The palace staff stood in neat rows, heads bowed respectfully as Advika approached with quiet grace. Holding the aarti tray steady, she offered the sacred flame to each group with a warm smile and a reverent nod.

Guided silently by Saanvi from within, Advika gracefully moved through the grand hallways of the palace, offering aarti to each sacred corner with a serene demeanor. The fragrance of burning incense and the rhythmic sound of temple bells lingered around her, adding to the divine ambiance.

Nusrat walked beside her, eyes wide with wonder as she took in the opulence and intricate details of Rajmanya Palace; the carved pillars, the hand-painted ceilings, the golden accents that shimmered in the soft morning light. A wistful sigh escaped her. 'If only I had my camera... ' "Princess, your palace is even more breathtaking than you described in your letters," she said aloud, her voice pitched just right for the benefit of the nearby maids and guards who lingered within earshot.

"It's home," Advika replied softly, staying perfectly in character. "And you don't need to call me 'Princess.' Just 'Saanvi' will do. You're my best friend, remember?"

Nusrat grinned, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Got it, Saanvi."

Inside her, Saanvi's voice chuckled with approval. "That was perfect. Give it a few hours and everyone in the palace will know who Nusrat is. You two played your roles beautifully."

Just as they were about to pass by the royal training grounds, Saanvi's voice suddenly rang in Advika's mind, full of excitement. "My older brother, Yuvraj Devansh, should be there right now! Oh, how I've missed him!"

Advika's steps faltered ever so slightly, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "What's he like?" she asked through the mind link, adjusting the aarti tray in her hands.

"He's twenty-four now, eight years older than me," Saanvi replied with a fond sigh. "Mother had a hard time conceiving after him, so we have a big age gap. But he's always been more than a brother to me... more like a second father. So protective. So kind."

Touched by the affection in Saanvi's voice, Advika felt a pang of warmth in her chest. Nudged by the girl's inner longing, she glanced at Nusrat and murmured, "Let's take a small detour."

Nusrat gave her a curious look but followed without question.

As they neared, the air was filled with the rhythmic clang of metal and the sharp commands of drill sergeants. At the center of the grounds stood Yuvraj Devansh, tall and imposing, a sword in hand as he demonstrated a flawless strike. The morning sun bathed him in gold, accentuating the sharp lines of his jaw and the power in his movements. He looked every bit the warrior prince.

Saanvi's voice practically squealed in Advika's mind. "Please! Hug him like you hugged Mother. I bet he won't see it coming!"

Advika hesitated briefly, sensing the ache behind the request; regret, longing, and love all intertwined. She handed the aarti tray to a waiting attendant and walked forward, her heart beating a little faster.

"Devansh bhai!" she called, her voice warm and clear.

Devansh turned, startled. His eyes widened at the sight of her hurrying toward him—and before he could fully register what was happening, she flung her arms around him in a tight, heartfelt hug. "Good morning, brother!" she said cheerfully.

For a heartbeat, he stood frozen, caught off guard by this rare show of affection. Then his expression melted into disbelief and joy. Wrapping his arms around her with a smile that reached his eyes, he murmured, "Saanvi? My child?"

She pulled back just enough to meet his eyes, her own glistening with emotion. "Who else would it be?" she teased, her grin playful.

Devansh chuckled, the sound deep and genuine. "This is a surprise. You've never been this affectionate before. What's the special occasion?"

"Do I need a reason to hug my amazing brother?" she quipped, her smile mischievous. "Though... if you must know, my pen friend from Malaysia is visiting. So I'm in a really good mood."

She turned and gestured to Nusrat, who had stood quietly nearby, watching the scene unfold with a soft smile. "This is Nusrat Tabassum, my best friend. And Nusrat, this handsome young man is my darling older brother!"

Nusrat stepped forward, smile warm and graceful. "Assalamualaikum," she said gently. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Your Highness."

Devansh blinked, momentarily caught off guard by her beauty and poise. The words got stuck in his throat.

Advika raised her brows at him, smirking as she wiggled them in a teasing question.

Devansh cleared his throat and let out a hearty laugh to mask his embarrassment. "Namaste! It's an honor, Ms. Nusrat," he finally said, offering a respectful nod. "Welcome to Rajmanya."

