Enemy's Woman

Chapter 39 - Assassination attempt

"She said that my father killed her husband? That's preposterous!" Chitrangada said after Poonam had narrated the entire thing.

"He was captured and executed during the war, your highness"

"This is what happens in wars. It doesn't make me or anyone else responsible for that. Soldiers die in war all the time." Chitra said.

"I understand princess however that lady has also lost her son, I couldn't understand much but it seems like she is from one of the northern province and her son died because of the local feudal lord."

"North? His highness has gone to control the northern rebellions!" Chitra gasped " So her son was one of the rebels."

" What are you going to do princess?"

"Save her of course. Whatever might be her issues she doesn't deserve death. I will talk to his majesty, " Chitra replied firmly.

"There is something more Your Highness. Prince Devburman said there is trouble is some provinces because of resentment. People are not happy due to constant wars and an increase in taxes. He has warned of bigger rebellions in the future."

"How does he know all this?"

"He seems to be a very wise man your highness" Poonam said.

Chitra raised her eyebrows " You have got to know him quite well in a short amount of time Poonam."

Poonam flushed " Its nothing like that your highness. He just helped me to reach that woman."

Chitra smiled " Just be careful Poonam his father is a traitor."

Poonam looked shocked " He never mentioned anything about it."

Chitrangada narrated the family history of Shivaditya to Poonam skipping the Mrignayani incident. Dev was having feelings for his brother's wife! It was something only Shivaditya and she knew. It wasn't appropriate to turn it into palace gossip which could tarnish their reputation.

"His father might be a traitor but, his highness would never do such thing," Poonam said.

"That makes two of you. Kamakshi thinks the same " Chitra thought.

"You are here under my protection Poonam. If something happens to you how will I face your parents? I won't be able to forgive myself. Please dont do anything rash !"

Chitra said looking worried.

Poonam didn't reveal her deal with the Prince. She knew Chitra wouldn't approve of it. The truth was, she was equally eager to meet Prince Devburman.

"Dont worry your highness I will take care," Poonam assured her.

After Poonam had left Chintrangada looked at the oil lamps which had been left burning by her maids. She was missing Shivaditya terribly. She prayed for his safety and his return all the time.

She left the bed and went towards the terrace. It was full moon night and everything had a silvery glow.

"Where are you Shiv? Please come back soon. I miss you."

She said looking at the moon.

****

The day had finally come. The generals judged they were only hours from the stronghold.

Shivaditya was giving a pep talk to his men.

"Tomorrow we are going to attack the stronghold. They are rebels, most of them are untrained men who will not follow the code of conduct for warfare. Dont show any mercy. Capture or kill everyone. Is that clear ?"