Prahsatha had not used his mage magic for years. He hoped he was getting it right, a small trickle of light escaped from his finger. It forked through the air and merged into Toshani's head stopping the blood flow.Screeeeeeeeeh........Prahsatha turned instinctively at the source of the noise. His hand reaching for his dagger automatically.A red and blue bird as big as a turkey had just landed nearby. Its yellow eyes glowed like embers."Phoenix!" Prahsatha furrowed his brows.The bird screeched again."I never thought we would meet again Prahsatha," Shrushaw said as she leaned against a tree, “that too in these circumstances".Prahsatha was immediately on his feet, his broadsword gleaming in his hands. Everything happened at lightning speed.Shrushaw gave a wry smile and walked ahead towards him. She had not changed at all. Though her robe was a bit disheveled due to the blood and soot covering it. A few strands of hair had escaped her intricate bun. But otherwise, she was as pristi

It had been six months since Rudra had arrived at the citadel. Six months since he had last communicated with Toshani or anyone in the outside world.He had to follow a strict lifestyle like a monk. Though that did not stop him from daydreaming about Toshani, the things he would do with her when they would finally meet.

4 years later - Maya - I walked through the thick shrubs, careful to avoid tripping over exposed roots of a huge banyan tree.I am on a mission. The cool fall wind gently blew my dress against me, the dry leaves crunched beneath my boots as I walked down the dirt road. I adjusted the bow that was slung across my shoulder and pulled a bottle from my satchel. I made my way to a nearby stream to quench my thirst and soak my aching feet. The stream was still and clear, the afternoon sun shining off it in such a way that the water acted as a perfect mirror. I took a moment to admire my reflection.My dark hair was pulled up in a ponytail. I have high cheekbones, full lips, pointed nose and violet eyes.People in the village say I am strikingly beautiful. That could be because I look different from them. The mountain people here have smaller, mongo lid features. I am taller than average women here, I have sun-kissed skin and sharp features.I get asked out a lot by the village lads and the

He smiled and brushed his thumb lightly on her cheeks.Navya smiled shyly at his gesture."It is getting late my Lord and we both have an early morning tomorrow. Perhaps, we should retire to our bedchamber?" She said in a husky voice.

Rudra has been wandering around in the fair for hours. He had become proficient in sneaking out of the palace comforts, ever since.......He brushed aside the thought. He was dressed like a common person, baggy pants, and sleeveless tunic. A leather boots and belt completed his look. He also had a hidden dagger