#devika:ashir

[bloodycrxwn]

Closed starter for @dxncingxnmyown ( Ashir Singh )

Devika had been worried the entire time she was at the palace, with what might be happening out there. Those were some long days, without any news of what the search party was facing out there or if they were even safe. And then the whole drama with the imposter guards keeping people hostage, it was too much for her to deal with. Although, as soon as she heard of their return, Devika came to the entrance of the palace in search of her future husband. "Ashir." She called out when she saw him, noticing the burns on his body. "Oh my God, are you well? We need to get you to a physician, someone to treat those wounds."

[bloodycrxwn]

"I've never been one for politics, you know this. But I can promise you that I would do everything to assure that your people are thriving." She knew that if they were to get married, if she was to become his Queen, then his people would also become her people. And while she had been raised in same hatred as the rest of her family, her love for Ashir was far more important than any past conflict between their nations. "It could be, all it takes is for people to open their minds, to let go of that hatred. It might start with us." She shrugged her shoulders. Maybe things wouldn't get solved now, maybe not in many years, but maybe their example could be a starting point.

A sigh escaped her lips as she nodded her head. Devika was well aware of her sister's conversation with Ashir, she had made it perfectly clear to her. After all, she had even threatened to lock her in her chambers, all to avoid her meeting with Ashir. "She threatened to lock me up in my chambers, Ashir. All so that I couldn't see you. I ... I don't think she will change her mind. If anything, she'll just hate me even more for marrying you." She looked down, shaking her head slightly at the thought. She had never wanted to upset her family, but she was tired of sacrificing herself for them, for her country. It was time she did something for herself, for her happiness. "We can hope that she'll come around, but I wouldn't hold my breath on it."

Devika stood up from her seat, standing face to face with him. She smiled up at him, there was not a doubt in her mind, this was exactly what she wanted for the rest of her life. "I will do whatever it takes to be with you, my love." She leaned up, closer to him before pressing her lips against his, not a care in the world about who might be watching them.

"You could do more for my country, than advisors and politicians realize." It's taken time for Ashir to see the potential, too. Far too enraptured in the old think, of his father's world, to see his love for Devika as his own personal indulgence. But if Ashir stepped beyond his Pakistani pride, he could see it. His and Devika's marriage could be the future of their countries. "It is naive, perhaps... But in a perfect world, our marriage could be an example of love and peace." After all, if a man and a woman from opposing nations could choose love, who's to say their people wouldn't? Still - it is a dream, for now. Yet if he is to pursue this life, he cannot do so in half-measures. He cannot believe in Devika, without believing in his people.

His lips form into a frown, conflicted by Devika's words of honesty. His sister gave him grief and her righteous rage. But never once did Ashir doubt her love, or her ability to see past this. "She had words with me, prior to that night. Your sister warned me to stay away, to keep my distance." How odd it was, to defend Maahi after her words. Yet Devika's expression is motivation enough, to free her from the sadness. "It is possible that she was taken aback by it. Or insulted by my disrespect." He does not intend to play the martyr, and he comes up to his feet, so that he may stand before Devika with honest eyes. "I was as unkind to her, as she was to me." Ashir admits in earnest. "But I do not plan to judge her on her worse days, and I hope she will do the same."

Ashir takes both her hands in his, gently pulling her up from her seat. Standing before her, he emits a thoughtful smile. "Then let us do what it takes." And uncaring of who, or what, bore witness to it. He leans forward, lips brushing against her - proud and unashamed, of the way he feels about her.

[bloodycrxwn]

Closed starter for @dxncingxnmyown ( Ashir Singh )

They didn't have to hide anymore and that was a welcoming change for Devika. There were those that still judged their love, mostly among their own people but at this point, they could not care less. And it was so freeing, being able to show everyone that Ashir was the love of her life and that she wanted nothing more than to marry him. Devika had sent a note to him, through one of her most trusted handmaidens, to meet her at the vineyards. It was a more secluded place, where they would be able to enjoy each other's company without the chaos and noise from the races. She sat alone on one of the benches, watching her surroundings and waiting for her lover to arrive.

[bloodycrxwn]

"Maybe, if my sibling was truly happy with you. I believe in change and I believe that we shouldn't hate each other based on what happened in the past. Shouldn't we try and be better?" She asked with a shrug. As much hate as there was between them, shouldn't them joining forces be a good thing? Working together instead of against each other, stop killing each other over conflicts from the past. Devika shrugged her shoulders. "I can't tell you for certain, I hope so. I hope they'll choose to be happy for me. It's hard to tell." A smile spread across her lips at her words, they both had managed to find love together in a time of war, bonded over their common interests, when they had no idea who each other really was. It happened so naturally, like it was meant to be. Devika let out a sigh. "I know what it means to marry Ashir. And I know the responsibilities that come with it. I made this promise to him already, I'll make it to you as well. When we marry, when I become his Queen, Pakistan will be my country. The people of Pakistan will be my people and I will do everything in my power to be the Queen they deserve. I will look out for them and help them thrive." She paused. "I love your brother, I will love his people too."

