Though it was Hanuman's little wings that were growing stronger, Hari moved like she was walking on air. Suddenly she found everyone around the camp more endearing. The passing landscape also grew more appealing by the second, as every turn of the wheel meant she was getting closer to setting eyes on him again.

Bhikaji was pleasantly surprised when she requested that he make the Khatti-Meethi dal one evening and then happily relished it. Devrat further indulged her queries and growing fascination for medicines for treating the men too. Even Bhairon felt her punches growing more determined, like she was more dedicated to proving her mettle.

But on the third day, her spirits slumped when it rained incessantly, and the scouts reported that a landslide had blocked the route they planned to take. Heavy rains in those parts were extremely rare and having grown in a place where every event around was interpreted as an omen, the downpour gave rise to apprehension in her heart. What does this mean? Are the Gods not happy about something??

To avoid the challenges of camping in the wet till the roadblock was cleared, Amiraj decided to seek refuge for his platoon in a small rest house, attached to a temple. First, the troops were stuck in the rest house for two days while they waited for the downpour to cease. Later, two more days were spent on clearing the road.

Though the space available was limited and the men had to be crammed in two rooms, they were glad to be able to sleep indoors.

Hari and Kanta were instead housed in the small cottage shared by the temple's pandit and his wife. The elder couple, who usually lived by themselves, were glad to have two young women to keep them company.

Amiraj put some of his men to work on repairs around the rest house and temple. And the two young women helped the pandit's wife, Uma, with some chores in the house: cleaning grains, milling flour, mending clothes and so on.

It had been a long time since Hari had stayed in a family home and it was a refreshing change. Also, witnessing a loving, caring husband-wife relationship was like a revelation! The couple, secured of each other's affection, seemed so content even while they carried on with their mundane, hard work.

Uma often spoke nostalgically to the young women – of her own youth and, in turn, of the early years of her marriage. During his youth, before he settled in his position at the current temple, the Pandit had travelled a lot. Once he had stopped at the temple where Uma's father had been the priest. Uma's father had grown fond of the young man and had offered his daughter's hand in marriage. A month after the wedding, Uma had left her father's house and accompanied her husband on his travels for the next few years, till they had eventually settled where they now lived. The couple had not been blessed with any offspring and, though they found it disheartening, they had made peace with their destiny and instead doted on each other.

Hari listened enraptured. Is this what marriage looks like for some?? So uncomplicated... so wholesome... without any mind games... without a feeling of deal or barter.

Wide eyed, she asked the elder woman "Kaki, what led to you feeling like you belonged by Pandit-sa's side? How will I know if I..."

Though Hari's words trailed away without her voicing the complete question, Uma smiled "The moment you walk around the holy fire together, it forges an invincible bond, like no other. And you will know that you belong by your husband's side wherever he goes."

"But... what if there is no fire??" Hari muttered anxiously.

Not understanding the reason for tumult in the young girl's heart, Uma replied "Of course there will be fire! That's how we get married, and that's when the Gods bless the holy union."

Is that why I feel so ambiguous about my relationship with him? Because the Gods haven't blessed us?? The agitation in Hari's heart grew.

The next day, the roadblock was cleared. The platoon heartily thanked their hosts for the shelter and bid them a goodbye.

* * *

Due to the bad weather and road conditions, the remaining journey to Sompura took much longer than expected. Both Harinakshi and Kanta were feeling very irritable when they finally reached the outskirts of their destination after two more days. To their pleasant surprise, they learnt that instead of camping in the open, they were to be housed in the Thakur's haveli.

When she enquired about the reason for this deviation, Shardul shared "Located in the border areas, Sompura is part of the Sudhagadh Province. And we have received word that there is some family wedding taking place that Tejveer has requested Raja-sa to attend."

"Raja-sa has already reached??" she asked expectantly.

To her satisfaction, Shardul nodded "Yes, and he has sent word that the women will be accommodated in the haveli, while the platoon will be housed at our garrison in Sompura."

She was intrigued "Why do we have a garrison there??"

"Some of our soldiers are permanently placed there to deal with any unexpected trouble on the border," he explained.

It was late afternoon when they entered Sompura, which seemed to be a hustling-bustling settlement. From the friendly greetings the locals shouted out, it was clear that the platoon was home. Children ran alongside, while women rushed out to offer water and light refreshments to the entourage. The soldiers beamed back and there was a general sense of excitement.

