Lotus among the Roses

Peace of heart

As Meera approached Kumud, her elegant demeanor exuded a sense of regal poise, yet her eyes shimmered with genuine warmth and gratitude. She paused before Kumud, her gaze sweeping over her with an admiring glance that spoke volumes of her astonishment at Kumud's beauty and bravery.

"Miss Kumud? " Meera began, her voice tinged with awe and admiration. " Oh! What a divine beauty you are!" Her words devoid of flattery, but filled with genuine admiration for her.

 "I am truly grateful for your courageous actions. You have not only saved my son but also brought light to our darkest hour. You are the epitome of beauty and strength, and I cannot thank you enough." Meera said, holding Kumud's hand tenderly.

Kumud met Meera's gaze with a sense of humility and grace, her heart swelling with emotion at the princess consort's words. "Your Highness, it was my duty and honor to assist in any way I could," she replied, her voice soft yet resolute. "I am just thankful that I was able to be of service to you. "

Vikram too bowed down to Third Princess Consort Meera and Third Prince Raghavendra, as he said in gratitude," We are thankful to you your highness. It was my sister Kumud's fortune to be able to help you."

"What? Miss Kumud is your sister?" Meera gasped.

Meera's eyes widened in surprise as she learned of Kumud's familial ties to Commander Vikram and Keshav Gupta, her astonishment evident in the subtle arch of her brow and the slight parting of her lips. 

"You are Commander Vikram's sister, Miss Kumud ?" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with disbelief. 

"And Keshav Gupta's daughter? I had no idea."

Raghavendra, standing beside his wife, nodded in confirmation, his expression grave yet tinged with a sense of helplessness at his dear wife's excitement. "Indeed, my love," he said, his voice resonating with authority and conviction. 

He held his son tighter as he moved towards his wife, and saids slowly,  "Miss Kumud Gupta comes from a distinguished lineage, one that is known for its valor and integrity."

Meera laughed, and moved towards Ketki as she talked to her about recent happenings in the capital.

Vikram and Third Prince Raghavendra were busy talking to each other as well.

Just then, Meera turned her head towards the silent Kumud. 

As Meera's gaze lingered on Kumud, she couldn't help but notice the flicker of emotion that passed across her features, a subtle hint of sadness and longing that belied her outward composure. 

Sensing Kumud's unease, Meera reached out a hand to gently touch her arm, her eyes filled with sympathy and understanding.

"Is everything alright, Miss Kumud ?" Meera asked, her voice soft and reassuring. "You seem...disturbed."

Kumud's heart clenched at the concern in Meera's voice, her mind racing with conflicting emotions as she struggled to maintain her composure. 

"I...I am fine, Your Highness," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

 "It's just...the events of today have stirred up memories from the past, memories that I had long buried."

Meera's eyes softened with empathy as she nodded in understanding, her hand squeezing Kumud's arm in a silent gesture of support. "I understand," she said, her voice filled with compassion. 

"If there is anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to ask."

As the tension eased between them, Kumud felt a sense of gratitude wash over her, a fleeting moment of connection and understanding that transcended the boundaries of status and station.