The Story of a Princess - 1.9

Suryasakhi, Urmi and I spent entire days playing and roaming around the gardens. Father had requested Shreeman to reduce our studying hours while Sakhi was in Mithila. We had ample time to get completely spoilt.

It had become my habit to wake up earlier than Sakhi and Urmi so that I could get in one hour of archery practice. It was a bitterly acquired skill and I knew I couldn't let it rust. Most of the time, father woke with me (usually when I crept up to place a wet kiss on his cheek), but some days he would be too tired to get up.

This was one such day. I was walking to the gardens with my bow and arrows, when I saw Sakhi walking languidly out of her room and giving a lazy stretch.

"Suprabhatam!" I said. Good morning.

"Suprabhatam! Where are you off to on such a beautiful morning?"

I pointed to my bow. "Practice"

"Wait a few minutes. I'll join you."

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I heard a yawn behind me. "Why do you waste your time on such useless things?  Let your father and his army practice archery. A princess can spend her time in more interesting ways."

I felt myself stiffen. "Other things like?"

"Shringar, my dear! I could teach you a thing a two myself!"

Maybe she was just trying to be friendly. And I had to admit, it must be pretty boring just sitting there watching someone shoot arrows. 

"It is my duty to protect Mithila, Sakhi, as it is your duty to protect Lanka. If need arises someday, I want to be sure that I can do my bit for my land. I am the future queen, and I cannot afford to hide behind my army in a war. A true leader leads from the front!"

Her face fell. I continued,"However, you are right. I should learn about Shringar while you are in Mithila. You are the best person to teach me about it!"

She smiled. "You are right too, princess. God forbid, if Lanka is ever attacked, I should to be able to defend her!"

She got up and came to me. "So, how do you use this thing?"