While most of the troops headed to the barracks to join their other brothers-in-arms, Hari's bullock cart, which was accompanied by a few soldiers on horseback, trudged to Tejveer's estate. The estate had a main haveli, which was a typical, two-storey sandstone structure with a big garden at the front, and a few other buildings scattered around.

The cart made its way to one of the side entrances of the main haveli. Stepping out of the cart, Harinakshi was surprised to see a young woman and a girl of about twelve waiting to receive them.

The woman moved forward with folded hands. After looking at the two young women, dressed in plain attire, she uttered a little uncertainly "Harinakshi Bai-sa??" When, nodding in reply, Hari stepped forward, the woman continued "Khamma Ghani, Bai-sa. I am Vaishali and will help you get settled. The servants will soon bring the luggage to your room. Please follow me."

As she led them up a staircase, Vaishali enquired "Hope your journey was comfortable? Were you delayed because of the rains?" Hari explained how the landslide had resulted in the delay.

Once upstairs, Vaishali showed them to a room located in the inner portion of the haveli, overlooking a big courtyard humming with activity. The whole area was decorated with mango leaves and marigold flowers. Somewhere, playing in the background, the dholak could be heard.

When Harinakshi remarked "I was told that there is a wedding taking place here.", Vaishali nodded "Yes, our master Tejveer Thakursa's daughter is getting married tomorrow night." Once inside the room, she continued "Once your luggage is brought upstairs, I will arrange for your bath. To get to the bathing area for the ladies, just walk to the rear end of this corridor and take the stairs to the ground floor."

"We will be very happy to bathe and get out of these dusty clothes!" Hari exclaimed.

Returning her smile, Vaishali responded "Once you have freshened up and rested, I will take you to meet my mistress. Most of the women are busy with the preparations for tomorrow." Gesturing towards the young girl standing in the background, she added "And this is Brinda, please tell her if you need anything."

After Vaishali left, Brinda smiled at them timidly and stood outside their door for a bit. She scampered away when someone called for her and returned with some sherbet and fruit for the guests. Later, when the luggage was brought up, she helped them unpack and led them to the downstairs bathing area.

Hari's eyes sparkled at the sight of a large copper vessel, filled with hot water, in an indoor washroom! Bathing with hot water and perfumed scrubs in an unrushed manner felt like a huge indulgence.

Kanta had laid out a scantily embellished, dark green lehenga; one that Hari hadn't worn before during their travels. As she helped plait Hari's hair, she asked sounding a little doubtful "Are you sure this outfit is apt? It is a household filled with guests... wouldn't this look out of place."

But as always, Hari shrugged "I am here because of him, and this is what he wants me to wear, right? So be it."

At loss of a counter argument, Kanta draped her with a deep red bandhej dupatta and tried to make some extra effort with the hair, bindiyan and kajal. Once ready, Brinda was dispatched to inform Vaishali.

Sometime later, Vaishali led Hari and her companion to a temporary pendal setup in the back garden, where the women were decorating their palms with mehndi. Finally, Hari spotted the source of the music that she had been hearing since her arrival in the haveli. A group of female musicians were playing the dholak and ghungroos, while some young girls were dancing to the beat.

Suddenly, a middle-aged, well-dressed woman turned around to face them. After casting one cursory glance at Hari, she hissed at Vaishali "Where is that woman? She is still not ready?! God knows why Thakur-sa had to insist on having her–"

"Thakurani-sa, this is Harinakshi Bai-sa!" Vaishali interrupted her mistress, probably in a bid to stop her from uttering something inappropriate in front of Hari.

The Thakurani's eyes widened in surprise. After looking over Hari from head to toe, she muttered sounding puzzled "Oh... you look... unlike what I expected." Then recovering from the surprise, she added with more composure "Welcome to our home. Hope you find the arrangements comfortable. Please have a seat... and enjoy the ceremony... and of course apply mehndi."

Harinakshi tried to mask the discomfort that she experienced when, not realising that she was that woman, the Thakurani had almost revealed her disdain for her. Bowing slightly, she replied with a forced smile "Thank you for welcoming us into your home. It is beautiful. The room is very comfortable, and after travelling for so long, I will truly appreciate sleeping on a bed tonight. My best wishes and blessing to the bride. Please do not let me hold you up. I am sure you have many more important guests to attend to."

Smiling nervously, the Thakurani replied "Who could be more important than Raja-sa's companions?"

