Mila Dylan Mattie Anna Olga and Ella had spent the better part of the afternoon carefully wrapping the gifts they had prepared for their parents
Every single one of them had been determined to make the surprise perfect
The children had worked together making sure that each gift was wrapped beautifully and that every box was placed in the correct order They had discussed their plan several times whispering among themselves and nodding at one another whenever they remembered another detail
Once everything was ready they exchanged looks and nodded at once
It was time
The children separated and went to the rooms of their parents carrying the little boxes carefully in their hands
Mila walked towards Nikolai's room while Dylan headed towards Taran's room Mattie went to Zhanna's room Ella hurried towards Arina's room and the other children followed their own little plans
Every single one of them carried the same kind of box
None of their parents knew what was waiting for them
In Daira and Leonid's room Daira was sitting on the bed with tears running down her face She had been crying for a while and had just blown her nose when Leonid gently rubbed her back trying to comfort her without forcing her to speak
He understood her grief
He understood the emptiness that had settled inside their home since Viktoria's death
Nothing could replace her
Nothing could erase the memories they had made with her
And although everyone had been trying to remain strong for the family the loss had left a wound that time alone could not immediately heal
A gentle knock interrupted the silence
Daira raised her head
The door opened and the twins appeared
Mama?
Both children called softly
Daira immediately wiped her cheeks and tried to smile at them
Yes my babies?
She answered
The twins approached the bed and climbed onto it with their little box between them
Daira looked at them with curiosity
What have my babies brought Mama?
She asked gently
Instead of answering immediately the twins held the box out to her
Leonid stopped rubbing Daira's back and looked at the children
Their expressions were serious in the innocent way children sometimes became when they believed they were about to do something important
Daira accepted the box
Thank you my loves
She whispered kissing their foreheads
The twins settled beside their parents waiting for her to open it
Meanwhile in Zhanna's room Mattie dragged a chair towards the bed and carefully climbed onto it
Zhanna had been wiping her eyes when she noticed her daughter struggling with the chair
Mattie sweetheart what are you doing?
She asked
Mattie ignored the question long enough to balance herself properly before holding out the gift
For you Mama
She said
Zhanna stared at the box
For me?
Mattie nodded enthusiastically
Zhanna accepted it and drew her daughter closer
Come here my baby
She whispered before kissing Mattie's cheek
Mattie climbed onto the bed and sat beside her mother waiting for her to open the present
In Taran's room Massimo was sitting quietly when Dylan walked inside carrying a carefully wrapped box
Dad
Dylan called
Massimo looked up
What is it Dylan?
Dylan approached him and placed the box in his hands
For you Dad
He said
Massimo blinked in surprise
For me?
Dylan nodded
Massimo looked at the box and then at his son
A smile slowly appeared on his face
Thank you my boy
He said pulling Dylan into a hug
Dylan hugged him back before settling beside him
In Arina's room Ethan gently helped Ella climb onto the bed before handing her the box
Ella carefully placed it in her mother's hands
For you Mama
She said
Arina looked at her daughter with a confused but affectionate expression
What have you and your siblings been planning?
She asked
Ella simply smiled
Arina kissed her forehead and accepted the gift
In Yulian's room the twins crawled towards him with their little box held between their hands
Yulian was seated when he noticed them approaching
His expression softened immediately
What are my little troublemakers doing?
He asked
The twins held up the box
For you
They answered together
Yulian laughed quietly before accepting it
Thank you my little ones
He said kissing both their foreheads
In Meghan's room there was a knock at the door
Meghan called for whoever was outside to enter
After three knocks the door finally opened
The children appeared with their gift
Meghan stared at them
What is happening today?
She asked with a small smile
The children approached her and presented the box
Meghan accepted it without another question
In Nikolai's room Mila climbed onto the bed with the box carefully balanced in her hands
Nikolai was sitting when he noticed his daughter approaching
His expression softened
Mila sweetheart
He called
She climbed onto the bed and held out the box
Papa
She said
Nikolai looked at the gift
What is this?
