Chapter 13: The Trials of Mahabalesh

I didn’t sleep that night.

Virendra’s words haunted me, circling my mind like vultures over a battlefield.

"No matter what you do, you’ll always be mine."

The nerve. The audacity.

But if he thought I would bow to him, he had gravely underestimated me.

I wasn’t just an Omega.

I was a prince of Mahabalesh.

And I would show him exactly what that meant.

The next morning, I summoned the court.

The tension in the grand hall was palpable as the suitors gathered, their attention fixed on me. I stood tall, every inch the regal prince, though the weight of Virendra’s gaze bore into me like a brand.

He stood near the back, his arms crossed, his sharp gaze fixed on me.

Good.

Let him watch.

The events of the past days—his boldness, his relentless pursuit of dominance—had shaken me, but they had not broken me.

I would remind him and everyone else in this court who truly held the reins.

"Thank you all for gathering here today," I began, my voice clear and commanding.

"My Lords, the suitor ceremonies have long been a tradition to forge alliances and ensure the prosperity of Mahabalesh."

I paused, letting my words settle.

"However, recent events have made it clear that we must adapt to new challenges—challenges that require decisive leadership."

The court stilled, hanging on my every word.

"We stand on the precipice of change, where strength alone will not suffice. Loyalty, wisdom, courage—these are the qualities we seek in a ruler who will stand beside me, not only in title but in heart and purpose."

I allowed my gaze to sweep the room, lingering briefly on Virendra, who stood at the back, eyes narrowed, his expression unreadable but his presence dominating.

I continued, "In light of this, I have decided to introduce a series of trials—each designed to test the very essence of what it means to lead and protect this kingdom."

A ripple of murmurs spread through the court.

A few of the suitors exchanged nervous glances, some appeared intrigued, while others puffed their chests, eager to prove themselves.

But it was Virendra’s reaction that I was waiting for.

His expression remained calm, but I caught the faint twitch of his jaw.

He smirked.

He knew.

This wasn’t just about the suitors.

This was about him.

......................

...The Trials Begin...

The first trial was announced that afternoon: a test of skill and strategy, designed to weed out the weak from the strong.

The suitors were tasked with navigating a labyrinth filled with traps and puzzles, each step a test of their wit and courage.

Virendra, of course, volunteered to participate.

I watched from the viewing balcony as the suitors entered the labyrinth one by one, their progress visible through enchanted mirrors.

Some stumbled, others faltered, and a few impressed.

But none commanded the attention of the court like Virendra.

He moved through the labyrinth with ruthless precision, dismantling traps and solving puzzles as if they were mere child’s play.

The court murmured in awe, and I couldn’t deny the pang of frustration that stabbed at me.

He was making a statement.

But so was I.

By the time Virendra reached the final chamber, the air was thick with anticipation.

The task was simple: retrieve the crown that symbolized victory, placed atop a pedestal surrounded by a shimmering barrier.

Virendra paused, studying the barrier.

Then, without hesitation, he reached for it.

The moment his hand broke through the barrier, a surge of energy crackled through the air.

He flinched but didn’t pull back.

Instead, his grip tightened, and with a sharp tug, he claimed the crown.

Instead, his grip tightened, and with a sharp tug, he claimed the crown.

The court erupted into cheers.

But Virendra didn’t bask in the applause.

He turned, his gaze lifting to meet mine, the crown held firmly in his hand.

And in that moment, I knew.

This was far from over.

......................

Later that evening, as the suitors gathered for the victory feast, I made my next move.

Dressed in royal silks, adorned with jewels that symbolized my status, I descended the grand staircase with Lord Udayveer at my side.

The court quieted as we entered, all eyes on us.

But it was Virendra’s reaction I sought.

His gaze darkened as he saw me take Udayveer’s arm, a subtle but deliberate gesture.

We moved through the hall, greeting nobles and suitors, the tension between us palpable.

Finally, as the feast began, I raised my glass, signaling for silence.

"Tonight, we celebrate the first of many trials," I said, my voice steady. "And I would like to extend my congratulations to the victor—General Virendra."

The court applauded, and Virendra inclined his head, his expression unreadable.

"But," I continued, "this is only the beginning."

My gaze swept over the room before settling on him.

"The true test lies ahead. And only those with unwavering loyalty to this kingdom will prevail."

The challenge in my words was clear.

And Virendra’s smirk told me he understood it perfectly.

...****************...

Shout out to Black current 🥰.

And sorry for the late shout out. I totally forgot about it 😅. My bad😁

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