Then trying to rectify the damage, she addressed Vaishali "Is that dancer who is supposed to perform not ready yet?? Tell her the guests are getting impatient."

Vaishali left after responding "I will fetch her right away."

A woman with almost snow-white hair, called out from one side "Bahu-rani, bring her to me." Nodding in reply, Thakurani urged Harinakshi "Come, met my mother-in-law."

On reaching the elderly lady, Harinakshi greeted her by performing the traditional Dhok. Sitting down on her knees, she massaged the lady's feet and calves "Khamma Ghani, Dadi-sa."

After intently watching the young woman at her feet, Dadi-sa placed her hand on her head and then patted a spot next to her "Come, keep this old lady company for some time." Gesturing at Kanta, she added "Ask your attendant to grab a container of mehndi and decorate your hands and feet."

Looking around at the women dressed in their heavily embroidered silks and elaborate jewellery, Harinakshi started regretting her decision to stick to her understated garb. Not wanting the host to take offence, she mumbled to the elder lady "Dadi-sa, please excuse my simple clothes. I have been travelling light... and thought to keep the heavy outfit for the wedding function..."

Dadi-sa nodded "It's okay. I hear you have been travelling with Raja-sa's platoon. So, tell me about your journey. How long have you been on the road now?"

Not sure what the old woman was really trying to suss out, Hari spoke of the journey, the settlements they passed by and the weather in detail. Dadi-sa astutely noted that the young woman did not share about how she came to join the king's entourage, nor did she mention anything alluding to her relationship to the king. All this while, Kanta decorated Hari's hands and feet with a pretty, floral design.

Female servants moved amongst the guests serving a variety of sweet and savoury food.

Watching Hari selectively nibble on the lavish food, Dadi-sa pondered on the young woman who had caught their king's fancy. Though dressed plainly, she was poised and sat with a straight back. Every gesture and word was very graceful. While her attendant looked around in awe, Harinakshi sat there with an easy confidence.

"You must be looking forward to seeing Sudhagadh... it's your first time visiting it, right?" Dadi-sa probed.

Hari simply nodded "Yes."

A dancer, accompanied by her troupe, arrived and for the next hour or so she entertained the women with some songs and dances specially performed on such occasions. Some women of the household too joined.

When someone tried to pull Hari to her feet, she objected "Sorry... I am not very good at dancing!"

Thakurani remarked snobbishly "That's hard to believe! Isn't that a skill considered a pre-requisite for the likes of you??"

Harinakshi once again pasted on a fake smile and uttered "I suppose I am lucky that your Raja-sa does not believe that!"

Dadi-sa shook her head dismally, wondering at the lack of tact in her daughter-in-law. Stupid woman... still doesn't understand how to forge lucrative alliances! What is she doing snubbing the king's woman?! Does she not understand that the tide of power is changing? Just being in Rajmata-sa's good graces will not be enough going forward. Here, we have a golden opportunity to get this girl on our side... but my Bahu-rani wants to lord over her!

Chuckling, the old woman addressed Hari "You remind me of a younger myself... of course, much younger! I never did enjoy all this dancing and singing... but come, we must swirl at least a few times. It is after all my eldest granddaughter's wedding."

"Of course, Dadi-sa!" Harinakshi immediately rose to her feet and accompanied the old woman to the middle of the pendal.

As some time was spent swaying to the beat of the dholak, Dadi-sa again noted that the Harinakshi could dance just fine. Though not a mesmerising performer, but she could move well enough. So, it is not so much a matter of not being able to dance as a choice to refrain from it. Interesting... That makes her an even more formidable presence in Raja-sa's life. For, if he is not drawn to her as an entertainer... there must be something deeper.

Another hour later, once the festivities for the night started winding down, Harinakshi returned to the room assigned to her.

Away from the noise in the backyard, she could hear the laughter and music coming from a building situated at some distance from the main haveli.

"Is that where the men are??" Hari enquired of Brinda, who nodded "Yes, Bai-sa. That is the Rang-Haveli." She then asked, "Do you know where Raja-sa is staying?"

The teenager again nodded "Yes, Bai-sa. He and some other important guests are housed at the Chhoti-Haveli, which is located beyond the orchards." A moment later, she conspiratorially whispered "I saw the dancers who have arrived to perform in the big hall in the Rang-Haveli... there are five of them... and they are much more beautiful than the ones who just performed in the backyard. And their cholis are very small!"

Seeing Brinda's scandalized expression, Hari supressed a smile.