“ If the roles reversed, would you be as willing to proceed as I am? “ It was an honest question, her head tilting slightly. Firmly Haspira still believed India would not budge; that her efforts would, in the end, be in vain. “ I know so very little of your family. Are they going to be in any way receptive to this little scheme of yours && my brother? “ She had some fear she would be allowing an ambush. That it was a trick, a trap… and she’s walked into it. Suspicious clouded a dark gaze, a wall thicker than ever. As Devika spoke, though, sharing && shedding light in such a subtle way to the inside of her heart… it was hard not to give way, just a bit. Haspira smiled. “ You sound like Ashir, or how he used to be. “ It was a truthful sentiment, though he’d not volunteered, but had been a leader. It brought another question to her mind - and Haspira took a sharp breath before asking. “ You must understand why I ask this, but - your eyes, are they set on the Pakistan throne? Is it the title of Queen you seek while pursuing my brother? I enjoy knowing you are educated, you read… but I question other things. Are you ambitious? Are you a leader? “

[bloodycrxwn]

Devika kept quiet, standing next to her sister. She wanted to make her presence as small as possible, still quite embarrassed for the situation that they were found on. She wasn't ashamed of being with Ashir, she would never feel that way. But she felt embarrassed, because they were not careful and they did not plan for someone to come bursting into his chambers, their minds had been too clouded by their drunken state and lust for one another. "Excuse me." Devika said as she grabbed the dress that she had been wearing the night before and walked over to the secluded part of his chambers, where she would be able to change from the robe he had handed her back into her dress. Devika could not be seen walking around the palace with a robe, that did not belong to her.

As she came back, she heard the words coming from Ashir before nodding her head. "Thank you." Devika walked back to her sister, before turning her head to look at her. The angry and disappointed look in her face was quite obvious, but she did not regret the choice she had done, of coming with Ashir and spend the night with him. "Let's go back to our family, make sure that everyone is safe and accounted for." She felt bad enough that she wasn't there to look after them herself. And she wanted to get away from here as fast as possible. Devika turned around and started heading towards the door. @stvrdvstsx

the sort of fury that courses through her veins cannot be placed into words ( all directed towards the king ). but above it all, devika's outright lie bothers her the most, and though maahi never claims she's never speaks lies to her siblings when it's needed, however, she thinks that her sister would understand the implications of her involvement with ashir. the elder mughal princess has little care of what her siblings do in their personal affairs, but she did hope that they'd have more sense in who their involved with. their nations, their people would never accept one another. is so madly in love that she's willing to throw away her future for that king? it's the pakistani's princess' words that causes maahi to shift her gaze towards her. at least one more person in this room seems to have common sense. relieved to find that princess haspira seemed to share maahi's distaste for their siblings involvement.

she ignores the pair in bed and turns to the other princess, ❛yes, because that last thing I wish is for this to get out to my people." it's more about her protecting devika from gossip. at ashir's command, she meets his gaze with a hard one, ❛king ashir❜ she sneers at him, ❛you are hardly in a place to command me, if the mughal king knew what happened here, it would not stop him from retaliating. you ought to be grateful i'm keeping your secret.❜ she says calmly before turning to devika, she knows her previous words are harsh, but her sister needs to hear them. she knows maahi's patience is already limited with this ridiculous affair. ❛yes, our siblings are safe, though we need see to our cousins, and our the rest our people.❜

her eyes move over the pakistani royals, ❛no, we'll be fine, we have plenty guards, and i'm keeping my siblings with me.❜ it takes a great deal of effort for maahi to place this discovery aside and focus on the chaos outside. she has little care of what happens to most, but now with her family and her in-laws to be in question, she is forced to take up more allies, be it these people. ashir's offer of protecting them, be it for devika irritates her further, of course, but she cannot trun down help especially if it's her family's safety. ❛common enemy indeed, but if you ask me, i'm certain this is less of france's enemy, and more likely one of of their own. the french radicals? are we to assume they've rest their efforts? i'll send our guards if you need them, for my sister's sake.❜ she says to princess haspira, only briefly glancing at the male in the room.

next reply @classiqcals

[bloodycrxwn]

Next Reply: @stvrdvstsx

With each word spoken by her sister, it felt like a knife was driven into her heart. It was wrong in her sister's eyes, she knew that, but it didn't feel at all wrong to her. Maybe it was still the alcohol in her system or being so intimate with him again after such a long time, but she didn't regret what happened in the slightest. Even if she disappointed her sister and she now hated her, Devika finally felt happy, positive emotions that she hadn't felt in a very long time. Devika sat on the bed, sheets wrapped around her body until Ashir was kind enough to come to her defense and placing a robe around her. "Thank you." It was a whisper, as she tied the robe around her body before standing up from the bed as well. Losing the warmth of the sheets and his touch immediately made her miss it, wanting nothing more than go back to where they were a few minutes ago, before they were interrupted.

