We returned the next day. Upon our arrival, a large platoon greeted us. I could see the uniforms of our other smaller neighbors too. Following our platoon were fully armed regiments with our flag fluttering high. The feeling of victory was fresh in the air. I understood that the plan had worked. I had done the job, at-least a part of it, an important part.
The King had sent his sons to neighboring principalities for recruiting support. He himself led the Rival into his trap by making a peace treaty with him. The Rival was unprepared for war. The next day, a platoon was ordered to launch a dummy attack on the Kingdom. As the platoon positioned itself outside the city walls, the remaining regiments were placed strategically at key positions within the capital. The Rival’s armed forces arrived to guard the Kingdom. While they readied to launch an offensive, a large battalion whom they presumed to be the King’s men attacked them out of the blue. The treason was exposed. Messengers ran across but it was too late. The King sent a package to the Rival. In it was the blood stained handkerchief. The Rival was beaten. As war ensued, the Rival’s forces were no match for the allied armies of the King.
Lust was a mere pawn in a large arena of love. Yes, love had won, and I was wrong. The Rival, fighting for his honor, rode towards the Kingdom, his daughter with him. As the daughter ran across towards the King, beating him with her fists, wailing and pulling her hair, the King looked on. Soldiers pulled her and threw her in the dust of the battle. The Rival perished fighting while the daughter was seen jumping from the castle walls. The final nail was safely in.
Epilogue
The Kingdom not only regained its lost glory, it eliminated its threats too. The King’s love for his country was contained in his tactical lust towards the princess. The day of victory was ended by celebrations throughout the Kingdom. As the King proceeded to the royal bedroom, he could hear church-bells in the distance. A red handkerchief fluttered in the moonlit sky.
