[Meghnad's POV]
The next morning, I woke up with a mild headache because I wasn't able to sleep well, As my mind was fixated on yesterday's talk mainly on the Greek pantheon being included in this world.
The names of dragon kings that man revealed also provide information about other pantheons being real too like Midgardsormr and Fafnir which are the dragons from the Norse pantheon, Yu-Long from the Chinese pantheon, and Tiamat from the Mesopotamian pantheon.
While I know some things about Norse and Greek myths, But I don't know anything about Chinese and Mesopotamian myths. It seems that the world is far more complex and interconnected than I initially thought. The existence of these dragons implies that their respective gods and myths may also have a presence here. This revelation brings both excitement and a sense of trepidation about the future.
"Yuvraj (Crown Prince) Are you ready for breakfast?" Kavya's voice called gently from outside my chambers, her tone laced with the usual warmth and care she always showed me.
I took a deep breath, trying to shake off the remnants of my restless night. "Yes, Kavya, I'm coming," I replied, rising from my bed and making my way to the door. As I opened it, Kavya greeted me with a bright smile, her presence as comforting as ever.
"Good morning, Yuvraj. I hope you slept well," she said, though her keen eyes quickly noticed my fatigue. "Did something trouble you last night?"
I shook my head slightly, not wanting to burden her with my worries. "Just some thoughts about the discussion Father had with the visitor," I replied, trying to keep my tone light.
"Okay but let me know if you need anything," Kavya said, her eyes filled with concern and understanding. "You carry a great responsibility, but remember that you are not alone. We are here to support you, no matter what."
I smiled, appreciating her comforting words. "Thank you, Kavya. Your support means a lot to me," I said sincerely.
As we made our way to the dining hall, the aroma of delicious food wafted through the air. Mother and Father were already seated, engaged in a quiet conversation. Mother Mandodari looked up as we entered, her eyes softening with maternal warmth.
"Good morning, Meghnad," she greeted, her voice gentle. "I hope you are feeling better today."
"Good morning, Mother. I'm fine, thank you," I replied, taking my seat beside her. Father nodded in acknowledgment, his expression thoughtful.
"Meghnad, we have much to discuss," Father began, his tone serious. "But first, let's enjoy our meal."
The breakfast spread was sumptuous, with a variety of fruits, breads, and traditional Lankan dishes laid out before us. Despite the lingering thoughts from the previous night, I tried to focus on the present moment, savoring the food and the company of my family.
As the meal progressed, Father's demeanor became more pensive. Finally, he spoke, his voice steady and commanding. "Meghnad, After yesterday's revelation I have decided to start your theoretical education. Since you are not old enough to undertake physical combat training yet, it's crucial to develop your understanding of history, politics, and the mystical forces that shape our world."
I nodded attentively, understanding the importance of this decision. "I'm ready, Father," I replied earnestly, eager to delve deeper into the complexities of our world.
Father's gaze softened with paternal pride. "Good. After finishing your meal go find your Vabhishana in the royal library and begin your studies. He will guide you through the texts and teachings that will prepare you for the responsibilities ahead," Father instructed, his voice filled with a blend of authority and warmth.
I nodded, feeling a sense of anticipation and determination. "Thank you, Father. I will make sure to learn everything I can," I affirmed, grateful for his guidance and trust.
Mother Mandodari reached out to gently squeeze my hand, her touch reassuring. "We are proud of you, Meghnad," she said softly, her eyes reflecting pride and affection.
After breakfast, I bid farewell to my parents and Kavya, making my way to the royal library where Kakashri (Uncle) Vabhishana awaited. The corridors of the palace were familiar yet filled with an air of expectancy as if each step brought me closer to a deeper understanding of my role as the Crown Prince of Lanka.
Entering the library, I found Kakashri Vabhishana waiting amidst towering shelves of ancient tomes and scrolls. His presence exuded a calm authority, and he greeted me with a warm smile as I approached.
"How is my dear nephew doing this fine day?" Vabhishana inquired warmly as I entered the royal library, his voice carrying a sense of genuine care and respect.
"I'm well, Kakashri Vabhishana. Father has entrusted me with beginning my theoretical education today," I replied respectfully, feeling a mixture of anticipation and determination to embark on this new chapter of learning.