Devika walked around the table and approached the window as well, standing next to Ashir as she looked out. She wasn't lying, Versailles was burning, she wondered what had happened. It reminded her of a battlefield, she only hoped that there weren't any casualties or anyone who got too injured. Devika turned around to face her sister, for the first time since she had arrived in the room. "Is our family safe? And the rest of our contingent?" She asked her. Devika felt guilty, not for doing what she had done, but for not being there when it happened. And for worrying her family, she had never meant to do that but she also didn't think an attack would happen either. No one was supposed to find out about this, in the morning, they would go back to being their lonely selves, stealing glances from one another across a room and wishing for a love that was impossible. Devika shook her head as she turned around to look at Ashir. "No, I do not wish you bother any longer, you should make sure your people is safe, I'll do the same with mine."

Next Reply: @bloodycrxwn

When it rains, it pours, and Ashir can scarcely comprehend the gravity of Hapsira's words when the doors part once more. It is an unforgettable face of rage and distrust. One that, just mere hours ago, impressed upon Ashir the threat of his love on the neighboring nations. He is already moving, militant in action despite the humiliation. A hand reaching for his robe on the nearby chair, and quickly ushering it over Devika's shoulders. "That's enough." He gripes to Devika's defense, eyes blazing in scathing admonishment. He's heard many a vulgar word in battle, but Maahi speaks of their intimacy with such filth that makes his blood boil. Ashir reaches for his trousers, brisk and shameless as he slips them on urgently. His bare feet on the floor, rushing to the window. My god - Versailles is burning.

"What of our contingent? Is everyone accounted for?" He asks Haspira, with the practiced urgency of children raised in war. There is never time for hysterics or theatrics. They move into swift action, and at this moment, Ashir thinks only of his people. A small voice in his head, taunting and cold; did you think of your people when you fell in love with an Indian Princess? "We were discreet, if that is what you mean." He says, quieter and almost apologetic in the face of his twin. He knew the meaning laced in her words, and for all his love, there is guilt that settles. Is this what a Maharaja would do? "They may not recover from this." He laments. It is one thing to scarcely win a war. Another to endanger the most powerful rulers in the world - albeit unintentionally. "And the rest of your family? Do you need protection while you locate them?" He turns to the Princesses. Even with Maahi's insult, his care for Devika runs too deep to let them leave without security.

[bloodycrxwn]

Deep down, Devika knew he was right, she knew that there was no possible way for them to be together. In her best dreams, she thought about a marriage between them, a marriage that would bring forth the end of the tension and hate between their countries, united together. Because, wouldn't they be stronger, if they were fighting alongside each other? Of course they would but it was necessary for people to overcome the hate, which in their case, seemed to be a big ask. "We never know what the future might bring." She paused, choosing to remain positive, among so much negativity, choosing not to lose hope because right now, it was the only thing keeping her going. "The love I have for you, right now, is the only thing keeping me alive, my love."

It was a mistake, she knew that but at the same time, it felt so right. Devika wanted to be with him and if this was the last time they would get to spend together, the last time they would get to explore each other and show how much love they have for one another, then she wished she could make it last forever. Devika held his hand tightly, looking up to him, trying to find any trace of doubt or hesitation in his tone. She couldn't find any. "Take me to your chambers and make me your's once again, because that is all I'll ever be, your's for the rest of my life." She shook her head. "You will never be my regret, no matter what others say. You're the best thing that has ever happened to me."

Love ought to be enough. It was enough to spur bravery, in the heart of the everyman. It was enough to unite a divided nation, under the rule of the empowered Singh's. Could it not be enough, to overcome thousands of years of tension and hate? His eyes flicker, dark with painful certainty. "It will never be enough." It is the only cruel thing he can say to Devika, with any semblance of truth. Love can do many things - but it cannot repair the tensions within their nations. Not even Ashir, for whom heart and fist ruled over mind and reason, could deny it. "Maybe in another lifetime, under another moon." Many philosophers spoke of a different reality. Maybe in another, they were meant to be.

And for one night, they are.