He reached out to ruffle Advika's hair in retaliation, but she skipped back with a giggle, ducking just out of reach.

Nusrat laughed softly, watching them with warm eyes. 

"By the way, little one, that hug absolutely made my day. I'm so happy right now, I could give you anything you ask for. Just say the word, and it's yours," Devansh said, turning to his sister with a fond smile and a voice full of affection.

Advika's eyes sparkled with mischief as she crossed her arms and tilted her head, her lips curving into a cheeky grin. "Anything?" she asked, placing her hands on her hips and striking a pose that made her look like a naughty little girl plotting some harmless trouble.

"Anything," Devansh affirmed, his tone full of confidence.

"Then teach me sword fighting and how to shoot arrows," she said with a grin, watching as surprise flickered across his face.

"Sword fighting and archery?" Devansh repeated, raising a brow. "That's an unusual request from my little sister."

"Well, I've been curious for a while," Advika said, channeling Saanvi's enthusiasm. "I mean, how would it look if the sister of a great warrior didn't even know the basics of sword fighting and archery? Plus, I want to spend more time with you, and what better way than learning something you excel at?"

Devansh's expression softened, his pride evident. "You've grown bold, haven't you? Fine, if that's what you want, I'll teach you. But don't think I'll go easy on you just because you're my little sister."

Advika clapped her hands in excitement, her joy infectious. "Thank you, brother! I'll do my best! I promise"

Devansh chuckled, clearly amused and touched. Then, glancing at Nusrat, who had been quietly watching with an intrigued smile, he let his gaze linger a little longer before saying, "And what about you, Miss Nusrat Tabassum? Would you care to join our lessons? I must warn you, training with me can be... quite intense." 

Nusrat blinked, caught slightly off guard by his tone, then arched a brow with a teasing smile. "Sword fighting and archery? I wouldn't mind trying... though I must warn you, I bruise easily."

Devansh stepped a little closer, just enough to make her heart skip, and said with a slight smirk, "Then I'll be sure to handle you with the care you deserve."

Nusrat's eyes widened, and a soft blush bloomed on her cheeks.

His smile lingered for a moment before he turned back to his sister. "Alright, little one. We begin tomorrow morning," he said with a warm chuckle. "But for now, you should finish your royal duties. The palace awaits your blessings. And don't forget, you still owe me my morning aarti."

Advika made a mock pout, pretending to be sorry, before hurrying off to grab the tray for Devansh's morning aarti. She returned swiftly, handing it to him with an exaggerated apologetic expression. Devansh couldn't help but chuckle at her antics, feeling a surge of happiness. 

They walked side by side through the palace corridors, the sound of their footsteps echoing in harmony. As they reached their separate destinations, Devansh gave Advika a fond smile and offered Nusrat a polite nod before heading off to his chambers to freshen up for breakfast.

But even as he walked away, a quiet question tugged at the edges of his mind. Why had he acted that way with their guest, Nusrat Tabassum? There was something about her, a calm confidence wrapped in gentleness that lingered in his thoughts longer than he expected. Shaking his head at his own distraction, he allowed a faint smile to tug at his lips before continuing down the corridor.

Advika, with a smile still lingering on her face, paused at the entrance of the corridor leading to the royal court. She turned slightly and gestured to one of the guards nearby. "Please escort Miss Nusrat Tabassum to the dining hall," she instructed with gentle authority. "Her Majesty, Queen Sampriti, should be there by now. Make sure she is comfortable and well attended."

The guard bowed respectfully. "As you command, your highness."

Nusrat blinked in surprise. "You don't want me with you?" she asked in a low tone, so only Advika could hear.

"Only royal family members and ministers are allowed in the royal court without an invitation," Advika replied gently, repeating what Saanvi had taught them the night before. "Civilians and guests must be formally invited."

"Right. Forgot," Nusrat nodded, then added in a louder voice for those nearby, "You really don't have to fuss over me, Saanvi."

Advika chuckled softly. "It's not fuss... it's hospitality. Trust me, this is far safer than sitting through the royal ministers' endless morning debates."

Nusrat laughed. "In that case, I accept your mercy."

