After listening to their introductions, Mehbub looked at them and said, "Monica Bellucci, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Olsen, Scarlett Johansson, and Kendall Jenner. I like them. From now on, I'll call you Lucy, Mary, Wanda, Natasha, and Keny, respectively."
He glanced at their faces after speaking. Everyone appeared confused but still nodded and responded, "Yes, Master."
Noticing their expressions, Savitri stepped forward and explained, "Don't be nervous. The Young Master likes to give nicknames to those who are close to him. Like me—my nickname is Riri."
After Savitri's explanation, the group visibly relaxed and nodded in understanding. Mehbub then addressed them again.
"Are you all familiar with each other?"
"Yes, Master. We've been together for a week and have gotten to know each other well," replied Monica, now named Lucy.
"That's good," Mehbub said. "I want you to also get familiar with Riri. You all will be my most trusted people from now on. I need you to gain experience and learn the things you'll need to assist me in the future. If you need anything, you can either come to me directly or inform Riri."
He then turned his attention to Natasha and said, "Natasha, I have a task for you. Tomorrow, I will assign 500 spies under your command. I want you to investigate the British army and navy, as well as the other princely states. Gather detailed information—numbers, locations, strategic points. If war breaks out, I need to know about their logistics, bases, and everything else. Monitor the state court as well. If there's a traitor or spy among us, I need to know. You have five months to complete this task. Whatever it takes, I expect results."
"Yes, Master," Natasha responded seriously. "Should I go in person or let the spies handle it?"
Mehbub looked at her and replied, "Let the spies handle it. I don't want to put you in danger." Natasha was touched by his concern but maintained her serious expression.
Next, Mehbub addressed the others. "Lucy, I want you to familiarize yourself with Indian culture. It will be helpful for you in the future.
Mary, I'll help you get all the information on the state's finances from the Diwan. You should also take time to learn it.
Wanda, I want you to get more involved with the family's business and also familiarize yourself with Islamic education and laws.
Keny, soon I'll give you some detailed theoretical data. I want you to start experimenting with it and see if we can achieve success."
After assigning them their duties, Mehbub dismissed them. Everyone, including Savitri, left the room. Once alone, Mehbub got into bed to sleep.
---
The next morning, Savitri knocked on the door. "Young Nizam, it's already morning. You need to get up and go to court."
Mehbub, still lying lazily in bed, responded, "Come in, Riri."
Savitri entered and saw that Mehbub was still in bed, not fully awake. She climbed onto the bed and started nudging him. "Young Nizam, if you don't get up now, you'll be late," she said, trying to wake him.
Mehbub, pretending to still be asleep, stayed motionless. Seeing that, Savitri stood up and playfully pulled the blanket off him. The sight before her caused her to pause in surprise.
Her face flushed bright red as she realized that Mehbub was completely naked. Hastily, she covered her eyes and stammered, "Why aren't you wearing any clothes?"
Mehbub chuckled, sensing Savitri's embarrassment. He stretched lazily, unbothered by the situation. "I sleep better this way," he replied with a mischievous grin, his tone light but edged with playfulness.
Savitri, still covering her eyes, turned away, trying to maintain her composure. "Young Nizam, this is inappropriate! What if someone else had come in? You have responsibilities. The court is waiting for you!" Her voice wavered between frustration and embarrassment.
Mehbub sat up, clearly amused by her reaction. "You're the only one who can enter my chambers without knocking, Riri. I trust you more than anyone." He slowly stood, grabbing a robe from the edge of the bed and wrapping it around himself. "But if it bothers you, I'll be more... decent next time," he teased, stepping closer to her.
Savitri peeked between her fingers, catching a glimpse of his toned physique—his lean muscles and defined eight-pack. Her face reddened even more before she quickly shut her eyes, waiting for confirmation he was clothed. Once assured, she finally lowered her hands, her cheeks still flushed. "You always tease me, Mehbub. But today is important! Your presence at court is expected, and you can't keep making excuses."
He sighed, realizing she was right. "Alright, alright. Let me get ready." He paused, his tone softening. "Thank you for always looking out for me, Riri. I know I can be difficult."
Savitri finally met his gaze, her flustered expression softening into a smile. "That's what I'm here for, Young Nizam. Now hurry up. We don't want anyone thinking you've forgotten your duties." She turned toward the door, still slightly flustered, but more composed now.
As she left the room, Mehbub watched her, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. Despite his playful nature, he knew Savitri's loyalty ran deeper than most. With a sigh, he began to prepare for the day, knowing that the court's demands would soon overshadow these lighthearted moments.