As she readied for bed, her thoughts flew to Chandrika's kotha and all the dancers there. She wondered how all the occupants back there were doing. Has Meghana grown any taller now? And does Rama still trouble Kaki at bedtimes?? When will I get to meet Bai-sa again? Hope Kali did not eat those berries again which had resulted in her pooping everywhere...

She had expected to fall asleep very soon that night in the comfortable bed, but to her surprise the music floating from the Rang-Haveli made her restless. It had never bothered her back at the kotha... and yet that night it gave rise to a disquiet in her heart.

The vision of her Raja-sa admiring the skimpily dressed dancers had her fidgeting with her blanket. Are they all so beautiful that he can't take his eyes off them? What if he really likes one of them?? Will he want to bring her to Sudhagadh with us? Hey Ram... first he wasn't talking to me because he was cross! But now if he finds a new, pretty goat... will he forget that he wanted a deer??

Whilst Kanta snored softly on her mattress, Harinakshi made several trips to the window and stood staring at the building across, wondering when the entertainment would cease.

Twinkling lights in the darkness are meant to feel like beacons of hope. But every flame flickering in the distance seemed to light a new wave of agitation in her.

When the carriages started leaving the Rang-Haveli, Hari tried in-vain to discern if the carriages heading to the Chhoti-Haveli carried any of the dancers too. It was only after Rang-Haveli was shrouded in darkness that she succumbed to a fitful sleep.

* * *

The next morning, after reviewing her limited wardrobe that would be deemed appropriate for the festivities in progress and deciding her presence was anyway not welcome to the Thakurani, Harinakshi pleaded a headache and choose to stay in her room.

She instructed "Kanta, lay out that heavy lehenga Bai-sa has sent along for the wedding function. And yes, I will wear the jewellery from the bottom of the box today."

As Kanta nodded enthusiastically at this declaration, Hari grumbled "Before asking me to join for such an event, Raja-sa should have thought about what I would wear to occasions like this! Maybe I should show up at the wedding ceremony dressed in one of his black, cotton lehengas only... That will teach him a lesson when everyone sniggers that this is how he dresses his woman!"

"Hari, please don't act rashly!" Poor Kanta paled at the prospect.

But fortunately, Hari dismissed her fears "O ho... didn't I just ask you to lay out the heavy lehenga?!"

Staying in the room also gave her ample time to mull over the conflict brewing in her heart.

It was getting hard to rein in the thoughts and feelings running berserk. It felt like he was incessantly knocking on the door to her heart. And it was getting harder to keep that door bolted shut.

Yet, a part of her was unwilling to let him in. Despite him having proved his integrity as a man of honour, something held her back. But she couldn't fathom what was missing.

Post lunch in her room, she took a stroll on the terrace. The view from above was beautiful. Tejveer's estate was sprawling; Acres of greenery dotted with many small buildings. In the distance, Harinakshi could spot the army garrison. Yes, it makes sense they would keep a sizable number of men stationed near the border. And this means the Thakur overseeing them must be influential.

She wondered why Raja-sa had chosen to invite her here. Back in the camp, he didn't want to introduce me to Amardeep-sa... he was worried that news might travel home... so, is it not a matter of concern now??

Kanta nudged her "It's getting too hot... let's head indoors, else I won't be able to make you presentable this evening!"

* * *

Vayu stood at the window of the room he was temporarily housed in, overlooking the green orchards below. An abundance of bees buzzed, and birds twittered.

Watching the birds outside reminded him of a conversation from few days back.

The day before he left the camp, Kamal had shared sounding a little forlorn "Raja-sa, Shardul Bhai-sa says Hanuman is a Myna."

Vayu had raised a brow "And why is that a bad thing??"

Kamal had pouted "Because that means, no matter how big or strong it grows, it cannot fly all the way to Lanka! There is a huge ocean in between and Shardul Bhai-sa said a Myna cannot fly non-stop that far."

After pondering on the challenge for a few moments, Vayu had spoken "How about you tell our Hanuman to fly to Ayodhya instead?? In fact, I think he might like that better."

Kamal's eyes had brightened "Do you really think so? Yes, he will want to go to Shree Ram... And there will be many trees on the way to Ayodhya for him to rest, right?"

When Vayu nodded, happy with this new plan, Kamal had rushed away "I will go tell Harinakshi Jiji!"

Harinakshi... how does every thought lead back to her?? Vayu shook his head in bewilderment.

