She was a mute princess. And he was the devil himself, the ruthless leader of the Thugs of Hindus, feared by every kingdom. She never realized that the words she once spoke in jest would turn into reality the very next day. ♡♪ She came closer. "Aapko kaisa Var chahiye?" Her words made me smile. I looked at her, inhaled deeply, and turned my gaze to the temple in front of me. "Bada, bhari sharir, jise 100 baan bhi na bhed sake, agar talwar utha le to shatru ke sar jameen par mile... rakt se snans karta ho, apni aankhon se dekh le to sampurn duniya jal ke rakh ho jaye... bhay or dar se dur tak koi vasta na ho, jinke nikat jane se maut bhi katrati ho... prantu humein dekhte hi sab kuchh bhool jaye swayam ko bhi... samjhi aap?" I bite my lower lip to stop smile. Her happiness shattered into broken pieces the moment she received the letter. It carried only a few words. "Send back what's mine..." Yet the silence after those words was no silence at all. It was a warning. She knew then that nothing mattered anymore. He could destroy the world... the very world she belonged to." ✧ He stood first-tall, strong, and masculine. But she remained unmoved, deaf to the call. "Rajkumari..." the priest repeated softly. This time, she heard. Her gaze lifted to the man beside her, now rising to his feet. She tried to stand as well, but her limbs betrayed her, weak and trembling. She faltered, collapsing-yet before she touched the ground, firm and unyielding arms caught her. A gasp escaped her lips as he lifted her into his embrace. Around them, the gathering lowered their eyes, but the charged air was unmistakable. He ignored the weight of their stares. Without hesitation, he began circling the sacred fire, his steps steady and deliberate. Seven pheras completed, he returned to his seat, pulling her onto his lap. She tried to move, but his grip tightened around her stomach.