."
Another note rang out across the hall.
"I understand the risks."
___________________________________________
Palace.
Third Floor; Council Room.
While Hamsa moved through the upper district, the palace carried on with its usual rhythm—servants passing through corridors, officials in quiet discussion, voices low behind carved doors. But today, there was a clear shift in tone. More uniforms moved through the halls—men in military attire, officers, strategists, and messengers—all carrying a sharper sense of purpose than usual.
They had gathered to address the consequences of a recent decision. Fifteen thousand troops had been deployed, and among them were five thousand Royal Guards—half of their total strength. It was not a minor move. The balance within the kingdom had shifted, and now it had to be corrected, planned for, and stabilized before it could be exploited.
Their focus lay to the east. The Dharmaraj Empire remained the only immediate threat along their borders. Alliances with the Parthian Empire and the Ranga Kingdom had already been secured through promises of marriage, stabilizing those fronts for the time being. That left a single direction—still hostile, still uncertain, and far too close to ignore.
Here's a cleaner, structured version that keeps all your details but improves clarity, flow, and readability:
As for the state of both sides:
Valangar was a powerful kingdom with a long history of producing some of the finest Senapathis on the subcontinent. This was evident in the fact that, for generations, they had served as the Mahasenapathis under the Surya Samrats.
In the present day, however, the situation was more complicated.
They still possessed brilliant military minds, but their administration and internal politics were in poor condition. Infighting and mismanagement had weakened the state to the point where launching an offensive campaign was not feasible.
Defensively, however, they remained exceptionally strong.
In fact, during their last war with the Dharmaraj Empire, they had emerged victorious—seizing the only access to the sea that the Dharmaraj had. Adding to that, fortune had favored them. The Ranga Kingdom, traditionally an ally of Dharmaraj, had shifted to Valangar's side through the marriage of Raj Valangar II and Rajkumari Savithri of Ranga—a bond later solidified with the birth of Hamsa.
On the other hand, the Dharmaraj Empire stood on a different foundation.
Their imperial line traced its descent from the Suryas, and because of that, they viewed Valangar—and most other kingdoms—as breakaway states.
Their primary rival, however, was not Valangar, but the Mahavarsha Empire to the east—another state that also claimed descent from the Suryas, arguably with a stronger claim.
Militarily, the Dharmaraj Empire maintained a large land army but had no navy to speak of, largely due to their lack of access to the sea. However, much of their force consisted of city militia rather than trained, professional soldiers like those of Valangar.
As for their internal condition, not much was clearly known. What was known, however, was concerning.
They were facing the same issue that had once weakened Mahavarsha—internal decay caused by prolonged mismanagement and a line of less capable rulers.
Ironically, this was the very weakness that had once allowed them to break away and gain independence.
Because, at one point in time, they had not been an empire at all—
but vassals under the Mahavarsha.
Several men walked past the large wooden doors—some quiet, others speaking in low voices among themselves. One by one, they left. Once the room had cleared, the two guards stationed inside stepped out as well, pulling the heavy doors shut behind them and taking their positions outside.
The chamber fell still.
Only the Raja, Mahadevi, and a few servants remained.
After a moment, the Raja gestured lightly. The servants bowed and withdrew, leaving the two alone.
Indra turned toward Mahadevi Bhadra.
"What's wrong?" he asked, his voice calm and soft.
"It's nothing," Bhadra replied. "Just a little tired."
"Is it about Hamsa?" Indra asked.
That got a small reaction—a slight flinch.
Indra noticed.
"So something did happen," he muttered.
He studied her for a moment before continuing.
"For the past few days, both of you have been… off," he said. "Distant. And Hamsa more than you. From what I know—and from what Garuda mentioned—you spoke with him at Acharya Ram's house."
He paused briefly.
"Ever since then, it's been like this."
His tone didn't change. It stayed calm, steady—warm, almost inviting.
Bhadra took a slow breath before turning to face him.
"Like I said, nothing happened," she replied. "Matha Durga called me over to talk. Hamsa was at the temple, so I took him along."
Her voice was even. Too even.
Indra stood up and sat down as he moved closer to her. Gently, he took her hand, then wrapped his arms around her, pulling her in. She didn't resist. They stayed like that for a moment before he spoke again.
"I know I'm not the best when it comes to talking… or showing what I feel," Indra said quietly. "But I am worried."
Bhadra remained silent.
"I know the boy adores you," he continued. "He's just shy about it. And yes, most days he looks like a tired man coming back from war—always a bit distant, a bit worn out." He paused, tightening his hold slightly. "But this is different."
He leaned back just enough to look at her face.
"Lately, he feels completely out of it. He doesn't pay attention in court, makes simple mistakes… things he normally wouldn't. And today—today was something he would never miss, no matter what. But he didn't come."
His voice stayed calm, but the concern underneath it was unmistakable.
"And you…" he added, softer now. "You've been acting strange too. It's like when you look at him, you're not seeing your son… but someone else."
He stopped there.
Bhadra stayed quiet for a few moments, her thoughts turning over themselves. There was hesitation—whether to speak or not—but it didn't last long.
Slowly, she turned to face him.
"You're right," she said. "Things did change after we came back from Acharya Ram's house."
She took a small breath before continuing.
"What I told you earlier… that nothing happened—that wasn't true."
Indra didn't interrupt.
Bhadra began explaining everything. From the moment Hamsa fainted, to her first experience of that white, empty space. The feeling of being inside his mana. The confusion, the weight of it—something she couldn't properly describe even now.
Then she spoke about what happened later.
How Hamsa himself had shown it to them.
The white room.
The comparisons.
And finally… his own.
That sheer, almost ridiculous amount of power.
As Bhadra spoke about her experience in the white room, her body began to tremble slightly. It was subtle at first, but it didn't go unnoticed. Indra's arms tightened around her—not forcefully, just enough to steady her. The warmth of his hands grounded her, slowing the shake, even if it didn't fully stop it.
"Is he really that…?" Indra began, but Bhadra answered before he could finish.
"Yes."
She looked at him directly, her voice steady despite everything. "He showed it himself, and it wasn't some illusion. Both Acharya Ram and I are certain—the spheres were accurate."
Her gaze slowly dropped.
"I know how it sounds. It does sound absurd," she continued, quieter now. "But that is what we saw."
Her grip tightened slightly against him.
"And in that moment… it didn't feel like I was looking at our son. It felt like standing before a force of nature—something I couldn't even begin to comprehend, let alone measure."
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Thanks for reading. Drop a comment if you have made it this far, cause to be honest I know this isn't the greatest of stories but my stats say some people read it and I just wanna see that though the comments or something that asurers me that there is atleast one person reading this.