Chapter No.25 Sending Invitations

[Aditya's POV]

"So...You were asleep for one and half day, because you were exhausted from the journey from Panchala to here and fighting Ashvasena in between. Am I correct?" Siddharth said as he picked the herbal tea with his steady hands, taking a sip while maintaining eye contact with me. The look in his eyes was a blend of skepticism and hidden amusement, clearly not buying my half-hearted excuse.

"Yes, that's right," I said, feigning an innocent smile. "The trip was exhausting, and Ashvasena put up quite a fight. You know how these battles can drain a man."

Siddharth raised an eyebrow, setting down his cup slowly. "I see," he said, drawing out the words, his gaze never leaving mine. "And your, let's say, 'companion'—did she also partake in this exhausting journey, or did she have a different sort of adventure entirely?"

I felt a twitch in my cheek as I tried to maintain a straight face, but Draupadi's presence behind me didn't make it any easier. Her eyes were glued to me with a stare that could be best described as disturbingly affectionate. She stood there like a sentinel, her arms lightly wrapped around my waist, and I could feel the possessive warmth radiating from her.

"She, uh, helped in her own way," I said, choosing my words carefully. "Let's just say she was my moral support throughout the ordeal."

Draupadi's grip on me tightened slightly, her fingers digging into my sides as she buried her face in my back, a low giggle escaping her lips. "I'm always here for you, Hubby," she whispered, but it was loud enough for Siddharth to hear. Her tone was sweet, but there was an underlying edge to it—a promise that anyone who threatened our bond wouldn't live to tell the tale.

Siddharth's lips twitched in what could almost be called a smirk, his eyes flicking briefly to Draupadi before returning to me. "I see that your 'moral support' is quite... thorough," he said, his voice dripping with dry amusement. "It's good to have someone so devoted by your side."

"Yes, thorough indeed," I replied, unable to keep a hint of irony out of my voice. "I'm fortunate to have her with me."

Draupadi, still clinging to me, let out another soft giggle that sounded far too pleased. She looked at Siddharth, her eyes narrowing slightly as if silently warning him not to pry too deeply into our relationship. The message was clear: Aditya is mine, and any curiosity about us would not be tolerated lightly.

Siddharth wisely chose to drop the topic, raising his teacup in a half-toast. "Well, to strong alliances and... enduring partnerships," he said with a knowing look. "May they remain unbroken."

I inclined my head slightly, acknowledging the unspoken agreement between us. "To enduring partnerships," I echoed, giving Draupadi's hand a gentle squeeze, which made her smile widen even further, her earlier intensity replaced by a sickly sweet adoration.

Cough! Cough!

Hearing the Foster Father's awkward coughs, I separated, albeit reluctantly, from Draupadi's tight embrace, her fingers still lingering on my skin as though reluctant to let go. The intensity in her eyes softened slightly, but the possessive gleam never entirely faded. I gave her a reassuring smile, silently promising that her devotion was not overlooked.

Siddharth cleared his throat once more, regaining his composure as he sat across from us, his gaze switching between Draupadi and me. The tension in the room was palpable, but he wisely decided not to press any further about our "relationship."

"Aditya," he began in a more measured tone, "Your coronation will be held at the end of this month, which leaves us ten days to send invitations and preparations for the ceremony. It is essential that we handle everything with utmost care and precision, given the political significance of this event. The alliances we establish and the impressions we leave will set the stage for the future of our rule."

I nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Of course, Father. I will do everything in my power to ensure that the preparations proceed smoothly. This is a pivotal moment for all of us."

Siddharth gave a satisfied nod, but his eyes still held a trace of concern. "I trust you will. However, we must be cautious, Aditya. Not everyone will welcome your rise to power with open arms. As you were hidden till now, many nobles will voice their discontent. I'm already receiving requests from the nobles to meet you, I assume they want to gauge your character like if you are easy to be manipulated in their schemes or someone who could threaten their interest."

"Don't worry Father-in-law, I would like to see them try~" Draupadi chimed in, her voice bright with a mischievous lilt that sent a slight chill down my spine. Her eyes gleamed with a mix of excitement and menace, hinting at the depths of her obsession with me.

"Uh-huh," I replied, trying to maintain a lighthearted tone, but the intensity of her gaze reminded me that she wasn't just playfully joking. The way she spoke, with such unwavering confidence, hinted at her willingness to do whatever it took to protect what she considered hers.

Siddharth cleared his throat again, his expression neutral, but I could see the amusement beneath the surface. "That... will be a show worth watching, but I want to see Aditya handle those pigs. As a new king, he should be capable of handling such matters on his own. I know he will not disappoint, but the assistance of a certain fiery companion could be a double-edged sword."

Draupadi turned to me, her expression filled with mischief. "Oh, don't worry, Hubby! I won't intervene unless it's absolutely necessary. I want to see how you handle your first challenge as king." Her voice dripped with excitement, a mix of pride and an underlying darkness that sent a shiver down my spine.