With a playful wink, Advika turned and strode confidently toward the royal court, the hem of her lehenga sweeping gracefully behind her. Her expression shifted into composed calm, ready to perform the morning aarti before her father and the gathered ministers, every step a quiet reminder that though she was young, she carried the poise of a true princess.

... - ...

... - ...

... - ...

King Raghunath Rathore, the revered monarch of Rajmanya Palace, was seated at the head of his royal court, presiding over the morning session with his trusted ministers. This was a routine he followed diligently where he started his workday with the court meeting, followed by a hearty breakfast, and then dedicating the rest of his time to hearing matters from the public. The king was deeply loved and respected by his people, not only for his wisdom but for his tireless efforts to improve their lives and ensure their happiness.

The door guard stepped forward and announced the arrival of Princess Saanvi. As the sound of her name echoed through the grand chamber, Raghunath noticed something unusual. Today, his daughter was a little later than usual, which wasn't like her. But what struck him the most was the way she entered the room. It was as though he was seeing her with fresh eyes, and a deep sense of awe washed over him.

Saanvi glided into the royal court, her presence radiating an ethereal glow. It wasn't just the vibrant colors of her attire or the sparkle of her jewelry... there was something else, something intangible that made her seem even more beautiful than usual. She looked like she was glowing from within, her aura serene yet filled with strength. Raghunath found himself staring at her, momentarily lost in the sight of his grown-up daughter.

"When did my little doll grow up so much?" he murmured to himself, his voice thick with emotion, almost as if he were seeing her for the first time. His heart swelled with pride and a hint of bittersweet nostalgia, as he couldn't help but marvel at how quickly she had blossomed into the poised and graceful woman standing before him.

"Pranam, your Majesty!" Advika greeted her father with perfect decorum, a result of Saanvi's careful training and Saanvi possessing Advika's body.

As per her usual routine, she stepped forward to offer the aarti to the king. However, her smile faltered and her steps slowed as her gaze shifted to her right. There, standing with a stoic expression, was Saanvi's uncle, Arindam Rathore. His presence sent a chill down Advika's spine as memories of that unsettling night resurfaced... his eerie expression, the way he had looked at her. She felt a lump form in her throat but quickly swallowed it down, forcing herself to focus on the present.

Shaking her head slightly, Advika quickly gathered herself, dismissing the memories and focusing on the task at hand. As the ceremony concluded and everyone had taken their aarti, Advika took a deep breath and, in a voice firmer than anyone could have expected from the princess, commanded,

"Dismiss!"

There was a brief silence before the ministers exchanged confused glances, and even King Raghunath raised an eyebrow in surprise.

"Princess?" Arindam Rathore, the Home Minister, spoke up, his voice laced with both surprise and authority as he questioned the unusual order.

Without missing a beat, Advika raised her palm, signaling him to stop. "There is an important matter I would like to discuss with the king. For now, this court is dismissed," she stated, her voice polite yet unmistakably assertive.

Raghunath, though surprised, nodded his head. He couldn't recall his daughter ever acting with such decisiveness before. It piqued his curiosity about what was troubling her.

The ministers and courtiers filed out of the royal court, their whispers filling the air as they left, leaving father and daughter alone.

"Princess Saanvi, what kind of behavior was that? I know you've been taught better manners than this," the king remarked sternly, his brow furrowed in concern.

Advika, now standing in front of him, pouted slightly and began to fiddle nervously with her fingers. "I know I shouldn't have done this... but..." She trailed off, clearly uncomfortable.

Raghunath's expression softened as he watched his daughter. "What is it, my princess?" His tone was gentler now, concerned for what might be troubling her.

With a hesitant sigh, Advika confessed, her voice laced with innocence, "I don't want to talk to the king... that's why I sent everyone away. I want to talk to my father."

Raghunath felt his heart swell with affection at her honest confession. He fought back a smile, finding it hard to resist how adorable she looked. Shaking his head, he stood up from his throne and walked towards her. "Okay, then. What is it that my daughter wants to tell her father?"

Without hesitation, Advika stepped forward and wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her head against his chest. "I had a bad dream last night," she murmured, her voice muffled against his robes. "I saw that I died without giving you one last hug, without telling you how much I love you, father."

Saanvi, in Advika's body, felt a profound sense of relief and peace in finally voicing her love for the king. The words felt like they had been stuck inside her for so long, and now they were free.

