Suraj Pol, Amer Palace
Together, they began their journey through the palace's vast, intricate network of halls and courtyards. The cool marble floors were softened by plush carpets The walls were adorned with magnificent works of art. The sound of running water from fountains and pools filled the air, creating a soothing symphony that muted the hum of activity within the palace.
As they walked and headed towards the Suraj Pol (Sun Gate) of the palace, servants scurried past them, bowing their heads in respect as they went about their duties.
Nandini glanced nervously at her current mistress, her eyes darting between Princess Meera and the other servants. She was not comfortable with the idea of her princess leaving out alone, even within the confines of the palace. "Princess," she whispered, "are you certain that this is wise?"
Princess Meera paused, considering her maid's words. "Yes, Nandini. It is fine as I'm used to traveling alone."
They continued through the palace, making their way through the Diwan-i-Aam (Public Audience Hall), a grand hall adorned with intricate inlaid work with 27 colonnades, each of which is mounted with an elephant-shaped capital, with galleries above it. The flickering lights cast shadows across the marble floor, creating an ethereal atmosphere that seemed to make Princess Meera remember that she was in an era not of her own.
Finally, they reached the Suraj Pol, the massive doors standing open to allow the princess to go outside. Nandini paused, her hand on the gate, her eyes filled with concern. "Princess," she said, her voice trembling, "if I may ask, what is it that you seek in the village?"
Princess Meera looked at her maid with a soft smile, understanding her apprehension. "I simply wish to see the people who were traveling with me and now currently staying in a tavern inside the village," she replied. "They are trustworthy people I know."
Her words seemed to reassure Nandini, and the maid nodded slowly, her expression still concerned but less so. "Then be careful, Princess. The village is not as safe as the palace, and there are might be people who would take advantage of you."
Princess Meera nodded. "I understand, Nandini. I will return safely." With that, she stepped out of the palace gates.
*****
Tavern, Amer Village
As Meera entered the village which was next to the Maota Lake, she took in to the buzzing of villagers as they went on with their lives. She then made her way towards the tavern.
The air was thick with the usual buzz of people as Meera made her entrance into the tavern. Her companions on the road who brought her to Amer were also the servants of the Christian family she married into, burst into a deafening cheer at the sight of their beloved mistress of the house.
Their eyes were wild with adoration, their lips curled into toothy grins that stretched from ear to ear because Meera treated her servants well by giving them enough money to spend. They bowed low before her. The other patrons quieted down and spoke in hushed voices as they witnessed this spectacle.
The Princess turned Christian wife, clad even in her modest robes, radiated a regal presence that seemed to fill the room. Her long, black hair was pulled back into a tight bun. Her brown-colored eyes sparkled with knowledge. She took a seat at the head of the table where they were eating, motioning for her servants to gather around her.
There were especially three slaves who served her before on a personal basis. The other servants who were serving her for the first time were there for protection of Meera on her travels. One of three, who served her before was a tall and broad-shouldered man with dark skin and piercing black eyes. He bowed deeply before her. "My lady, we have missed you dearly," he said, his voice deep and resonant. "We have prepared a feast fit for the Mistress of the house."
Meera smiled warmly at the trio and the other servants who tagged alongside her. Then she shook her head gently. "No, my friends," she said, using the term of affection she preferred to use with servants who served her. "You must not bow to me. I am no queen, and I am no better than any of you. We are all equals here."
The servant who was serving under her for the first time looked confused. "But, my lady," he began, "you are our master. How can you say we are equal?"
Meera smiled gently, her eyes shining. "My friend," she replied, reaching out to place a comforting hand on his broad shoulder, "it is because of your loyalty and dedication that you are my equals. It is not my blood or my title that makes me your master, but the respect and love you have for me. And that respect and love, I assure you, is mutual."
The slave seemed to mull over her words. His features softening as he considered them as the other slaves were moved to tears while the three servants who served her before nodded in understanding. The expression of the slave who asked the question turned thoughtful, and then, slowly after looking at everyone, he nodded. "Very well, my lady," he said, using the title with a hint of hesitation. "If that is your wish, then we shall treat you as an equal. But know this: you are still our Mistress, and we will always follow you, no matter where the road may lead."
Meera smiled warmly at him, her black eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, my friend," she said softly. "Your loyalty means the world to me."
The room exploded with the clapping of hands from the other patrons who were listening to there conversation as they to were moved to tears by listening to what Meera had said.