AUTHORS POV:
"There is some gift that you got from your transportation through this book, which will soon discover" said Guruji with the profound meaning in his eyes.
"But for now," he continued, extending his hand toward them, "I am giving something that will help you settle down here with ease."
With a mysterious smile playing on his lips, he stopped to measure their emotions and then held out his hand to shake hands. Beneath his palm, a big plate appeared, covered in crimson cloths embroidered with gold thread patterns that looked like starlight spreading across immense universes.
Four golden bowls with a glittering greenish liquid within that gathered the last of the cave's light came to pass on top of it.
Four of them exchanged curious glances before turning back to Guruji for explanation. "This medicine will help you diminish the most major problem you would face in this era — which is the language barrier," he said firmly but kindly.
"You stand upon soil where Prakrit echoes through time; its rhythm may seem foreign to your ears but fear not." With a softer tone, he met their curious gaze and said, "This drink will allow you to understand and speak without difficulty."
"Here," he added softly and deeply. As those last words lingered vividly in their thoughts, they alternated in tightly gripping the bowl with both hands.
One by one, as they gulped down the liquid, the unwritten agreement that formed between them spread warmth throughout their bodies like a warm electrical current.
Their understanding grew, and even as they were amazed at the ease with which words could pass through their heads, languages transformed into well-known expressions.
"And about your living arrangements," Guruji continued while adjusting his shawl.
"My student will assist you." He paused dramatically before adding gravely: "Your identities must change; I shall introduce you as travellers who have journeyed far beyond the great Himalayas."
The air thickened around them as they processed this revelation—a potential for new beginnings mixed with lingering fears about what awaited them in this strange world.
"I can only help you with this. Aside from that, you must conduct your own searches. Remember your duty! With that, you can choose if you want to stay or go back. I only want to remind you that with your arrival, we have entered a parallel world. This arrival will change the original plot of the novel as well as the world's history. It's not just a story in books, despite what you might think. It is when taken from of actual history; however, it has been modified to the author's taste to make it more appealing. You may not have heard of this kingdom as it is a small sub-kingdom under the Rajput kingdom that will eventually be invaded by foreign invaders and captured. Thus, you can't entirely depend on the storyline of this book. Not everything you see is accurate, and some of it is fake. Everything exists for a purpose. With this, you have to decide how to bring the guilty to court and ensure that the victim receives justice. This concludes the matter." Guruji let out a deep sigh to conclude.
His words hung heavy between them as he led them out of the cave and into daylight that flooded over their senses like an awakening dream.
"Now, It's a time that you all meet the protagonist of the story." Guruji mumbled softly in his heart as he exited the cave.
The forest that surrounded them was incredibly colourful; in contrast to the noise of Udaipur, birds sang sweetly overhead and leaves murmured secrets beneath their feet. The magic of the twelfth century surrounded them like a reassuring shawl, even if they had been feeling the weight of the journey to get here. The singsong of the birds danced around them, seemingly urging them to explore this colourful world, and the crisp air filled their lungs, relieving them of the cares of modernity.
Guruji's words echoed in their minds, reminding them of the responsibility resting on their shoulders. This was not just an adventure; it felt monumental and fateful. "With your arrival, we are in a parallel world now. This arrival will change the original plot of the story and world's history..."
They eventually made their way out of the forest. they arrived at a small hut nestled among wildflowers swaying gently in harmony with nature's song. They walked closer, over a narrow road filled with stones worn smooth by the passage of time.
Soon they heard the rhythmic clatter of bull-cart wheels echoing closer and they turned just in time to see a handsome, steady young man guiding the cart with a sense of purpose. His posture radiated strength and confidence, yet there was a softness in his gaze as he approached. His gaze lingered curiously upon each newcomer until settling on Guruji himself.
After stopping Infront of them. The young man dismounted gracefully before touching his hands reverently against Guruji's feet—the act imbued with respect steeped in tradition—and greeted him warmly.
" Khammaghani, Guruji " he greeted, folding his hands together in a respectful manner, a gesture that seemed second nature to him. There was a warmth in his voice, indicative of a learned man with deep respect for traditions, yet his eyes were alight with curiosity as they roved over the newcomers, searching for understanding.
"Arjun," Guruji said with a knowing smile, "It's good you came on time." His pride in this young man was evident.
"Meet Arjun Dev Singh," Guruji announced proudly. "This is my student whom I have taught at Gurukul."
As if struck by lightning's sudden brilliance, Naina's breath caught in her throat while Aarav exchanged worried glances with Dhruvi and Tara—their expressions transformed into masks etched with disbelief upon hearing Arjun's full name echoing within the air once more.
Each sibling's eyes flashed with recognition, bringing back memories of whispers that they had read about Arjun Dev Singh being the fourth wife's eldest son. They never anticipated running into a major character in the story or being labelled as villains at such an early stage.
With a sweeping gesture toward the four siblings still processing this unexpected encounter, Guruji introduced them: "Meet Naina, Aarav, Dhruv, and Tara—the doctors who have traveled from behind these great mountains seeking knowledge to aid our people." He continued without hesitation despite their obvious shock at Arjun's identity.