Raghunath, momentarily stunned, froze. His mind raced as he realized how much he had been consumed by the demands of ruling, how he had let precious moments with his children slip by. He couldn't recall the last time he had hugged them, especially his daughter. His heart softened as he pulled her closer.

"My little girl," Raghunath whispered, his voice thick with emotion as he gently stroked her hair. "I'm so sorry. I've been so caught up in matters of the kingdom that I've neglected my precious time with you."

Advika mumbled softly against his chest, warmth in her voice. "It's okay, Father. I just want to spend time with you."

Raghunath smiled faintly, pressing a kiss to her forehead before pulling back to look at her. "Alright then, my doll. Tell me, what's new in your life these days?" He guided her to his throne, making her sit beside him like an equal.

Her face lit up with excitement. "A few years ago, I received a letter by pigeon by mistake. It was from a girl who lives in a faraway Muslim country called Malaysia. We've been exchanging letters ever since." She paused, eyes sparkling. "She wanted to see Rajmanya, so I invited her here. But on her way, she was attacked. Thankfully, her guards managed to escort her to the palace last night." A soft smile spread across her face. "I knew to wait for her because she sent one of her pigeons with a letter for me. I'm so happy to have my best friend here. Though I felt bad that she lost her things, Mother told me to get Nusrat new outfits soon."

"Malaysia? A Muslim country? What exactly is Muslim?" King Raghunath asked, curiosity evident in his voice.

Advika shrugged, not worrying about the finer details, since most in Rajmanya wouldn't know anyway. "Malaysia is thousands of miles away from here. Islam is a monotheistic religion. It's based on belief in one God [Allah], and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SWT). The followers are called Muslims."

"One God?" Raghunath nodded thoughtfully. "That's interesting."

Advika's eyes brightened. "Oh! And earlier today, Brother promised he'd teach me sword fighting and archery!"

Raghunath's brows knitted together in surprise and a hint of disapproval. "Sword fighting? Archery? What nonsense! Why do you need to learn such things, my dear? Has your brother lost his senses?" His tone was stern, protective instincts kicking in at the thought of his precious daughter being exposed to any kind of danger.

"Father, please don't scold Brother!" Advika protested, her eyes wide with concern. "It's not his fault—I'm the one who asked him to teach me."

Raghunath's expression softened slightly, but his confusion remained. "But why, my princess? What need do you have to learn such skills?"

Advika took a deep breath, her expression earnest as she explained, carefully framing her words to appeal to her father's pride. "Father, I can't exactly ask Brother to play with dolls or indulge me in silly games. That would not only waste his valuable time but might also annoy him so much that he wouldn't want to spend time with me at all. I want to spend time with him in a way that lets him fulfill his royal duties while still giving me his attention.

"Besides," she added with a hint of mischief, "imagine how embarrassing it would be if the daughter of the great King Raghunath Rathore, the best king in the world, and the sister of a legendary warrior like Yuvraj Devansh Rathore, doesn't even know the basics of sword fighting or archery! People might secretly laugh, thinking the princess is only good at dressing up and has no useful skills."

Raghunath couldn't help but chuckle softly at her clever argument. She had a way of stroking his ego while presenting her case, making it impossible to dismiss her outright.

What Advika didn't share, though, was her deeper motivation. She didn't know how much time they had left before the epidemic struck. If there was one thing she could do in this borrowed time, it was to learn as much as possible to be prepared for whatever challenges lay ahead.

Raghunath sighed, shaking his head lightly. "You're far too clever for your own good, my doll," he said, a trace of amusement in his voice. "But fine, if this is what you wish, I won't stop you. However," he added, his tone serious, "you must promise me to always be careful and never take unnecessary risks."

Advika nodded eagerly, her face lighting up with joy. "I promise, Father!" she said, wrapping her arms around him again.

As he held her close, Raghunath smiled, silently marveling at how much his little girl had grown, not just in years but in determination and spirit.

.. .. \- -/ .. .. \- -/ .. ..

