Chitrangada bowed in front of the golden statue of Goddess Durga. She was in the temple for morning prayers. Bhojraj attended morning aarti(prayer) for the Goddess every Monday. Chitra was here to run into him.
There was an announcement of his Majesty approaching the temple entrance. The crowd parted and the guards formed a line on both sides forming a row.
As the crown princess, she was already near the garbgrih( Sanctum Sanctorum) where Bhojraj was going to join her. Maharaj Bhojraj approached the entrance of the temple and walked towards the sanctum sanctorum.
He was elated to see his daughter in law already present there. She bowed down to touch his feet.
"Ayushmati Bhav Princess," He said.
She smiled.
"What brings you here Princess ?" He asked.
"I am here to pray for the well-being and success of his highness your majesty" She replied.
"Excellent! I am so lucky to have you as my daughter in law" Bhojraj replied.
She bowed again and then stood solemnly while the priests chanted the invocations.
The pooja(prayer) was complete and Chitrangada left the temple along with Maharaj Bhojraj. As expected he offered her to come along in his carriage. She excused her maids and bodyguards to go along with Bhojraj.
She had met Bhojraj a few times during the post-wedding rituals and her coronation.
Chitrangda wasn't the Queen yet so she wasn't required to the attended court sessions. Though she could if she wanted to.
"I hope you are liking Badami and everything here?" Bhojraj asked her.
"Yes, your Majesty I am quite comfortable here. Everyone had been very kind to me." She replied.
Bhojraj smiled.
"I do have a request though. I hope you will grant my wish" She said.
"Sure go ahead" he replied.
"A few days ago a woman was arrested for treason, she had attacked me in the market."
"Yes! I have heard of it. Don't worry she will be executed soon as per the laws."
"I don't want her to be executed, your Majesty". Chitra said.
" What?" He asked surprised.
"Please forgive my insolence but I want to pardon her."
Bhojraj looked pensive.
" You are like my daughter. Attacking anyone from the royal family is treason. It's a very grave crime Chitra. If I let her go it would set a bad example for people."
"I agree, your majesty but she is a very old woman who has a tragic past. Sometimes people do things because of their sufferings. It's her first offence. If we forgive her it would also set an example of your kindness and tolerance."
"Hmmm, I kind of agree with you" He replied.
"A king should be loved by his people not feared. Your people are like your children. You need to show love and kindness as well. This will earn you love and respect from the people."
Bhojraj was now smiling, " you are very good with words. Raja Kiritveer has raised you well. Alright, since it's your first request. I will grant a pardon to her."
"Thank you, your majesty. Thanks for your grace" She bowed and folded her hands.
She sighed with relief. This would relieve her of a big burden. Now she had to rehabilitate that lady.
YOU ARE READING
Enemy's Woman
Historical FictionChitrangda was engaged to the Crown Prince Vikram, of the Gurjar-Pratihar Empire since the day she was born. As the Princess of Navsarika, she has been sheltered and pampered by her parents as well as her fiancee Vikram. Just when everything was goi...