I gave her a lopsided grin, both amused and slightly wary. "Thanks for the vote of confidence, Wifey. I'll do my best to impress you," I said, trying to lighten the mood. Deep down, I knew I would have to navigate a fine line between asserting my authority and not triggering Draupadi's more violent tendencies.

Siddharth observed us with a knowing look, the corners of his mouth twitching as if he were holding back laughter. "Just remember, Aditya, being a king isn't just about power. It's about strategy, patience, and knowing when to act. There will be plenty of opportunities for you to prove yourself, but tread carefully."

I nodded, absorbing his advice. "I understand, Father. I will take the time to assess the situation before acting. No rash decisions."

"Good," Siddharth said, satisfied. "Now, we need to discuss the details of the coronation ceremony. The guest list is crucial; I will handle everything and I wanted to know who you want to give the first invitation parchment?"

Just as I heard the question and thought about who to send the first invitation to which is super important in our culture, only one face came to my mind.

"Send it to Dwarkadhish Vasudeva Shri Krishna with the utmost respect and regard," I said firmly, envisioning the blue-skinned deity whose wisdom and charm could illuminate the darkest corners of our kingdom. "His presence alone would be enough to encourage many of the nobles to support my ascension, not to mention the symbolic weight his attendance would carry."

Draupadi leaned closer, her eyes sparkling with admiration at my choice. "A wise decision, Hubby! Krishna's guidance will be invaluable, and his ability to sway hearts is legendary." Her voice was soft but filled with an intensity that made my skin prickle.

Siddharth nodded thoughtfully, his gaze now more serious. "Sending an invitation to Dwarkadhish is not just a sign of respect; it signals to the other nobles that you are aligned with the Dharma itself. His presence will undoubtedly tip the scales in your favour, Aditya," he said, a slight smile creeping onto his face. "You are already showing the makings of a king who understands the weight of alliances and the significance of divine support."

"Hahaha~ I am just that awesome~" I grinned, enjoying the moment. Draupadi's delighted laughter echoed in the room, a sound that was equal parts intoxicating and unsettling, reminding me once again of her complex nature.

"But, Hubby," Draupadi said, her voice suddenly low and serious, "you should also consider who might oppose you at this event. Not everyone will be happy with your ascension, and some might see Krishna's attendance as a threat." Her eyes narrowed slightly, the sweet facade slipping for just a moment, revealing the yandere lurking beneath.

I swallowed hard, realizing that while her devotion was comforting, it could also manifest into something dangerous if provoked. "I'll keep that in mind," I replied, attempting to project confidence. "But I trust Krishna's wisdom will guide me, and I won't act rashly."

"Good," Siddharth interjected, his tone steady. "Your instinct to invite Krishna is strong, but be aware that aligning yourself with him means you must also embody the values he represents. You cannot merely rely on his influence; you must earn the respect of those around you."

I nodded, processing the weight of his words. "Understood, Father. I'll strive to be a ruler who embodies those ideals, not just a puppet on strings."

Draupadi beamed at me, a proud light in her eyes. "That's the spirit, Hubby! Show them who you really are. Let them know you won't be easily swayed or manipulated."

Her enthusiasm was infectious, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of determination. If I wanted to succeed in this new role, I needed to be sharp, strategic, and unyielding.

"Then anyone else who you want to send special invitations to?" Siddharth asked, his expression thoughtful as he considered the significance of each invitation.

I took a moment to ponder, realizing the importance of strategic alliances through the guest list. "Oh! Right, send one to Pitamaha Bhishma as he is... our saviour. And one to my in-laws."

Siddharth raised an eyebrow at my mention of Bhishma, his expression a mix of respect and curiosity. "Bhishma? An excellent choice. His presence will not only lend weight to the ceremony but also serve as a reminder of our family's legacy and the virtues we uphold."

Draupadi's face lit up at the mention of her grandfather. "Pitamaha will bring a level of honor and gravitas to the event. Plus, his wisdom can be a guiding light for you, Hubby!" Her pride in her lineage was palpable, and I couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm.

"Yes, and as for your in-laws," Siddharth continued, adjusting his glasses as he looked over some notes on the table. "Are you considering sending invitations to Draupadi's side just because It might be wise to keep a broader net to ensure a united front?"

I thought for a moment. "No, they are Drauapadis's family and we should highlight their importance to them. Their presence will show that I'm not just welcoming my new responsibilities but embracing the bonds that come with them."

Siddharth nodded approvingly. "That's a thoughtful approach. It's vital to cultivate relationships and acknowledge the support system that will help solidify your rule. The balance of power, as you know, often lies in the shadows of family ties."

Draupadi squeezed my hand in affirmation, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "You're really thinking this through, Hubby! I knew you were going to be a fantastic king." Her voice was a mix of pride and that undercurrent of possessiveness that made my heart race.

And just like that, we spent the entire noon deciding who to send invitations to and who not to.

Tried and excited about what I was going to do, I went to the royal gardens... alone, if you want to know.

To do the thing I wanted to do for some time...

.

..

...

[To Be Continue]

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