Since he had galloped away from the camp, he had revisited their last conversation countless times. Though he had told her he wanted her to stay as she was, he had since realised the futility of that sentiment. Because the truth was, to become a part of his world, she would have to embrace many changes. The walls of Dasi Mahal might not be as impenetrable as that of the Royal Palace, but they were still capable of imprisoning the spirit of its residents.

The sense of foreboding grew, as he imagined her resentment towards him growing over the years for tying her down in that place and life. For, given a choice, would she really choose that life? And him??

These doubts had not allowed him to delight in the knowledge that she had arrived in the haveli the previous evening.

His eyes landed on a red velvet pouch lying on the table. I need to be sure.

Calling for one of his attendants, Vayu instructed "Send word to Harinakshi in the main haveli. I wish to see her here this evening before we head to attend the wedding ceremony."

Harinakshi's breathing turned a little uneven on receiving the message.

She anxiously grumbled to Kanta "What does he mean by evening?? Evening lasts for few hours... And the wedding related ceremonies will start after sundown... So, when should I go?? Should I go after getting dressed for the ceremony or before?? Why couldn't he just ask me to visit now?"

Kanta shot back "Well, you can hardly step out of the haveli dressed as you are. So, it will have to be after you are changed." And then added mischievously "I think you should go to him well in advance of the ceremony. After the separation of the last few days... and of course your little quarrel in the camp before... I am sure you both have much making up to do!" Squinting a little, she carried on "Coming to think of it... go early and leave some time for me to fix you up again for the ceremony."

"O ho... can't you think of anything else?!" Hari scowled. But Kanta just smirked "I doubt your Raja-sa thinks of anything else when you are with him!" Hari stayed tight lipped but mused – What does he really think of when I am with him??

Sometime later, Harinakshi displayed extraordinary patience as she let Kanta dress her up. Viewing the result in the mirror, Hari decided that there was no chance of the Thakurani or anyone else finding fault with her appearance that evening.

Lastly, feeling very pleased Kanta applied a small dot using kajal near Hari's ear "I will request for a carriage to take you there."

* * *

"Let the commander know that we will stop by the garrison for inspection once again before we leave Sompura the day after. In fact, tell him to expect us tomorrow afternoon" Vayu instructed.

Krushanu nodded "Yes, Raja-sa." Gathering some scrolls from the table, he added "I am about go for a quick swim. Would you like join?"

Vayu shook his head "Carry on... I will take Shera for a walk."

"I will see you later." Krushanu bowed slightly and left.

Vayu had barely returned from the walk when the attendant advised him that the barber was ready. Keen to make the most of the daylight, the barber had set up the chair and his instruments in the courtyard of the Chhoti-Haveli. Once Vayu was seated, the barber first massaged his neck and shoulders for some time and then trimmed his hair a little. Then he started shaving and trimming the facial hair.

As he heard a carriage stop outside, Vayu wondered who could have chosen to visit him then. He wasn't expecting her before sundown.

But to his surprise, the familiar tinkling of anklets soon announced her arrival as Harinakshi stepped into the courtyard from the door to his right side. Due to the constraints on his movement at the given time, just his gaze oscillated towards the doorway to confirm her presence.

It was her alright. And still not her!

For the woman decked in a pink, heavy brocade lehenga and many sparkling jewels only vaguely resembled the woman almost always dressed in black and often seen squatting alongside some animal with messy tendrils escaping from under her odhani.

Convinced he was hallucinating, and it couldn't possibly be her, Vayu's face involuntarily jerked in her direction.

But there she stood, looking more beautiful than his wildest imagination, gazing at him with her beguiling eyes. Eyes, which were now widening in a look of horror. While he wondered at her horrified expression, it registered that his barber was now on the ground, grovelling at his feet. The man was profusely apologising and begging for forgiveness. And his attendant too stood shocked into silence.

After taking in the expressions of the trio, Vayu demanded "What's wrong?"

When the attendant wordlessly held up the mirror, Vayu first gasped and then glared at his image on seeing that part of the left side of his moustache had been nicked.

Moving closer to him, Hari peered at the damage done. Once her initial horror passed, the humour in the situation bubbled within her. Not wishing to aggravate his ire, she quickly drew the odhani partly over her face to hide her smile. But her mirthful eyes still gave her away.

"Oh... so you think this is funny?!" Vayu demanded gruffly.

