2 Days Later,

"Pandav Rajkumaro Ki Jai ! Kuru Rajkumaro Ki Jai !" People lined the streets to get a glimpse of their righteous princes. The younger Kauravas shifted uneasily at their blatant taunt.

Were they not Princes too ? Why did the people love only their cousin brothers ? They looked at their Jyesht to see his reaction, but he rode his horse quietly, smiling at the people like they were praising him.

"Ishani.. " Karna, who was slightly behind her, whispered frantically.

She turned back, raising an eyebrow. It then dawned on her that she had to execute the plan perfectly. Everything depended on her..

"You go... I'll inform the elders that you went to meet your parents... Go ! " She murmured, sighing in relief as he quickly turned away, riding in the opposite pathway.

She nodded at the discreet glance Sahadev gave her, as she clutched the palace map in her palm.

Ishani could only hope that their plan would impeccably unravel itself...

'Krishna, please... I need you to help us.. Otherwise Shakuni will  keep a tight rein over those younger cousins who aren't even at fault.. '

'I will. Just go by your instinct. Nothing will happen to my dear sister. ' His soothing voice in her head made her smile a bit.

She rode forward, only to see shock and disbelief on all the elders' faces. She shook her head in disappointment.

Why couldn't their male ego just accept a woman's defiance? Nevertheless, they were great warriors and had always stood on the Dharmic side.

Only Shakuni held a sickly smile, the one that definitely meant danger. She knew he had some tricks up his sleeve. She was not gonna fall for them again.

One by one, she greeted all of them politely, explaining the fact that she had come here to start her training, as instructed by Krishna.

"And what would you want to study here, Devi? " Bhishma questioned, a hint of eagerness in his tone.

" The human mind. Of different types of people. Including the worst of criminals. I believe there is always a reason for their malicious mindset." She inwardly rolled her eyes when Gandhari and Kunti gasped.

Ishani was used to studying a criminal's mindset, because she had lived for quite some time with an infamous Mafia Lord, Daksh.

"Devi, with due respect, an innocent woman isn't allowed permission, not into our dungeons. " Shakuni chortled at her silly words. This girl was clever, but he was wise. 

Inwardly, Shakuni was a screaming mess. How in the world did she suspect that Karna's parents were in the dungeons ? There was no one who dared to betray him. 

Was it that cunning Vasudev, who always seemed to know everything ? 

Ishani smiled blankly at Shakuni, trying to calm herself from spewing out curses that could ruin all their meticulously crafted plans.

" I was always a woman of exception, Gandhar Raj. I understand your sincere concern and it gladdens me, but I have come here all the way from Dwarka for this mission. I shall take my leave then. I see no reason to stay.. " She trailer off, softening her tone to convince the elders. Kunti felt bad for her.

Such a girl who dared to venture into such uncanny fields was rare. Besides, she had a feeling that something good would happen out of it. 

"Is she as beautiful as they say, Kunti Di ?" Gandhari questioned, clutching her hand for an answer. Kunti clasped her hand as an affirmation, when Gandhari just smiled in response.

Kunti looked at Ishani. Her beauty was dangerous, for her features were similar yet uncommon. Her figure wasn't too voluptous, but her curves were a beauty to behold. She had doe eyes, a sharp nose and plump lips. It was like she was sculpted by the Gods.

Beauty was dangerous, and Intelligence is lethal. But a woman who had both was the deadliest.

As a woman who had high ambitions, Kunti was genuinely interested in helping Ishani. It would be such a shame to let her talent go waste. It didn't matter who her parents were. She wouldn't be surprised if her parents were celestials.

Bhishma whispered something to the King, who nodded in defeat. Vidura and he reached a silent agreement. If they refused her, their alliance with Vasudev would tremendously suffer.

But they could place another Prince for her safety and allow her to complete her mission, while keeping it a sworn secret. They knew only Sahadev was smart enough to guess her true intentions.

Bhishma turned to Ishani, a stern expression.

" You are granted full permission to enter the dungeons and  are given access to the library to contrast your findings. However, you shall be accompanied by Rajkumar Sahadev at all times, to ensure no slipping of your findings and complete secrecy."

Ishani smiled victoriously, bowing low for quite some time. Those two intelligent men could be too innocent at times.

The Pandavas and Kauravas were relieved. Now they could live in peace, knowing they could catch their darling uncle red-handed.

She gave a discreet smile at Shakuni, who clenched his fists in anger. He knew that even if he tried to dissuade them, her being close to Vasudev would prevent him from getting his work done. 

"It is my honour that I have been granted permission for this mission, O Lord. I express my gratitude." Bhishma and Vidura nodded awkwardly, while Gandhari and Kunti smiled, happy for her.

"But where is Karna ?" Vidura asked the Pandavas, who suddenly seemed confused. How could they not know where he was ?

"Shreeman had informed us that he wanted to meet his parents first." Sahadev chimed in, and Shakuni's face turned black.

Now he understood their plans. He reprimanded himself for his stupidity. Oh, how shrewd this woman was. If only she was on his side.