"Then I wish to listen for as long as we have." Ashir murmurs, light lips where his own kiss could bruise. It is late enough in the evening, that Haspira would be settled in her chambers (or if not, too engaged in a debate to find him). And despite the elder Sharma's threats, he is undeterred. Certain, in the way he holds her hand in his. "Come to bed with me." He utters insistently, void of subtlety. There is no subtlety between a man and a woman, as desperate as they. "I would rather be your regret, than nothing at all."

[bloodycrxwn]

Her heart belonged to him, it has from the moment they met in the border between her country and now his. The moment their eyes first locked, she knew there was no turning back. And after that, came the touches, the sweet words and promises, that both of them would come to realize later wouldn't mean much, not in their current situation. Devika does not regret it though, she would do it all over again if she could because the moments she spent with him, those little moments when they were together without a care in the world, were some of the happiest she ever experienced. And she would cherish them, for the rest of her life, even when eventually she'll get betrothed to another man, in a political union to gain an alliance for her family. Maybe it was better that way, Ashir deserved someone better, someone who could be with him without second though, someone who didn't have to worry about what their family would think of this union.

Devika couldn't help the small smile that spread across her lips as she nodded her head. "That is true, you were never one to wait for something that you wanted." And she loved that about him, how he always fought for what he wanted and what he believed him, how strong he was. She was glad he was here, deep down she was, it gave her a sense of peace, knowing that he was safe, even if it would break her heart watching him from a distance, without being able to feel his touch once more. "No." She immediately answers, maybe too quickly? Maybe, but she didn't want him thinking that she wanted to be away from him, she did not, she never wanted that. But she had to. "I thought it was a good way to clear my mind, help me mourn. With the passing of my little sister, I was not in a good place for some time, Ashir." It had seemed like everything happened so fast, all at once for her and it had reached a point when it felt like it was too much. This trip, it felt like a breath of fresh air for her. "It seems like we'll both have to get used to that." And she didn't mean that in a bad way, it would hurt certainly but just the sight of him was enough to make her smile. "I know. And I appreciate that." She paused, looking down at the floor. "Are you here for any reason in particular? Or just to make a point?" She asked with a smile, trying to strike some type of conversation with him, wanting to make this moment last for as long as she could.

He rationalizes his actions with one simple fact; there is nowhere he can go, that this love would not follow him. She could be a world away, dining in France whilst he and Haspira readied for their voyage. She could be in the heart of the Mughal Empire, whilst the young Maharaja rebuilt the war-torn parts of Pakistan. She could be anywhere and nothing would change for Ashir. So what harm could it do, to see her in the flesh? To put detail to already vivid images, lingering in his head. He should have known that the harm would come, the very moment he hears her voice. An image is one thing, a sound is another. He can hear the sadness in her voice, carrying out like a somber melody. In her, Ashir finds commonality. The only other woman, who could know his torment.

"I have never waited for an invitation in my life. I wouldn't start now." Ashir laments, in a tone that fails to be chaste. He speaks to her with such fondness, it is more visceral a display of affection than any of the sultry lovers occupying French Court. What was intimacy, compared to longing? His lips curve into a shaken smile, if only to ease the somber tension that lives between them. "Is that why you came? To be further from home, further from..." He lets his voice trail off, but she knows what he means. To be further from me. At least in France, Devika was guaranteed oceans between them. In their home, only the lands of history can keep them apart. "Then I will simply need to grow accustomed to seeing you." If he could become used to it, perhaps he could survive it. He almost misses it, but mention of her warmth pleases him. So, she did not hate him. "And I you, Princess. All I have ever longed for is your health and happiness."

[bloodycrxwn]

Devika nodded her head. The last thing she cared about right now were their titles. If they ended up having to step down from their respective titles, it didn't really matter to her, as long as they were allowed to marry and live a happy life. They would move away, somewhere in the country where they would be allowed to live in peace, where no one would knew who they were and they would get to have their little family together. "It is enough, as long as I get to call you my husband. Whatever titles we may or may not hold, they do not matter to me."

She let out a sigh when he mentioned speaking with Maahi. She didn't think it would do anything, her sister didn't seem to be able to listen to anyone. Although, she knew she meant well, she also was keeping Devika from her happiness. As much as she hated Ashir and his country, he was the one who made her happy. "I know, I know she's just trying to do what she thinks is right, but while doing that, she's hurting me more than anyone ever did. I'm so happy when I'm with you, I wish she would see that."

Devika held his hand tightly, almost as if releasing it meant that he would disappear. "Yes, I would love to stay with you there." Of course, it would've to be discussed with her family, mostly her older brother the King. "I don't know what to expect from that conversation, I'm so nervous." She sighed, looking down at the ground as she moved closer, letting her head rest against his chest.