Before she could reply, the barber uttered sounding extremely apologetic "Raja-sa, a thousand apologies... I don't know how this happened... my hand was steady!"

Hari mumbled from behind the odhani "Maybe your Raja-sa's neck wasn't as steady as it should have been."

Ignoring her words, Vayu ordered the barber "Fix it."

Frowning, the barber stuttered "Raja-sa... with part of it gone... I will have to shave off the moustache completely..." Both the attendant and Hari nodded in agreement.

So, I will have to attend the wedding without a moustache? Vayu's eyes flickered in the direction of the person he considered the culprit for this mishap. Why did she have to arrive so early?? And that too looking like a bewitching bride...Does she think she is getting married?? And now she is taunting me on my lack of control!

But realising there wasn't much to be done, he addressed the barber "Do what you can."

Over the next few minutes, the barber did his best to salvage the situation. But he had to remove the moustache and could only leave some scruffy beard on.

Harinakshi's eyes surreptitiously took in Vayu's appearance.

His lean, muscular arms, shoulders, and upper body were on display as the kurta had been removed for the session with the barber. Attired in just a maroon dhoti and the tiger nail pendant resting on his bare chest, he made a striking figure. But then her gaze lingered on the countless scars of varying shades and sizes covering him. There was a big one on the left side of his chest, just over his heart, which looked like the wound there must have been particularly nasty.

Her fingers itched to gently caress them, to ascertain that they did not cause him any pain now. Though the wounds on his body were expected and a sign of his bravery and courage, they wrenched at her heart. For he was still made of flesh and bones and must have experienced great pain.

He has accepted his fate... and embraced his role as – Raja of Sudhagadh with stoic grace. Admiration for him surged. A smile tugged at her lips as her eyes returned to his face. Without the moustache he looked less fierce... almost a little innocent.

But going by the look on his face, it was clear he was not happy with the outcome.

Trying to make him feel better, Hari smiled "Raja-sa, it's not looking bad. In fact, it makes you look younger... and more... pleasant."

I don't want to look younger! Or pleasant! Doesn't she realise that the other men already view me like a child... and without a moustache it will be even worse! Vayu glared at her in reply.

Hey Ram... why is he angry at me now? He should know better than to move when the barber is holding the sharp razor at his lips! Scowling back, she uttered instead "You sent word for me..."

He addressed the attendant "Show her to my chamber. I will be there shortly."

After the attendant left her there, Hari stood looking around the room. Considering he was just a guest there; she knew the room was not a reflection of him. And yet, there were little bits of his essence scattered around.

Her lips curved, noting the numerous scrolls scattered around the room. Walking to the table, she saw a half-written missive to some commander to stock on swords and enquiring about the new recruits.

After lightly stroking the quill, she moved towards a chair where he had discarded his kurta before heading out for his grooming session. The fabric was coarse and sturdy, much like the muscles it must be usually stretched over. Resisting the urge to hold it against her cheeks, Hari quickly put it down.

When a glance around the room did not reveal any sign of a woman's presence there the previous night, she walked to the window. As she stood gazing at the greenery below, she tried to bridle the euphoria in her heart – Someone could have still been in here... just because she did not leave a trace does not mean a thing! The euphoria instantly morphed into misery - Did he stay up all night with one of the dancers? Is that why he couldn't hold his head up during the shave??

As she violently shook her head trying to dismiss this doubt, she heard him enter the chamber. Turning around, she observed him keenly for a few moments. He does look tired... like he didn't sleep much...

"Did you attend the mehfil till very late last night? I could hear the music till the wee hours of the morning..." she immediately voiced her concern, albeit in a roundabout way.

Vayu grabbed the kurta from the chair and answered as he slipped it on "I did not stay till the end. Only for a while."

He wasn't there till the end?? Did he retire early to his room with one of the dancers?! She questioned timidly "Why?! I heard all the performers were very... talented."

He shrugged indifferently "They were fine... I wanted to spend some time in private with Jaswant-sa, who is also attending the celebration." Noting her blank look, he elaborated "He the ruler of the province of Songadh and is married to my cousin sister Ruchika. We had much to catch-up on."

Vayu was baffled by the smile that instantly graced her lips - Why does she look so pleased to hear about my brother-in-law??

Brushing away that thought, he uttered gruffly "You are looking very different... I almost didn't recognise you for a moment."

She pouted "I could hardly attend the celebrations clad in black!"

Then as some mischief bloomed within, faking a look of embarrassment, she muttered "Seeing that I did not have any decent attire, Thakur-Sa's mother lent me these."