But he couldn't let them win. He had to show them who was in power here.

Ishani looked at Sahadev, who nodded slightly. As all the Princes greeted their parents and relatives, she quietly slipped out, excusing herself.  To the left of the royal entrance stood the royal garden, laden with beautiful flowers from different kingdoms. It would be such a sight to behold, if it wasn't a shady cover up for the main dungeon entrance.

Ishani took a deep breath, trying to smile.

'Cool, dude. We're going inside, and Karna will come.. Nothing will happen, okay ?' She ranted inwardly when Sahadev blinked.

"It's so obvious that you are nervous.. Mind if I lead the path ?" Ishani nodded, her cheeks red from embarrassment. She had escaped from near-death situations numerous times, yet her limbs trembled from anticipation and fear in this situation.

Sahadev walked slowly, ensuring his leather sandals made no sound as they touched the ground. Thank God she removed her anklets and kept them safely.

The passage was rather dark, but there was nothing to fear as it was broad daylight. The eerie walls resounding with the screams and curses of criminals would have been frightening to a normal woman, but she was far from that. 

"Careful. The steps are narrow and high. I wouldn't do that if I were you." Sahadev's serious and stern voice shook her to the core. She looked down at her legs, realising she was skipping steps in order to reach his quick pace. This entrance was rarely used, so it wasn't well maintained.

The steps were kinda shaky and the entire passage gave off a murky smell. Sahadev slowed his pace a bit, but gestured her to hurry up. Shakuni would catch up anytime..

And where the hell was Karna ?

"Rajkumar.. Can you see any path ? If Shreeman is inside, he'd leave a muddy trail .." Sahadev knelt down, bringing his torch to the ground to examine for a trail, but found none.

"I am afraid Shreeman hasn't arrived yet, Devi..I cannot.."

"Ahh !" Her loud scream made him turn around, pulling out his axe. 

His hand froze midway, seeing a familiar figure wrap his arms around Ishani's waist, his chin on her neck. 

It was Karna, who raised an eyebrow at Sahadev's war-like defensive position. A blushing Sahadev quickly put down his weapon, greeting him nervously.

Ishani, who was busy trying to think of Karna'a late arrival, screamed as she felt a pair of arms cage her waist. 

She was about to kick the daring intruder when his throathy whisper had her freeze in disbelief.

" Have you forgotten me so soon, darling ? Is my touch still unfamiliar ?" It was Karna himself, his husky voice sending tingles all over.

Which idiot would greet someone like that? What the hell was he up to?

Seriously? His calm visage and flirty words never went together. 

She kept her mouth shut as he placed his chin on her neck, titling his head to look at her.

"Answer my question, love." His hands gripped her waist more tightly, and she was sure she'd squeal if he went further.

Gently she removed his hands, smiling lightly, but her murderous eyes said a different story. Karna gulped, but Dev was only further excited.

She looked so beautiful in her rage. He'd gladly allow her to destroy everything but him.

"Now's not the time, Karna. We need to work." She reminded him, gesturing to a poor Sahadev who was facing the wall to give them privacy.

Sneaky brat. This Devajit had made even a shy Karna so shameless and unbashed.

A frowning Karna nodded in disappointment. He mentally scolded Devajit, who shook his head innocently.

'You said asking her that question would make her all shy and I could use it to our advantage . You were lying.' Dev rolled his eyes.

'Whatever, loser. I never asked you to try it in a serious situation. Not my problem when you don't possess common sense.'

'You !' Karna sighed, realising that Devajit was the biggest sadist in his life.

"Rajkumar, I request you to stay here and guard this entrance. Blow up a smoke if Gandhar Raj arrives. I have already notified Mahamantri that my parents are missing." Karna spoke, clutching Ishani's hand.

"We'll go.. Please take care." Sahadev nodded at her words, waving at them as they disappeared into the dungeons..

His shameless hands trailed to her waist, pulling her closer. Before she could say a word, he gestured her to walk with him to the left, where the cellars were more prominent. 

But there were guards everywhere. Both of them stilled as Shakuni's loud laugh echoed in the dungeons.

"What a foolish pair of kids ! Honestly Ishani, I expected more from you ! Who in the name of the heavens would walk into a trap when it clearly screams death ! You both disappointed me." Karna raised his torch, revealing a gleeful Shakuni, elite guards in an attack position stationed behind him.

"You." He pointed to Karna, giggling furiously.

"You thought you choose your lover and your parents and get away with it ? You thought I was a foolish man who could be deceived with silly tricks? Delusional fools ! You both chose your end today, so don't blame me for this !"

'Kill him ! Feed his stinky corpse to the souls ! Now ! He dared to harm our ladylove !' Devajit yelled, trying to take over. But Karna was firm and resisted.

This Devajit was too hot-headed. 

Karna's jaw ticked in fury. He looked at Ishani, who shook her head frantically. He wanted to just snap his neck, but he clearly needed to think about the consequences.

"You know Krishna had once said that when some situations arrive, all you need to do is to run!" She whispered hurriedly, grabbing his hand and running in the opposite direction. Karna wanted to shout and get her back, but he was forced to run along.