Even in love, it is hard to separate a love for one's country. He imagines a liberation and a peace treats. A slow but certain change of heart, for those who knew only of hate for their neighboring country. But ultimately, this choice comes from a simple wish; to be man and wife. "And if you are not my Queen. If I am not your Prince. I want you to know that being your husband is enough." His arms placed around her, rocking closely with a peace he hasn't felt since they first fell in love. "We do not need to change ideas, to be happy. If it is you and I, that is enough." It is a beautiful dream, but it need not weigh on Devika's shoulders. Ashir knows now, what he is willing to part with to love her freely.

"And people also do wonderful things, for love." It is subjective, really. In her sister's eye, these actions are an act of wondrous love. And though he does not like Devika's sister, he knows what she means to her. It is enough, for Ashir to wish for respite. "I will speak to her." He says, determined. "She does not listen, because she fears the worst. Maybe it is time we appeal to something beyond what could go wrong. But what could be right." They would not be the first nation to mend a war, with a betrothal.

Glimmering with affection, he lets himself linger too long against her forehead. His hands tight in hers, determined never to let her go. With a smile, he breathes in. "Do you think, perhaps... Do you wish to stay with me, in my apartments?" It would cause a scandal, but if they are to put a fight to their families. It would start with showing just how serious they were. "After I speak with your family, I should say."

[bloodycrxwn]

Devika knew that if they had not met the way that they did, if they had not fallen so deeply in love with one another, she would most likely be in the same boat as her family, seeing them as their enemies and hating them with every fiber of her body. But she wasn't. The war had been horrible on both sides, she saw it first hand and her love for Ashir would overcome any feeling of hate she might have ever felt. "They already do." She shrugged her shoulders. "I know. But isn't our love worth trying? Strong enough to try and change how things are? Our nations would be much stronger if we were united."

"Wouldn't that have solved everything?" A small smile appeared on her lips. Devika looked at him. "Ashir, we're already betraying them. Every time we fall in bed together, every time we share a look, it would be considered a betrayal." She sighed, nodding her head, she knew he was right, but she was tired of all of it. "I'm willing to give it a try. The question is, are you?" She asked, titling her head to the side. Worse comes to worse, they would get assassinated by their people but at least they would die together, married and knowing that they did the right thing. Or at least in their eyes they did.

"Your words are appreciated, but we both know that is not how our lives work. You're expected to marry, to sire heirs to take the throne after you are gone." She paused. "And being such a new nation, it's the best way for Pakistan to find allies, through marriage." She offered him a sad smile, before looking down at their almost joined hands. It would kill her to see him with another woman, but it was part of his duties.

She is right - it is how they are born and raised. The disdain for the neighboring nation is planted within their childhood years, and cultivated with every civil war and political disagreement. In that moment, Devika's understanding is almost all it takes to do away with sense. It could work, and wouldn't they be the happiest? Yet its somewhere between imagining their wedding day and a growing family, that Ashir takes quiet stock. "But they will hate us." Ashir adds, the light from his eyes turning off like a snuffed flame. "Just as you and I were raised to hate each other. So, too, were our families. Our people." The duty to nation pulls him back, as it so often does, in this push-and-pull with Devika.

"I should have married you the day I knew I loved you." Before they knew of each other's identity, before he was Maharaja of Pakistan... "Not a second later." He sighs, covered in regret. "We'd be betraying our families." If they are truly considering a future together, they needed to know the risks. "And my people... They may not see our love for what it is. They may call for a new Maharaja. Your brother may not welcome me into his home."

Yet he does not say no. He does not turn away and put an end to this conversation. A spark of hope, or a man's surrender to this inevitable sort of love?

He can hear the real question embedded in her words, and Ashir is covert as he moves his hand to briefly brush with hers. "There is no other, Devika. I will be a lone Maharaja until my dying days, without you."

[bloodycrxwn]

Devika wasn't stupid, she knew that Ashir didn't have any love towards her family or her people. Their nations hated one another, they fought in wars on different sides and killed each other without hesitation. The way they fell in love, it was close to a miracle, even if they did not know the true identity of each other. Would she go back and change the past? Prevent herself and Ashir from being stuck in a love that has no future? No, she didn't think she would because the good moments they had together, they were already worth it. Just getting to enjoy some of that happiness with him, how he made her feel like the happiest and most special woman in the world during that time, it was worth her living a life of heartbreak, knowing that they would never get to share a life together. "I know, me too." She admitted with a nod of her head. "I was taught to hate you, to hate your people. It was all I knew from a young age." She said, titling her head to the side. "But now, as much as I love my family and my people, I would marry you without hesitation and I would be honored to be your Queen, bring prosperity and a future for Pakistan." Her love for him was much stronger than any hate she could ever feel.