The colour drained off Vayu's face. She is wearing clothes borrowed from our host? From one of my subordinate's family?!

"How could you?! You should have sent word earlier today. I would have sent for the seamstress!" his eyes blazed.

Noting he had taken her joke far too seriously, she instantly responded "O ho... I was just kidding! I would never give people a chance to gossip about you. All this... its mine. Bai-sa had sent it with me."

Vayu eyed the sparkling jewels. Though they couldn't be considered priceless, they wouldn't have been cheap either. Chandrika really did put in a lot of effort to send her to me in a manner befitting my station. Pink suits her...

Keen to draw away his attention from the little prank she had just played on him, Hari blabbered "How was your journey? Were you also caught in the rain? We had to stay in the temple guesthouse till the roads cleared. There was a big landslide. The Pandit-sa and wife were very kind and hospitable. Kanta and I stayed in their house."

While she prattled on for few minutes sharing everything of significance and some not-so-significant news, Vayu mostly gazed at the vision in front of him.

"So??" she asked again.

He blinked uncomprehendingly and muttered "What did you say??"

Her eyes were briming with curiosity "Raja-sa, why did you ask for me to join you here? So publicly?? I mean, first you did not wish Amardeep-sa to know of me in the fear of the news travelling back to Sudhagadh... then why do you now wish to impress upon everyone that we are...close??"

He scowled "First of all... I do not fear anyone!" And then continued "I did not wish for the news to travel to Sudhagadh before us. My mother... and... the rest of my family... will not be pleased to hear of it. But I have since realised that your presence cannot be hidden and trying to downplay it will only increase your vulnerability."

After mulling over his words, she asked "How long do we plan to stay here?"

"We will leave the day after," he replied.

She nodded "And when will we reach Sudhagadh?"

The eager look in her eyes was both exhilarating and unsettling.

Grabbing the velvet pouch from his table, he approached her "This is for you."

Recalling the last time, he had gifted a small pouch, she muttered "Did you get me another nose-pin?? But don't you think this big one is more appropriate for the occasion? The other female guests that I met yesterday... most of them were wearing even bigger nose rings!"

Instead of replying, he wordlessly emptied the contents in her palm.

Harinakshi gazed at the dazzling gems; an assortment of emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and diamonds scattered across her palm.

"What is this?!" her eyes almost popped.

He replied, barely audible, "Your freedom."

As her wide, baffled eyes questioningly looked up at him, Vayu answered "If you wish to leave... this should be enough to afford you a comfortable, independent living. If you decide to settle somewhere in my kingdom, I will ensure that you are not bothered by anyone."

"Why??" her eyes were clouded with confusion.

"Because... I want you to be truly free. A tamed deer might make a beautiful addition to a garden... but that is not where she truly belongs." He answered with a turmoil filled heart.

Hari started unblinkingly at the gems, depicting her freedom. Though they sparkled brilliantly, her eyes lost their lustre.

Did he grow tired of waiting? Or maybe just got over his fancy... Her taunt voice trembled slightly "Does this mean that you do not wish me to accompany you to Sudhagadh?"

"Not unless you choose to."

Gesturing to the precious stones in her hand, he strove to keep his voice neutral "With one of these you can get yourself a house, and with another a herd of goats or cows... whatever you wish to. Now, your freedom is not a mirage. And the deer does not have to mould itself into a goat."

In that moment, just when he offered her true freedom, her heart found itself completely bound to him. For given a choice, she grasped with utmost certainly that she didn't want to be anywhere but with him.

The realisation hit her like a surge of lightening!

For what seemed like an eternity, Vayu stood studying her pale, stunned face. Waiting for her to react. Her surprise was expected. But not her absolute silence.

She stood silent and immobile, her eyes not wavering anyway from the promise of freedom in her palm. But that prospect now felt more like a banishment.

Harinakshi was still trying to articulate a reply in her head, when an attendant announced from the door "Please forgive the interruption, Raja-sa. But the Raja of Songadh is outside, wishing to meet with you."

Vayu's brow furrowed as the visit was unexpected. But he could hardly Jaswant turn away. Nodding to the attendant, Vayu addressed Harinakshi, "I must receive him. He wouldn't be here now unless it was something important. Please return to the Haveli and attend the wedding ceremony. I will talk to you tomorrow. I hope, by then, you will be able to make up your mind."