Shakuni laughed loudly as the pair disappeared into the dark.

"I love this game you both want to play ! Guards, chase them !" Ishani and Karna ran into random corridors, ensuring that the soldiers would get confused.

""I don't know how to aim!" She whispered-yelled in exasperation, biting her nails as she looked at her surroundings. Karna rolled his eyes at this cute woman.

Why the hell did she grab his hand and run like cowards ? It felt so stupid that he'd never tell this to anyone.

Devajit was growling in embarassment. What a shame that he, a powerful soul, was forced to flee like a coward when he faced a puny rat.

All for the woman they loved. He sighed in defeat. 

Love really made him a kitten.

They were still stuck in the dungeons, thanks to her interpretation of a black brick wall as a secret hideout.

"I told you I've seen many situations like this. There'll always be a weakness to every building. Hey.. I think that's our secret exit. Come on!" She had happily run into a dead end, laughing nervously as she looked at a stone-faced Karna.

"Your expression is very similar to something." She pointed out, fiddling with her mud-stained odhani.

'I am coming out ! You clearly need to learn how to handle a woman !' Karna knew he had nothing to say, and reluctantly allowed him.

"I know. It resembles the brick wall behind you." He muttered, his red irises flickering in irritation.

Uh-oh. Ishani sighed in defeat. Devajit had resurfaced, and she didn't know what he'd do.

"Dev.."

"Shh." He pulled he behind him, hearing Shakuni's faint laugh.

"Where are those two rats?" His back was facing them, as he laughed eerily.

"Your Majesty, we have searched everywhere, but they aren't anywhere."

"Stay quiet. I'll find a way out." Ishani didn't want to waste time.  Standing behind Karna, she went to the other end, silently pulling out her makeshift bow.

Her hands trembled as she aimed to shoot straight into his heart.

But it was for the best. By the time thought of a clever plan, they would be found out.

She shakily released an arrow, running to her original position. But her aim was an amateur's. Luckily, it did strike the cunning bastard.

Dev frowned as he heard a shrill shriek. It did sound like a man's though.

Ishani bit her lips to stop laughing.

She had officially gone mad. To shoot the most cunning man in the ass.

Dev looked at her sternly, even as she blinked innocently. He pushed her to the wall, caging her in between his arms. 

"Wha.. What is this ?" She stammered, her hands on his well toned chest.

She suddenly realised that Karna was really the definition of a fallen angel. He looked too good to be human.

 His rock-hard muscles shifted underneath her unintentional touches, his eyes darkening in desire.

"Trust me and just close your eyes." He murmured in her ears, stopping when her hand clutched his bicept tightly.

"I can't close my eyes without my nightmares surfacing." Her voice trembled lightly, the darkness of the dungeon not helping either.

"He'd switch off the lights and torment me.. The.." Her breathing became heavy when those memories flashed up. Dev's eyes widened.

She was on the verge of having a panic attack.

"अदृष्टाः भवामः  (Let us be unseen)" He whispered, snapping his finger as a golden light encircled them, rendering them invisible to the rest of the world. 

He felt his heart shattering when she gasped and choked for breath. 

"Ishani.." He cupped her face, forcing her to breath. 

"That man is dead. It's just you and me. Breathe, darling." He pressed his lips against the corner of her mouth, even as she stopped feeling breathless.

To his utter shock, she made a weak attempt to pull him closer, wrapping her arms around his neck. He gladly held her in his embrace, smashing his lips on hers. If she needed this as distraction, so be it.

There was nothing he wouldn't  do in this universe for her.

"Kiss me like there's no tomorrow." She whispered against his mouth, her hands tangled in the mess of his dark, scented locks. 

His hardened shoulders were pressed on to her soft skin, the contrast a beautiful one. He claimed her like he always wanted to, lost in their passion for each other.

No one could disturb them, not when he had placed a powerful barrier that turned them to ash if they dared to intervene.

He was sure that they were such a mess, tangled in a way no one could fathom. Her fingers traced his muscles, while her sweet little tongue was entwined with his. He gently explored all of her, making sure she knew that his self control had long snapped into nothingness.

Meanwhile,

"Daksh ! How dare you raise your voice against your Gurudev !" Shukracharya fumed at his favourite disciple, disappointment marring his hard features.

Daksh stared back, without any trace of fear or guilt. Instead, there was only pity and disappointment left in his cold eyes.

"You promised me that you wouldn't play dirty games , Gurudev ! Not when she's completely innocent ! How much does she have to pay to be happy ! Is it a sin if I want her well being, after all that she has been through ?" Daksh shook his head, anger evident in his voice.

"Daksh, you have no idea of what's happening now. We can't afford to lose again. Devajit was always hidden in the shadows, but now that he's out, we have to curb him. She will be very useful in controlling the Gods. Two birds with one stone. And nobody knows about this, not yet."

"Says who, you jerk ?" A soft, feminine voice rang in the private chambers, shocking the duo.

Meme of the day :