Vabhishana nodded approvingly, his expression reflecting pride in my eagerness to learn. "A wise decision indeed, Yuvraj. Understanding the histories and mystical forces that shape our world is crucial for any future ruler," he remarked, gesturing for me to follow him deeper into the library.
As we walked amidst the shelves lined with ancient tomes and scrolls, Vabhishana continued, "Today, we will start with foundational texts on Lankan history and the principles of governance. It's essential to grasp the roots of our kingdom's legacy and the dynamics of leadership."
I nodded attentively, absorbing his words with keen interest. "I'm eager to learn, Kakashri Vabhishana," I replied earnestly, feeling a sense of responsibility settling upon me as I prepared to delve into these scholarly pursuits.
We arrived at a secluded corner of the library where a large, ornate table awaited us. Vabhishana motioned for me to take a seat opposite him, and as I did, he opened a meticulously bound manuscript that bore the seal of the royal archive.
"This manuscript dates back to the era of King Sumali, a pivotal figure in our kingdom's history," Vabhishana explained, his voice reverent as he turned the pages with practiced care. "It details the foundational principles of governance, ethics, and the intertwined roles of rulers and subjects."
For hours, we immersed ourselves in the wisdom preserved within those ancient pages. Vabhishana guided me through the intricate tapestry of Lankan history, from the legendary exploits of King Sumali to the strategic alliances and conflicts that shaped our kingdom's destiny.
Vabhishana paused, his eyes alight with reverence as he recounted the ancient legend. "King Sumali and his brothers, through their penance and devotion, earned the favor of Brahma," he continued, his voice carrying the weight of centuries-old lore. "Their bond of brotherly love became unbreakable, and they were granted unmatched powers that enabled them to conquer both gods and Daityas alike."
As he spoke, the library seemed to come alive with the echoes of divine blessings and the clashing of celestial forces. I listened intently, captivated by the tale of how their unwavering determination had laid the foundation for the majestic city of Lanka.
"With the guidance of Vishvakarma Dev, they envisioned and built a city that would stand as a testament to their unity and strength," Vabhishana continued, turning the pages of the manuscript to reveal depictions of Lanka's splendorous architecture and strategic fortifications. "It was not just a kingdom, but a beacon of resilience and prosperity amidst the turbulent currents of our world."
I marveled at the intricate details and the strategic foresight that had shaped the destiny of our kingdom. "Their vision and leadership set a precedent for generations to come," I remarked, deeply moved by the legacy of determination and unity that had defined our ancestors.
Vabhishana nodded in agreement, his gaze lingering on the ancient texts that held the wisdom of our forebears. "Indeed, Yuvraj. The foundations laid by King Sumali and his brothers continue to resonate in the fabric of our kingdom's identity," he affirmed, his voice filled with pride and reverence.
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the library's hallowed halls, Vabhishana and I delved deeper into the intricate tapestry of Lankan history. We explored the strategic alliances forged through diplomacy, the ethical considerations that guided rulers, and the enduring principles of governance that ensured the kingdom's prosperity.
"Tomorrow, we will explore the mystical forces that have shaped our world," Vabhishana announced, closing the manuscript with utmost reverence. "Just wait until I tell you about Yogic Prana, which we will explore deeply," Vabhishana added with a spark of anticipation in his eyes. His reverence for the knowledge we were about to delve into was palpable, and I couldn't help but share in his excitement.
"I look forward to learning more about Yogic Prana," I replied eagerly, my mind already racing with curiosity about the mystical energies that shaped our world. The prospect of understanding these forces, which held sway over both the mundane and the divine, filled me with a sense of awe and wonder.
As we prepared to conclude our studies for the day, Vabhishana placed the ancient manuscript back into its protective casing with utmost care. The library around us seemed to hold its breath in reverence for the knowledge it safeguarded, a testament to the enduring wisdom of our ancestors.
"Rest well, Yuvraj Meghnad," Vabhishana said warmly, his voice carrying a paternal affection that warmed my heart. "Tomorrow holds many revelations for us."
"I will, Kakashri Vabhishana," I replied respectfully, deeply grateful for his guidance and the opportunity to explore the depths of our kingdom's history and mystical lore.
.
..
...
[To Be Continued]
----------------------
Leave a review, It helps.
Thanks for reading.
Word Count: 1608