Devika shook her head, they were both on the same boat. "We both know that's not possible. I love you, I will love you for the rest of my life even if that leads me into a miserable life." She wanted to reach out to him, she wanted to touch him and feel his touch against her so badly. But they were in public, they could not do that here. "I've told you before, my heart is your's and it forever will be, Ashir. It seems we are destined to love each other in secret and spend the rest of our days wishing for each other." A sigh escaped her lips. "Me too. I'm glad to see that you remained safe. Have any other kings come speak with you?" She asked, wondering what nations might seek an alliance with him. And know that it would most likely come with a betrothal, which the mere thought of it, is enough to break her heart. "I don't think so, unless my brother orders it. I do not wish to leave, I've been in the battlefield, this is nothing compare to it."

How odd it was, to with her family well whilst Pakistan and the Mughal Empire carry on with their strife. If it were not for Devika, Ashir would not bat an eye to the defeat of his enemies. Life as a warrior made it so that hatred or ego did not come into play. Ultimately, it is what one fights for, that counts in the end. But those lines blur, with each correspondence. Lost in the depths of Devika's eyes, that leave him questioning everything he once knew. "There was a time, before you, when I could not say that in earnest." Ashir reveals quietly, shame and honesty playing in tandem. Devika knows each part of him - did he know the parts of him that fought against her people? Did she love him in spite of his wrongs? "I wonder if you'd even looked at me twice, if you knew that." Then again, would he have? If they'd known who the other was... Would they go back in time and change their lives?

"I'd rather have half a love than none at all." He admits with a soft smile, warm in the way he looks at her. Yes, this love is torment. Yes, it is heartbreak by a thousand small cuts. But there's a part of him too lost to it, to pick anything else. "But," he offers, in consideration. "You do not need to feel the same. Actually," Ashir scoffs quietly. "I hope you do not. I do not think I can forgive myself, if I resign you to this faith." It's a cyclical conversation, but it demands to be said. Maybe he'll love her forever - but he hopes that she does not. There is nothing but heartbreak there. Glancing away, he allows a warm pink to his cheeks. "I've missed you every night. Worried for your safety, as Versailles burns." He looks back up, uncertain in his question. "Do you believe you will return to India in light of these attacks?"

[bloodycrxwn]

Devika was starting to wonder if they would ever be capable of staying away from one another completely. Sure, this trip would come to an end and they would both go back to their respective countries, but would she be able to handle the distance? The mere thought of never seeing him again, never touching him or hear his voice was enough to haunt her, for her heart to shatter in her chest. Devika wondered, if there was even the slightest of chances of them ever ending up together. She knew that if there was, she would fight for it until her dying breath. There was not a doubt in her mind, their love was something worth fighting for.

Devika nodded her head. "Yes, I feel bad for those who ended up getting hurt but relieved that none of my family were harmed. And I'm glad to know that none of your's was either." Even though Haspira very much hated her, she didn't wish any harm to fall on her. "I'm sorry that it has to be that way for you." She offered him a small smile, wishing every day that things could be different. "Well ... I do not have anything to discuss either. But I'm glad you sent for me, I was missing your presence already."

Some promises are made to be broken. The pair of them are damned if they do, damned if they don't. Whether they make promises to their loved ones or not, they find themselves back at the same place. Caught in each other's orbit, brought in by a gravitational pull that cannot be denied. It is a humbling experience, Ashir must say. A life in which so much is in control, yet it falls by the wayside at the promise of her. His hands twitch against his thigh in anticipation. One more move and the secret would be out, and Ashir would be armed with a confrontation in his hands. After all, Devika is not just an Indian woman. She is sister to the King.

Would he truly spur a war between their two nations, just to make her his forever-love?

It is a question he thought he knew, once. Duty above all. But there is something in the way he feels when he looks back at Devika. It is... Happy. What did he and Haspira fight for all their lives, but not a semblance of happiness? "Lucky indeed. The same cannot be said for other courts But..." But they are not yours. What an odd thing it was, to wish health upon her court yet lay waste to the men of her country in battle. It is a perversion of a different kind. Yet not even the irony can keep him at bay. An excited smile, tempered by a will to remain at his side of the fountain.

"Very well. My sister and I know only a war. We're always prepared for things like this." It is not something to be proud of, per se. But it is terribly convenient. He allows a comfortable silence to settle, thoughtless as he simply look at her. Oh Allah, he is truly a man in love.

"I had nothing to discuss." He admits in earnest. "I simply wanted to be in your presence."

[bloodycrxwn]

Devika had kept mostly to herself ever since the night of the explosions. She had not been there to witness it, but from what she heard, it was terrifying. She was thankful that no one lost their lives that night, although she was still in fear of what might happen next, if those responsible were not caught. Part of her had felt guilty for not being there, looking out for her family. But the other part of her was glad, she had spent a fantastic night with the man she loved and there was no way she would ever regret that. Even if her sister hated her for it, Devika hadn't felt as happy and loved as she felt during those moments shared with Ashir. But it only made her wish that they could do that every night, sleep in each other's arms, waking up to each other every morning.