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The royal family of Rajmanya Palace gathered in the grand dining hall, the air buzzing with warmth and activity. King Raghunath and Advika entered together, engrossed in a lively conversation that had both of them smiling. Queen Sampriti, who had been instructing the maids to set the table, paused mid-sentence when her gaze landed on them. A look of surprise mixed with joy spread across her face. It had been years since she'd seen her husband and daughter chatting so openly, like they used to when Saanvi was little.

Sampriti couldn't help but reminisce. Saanvi had been such a warm and affectionate child, always running to her parents with her every thought and emotion. But as she grew older and became aware of the strict royal etiquette, she grew more reserved, shyly maintaining a respectful distance. Over time, she began treating her parents less like her mother and father and more like the King and Queen, always addressing them with formality.

"Mother, are you seeing this?" Devansh said, walking up to his mother with a wide, surprised grin.

Sampriti turned toward her son, still watching the duo in the courtyard with astonishment. "I see it, Yuvraj. It feels like something has changed in Saanvi. She even hugged me today," she admitted, her voice tinged with wonder.

"You too?" Devansh exclaimed, raising his eyebrows. "She hugged me as well! Looks like our dear guest, and Saanvi's best friend, is having quite the positive influence on her."

"Nothing like that, Your Highness!" Nusrat protested quickly, her cheeks tinged pink. "She makes me just as happy," she added with a shy shrug, her eyes sparkling.

Sampriti gave her a fond smile, gently patting Nusrat's hand. "Still, it's rare to see my daughter this affectionate without a royal occasion involved."

Before Sampriti could say more, a teasing voice cut in, warm and familiar.

"What are you people gossiping about here? Share with us too," Raghunath asked playfully as he joined them, causing both Sampriti and Devansh to jump slightly in surprise.

Sampriti blushed at her husband's tone and began stammering, "N-no, we were just... just saying..."

"Adorable!" Advika chimed in, stepping closer with a cheeky smile tugging at her lips. She nudged Nusrat playfully. "Nusrat, are you seeing this? My mother still blushes like a new bride when Father talks to her. It's like they're newlyweds all over again!"

Nusrat giggled, nodding in agreement. "Yeah. So cute. Honestly, it's like I'm watching a royal love story unfold live!"

Their playful teasing made both Raghunath and Devansh burst into hearty laughter, while Sampriti's cheeks turned a deeper crimson. She turned to glare at her daughter, flustered. "Saanvi! How can you say such things in front of your elders?"

"But you're the one blushing like a new bride!" Advika shot back with a playful pout. "Why am I getting scolded?"

Sampriti shook her head, exasperated but unable to hide her smile. "You've become so naughty lately! When will you grow up? You're about to get married, young lady!"

Advika grinned mischievously, her eyes twinkling. "Getting married doesn't mean I'll stop teasing my beautiful mother. You're glowing brighter than the palace chandeliers right now!"

Even Raghunath couldn't hold back his laughter, and Devansh clapped his sister on the back. "Well said, Saanvi! Keep it up and Mother might start glowing even brighter."

Sampriti groaned, burying her face in her palms, though her heart brimmed with joy. These light-hearted moments reminded her that beyond their royal titles, they were, above all, a family.

"Okay, okay, children. Enough teasing," Raghunath chuckled. "Or your mother might stop talking to me altogether!" Then, he turned to Advika with a knowing smile. "Princess, you still haven't properly introduced your friend."

Advika straightened up, suddenly serious. "Yes, Father, of course!" She turned to Nusrat, her eyes warm. "This is Nusrat Tabassum of Johor, Malaysia, my best friend, and the bravest person I know."

Nusrat lowered her head respectfully. "It's an honor to be here, your majesty. Your palace is beautiful and your family, even more so."

Raghunath nodded, clearly pleased. "Welcome to Rajmanya, Nusrat. Any friend of my daughter is family to us."

Sampriti patted Nusrat's hand gently. "And you're already one of us, dear. Don't let all this royal talk scare you."

Nusrat's shy smile grew a little brighter.

... - ... - ... - ...

Once the maids served the food, the royal family settled for breakfast. The aroma of freshly prepared dishes filled the air, but Advika was preoccupied. She pretended to cough softly and whispered to Saanvi, who was still possessing her body "Stay close to your uncle and his wife. I need to know what they talk about... and whether your parents' deaths were just a coincidence or something more sinister."