He asked
For you
Mila answered
Nikolai accepted it and kissed her forehead
Thank you my little princess
He said
Mila settled beside him waiting for him to open it
Albert was also sitting near the window in another room of the mansion
He had lost his mother too
The grief was still fresh and the memories of her presence remained painfully vivid
Sarah stood beside him when Mila arrived with the gift
Baby Mila sent this for you Open it
Sarah said softly
Albert looked at the little box in his hands
For me?
He asked
Sarah nodded
He carefully held it in both hands as though it contained something fragile
At that very moment in every single room the parents opened their boxes
And inside every box was a locket
For a few seconds nobody spoke
The lockets were beautiful but it was not their craftsmanship that made them precious
It was what they contained
Each locket held a photograph of Viktoria with the person who had received it
The photographs captured their best moments with her
Moments that had seemed ordinary when they happened but had become priceless after her death
One by one the parents opened the lockets
And one by one their hearts broke all over again
Not because the memories hurt them alone
But because the photographs reminded them of how deeply they had been loved
In Yulian's room his fingers trembled when he opened the locket
The photograph showed him with Viktoria on the day she had bought a fast car and driven it at maximum speed
His expression in the photograph was absolutely ridiculous
He looked as though he had been reconsidering every decision that had brought him into that car
Viktoria on the other hand looked delighted with herself
She had been enjoying every second of the ride
Yulian stared at the photograph
For a moment he could almost hear her laughter
He could almost hear her teasing him about his expression
He could almost feel the movement of the car and remember the way she had laughed when he told her to slow down
His lips trembled
A tear slipped down his cheek
Visra immediately moved closer and held him
Yulian closed his eyes as he leaned into her embrace
They were both married and had built a life together but there were some memories from childhood that no amount of time could replace
Viktoria had been part of those memories
And now all he had left were photographs and the stories he could still remember
Visra held him more tightly
Yulian pressed the locket against his chest
In Meghan's room the moment she opened her locket she immediately covered her mouth
The photograph showed her and Grandma Viktoria wearing their bold outfits and striking their baddie poses
They had both looked absolutely confident
Viktoria had her chin raised with a mischievous smile while Meghan stood beside her with an expression that suggested the entire world belonged to them
Meghan stared at the photograph
Then she sobbed
Oh Grandma
She whispered
She could remember the day perfectly
She could remember how Viktoria had encouraged her to stop worrying about what other people thought
She could remember the way her grandmother had adjusted her outfit and told her to stand confidently
She could remember their laughter when they looked at the photographs afterward
Meghan pressed the locket against her heart
She missed her
She missed her voice her laughter her confidence and the way she could make an ordinary afternoon feel like the most exciting day in the world
In Taran's room Massimo opened his locket and stared at the photograph inside
He was nineteen in the picture
Viktoria was standing behind him carefully fixing his hair while he ate his favourite cookie
He remembered that day
He had been complaining about something and she had ignored his complaints while continuing to arrange his hair exactly the way she wanted
He had tried to protest but she had simply told him to sit still
Now the memory made his eyes fill with tears
Dylan appeared beside him carrying a plate
Massimo looked at his son
Dylan offered him a piece of food
Massimo took it absentmindedly and tasted it
His expression changed
It tastes just like hers
He whispered
The words barely escaped his mouth before tears began rolling down his cheeks
Dylan immediately moved closer
Massimo pulled his son into his arms and hugged him tightly
For several moments he could not speak
He simply held Dylan while staring at the photograph
Dylan hugged him back
He did not ask his father to stop crying
He did not tell him to be strong
He simply stayed with him
Because sometimes love did not need words
Sometimes it only needed someone willing to remain beside you while the pain passed through you
In Daira's room she opened the locket and found a photograph of herself with Viktoria
They were standing together holding an award
It had been a special day
Viktoria had been the person who taught Daira the art of designing
She had encouraged her to develop her talent and had guided her through the difficult moments when Daira had doubted herself
