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☞ Some of the words I have used in this chapter:

•Beta( son)
•Dadi sa ( grandmother)
•Vijayi bhav (a blessing to succeed)
•Alvida (bye)

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King Vikramaditya stood before the ornate mirror in his chambers, scrutinizing every detail of his reflection. His usual regal attire had been replaced by a simple, earth-toned tunic and pants, fitting for a humble servant. His beard was trimmed to a modest length, adjusting the simple servant's attire that concealed his true identity.

"Remember, Vikram, you're not the king now," Sidharth said while looking at him through the reflection in the mirror."Keep your wits about you and your eyes open."

Vikramaditya nodded, his gaze scanning the room to ensure nothing revealed his true status. "I'll gather information on Chandrapura's defenses, trade routes, and weaknesses. We'll use this knowledge to our advantage."

" Everything is ready", Sidharth said, while  handling him a small pouch containing gold coins and a forged letter of introduction and a false identity. "This will gain you entry into Chandrapura's service. Be cautious; King Chandradeva's men are loyal and vigilant."

Vikramaditya's expression remained cold, his eyes narrowing. "Remember, Sidharth, my identity must remain hidden."
Sidharth's concern was evident. "But, Vikram, the risks—"

Vikramaditya's gaze silenced him. "I'll handle myself, Sidharth. Ensure Pratapgarh's borders are secure during my absence."

Vikramaditya tucked the pouch into his belt, his expression resolute. "I'll return with the knowledge we need to conquer Chandrapura."

With a final glance at his reflection, Vikramaditya transformed into a humble servant.

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Vikramaditya's footsteps echoed through the palace corridors as he made his way to his Dadi Sa's chambers. The intricate marble floor gleamed in the soft light of the diyas and masal placed on the pillars

He passed by the guards, their heads bowing in respect.
"Maharaj," they whispered. Vikramaditya nodded, his gaze fixed ahead. The doors to Dadi Sa's chambers swung open, revealing a warm, golden glow. Vikramaditya entered, his eyes adjusting to the soft light. Dadi Sa sat on a plush couch, her silver hair shining in the lamplight. Her eyes, though wrinkled, sparkled with warmth.

"Vikram, beta," she said, her voice gentle. Vikramaditya
approached, his footsteps quiet on the carpet. "Dadi Sa" he said, his voice low. With a gentle smile, Dadi Sa extended her hands.  "Vikram beta, what brings you here?" Dadi Sa said.

Vikramaditya's gaze met hers. "Dadi Sa, I leave for Chandrapura tonight. A mission of utmost importance.".       Dadi Sa's eyes narrowed. "Chandrapura? That kingdom is treacherous. Be cautious, beta." Vikramaditya's face softened. "I promise, Dadi Sa, I'll return victorious. Your blessings are my strength." Vikramaditya knelt, his forehead touching her feet "Aapka aashirwaad, Dadi Sa,"he said, his voice filled with reverence. 

"Your blessings,Dadi Sa,"

Dadi Sa's hands cradled his head, her voice barely above a whisper."Vijayi bhav". As Vikramaditya rose, Dadi Sa's gaze searched his. "Chandrapura ki rah mein mushkilayein hain, beta,"

"There are difficulties on the way to Chandrapura, beta,"

she said, concern etched on her face. Vikramaditya's expression softened.

"Main wapas aaunga, Dadi Sa. Chandrapura ko jeetkar."

"I will come back after, conquering Chandrapura dadi sa."

Dadi Sa's eyes shone with pride. "Tumhein apna khayal rakhna hoga, tum Pratapgarh ka bhavishya ho Vikram"

"You have to take care of yourself, you are the future of Pratapgarh, Vikram"

Vikramaditya nodded. "I promise, Dadi Sa." With a gentle peck on her forehead, Vikramaditya rose, his eyes locked onto hers.

Dadi Sa's gaze followed him as he departed.

Outside, Sidharth awaited, his eyes scanning the horizon. "Alvida, Sidharth," Vikramaditya said, his voice firm. Sidharth's arms enveloped Vikramaditya in a tight hug. "Best of luck, Vikram. Return soon." Vikramaditya's expression remained cold, but his voice hinted at emotion. "I will." As Sidharth released him, Vikramaditya boarded the sail.

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Vikramaditya stood at the bow of the sail, his gaze fixed on the horizon. The wind whipped his hair into a frenzy, but his eyes remained steadfast.

Thoughts swirled in his mind like the eddies in the river. "Chandrapura, the kingdom of riches. Soon, it will be mine."

The moonlight reflection upon his skin, its shine, brightening his fair skin colour in the dark night yet his mind was filled with the fire, a reminder of the hunger that burned within hm.

As the sail navigated the gentle waves, Vikramaditya's thoughts turned to his plan. "Infiltrate, gather intelligence, and return to Pratapgarh.

The conquest will begin." The sky above was velvety black, with the wind flowing, gently moving the waves more.

Vikramaditya's eyes narrowed. "Chandradeva's weakness is his trust in others. I will exploit that.

" Te air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, carried on the breeze.
Vikramaditya's mind remained untouched by the beauty surrounding him. His focus was singular.

"Chandrapura's fortifications are renowned. I must find a weakness." As the sail glided across the water, Vikramaditya's thoughts turned to his disguise.

"Vikram, the humble servant. No one will suspect a thing."

The wind picked up, causing the sail to billow. Vikramaditya's grip on the bow tightened.
"I will not fail. Chandrapura will fall. Vikramaditya's resolve hardened.
"Tonight, I will enter Chandrapura. Tomorrow, my conquest begins." Stars began to twinkle in the night sky. Vikramaditya's eyes shone with determination.

"Chandrapura, prepare for your new ruler."

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Let's see what happens in Chandrapura~

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