The Timeless Oath

Arjun’s POV

The palace was no longer the same.

When I had left for Dhaulpur, it was still a home—a place of warmth, laughter, and life. But now, it had transformed into a fortress.

War drums echoed in the distance. Soldiers sharpened their swords, armor clanked as men moved through the halls, and banners bearing our kingdom’s sigil fluttered in the wind.

Everyone was preparing.

Because I had declared war.

There was no turning back now.

I walked through the corridors, my mind consumed by Rudranath’s words.

"A stolen name doesn't change the blood that runs in your veins."

My fists clenched. He knows.

But that wasn’t the battle I had to fight today. Right now, my focus had to be on protecting my kingdom—my people—and the woman I loved.

I reached our chamber, my steps slowing.

She was there, standing near the open window, staring at the torches being lit across the palace walls. The wind played with the sheer fabric of her dupatta, making it dance around her like a whisper of fate.

"Chidiya..." I called softly.

She turned, her veil framing her face, but her eyes—those fierce, intelligent, beautiful eyes—held emotions she refused to voice.

I walked closer, but she didn’t step back. She stood strong.

"You declared war," she said, no question in her voice—just understanding.

"I had to," I admitted.

She sighed, but instead of arguing, she just reached for my hand.

"Then so be it."

I cupped her face, running my thumb across her cheek. She wasn’t afraid. That was what made her different from every other queen in history. She didn’t just accept her fate—she walked toward it head-on.

"Do you regret marrying me?" I murmured, my lips inches from hers.

She didn’t answer immediately. Instead, she lifted her fingers, tracing the faint scar near my jaw—one she had once kissed in the dark of the night.

"Agar pashtaava hota, toh ab tak chali jaati." (If I regretted it, I would have left by now.)

Something in my chest tightened.

"Chidiya..." My voice was hoarse now, but before I could say anything else, she leaned forward, pressing her forehead against mine.

"Jitni bhi ladaai ho, jitna bhi khoon bahe... Jab tak tum lautoge, tab tak main yahan rahoongi, Raja sa." (No matter how many battles, no matter how much blood is shed... I will be here, waiting for you, Raja sa.)

I exhaled sharply, pulling her into my arms, holding her as if she would disappear.

"Aur agar main na lauta?" I whispered. (And if I don’t return?)

She stiffened.

Then, slowly, she pulled back, her gaze locking onto mine with an intensity that sent chills down my spine.

"Toh main tumhe dhoondh kar laungi." (Then I will find you.)

I kissed her.

Not with desperation, not with fear—but with a promise.