They had worked together and eventually won the award
Daira stared at the photograph
Her fingers moved slowly over the image
Grandma taught me everything
She whispered
Her voice broke
She remembered the lessons the encouragement and the pride in Viktoria's eyes when they won
She remembered the way Viktoria had held the award and laughed with her
She remembered believing that there would always be more days like that
But there would not
Not in the way she had imagined
Daira began to sob
Leonid moved closer and kissed the twins' foreheads before drawing them into his arms
The twins hugged their parents as Daira held the locket against her chest
In Arina's room the photograph showed her and Viktoria embracing
It was a simple picture
There were no grand celebrations no expensive gifts and no extraordinary occasion
They were simply holding one another
Yet that photograph became one of the most precious things Arina had ever received
She cried as she stared at it
She remembered the warmth of Viktoria's embrace and the comfort she had always found in her presence
She wished she could hug her one more time
Just once
In Nikolai's room the moment he opened his locket he became completely still
The photograph showed him sitting in his CEO chair with Viktoria standing behind him
He had been twenty-three years old
He remembered the day clearly
He had been working and Viktoria had entered his office without asking permission
She had stood behind his chair and looked at him with the familiar expression that always made it clear she was about to disturb his concentration
He had pretended to be annoyed
She had ignored him
And eventually he had smiled
Now that smile was preserved inside the locket
Nikolai stared at it for a long time
His eyes became wet
He wiped his tears with his thumb and looked at Mila
His little girl was sitting beside him waiting to see his reaction
Nikolai immediately pulled her into his arms
Thank you so much Mil
He whispered
Mila wrapped her little arms around his neck
Nikolai kissed her forehead and held her tightly
Lilith was nearby breastfeeding Hereena when she watched the children moving between their parents
Her heart ached at the sight
The grief in the mansion had not disappeared
But the children had found a way to bring their parents something beautiful in the middle of it
They had reminded everyone that Viktoria's life had been filled with love
That her memories belonged to the family
And that even though she was gone the things she had taught them would continue living through every person she had touched
Sarah sat beside Albert and gently kissed his forehead
Albert broke down in her arms
He held the locket tightly as Sarah wrapped both arms around him
Neither of them spoke for a while
They simply held one another
And throughout the mansion parents embraced their children while remembering the woman who had given them so many reasons to smile
For the first time in days the grief did not feel quite so lonely
The lockets had brought Viktoria back to them in the only way they could have her now
Through memories
Through photographs
Through love that death had not managed to erase
TWO WEEKS LATER
Two weeks passed
Slowly the mansion began filling with happiness again
The sorrow remained but the silence that had once dominated the corridors began giving way to laughter conversations and the ordinary sounds of a family learning how to live with loss
The children played together
The adults returned to their responsibilities
And although there were still moments when someone would suddenly remember Viktoria and become quiet the family had begun to find its footing again
Lilith was at school while Nikolai was at work
He had been going through documents when his phone rang
He glanced at the screen and answered
Hello?
He said
Nikolai ji?
A woman's voice came through the phone
Nikolai stopped what he was doing
Yeah?
He answered
We have been in Russia for two weeks now and Beneva We need to see her We got your number through the underground
The woman explained
Nikolai leaned back in his chair
He was familiar with the way people from the underground obtained information
It was not unusual for his number to reach people who needed to contact him for matters they considered important
Hmm
He said
Where are you all?
We are staying in a mansion not far from your company
The woman answered
Nikolai considered the information for a moment
Pack your bags Within three hours my assistant Damian Rathore will take you all to my wife's estate She is in school at the moment Is that fine?
He asked
Ji
The woman replied
I will speak to you first before you meet her
Nikolai informed her
Okay
She answered
The call ended
Nikolai remained silent for several seconds
Then he reached for another phone and made a call to his estate
Prepare the finest feast Indian and Bengali cuisine More than five hundred dishes should be made as quickly as possible The entire estate must be cleaned and prepared before our guests arrive Understood?
