TARA : Beyond The Time ( Under Editing)

whispers of betrayal

Author's pov

Alone in his dimly lit chamber, Dhruv immersed himself in quiet contemplation. The soft glow of the flickering lamplight painted intricate shadows on the walls, casting a mesmerizing dance that mirrored the thoughts swirling in his mind.

Tracing the delicate design of the pendant with gentle fingers, he felt the cool metal against his skin. The gold chain held a Rudraksha pendant, its center adorned with a miniature Trishul and Damru. More than an ornament, it was a tangible symbol of Tara's enduring presence-a connection that transcended time and whispered promises.

As he cradled the pendant, the weight of Tara's words sank in, turning the trinket into a poignant reminder of moonlit moments shared beneath a sky that had witnessed centuries unfold. For a fleeting moment, the burdens of kingly responsibilities lifted, allowing Dhruv to savor the profound joy of being intricately connected across the vast tapestry of time.

Sandalwood fragrance wafted through the air, mingling with the soft rustle of leaves outside his window. Dhruv closed his eyes, embracing the tranquility that surrounded him. In the stillness of his chamber, a swell of gratitude welled within him for the unexpected and cherished connection he shared with Tara.

Yet, amid the serene moment, Dhruv's thoughts veered towards the uncertainties that loomed-the impending kingdom meeting, the intricate dance of court intrigues, and the shadows of mystery surrounding recent attacks. Tara's pendant, however, remained a grounding force, a quiet beacon of reassurance in the complexity of his responsibilities.

With a subtle smile, Dhruv whispered words of gratitude to the pendant, silently acknowledging the strength it bestowed upon him. However, the tranquility shattered as thoughts of potential danger above his kingdom crept back into his consciousness. The weight of responsibility returned, and with a determined expression, he rose from his seat to face the challenges that awaited him.

Dhruv's serene moment shattered as an arrow pierced the silence of his chamber. A searing pain cut across his cheek, and the sudden intrusion snapped him back to the harsh reality that lurked beyond the palace walls. Instinctively, he touched the stinging wound, his fingers coming away smeared with a hint of blood.

The arrow, now lodged in the wall behind him, served as a stark reminder of the dangers that encircled Vijaygarh. Alarmed but composed, Dhruv quickly assessed the situation. The attack was deliberate, and it demanded swift action.

He hurriedly moved towards the window, cautiously peering out to identify the source of the threat. The moonlit night revealed little, the shadows concealing the perpetrator. The palace guards, alerted by the commotion, were already converging on the scene, ready to defend their king.

Anger and concern etched across his face, Dhruv turned to address the guards. "Secure the premises! We have an intruder," he commanded with authoritative urgency. The palace guards swiftly mobilized, determined to thwart any imminent danger.

As the tension in the room heightened, Dhruv's gaze lingered on the pendant that hung around his neck. The metal felt cool against his chest, a stark contrast to the heated atmosphere that now enveloped the chamber. Tara's thoughtful gift, though momentarily forgotten, became a symbol of resilience, a silent promise that strengthened his resolve to protect the kingdom.

The investigation into the attacks took on a renewed urgency. Dhruv, now with a bandage adorning his cheek, led the effort to uncover the motives behind the assaults. Little did he know that these events were only the beginning of a perilous journey that would test not only his mettle but also the bonds that transcended time itself.

As Dhruv examined the arrow, an unsettling familiarity crept over him, reminiscent of the one he had received on his birthday. His gaze shifted towards the note tied to the arrow. Upon opening it, a storm of emotions surged within him-anger, pain, and worry collided in a tumultuous wave, overwhelming him all at once.

Uday rushed into the room upon hearing about the attack, only to find his brother Dhruv frozen in place, clutching a piece of paper tightly in his hand. As he approached Dhruv, his eyes fell upon the strange symbol drawn on the paper-a series of interlocking circles, each containing intricate patterns resembling ancient symbols of power and mysticism.

"Bhaisa, what's this symbol, and why does it have you so shaken?" Uday inquired, his voice tinged with concern, as he studied the enigmatic markings etched on the parchment.

"It's the same symbol I saw on the hand of the man who killed Maasa, and I overheard Babasa talking about an attack just a day before he died," Dhruv replied, regaining his emotionless composure. "What! So you mean this symbol is somehow related to Badi Maasa and Babasa's death," Uday questioned, his eyes widening with a mix of shock and realization.

"Who could it be, Bhaisa?" Uday asked, a furrow forming on his brow.

"I don't know who they are, but one thing I'm sure of is that there's a mole on our side. Someone who has been with us for a long time, because it's impossible for an outsider to know the intricacies of our mahal, even Ranivaas. Also, the timing of all the attacks-it's when security is the tightest. None of these recent attacks were meant for killing; they just want to portray me as an incapable king in front of the world," Dhruv said, gritting his teeth in anger and frustration.

Uday's eyes narrowed in determination. "We need to find this mole, expose them, and put an end to these orchestrated attempts to tarnish your reign. Our family's honor is at stake, Bhaisa," he asserted, fists clenched.

"We'll find him, but there's no need to expose him yet," Dhruv said, moving towards the window. Uday frowned, not understanding his brother's words. "But Bhaisa..." Uday tried to argue, but he was cut off by the calm tone of his brother. "He'll get punished brutally. There is no forgiveness for someone who betrays their own motherland, but not yet. He's just a pawn in this chess game. I want the mastermind behind all this," Dhruv explained.

"Yes, Bhaisa. You're right. Killing the mole will only alert the enemy," Uday agreed, murmuring the last part to himself.

"Uday, I'll be busy dealing with kings and their representatives from tomorrow, and everyone's focus will be there. It's a great opportunity. You and Bheem Singh, along with a trusted few, keep an eye on everyone," Dhruv ordered, his gaze unwavering and determined.

Uday nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I'll assemble a discreet team and ensure a watchful eye on all fronts. No one will suspect a thing," he affirmed, his commitment evident in his resolute expression.

Dhruv turned to face his brother, a sense of gratitude and trust in his eyes. "Thank you, Uday. We must tread carefully; the stakes are high, and we can't afford to make any mistakes. The enemy may be closer than we think," he cautioned, emphasizing the importance of discretion.

As the brothers forged their plan in the face of betrayal and uncertainty, the air in the chamber hung heavy with the weight of responsibility and a determination to safeguard their family's honor.