The journey toward the Palace began. Ordinarily, one man or woman rode a single horse—but here were Prince Ashok and Princess Dhara sharing one.
Ashok grinned, holding the Princess’s hand while also controlling the reins. Dhara blushed and smiled. With every step the horse took, the Prince’s touch grew more intimate, and the Princess closed her eyes slightly, surrendering to the sensation.
No one spoke; no one wished to disturb the couple’s sweetness—until the youngest brother decided otherwise.
“I didn’t know the people of the North West were so bold,” he said, referring to the Princess.
Dhara smiled to herself—it was the very line she had once used for the Amartyans.
“Yes, I agree. And now the world knows,” the elder brother added.
The King rode ahead, smiling quietly, listening wi
