4) Chapter

Badami temples hold a breathtaking beauty, especially enchanting during Mahashivaratri. This festival draws devotees and travelers  towars these rock-cut sanctuaries dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Jain deities.

As night falls, the temples glow under the soft light of oil lamps, and the air fills with the sound of devotional chants and music. This celebration brings a sacred energy to Badami, with rituals and offerings that honor the timeless power of Shiva.

Vishnu and Adithya, looking slightly weary from their venture through the bustling market, finally  approached the grand entrance of the Badami temple.

The glow of oil lamps illuminates the temple's steps, casting a warm light on walls and some young devadasi girls were singing and lighting the lamps for their devotion towards the god.

As they entered the grand hall of the Badami temple, the royal family and ministers were gathered under the soft glow of lanterns and oil lamps.

Heads turn, and smiles light up  in faces as they make their way through the crowd, receiving respectful nods and greetings from the noblemen and women who step forward to welcome them.

"Prince Vishnu, it's a pleasure to see you again. And Adithya, always presence by his side."Siddhavarma minor king of Bhanavasi said bowing slightly.

"I'm only here to keep things interesting, my lord. The prince alone can't do all the work."Adithya repiled in a wink

"Well, you certainly make sure of that, Adithya. It's good to be among you all today uncle"Vishnu said while returnig the greeting.

As they approach the center of the gathering, Vishnu spots his elder brother Ereya, standing with the emperor and their cousin.

Ereya's face lights up with a warm, slightly teasing smile as he steps forward, clapping a hand on Vishnu's shoulder. Crown Prince, Vishnu's brother, possessed a striking handsomeness that drew admiration throughout the kingdom.

"Finally decided to grace us with your presence, little brother? We were beginning to think you were lost in the market for good." Ereya said while grinning.

"Anna with you here to rule, What is the use of me! But someone has to check on you from time to time, make sure you're not taking all the glory right" Vishnu spelled playfully while seeking his brothers blessing.

As the brothers began their conversation, their uncle the emperor Manglesha's son, their cousin Ananta, entered the scene with a graceful smile. His presence was calm yet confident, and his expression was warm.

"Oh anna , Vishnu, it's good to see you here tonight. I was beginning to wonder if the prince would forget his family altogether with all the festivities outside. Well, the hall certainly feels livelier now that you're here. And Adithya, always  have tales to tell, I'm sure?" Annat said while embracing his cousin.

"Only the finest tales for you my prince. And perhaps a few to make our Vishnu blush.."Adithya repiled while trying not to laugh.

The emperor Manglesha who was, watching his son and nephews with an indulgent smile, steps forward to welcome them. His presence is regal and dignified, yet there's a softness in his expression as he addresses Vishnu.

"Ah, here you are, Prince Vishnu, as restless as always! And Adithya, good to see you keeping him company and in line, I hope?"Mabglesha said while nodding approvingly. Vishnu and aithya bowed with a respect.

"I do my best, my lord, though sometimes I fear it's more the other way around!"Adithya said  repectfully. Vishnu grined at him.

"Well, you both bring life to these halls my lord. Though I suspect if our prince Vishnu spent less time outside, we might see fewer gray hairs among us."  Said the elder minister and royal advisor Brahmaguptha.

"Oh grandfather , don't say I've caused that much worry. Besides, isn't it good for a prince to know his people?" Vishnu spelled.

"Spoken like a true son of this family! Yes, your father would have approved of your adventurous spirit, Vishnu. But balance is key, as our Brahamaguptha so wisely reminded us. Adventure with purpose, that's the princely way." Manglesha laughing with a amused look.

"I'll keep it on my mind uncle, Beside I think perhaps tonight we'll have more than just royal duties to discuss right? Vishnu said while winking at his brother Ereya.

"Trust me, Vishnu, there's always something to discuss. But tonight, let's enjoy the festival as a family, with no talk of duty...unless, of course, it's regarding my marriage, which I know you're all very interested in." Ereya said smiling and crossing his arms.

"Ah, yes. lets leave all the romantic intrigues to you, brother. Shouldnt we Ananta?"Vishnu said smiling while giving a friendly nudge towards Ananta.

After a few minutes, all the  emperor,Annat and Ereya took their seats on the divans in the grand hall near the Badami temple. The grand hall of Badami was majestic, with the ancient rock-cut architecture providing a stunning backdrop for the gathering.

After while Vishnu who were there chatting also join and seated in the circle.

"I am happy have you all here tonight on this sacred night, Anyway as you all know, here stands our soon-to-be groom, the crown prince himself! The whole kingdom waits to see you finally settle down, my boy. We've had many discussions, and I think the council is quite pleased with one of those arrangements." Manglesha said smiling warmly, gesturing towards Ereya.

"Oh, the council may be pleased uncle, but no one's asked me if I'm pleased. A marriage is more than a treaty, you know. I'm not looking for a silent partner in the royal duties." Ereya spelled with a smirk.

"Well, my boy, it seems we've found the perfect match for you. The council is quite glad with the arrangement, and her family, too, couldn't be more thrilled." Manglesha said smiling proudly.

"Oh uncle? So, I'm to meet my bride when, exactly? Perhaps you majesty , could you send me a notice next time you decide on something this... permanent?"Ereya said with playful smile.

"Soon you can meet her your highness, Lady Vijayshrii One and only daughter of our alley king Durnitha of Ganges has been chosen. She's graceful, intelligent, and highly respected,everything a future queen should be. The alliance is a solid one for the kingdom. Later tonight they are gonna be here due to our invitation." Elder minister Brahamagutha said witha diplomatic smile.

"And she's said to be quite the beauty, too. Apparently, the council thought you'd appreciate that little detail." Ananta said while grining at Ereya.

"I'm sure they did. And Lady Vijayshrii... how do we know she's up for all the situation that comes up with marrying to the crown prince."Ereya smiled lightly.

"Sounds like you've got competition now, Vishnu. She'll have to handle more than just courtly duties with your brother around!" Adithya said while glacing at Vishnu.

"Oh, I think the lady might just surprise us all. After all, she'll be marrying the most predictably unpredictable prince in the empire." Vishnu smiled.

"Dont worry,she's well aware of whom she'll be marrying The future Emperor whom gonna rule the world. We wouldn't have made this arrangement if we didn't think Lady Vijayshrii could keep up with your brother. Anyway Devadasis are gonna perform Ananda Tandava (bharathanatyam performance towards lord shiva). You all better be moved and get  seated at the madapam "Manglesha said calmy and move towards  the shrine with ministers.