Devika had been alone in her chambers, reading a book when she received the note from Ashir. She smiled, glad that he still wanted to see her, despite everything that happened. She knew that his sister didn't support this, the same way that her sister made it clear that she didn't support this either so there was a part of her that wondered if this was a good idea, if she should go meet up with him. Devika didn't want to anger her sister anymore, knowing that there was a big chance of her going to the Mughal King about this if she found out about this new encounter. Still, Devika found herself dressing up and walking out of her chambers, and taking one of the many carriages there, ready to take the nobles to the city.

As she arrived in her destination, Devika thanked the man before stepping out and walking towards the fountain, where Ashir was waiting for her. A smile immediately made its way into her lips as she saw him, her feet taking her towards him in a fast pace, wishing to feel his presence once again. "Maharaja Ashir." She nodded her head at him, smiling slightly at the formality between them, when only a few days ago they were laying together naked, underneath the covers of his bed. "We are doing very well, thank you. We were lucky enough that no one was harmed in the attacks." She smiled. "And you? I hope your family is doing alright as well?"

@bloodycrxwn | Devika and Ashir, Days after the Explosion, The Streets of Versailles

He is not always certain if the crown belongs comfortably on his head. Its sheen too bright, its ostentatious importance too grand. Yet in moments where the threat of war descends upon them, Ashir finds he is exactly where he is meant to be. A sword in hand, a plan in mind. When he is not shackled by politics and power, he emerges like a strong witted beast from the ashes. The Maharaja moves with speed; securing his administration, reconvening with France's guards, and trading ideas with the generals of allied nations. Still new to court, but in this moment, Ashir knows he proves himself. In the midst of misery, he is a victor.

Yet what was the point of winning, if he could not win alongside her?

It is reckless to lie and deceive - half-empty promises about keeping his distance from Devika were about as convincing as concealing his emotions. And though it feels cyclical to put himself through it again, here he was. Laying in wait at the public fountain in Versailles streets, awaiting Devika. He'd sent word - through two different messengers, to meet him at the cobblestone streets outside of the Palace. There would always be a threat of observation, but Ashir is convinced he can lie it away. Doesn't everyone meet for a pain au chocolat and conversation in Versailles?

"Your Majesty," Ashir greets, in quick formality. Let those who spied on the two rival courts think it a formal conversation, rather than an exchange between two lovers. He looks at her, a marvel once again, and has to bite the inside of his cheek to curb the cheeky smile. "I trust you and your family are well? No harm since the previous night's events?" He says, almost stiffly, but it is complimented with an almost nervous smile. How close could he get to her publicly, without drawing attention?

[bloodycrxwn]

Devika smiled at him. She might not understand a lot when it comes to politics and everything that revolves around it, but she knew what it was like to help people and be a good example. Devika had spent so much time helping those in need back home, even spending time in the borders where she would volunteer and help the people most affected by the war. It was after all, how she met Ashir. Devika helped people, she didn't care where they came from. "I can at least promise you that, that I will do my best to be good to them, if I become your Queen."

"People do horrible things for love in general." She said with a shrug of her shoulders. So many wars and conflicts had started because of it, families were divided and people were murdered over it. Truth was, love was a beautiful feeling, something that everyone should experience in their lifetime at least once but at the same time, it was a very dangerous feeling too. "I guess you have a point. I know that everything she does is to protect me because she loves me. I just wish she would listen to me and understand me, that she would trust me." A sigh escaped her lips.

Devika kept her arms around his neck as they shared a long and passionate kiss. She didn't care about who might be around them, who might be watching and who they might report it to, Devika wanted the world to know that she was in love with Ashir and that he was her man. "I love you too." She whispered against his lips, before pulling away slightly, letting her forehead rest against his. "No matter what happens, I will always love you."

"Neither have I." He admits, in earnest, vulnerable only to Devika about his shortcomings. Sure, he's political by nature of being a Maharaja and a warrior. But he does not take to it, the way he takes to leadership or strategy. "But what I've found, is that a desire to do better counts for more than what you'd expect." And even if she did not see herself as political, she indeed is a woman with a warm and layered heart. Ambivalence would never be enough for his beloved. It's what endears her to him.

"People say and do horrible things, in the name of protecting those they love most." Isn't that why so many countries waged war? Why even Ashir, for all his honor, condemned the man that left his sister and her daughter high-and-dry? He cannot say he likes, or even respects, Devika's sister. But he can understand the impulse. "I am an older brother, as well. I can understand the impulse to protect, whatever the cost." In their limited interactions, Ashir learns enough of her sister to know the love to be true. Would it be true enough to withstand this, too?