Yet amidst this revelation lay another mystery—the knowledge that Guruji possessed about them. How did he know their names? They hadn't introduced themselves or spoken aloud any titles that would reveal their professions. A shroud of intrigue enveloped them; questions brewed beneath layers of astonishment.
With that arjun turn to face four newcomers. He also notice their reaction Yet he remained unfazed by their surprise; instead, he observed them closely—as if reading stories written upon their faces.
After Getting caught from Arjun Gaze. They made their expression neutral. Arjun initiated the with polite greeting with joined hand and Slight nod "Khammaghani ji, You're very much welcome to our Rajvanshgarh Kingdom. May your journey here be good."
They exchanged awkward smiles laden with uncertainty but returned similar gestures—folding hands before him instinctively; it felt natural despite the strangeness surrounding this momentous encounter.
Naina responded almost unconsciously in Prakrit language: "Thank you! We are very happy to be here." The words flowed effortlessly from her lips even though she hadn't expected such fluency; astonishment flickered across her face for just an instant before she masked it.
The fluency astounded not just Naina but also Aarav, Dhruvi and Tara. They were also pleased that they would be able to communicate in this manner. For them, the language was genuinely enjoyable. The Prakrit language has a gentle tone that carries the knowledge and traditions of old. Its expression resonates with the spirit of a bygone period, bearing a feeling of simplicity and purity. It's like a soft breeze carrying the aroma of a bygone era, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of its words and interpretations.
Arjun's eyebrow briefly lifted; surprise danced within those depths that had previously been lit only by curiosity about these newcomers wearing unfamiliar garments that contrasted sharply against the earthy tones worn by villagers around him. However, he quickly shifted away so that remaining too long betray manners practiced since childhood among nobles accustomed not just to seeing but also to understanding others' spaces, especially those of females, which are deeply defined by proper etiquette.
"What I didn't expect," Arjun admitted slowly after regaining composure once more focusing intently on Naina's gaze brimming now not merely with warmth but something deeper still hidden beneath layers waiting patiently for revelation "was for you all to be fluent in Prakrit language."
Even though her heart was racing from the scrutiny, she managed to respond with some grace: "In our kingdom, we received prakriti teachings from our guru. Additionally, learning multiple languages is crucial for communication, particularly for travel physicians, as it promotes stronger bonds."
With a nod of appreciation, Arjun's mind whirled with ideas, similar to leaves in fall caught in an invisible tornado. He was astounded at how this vibrant woman embodied knowledge.
then continue to look towards Guruji. Guruji inform arjun "These are the people whom I was talking about who will stay with us. You need to take care of them as I won't be coming here frequently."
"However, before you all go back to the Suryapur village, I have something to discuss with Arjun," Guruji added, then he motioned for the four of the travellers to go inside the hut. "You all can freshen up now. There's water, a towel, and some fruits inside for you to enjoy, after that we all can go back to village " he called out, the warmth of his voice enveloping the traveller like a comforting blanket.
Then motioning for Arjun to follow him to a majestic banyan tree that stood tall at the edge of the clearing. The tree's sprawling roots and wide canopy offered a much-needed shade, providing a comforting space for their conversation.
Once there, Arjun felt the weight of Guruji's gaze, a mixture of understanding and expectation. "They are very good people," Guruji said, a soft smile playing on his lips. "You don't need to worry about them."
Arjun shifted uncomfortably, his trust issues flaring up like a flickering flame. In an environment where betrayal was commonplace—where family ties could turn sinister—it was hard for him to open up his heart. "I don't judge your decision, Guruji," he began, his voice steady yet shy. "I have faith in you. It's just my...wrong thinking that made you feel like I don't trust them."
Bowing his head in shame, Arjun felt exposed, knowing he had been caught in his internal dilemma. Guruji chuckled softly, his laughter like a cool breeze on a warm day. "I know you better than anyone here. Do you really think I don't know what you're thinking? The scrutiny you put upon them, from top to bottom? But I can assure you, they are not bad people."
Hesitantly, Arjun looked up, curiosity piqued by Guruji's words. "However, if you ever feel they are doing something wrong—if your instincts tell you to question their intentions—don't hesitate to confront them. But for now, they are our guests. They don't have many clothes, so provide them some."
A wave of determination washed over Arjun, who swiftly interrupted his mentor. "Don't worry, Guruji. I've already arranged for the necessary groceries," he said, recalling the supplies he had prepared in anticipation of their arrival. "You mentioned there would be a few people joining us, so I made sure to stock up on everything we'd need. They can stay in the old house you left empty, right?"
A spark of gratitude lit up Guruji's face as he nodded. "That's great to hear. And about the clothes..."
Arjun interrupted once more, a newfound confidence surging within him. "I'll find some clothes for them. You don't need to worry, I will take care of them."
Guruji placed a hand on Arjun's shoulder. "That's the spirit! Just remember, Arjun, trust is built a little at a time. You don't have to let your guard down completely, but kindness can be a bridge you build toward understanding and acceptance."
"Thank you, Guruji." Arjun felt the burden of his hesitation lifting, if only slightly.
Then they both began to walk back toward the hut.
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