The morning sun cast long shadows across the marble floors of the Agnihotri palace as Ruhanika prepared for what would perhaps be the most difficult conversation of her young life. She stood before her mirror, adjusting the simple yet elegant kurta that Divyank had chosen for her—deep blue with silver embroidery that complemented her heterochromatic eyes.

"Ready, Anika?" Divyank's voice came from behind her as he entered her room.