Yami

Chapter 1, Palatial Serenity

Life is an unpredictable journey, filled with odd and dramatic moments that catch us off guard. It surprises us when we least expect it, forcing us to adapt and roll with the punches. My own life has been quite the adventure, filled with twists and turns that have shaped who I am today.

For the first seventeen years, Udaipur was the only place I called home. Our ancestral palace stood proudly amidst the captivating city, a testament to the grandeur of a bygone era. Its regal architecture and intricate carvings spoke volumes about our family's rich history, invoking a sense of awe and reverence. Imposing domes, ornate balconies, and intricate arches adorned its exterior, while its opulent interiors boasted exquisite tapestries, gilded accents, and intricate frescoes that depicted scenes from our ancestral stories. It was a place where the past and present converged, a sanctuary of cherished memories that echoed through its grand corridors.

Each morning, as the sun's golden rays danced upon its weathered walls, the palace came alive with vibrant hues and cast a warm glow that illuminated its magnificence. The tranquil mornings offered a serene escape, as gentle breezes carried the scent of blooming jasmine and the distant melodies of peacocks in the nearby gardens.

Yet, as twilight descended upon the horizon, the palace took on a new persona. The flickering glow of oil lamps cast a soft, enchanting light that revealed its mysterious allure. Shadows danced upon its walls, evoking a sense of intrigue and adventure. It was during these bewitching nights that the palace whispered ancient secrets, inviting us to embark on untold journeys of self-discovery and exploration.

Our palace was more than just a physical structure; it was a symbol of our family's enduring legacy. Its walls held the laughter, tears, and aspirations of generations, creating a timeless connection to our roots and a profound sense of belonging.

Within the palace, my own room was a sanctuary fit for a princess. Soft pastel hues adorned the walls, exuding a sense of tranquility. Lace curtains gently swayed, welcoming the sun's warm embrace. Adorned with elegant furniture and delicate trinkets, it radiated timeless grace and regal charm.

The mornings were filled with the bustling energy of our family. Father and Uncle engaged in their daily newspaper battles, while my older brother displayed his strength by lifting massive dumbbells, much to the amazement of our staff. These moments, when we were all together, were the happiest times of my life. My days were filled with games, pool parties with school friends, and occasionally, late-night clubbing, returning home in the early hours of the morning. This was the life I knew, a life of joy and familiarity.

As my elder brother, Ruhaan, approached his 18th birthday, the air was thick with anticipation and excitement. He was not just any ordinary person; he was destined to be the future king, a role he embraced with utmost responsibility and dedication. The preparations for his grand celebration had begun six months prior, with the entire city of Udaipur eagerly awaiting the festivities. The sky would soon be illuminated with vibrant fireworks, and the air would be filled with infectious joy. Yuvraaj Ruhaan Gaj Singh, our beloved brother, was not just a prince, but a beacon of hope and inspiration for the people.

However, amidst the grandeur and celebration, there were always a few nosy individuals who couldn't help but pry into our plans. Mr. Rathod, a particularly inquisitive acquaintance, was no exception. In the presence of our father, Raja Surajmal Gaj Singh, he curiously questioned Ruhaan, "So, where are you planning to study this year?" It was clear that Ruhaan needed to have a plan for his studies, especially considering his upcoming coronation ceremony at the age of 21. Our family, deeply rooted in tradition, believed in the importance of education and independence.

Ruhaan, consistently sharp and composed, responded with confidence, "Wherever my sister chooses." This might not reflect the typical decision-making prowess expected of a prince, but everyone understood the depth of his love for me and our brother, Rajkumar Harsh Gaj Singh. Despite having different parents, Ruhaan never emphasized the distinction, never flaunting his status as the heir apparent. He always looked out for us, irrespective of the fact that we were the children of the younger brother of the king, destined to be without a crown. Following the demise of our mothers in a car accident when we were little and our fathers' intermittent breakdowns he became our sole caretaker, taking care of both me and Harsh, getting us out of trouble, and even bought us our first beer.

All eyes now turned toward me, and my mind raced to formulate a response. Ideas of attending universities in the UK and the US briefly crossed my thoughts, but my mouth seemed to have a different agenda. Before I could grasp what was happening, the words slipped out, "Dehradun." Little did I know that this would turn out to be both the best and worst decision of my life.

Ruhaan wasted no time in making arrangements, and the very next day, he informed me that we three were leaving for Dehradun. The admission process would be completed by evening, leaving me in a state of panic. The realization dawned upon me that I had spoken without much thought, influenced by a documentary I had watched the previous night. Although my memory was hazy due to alcohol consumption, I couldn't admit my lapse in judgment. I reluctantly accepted the sudden change and embarked on a journey to The Doon Institute of Arts and Commerce, the finest commerce institute in Dehradun. I was a first-year student, while Ruhaan and Harsh, were in their second year. It marked a new chapter in our lives, one filled with uncertainty and discovery.

As we arrived at the airport, our driver awaited us, ready to transport us to our new home in Dehradun. The city greeted us with breathtaking beauty, surpassing anything we could have imagined. The passing trees whispered melodies of tranquility, and the gentle caress of the breeze against my face created a sense of serenity.

Our journey led us to a magnificent mansion, a thirty-minute drive from the college. It stood tall, emanating an aura of grandeur and mystery. Its façade boasted intricate carvings, while soft, warm lights illuminated its majestic presence. As we ventured inside, exploring its vast rooms, I chose a bedroom overlooking the sprawling gardens, a view that also allowed me to glimpse the road from which we had just arrived. The moon cast a gentle glow, as if whispering secrets of enchantment.

Exhausted from the long journey, we settled into our rooms and had supper before retiring to bed, unsure of what awaited us in this new chapter of our lives.

Little did we know that the most beautiful places often conceal the darkest secrets. As the sun began its ascent the next morning, casting its blissful rays upon Dehradun, we prepared ourselves for our first day of college. Unbeknownst to us, this marked the beginning of a series of events that would test our bonds, challenge our perceptions, and change our lives forever.