He smiles into her lips, fingers antsy and the balls of his feet moving with excitement. For all that he's known her in times of war, her company feels akin to peace. "I love you." Ashir murmurs into her lips, one hand wrapped around the warm base of her neck. The other, placed comfortably against the slope of her hip. And though he often forgets the world around him, when he is with her... This time, he is acutely aware. This kiss is more than a promise. It's a declaration. "Come what may."

[bloodycrxwn]

Devika could not bring herself to take her eyes off of him. She did not care who might be watching, what spies might be keeping an eye on them to later report to their handlers, because in that moment, all she cared about was him. She knew what she wanted, she wanted him and she was ready to fight for this love until her dying breath. If that was the way they were destined to end, then it would've been worth it. "I'm ready for it. I'm ready to go against anyone and anything that might be put in our way. I love you Ashir and I know that our love is strong enough to resist anything. If my family loves me, if they truly care about me and my happiness, they will understand and they will support me. If they don't ... well, it means they never loved me in the first place." A sigh escaped her lips, she truly hoped her family wouldn't hate her for this, but she knew this was the right thing to do for herself.

"We may but I cannot think of a better way to go, than with the man I love by my side. At least we'll die knowing that we did what was right for ourselves, that we fought for this love until our dying breath. I do not want to die with any regrets and I know that if I don't fight for you, for us, I would be dying with the biggest regret." Devika smiled at him, her hand squeezing his tightly. "Uniting our people, we would be stronger together. All I can do is pray that they see it that way. I do not doubt that, your sister seems to be very intelligent. Scary, for sure, but intelligent." She chuckled. "Are you going to speak with my brother about this?"

He inadvertently places a hand on his sword, touching the golden handle his father once yielded with ferocity. It is not the sign of a Maharaja, but a tool of a warrior. Ashir has fought for everything in his life; his family, his country, and his rule. Staring back at the woman of his dreams, he recognizes just how poignant her question is. He'd never been asked to fight, he just did. It's as ingrained in his nature as a sword is to his grip. Yet he's resisted the urge to fight for their love, in the name of his country's peace.

Under her loving eyes, Ashir is humbled - perhaps there are some things, that frighten even a war hero like Ashir Singh.

"It will not be without sacrifice." She knows it, and so does he. "We will be ridiculed. You may need to surrender your relationship with your family. My crown may not be mine, once news reaches the most remote parts of Pakistan." He does not use it as an excuse, but a representation of truth. He cannot enter what Pakistan and the Mughal Empire may consider a treasonous agenda, without Devika aware of all the risks. "We may die for love." Yet his hand finds hers, out in the open air, for every spy and gossip to bring back to their enemies. "What better way to die, right?" Ashir's hand lingers, and staring back at Devika, he can only smile. Amidst the ruin and tragedy, he smiles even wider. "I will fight for our love, Devika. Until the end."

He nods, all too aware of Pakistan's own problems. Now, to be exacerbated, with a potential war with the Mughal Empire. But call it blind optimism, or a steadfast belief in his ability to win. But Ashir shakes his head. "If we can convince them, our nations will be allied. And if not... Haspira is brilliant. She will forge enough alliances to make Pakistan undeniable."

[bloodycrxwn]

"I am too, even if we have quite a lot of hardships to deal with. Either way, it only makes it more special. That our love is so strong and so worth it that we're willing to go through all of this to remain together." A sigh escaped her lips, she knew that conversation had everything to go wrong but it had to be done. Ashir had to speak with her brother, the same way that she had, to try and make him see what they mean, what they want for the future of their nations. Why fight, when they could work together? "I hope he does not call for a war, I'm afraid he would be too angry to realize that he would be waging war against his own sister." Devika would stand her ground and she would stand side by side with Ashir. "Later my love." She assured him with a smile. "Hopefully. Whether they support it or not, I've made up my mind, I wish to marry you. Even if we have to run and marry each other in secret." She smiled at him.

"In one life or another - it seems destined to be so. Although, if I am honest, I'm terribly fond of this life." Their promises could not be denied. And yet, it would be remiss of Ashir to see only one way to forever through the lens of death. There's a way, there has to be. "Before the peace of our people, I need to make peace with your brother." A difficult, if not impossible task. There was no love lost between the two King's, and the hostilities run ever deep. "Or at the very least, ensure this does not come to a war." History said otherwise, but he could make the effort. Inevitably, the pieces will force the hand, and one King must compromise. "Feel free to take your time in giving me that prize." He coed, rueful grin superseded only by talk of the cold front between sisters. "We can only avoid it for so long. Eventually, things will come to pass."