Ch-19: The Hidden Identity

Inside the chamber, the golden rays of the sun gently streamed in through the ornate windows, casting a warm glow over the room's elegant décor. The Queen, continued her teachings for her daughter, The Princess.

Suddenly, the chamber's tranquility was interrupted by the brisk entry of a tall and imposing figure.

Princess Kundavai's face immediately lit up as she dropped her book and rushed towards him. With unbridled affection, she enveloped him in a tight embrace, her voice filled with excitement as she exclaimed, "Mama! You're here!"

A/N: (Mama is the name used by someone to address their maternal uncle)

It was Karnasagar. His real identity is contrary to what Vijay or his family could ever imagine. He was the brother of the Queen, and a great Commander of the army of Vidya, having importance second only to Senapati Narsimha. The Queen herself sent her brother to not only protect the Mantri's family against potential threat, but also to uncover the truth of the rumor of black magic complained by the physician in the royal court.

Karnasagar chuckled, his deep voice resonating through the chamber. He affectionately ruffled her hair and responded, "Indeed, my dear niece. I couldn't stay away from you for too long."

Queen Kamala, who had been quietly observing the touching reunion, couldn't help but smile at the genuine bond between her daughter and her brother. She knew that despite his stern exterior as an Army Commander, Karnasagar had a soft spot for Kundavai.

The princess, ever the inquisitive one, looked up at her maternal uncle with eyes that seemed to hold a universe of questions. "Mama, tell me stories of your recent exploration," she requested, her curiosity shining like a beacon.

Karnasagar's expression softened as he gazed at her. He knew that his stories often carried the weight of harsh realities, but for her, he would do anything. With a twinkle in his eye, he replied, "Ah, my dear Kundavai, I shall regale you with a tale of magic today."

He then shared a lighthearted joke that drew infectious laughter from the princess. Her giggles filled the chamber, a sweet melody that echoed the joy of youth.

After their brief moment of levity, Karnasagar turned to Queen Kamala. His demeanor shifted as he addressed her, "Sister, I've come today with a report that requires your attention."

Queen Kamala nodded in understanding. She knew that while her daughter found solace in stories, the responsibilities of the kingdom were an ever-present reality. It was time to discuss the affairs of the realm, and Karnasagar's report held vital information that demanded their immediate attention.

----------------------------------

Back in Hampura, the Mantri's House was filled with an air of excitement, but as the day wore on, the initial thrill of celebration began to wane. The constant sound of sawing and hammering from the carpenters working on new furniture grated on their nerves.

Mantri Vaishakhnandan sighed and said, "I thought it would be a day of joy, but all this noise is driving me mad."

Malini, his wife, chimed in, "Yes, and it's not just the noise, dear. It's the lack of activity. We're so used to our daily routines, and now we're sitting here, twiddling our thumbs."

Nandini, their older daughter, added, "I never thought I'd say this, but I miss the usual chores. At least they keep us occupied."

Little Shruti, the youngest of the family, chimed in, "And the maids are too busy decorating to play with me."

The Mantri chuckled, realizing that his idea of a joyful celebration had left his family feeling bored and restless. "Well, Perhaps we should find something to do to pass the time until this celebration is over."

Suddenly an idea sprang in Vijay's mind. As his idea took shape, he called upon two skilled carpenters and explained his vision to them. He wanted them to craft a chessboard consisting of 204 individual squares and carve out 32 distinct pieces. It was, the game of Chess, a game maybe played in this era with some different name but often only played for Kings like a bet. It was something quite unfamiliar to the Mantri's family.

The family members couldn't help but feel a mixture of curiosity and excitement as they observed the carpenters meticulously working on this complex project. They whispered among themselves, wondering what exactly Vijay had in mind. Despite the continuous sound of wood being cut and carved, their anticipation grew.

Finally, after what felt like a whirlwind of activity, the chessboard and pieces were ready. Vijay gathered his family around the newly created chess set, ready to introduce them to this regal pastime. With great patience and enthusiasm, he explained the intricate rules of the game, how each piece moved, and the ultimate objective – to capture the opponent's king without putting your own in checkmate.

Vijay set up the beautifully crafted chessboard and arranged the intricately carved pieces. He looked at his father, Vaishakhnandan, and said, "Father, shall we have the first game? I'll let you make the first move."

Vaishakhnandan, intrigued by this ancient game, hesitated for a moment, then moved one of his pawns forward. Vijay responded by moving a pawn of his own. The game was underway.

As the Mantri and his son began their match, the rest of the family watched with keen interest. Nandini, Vijay's older sister, leaned over and whispered to her mother, Malini, "Mother, from the rules i guess it requires strategy and intellect. Let's see if brother can outsmart Father."

Malini nodded, her eyes fixed on the board, and replied, "Indeed, my dear. It's not just about moving pieces; it's about anticipating your opponent's moves and planning your strategy accordingly."

The younger sister, Shruti, chimed in, "I hope Vijay wins. It would be a sight to see."

Their brother, Rudra, who had just returned from his martial arts practice, joined the gathering and asked, "What's all the excitement about?"

Nandini quickly filled him in, saying, "Vijay has introduced us to a game called chess, and now he's playing against Father. It's a battle of wits, and we're all curious to see who'll come out on top."

Rudra, intrigued by the prospect, sat down next to Shruti, and they both followed the game closely.

Back at the chessboard, Vijay and Vaishakhnandan continued their match. Vijay made a calculated move, and his father's brow furrowed in thought. The Mantri's chamber, which had been filled with the sounds of woodwork, was now echoing with the quiet intensity of a game that transcended time and generations.