Before he left, not sure if this was the only time when she would appear in front of him dressed in her finery, Vayu took a long look at the woman in pink. The kajal applied meticulously made her eyes look dark and mysterious. Her lips looked extra luscious. How he wished things had been different between them! And he could have pulled her in his arms and tasted their sweet softness! But alas she still wasn't really his. He turned and strode away.

Hari watched him depart the room with a heavy heart. The few precious stones in her palm felt like they weighed more than the huge boulders from the landslide that had blocked the road. For these now held the power to close the path her heart was set to travel on.

A part of her forlornly moaned - Why would he give me these unless he does not wish for me to be a part of his life? While another chided– Why this glum face? Just return them and tell him you do not wish to part ways.

Maybe she was being silly but having never experienced such predicaments before, her heart didn't know what to make of his behaviour.

After what seemed like hours but was probably mere minutes, slipping the gems back into the pouch, she left it on the table and walked out.

Kanta was surprised to Harinakshi return much earlier than expected. And even more surprised when she barely spoke a word for the next few hours. When, it was time for the ceremony, she joined the other female guests to observe the pre-wedding rituals.

Dadi-sa welcomed her with a broad smile "Finally you have decided to join us! Are you feeling better now? I am sure travelling with the army for months now must have been very exhausting."

Assuring the old woman that she was feeling revived after a good rest, Hari settled down, trying to ignore the inquisitive glances from the guests. From the hushed conversations around, it was clear that her presence in Vayu's life was rousing a lot of curiosity. A few women tried to pry some details of her origins, but finally gave up and left her to herself when she dogged all questioned related to that subject.

Sometime into the rituals, Vayu arrived accompanied by few other men.

Hari heartbeat quickened on seeing him. He was dressed in a beige, heavily embroidered Kurta, with a matching shalwar. A red turban, fitted with some jewels, sat atop his head, and a long necklace made with four strings of pearls, which were held together with some precious gems, hung around his neck. His sword in the decorative sheath was tied at his hips. Even in the absence of his moustache he looked commanding.

To her pleasure, after welcoming Raja-sa, the hosts seated him in an area which afforded her a clear view. Well, a fairly clear view, for the main rituals taking place in the middle of the pendal obstructed it every now and then.

Vayu glanced around, trying to spot her amongst the horde of brightly attired women. On returning to his room, post Jaswant-Sa's departure, he had found the gems left behind. His heart was elated - This means she does not wish for a life free of me!

As his gaze collided with hers, Vayu nodded at her. There were hundreds of people around them, but they could easily be the only ones there in that moment.

A deep-seated contentment settled over his heart as her eyes bashfully lowered for a moment before rising to meet his again and a shy smile flirted with her lips.

Everything about her enthralled him that day. After many weeks, she had chosen to wear the big hoop nose ring. And had tinted her lips probably for the first time. Seated among the other female guests, she effortlessly fit in and stood out at the same time.

She had grown accustomed to his stares, and yet today there was something different in his eyes. Or were they just reflecting her own awareness? There was a fire in them that seemed to flicker brighter than the holy fire that burned in between them. Hari watched him through the flames and smoke where the priest sat reciting the mantras.

Uma's words echoed in her mind – The holy fire forges a bond like none other. And Gods bless the union.

When the bride and groom stood up for the Pheras, she felt a certainty settle over her.

As the couple walked around the holy fire at the auspicious time, Harinakshi experienced something surreal as she imagined herself taking the Pheras alongside Vayu Pratap Singh. Every syllable uttered by the priest echoed within her. All her scepticism and apprehensions turned to ashes and a sense of belonging was born. She closed her eyes and prayed.

The sound of many conches reverberated when the Pheras were completed. In that moment, Harinakshi could almost feel the Gods smiling down and blessing her soul's union with Vayu.

Yes, now it feels right.

Many bodies walk around the holy fire, in the presence of a crowd, and yet their bond does not endure even the challenges of a single lifetime. But when it is a marriage of souls, then nothing can stand in its way. Time, space, place, and witnesses all become irrelevant.

The bride and groom took seven vows that day, but Harinakshi made just one. Hereon, he will be the only man to rule my heart. For eternity.

* * *

(Hi Everyone, 

Hope you are all doing well and enjoyed this part! 

At 7+ k words, it is long as promised. I really wanted to bring the story to this point hence couldn't post earlier. Do share your thoughts. I will be eagerly waiting 😊

Lots of love, May)