Old Friends

Old Friends

“The palace seems to be the same, yet it feels different” Maan spoke as the gang stepped out to roam the palace complex. Dheerbai had insisted on Pratap giving Phool a tour of the place but seeing his discomfort; Shakti requested Chand to show him around that got all of the children involved as well. Patta excitedly pointed out his favourite spots in the complex, his hiding spots, places where he pulled epic pranks on his sister and other mischiefs t as the others joined in reminiscing about their childhood. The complex had been restored and certain places the restoration work was still underway.  

With the wedding decorations, the whole palace gave a festive vibe with colourful drapes, marigold garlands, rangolis on every entrance and open spaces. Jiwa smiled on seeing her husband happy; seeing Heer’s excitement on reliving her childhood pleased Shakti while Phool Kanwar maintained a small smile as she roamed the complex with the group. Ever since her arrival, she was being tutored by Dheerbai to stay close to Kunwar Pratap and be wary of Ajabde Punwar, but as they walked around, she had stolen glances at the prince who seemed lost and sad.

The Royal Steed Farm welcomed them with the sound of hooves, neighs, laughter and children’s voices. Their eyes widened seeing the sheer number of horses, ponies and people on the farm. The air was thick with excitement as more people made their way towards the farm’s sitting area.

“I can’t believe we still have the farm” Jagmal spoke as they entered the photography area where visitors were clicking pictures with the horses. The children recalled the harsh time when they were told all the horses would be sent off due to reasons they couldn’t understand. Kunwar Pratap had a falling out with his father over the issue as his two horses Chetak and Sarang were sent away in his absence. The result was he didn’t speak to anyone in his family for nearly one month. 

Pratap smiled watching a two-year-old run his tiny hands over the horse when an older man told him, “horses are magnificent creatures. Highly intelligent and sensitive beings they allow you to ride them, but that does not mean you rule them.”

Four-year-old Kunwar Pratap walked holding his Ranima’s hands towards the garden. His mother had told him there was a surprise waiting for him. His mother kneeled down as she pointed towards the lawn,

“Ponies!!” he exclaimed as he ran towards his father who stood to wait for him in front of the line-up of the horses and ponies. Both his parents had told him about the significance of horses in their family, and one thing that he was taught was, “they(horses) will serve you, but they are not your slaves.”

“Kunwar Pratap” Phool called him out as he walked away from the farm unable to handle the storm inside of him. He didn’t pay attention to his path only to end up inside the stable that was the action zone of the whole farm. Pratap felt happy inside the stable maybe because he had the most fun in the stables and outside while riding them. A neigh caught his attention, and then it happened, a bucket flew in the air and landed directly near his feet followed by another. He walked not listening to the warnings of the people present and stood in front of the place from where the buckets had being kicked over.

Shakti ran inside the stable followed by the others, “dadabhai!!” they were worried when Phool informed them of Pratap’s sudden departure from the farm but the scene inside made them gasp

“Kunwar Pratap” Phool whispered his name as she saw the young prince standing in the midst of two strong horses, one pure white stallion and the other was brown. Pratap looked happy and at peace

“I found them” he looked at the people his eyes shining with unsaid emotion, “I told you I would find my Chetak and Sarang.”