Saanvi nodded with a quiet "Alright," before slipping out of Advika's body. The sudden absence left Advika shivering, her breath catching as if a cold breeze had rushed through her. She coughed involuntarily but quickly regained her composure.

"Saanvi, dear, why are you coughing so much, bachcha?" Raghunath's voice was laced with concern as he looked at his daughter.

"It's just a little cold, Father. Nothing serious," Advika reassured him, her voice steady despite the tension in her mind.

Raghunath frowned. "How did you catch a cold all of a sudden? You were perfectly fine yesterday."

Queen Sampriti sighed, shaking her head in mild frustration. "Your daughter was sitting by the window in the open air all night. No wonder she caught a chill," she said, her tone laced with a mother's gentle reprimand.

Raghunath's expression softened with sympathy. He reached out, cupping Advika's face in his hands. "Was it the nightmare that kept you awake, my child?" he asked gently, his voice filled with fatherly concern.

Advika's eyes flickered briefly before she nodded, lowering her gaze. "Yes, Father," she murmured.

Sampriti and Nusrat exchanged puzzled looks. "What nightmare?" Sampriti asked, genuinely confused.

Nusrat, still catching up with the family dynamics, shot Advika a curious glance. She had no idea about this nightmare."

Raghunath sighed, glancing at his wife. "Our princess had a very bad dream last night. She saw herself dying without being able to give us one last hug. That's why she must have been restless and unable to sleep the whole night."

Devansh, who had been observing quietly, leaned forward with a thoughtful look. "And that's why our little Saanvi has been more affectionate today.... wanting to spend more time with us," he guessed, piecing together the events of the morning.

Sampriti stared at the three of them, Raghunath, Devansh, and Advika for a moment before she suddenly started chuckling. Her laughter caught them off guard, and they exchanged puzzled looks.

"Queen, why are you laughing?" Raghunath asked sternly, his tone hinting at offense, as if he was defending his daughter's honor.

"My dear King," Sampriti began, still smiling, "your daughter had such a dream because the time of her marriage is drawing near. Her subconscious is simply preparing her for the day she'll have to leave for her husband's home."

Raghunath's stern expression softened into contemplation. Before he could respond, Devansh jumped in, looking hopeful. "Oh... then, can we not marry her off so soon?" he requested, his tone almost pleading.

Sampriti raised an eyebrow at her son's words and replied matter-of-factly, "Crown Prince, it's already been thirteen long years since the betrothal. It won't reflect well on the royal family if we keep King Surya waiting any longer."

Raghunath sighed, his reluctance evident. "Your mother is right..." he muttered reluctantly. Despite his authority, the thought of letting his daughter leave filled him with melancholy.

Advika, observing their conversation quietly, suddenly spoke up. "Mother, Father? Before the wedding, can I meet King Surya? I'd like to get to know him first."

Sampriti looked taken aback. "Princess! The bride and groom can't meet before the wedding. It's tradition. I didn't meet your father before our wedding either," she explained in a mildly reproachful tone.

Advika groaned in frustration. "Mother, that was a thousand years ago! Things were different back then," she quipped, rolling her eyes.

Devansh burst into laughter at her comment, unable to hold it in, and soon Nusrat joined in, her laughter light and infectious. Advika caught her eye, and a fond smile tugged at her lips.

Raghunath looked mildly offended. "A thousand? Princess Saanvi, just how old do you think your father is?" he asked, narrowing his eyes at her.

That was all it took to set Advika off. She burst into giggles, and soon Devansh also joined her. Both siblings were laughing so hard that tears streamed down their faces. Every time they tried to stop, they'd catch a glimpse of Sampriti and Raghunath's unamused expressions and dissolve into laughter all over again.

"Enough, you two!" Raghunath finally scolded, though the corners of his mouth twitched as if he, too, was suppressing a smile.

Sampriti sighed, shaking her head with an affectionate smile. "I swear, raising royalty is no less than raising jesters," she muttered, her words only prompting another wave of laughter from her children.

... - ...

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... - ...

A/N: So... you've met Saanvi's family. First impressions? 👀

And Devansh—someone's taking a little too much interest in Nusrat, don't you think?

Anyway, stay tuned. Vote if you're enjoying the chaos, and tell me your theories in the comments. I'm watching. 😉