He ordered
Yes sir
The staff member answered immediately
Nikolai ended the call
He looked through the glass windows of his office and considered the woman who had just contacted him
They had travelled to Russia to meet his wife
They had come with a purpose
And he intended to understand that purpose before Lilith was placed in the middle of anything she had not agreed to face
Because whatever the woman wanted from his wife Nikolai would not allow anyone to approach Lilith without understanding the consequences
Not his wife
Not his Bambi
Not his Queen
THE WOMAN IN THE CORPORATE WRITING DEPARTMENT
Meanwhile Gloria was working at Tenebris Imperium
She was an assistant at the company but her responsibilities extended beyond ordinary administrative duties
She also held a position in the Corporate Writing Department
The CEO was not in Russia at the moment and the employees had become accustomed to working without his physical presence in the building
However his absence did not stop the rumours
The students and workers who had heard about him spoke of him in hushed voices
They said he was one of the most dangerous men alive
Some claimed that his influence extended far beyond the corporate world
Others whispered that people who had crossed him had regretted it
Nobody seemed to agree on every detail
But almost everyone agreed on one thing
The CEO of Tenebris Imperium was not someone to be underestimated
Gloria sat in her small office reading reports
Her attention moved between the documents on her desk and the information displayed on her computer
She was concentrating when her phone dinged
She picked it up and saw a message from her brother
He had sent her a message telling her that lunch was on its way
Gloria smiled faintly
She typed a quick reply
Thanks
Then she returned to her work
Ten minutes later Jerome appeared at the entrance of her office carrying her lunch
Hey lunch
He announced
Gloria looked up
Thank you
She said as she accepted it
She began eating while continuing to think about her work
Jerome remained nearby
He seemed to be searching for the right words
So umm are you single?
He asked
Gloria paused
The name Valen immediately crossed her mind
For a moment she found herself thinking about him and the feelings she had not entirely managed to understand
She gave Jerome a small nod
I am busy I will finish this later Thank you
She said before standing up and collecting her documents
She walked away before the conversation could continue
Jerome watched her leave
Damn girl
He muttered to himself
He could not help smiling as he watched her disappear down the corridor
Meanwhile Gloria returned to her responsibilities
She had work to complete and reports to review
Whatever complicated thoughts Valen had stirred inside her would have to wait
THE VENOMOUS BEAST
Elsewhere the Venomous Beast project was moving towards completion
But its creator was no longer working with the same patience he had once possessed
He was consumed by anger
The loss of Kiwi had changed something inside him
She had been his wife
His love
The woman whose presence had once given him reasons to return home
Now she was gone and the emptiness she had left behind had become unbearable
He stood over the men in front of him and continued beating them as his rage consumed him
Every movement carried the weight of his grief
Every breath reminded him that he could command people and control situations but could not undo what had happened to the woman he loved
Would she ever be able to forgive him?
Would he ever have the opportunity to explain himself?
Would she even want to hear his voice again?
Those questions followed him everywhere
And he had no answers
The Venomous Beast project continued moving forward but the man behind it was falling apart in ways that nobody around him could easily repair
His anger had become a wall
His grief had become a weapon
And beneath both lay a single truth he could not escape
He had lost the woman he loved
Whether he would ever find his way back to her remained a question waiting to be answered
THE ARRIVAL OF THE STRANGERS
Damian Rathore arrived at the mansion where the visitors were staying
Several cars were waiting outside
The visitors gathered their belongings and followed him
Once everyone had settled into the vehicles the convoy departed
Their destination was Nikolai's wife's estate
They had travelled to Russia for two weeks waiting for the opportunity to meet Beneva
Now that opportunity had finally arrived
They did not know exactly what awaited them
But they knew they were going to meet the woman they had been searching for
Meanwhile Sohan and Riyana's plane landed
They had already been making arrangements and were soon at the estate
Lilith however remained at school
She knew nothing about the people who were coming to see her
She had no idea that her husband had received a call that would change the course of her evening
And she certainly had no idea that the strangers waiting for her carried answers about a part of her life she had never known existed
A FATHER AND HIS LITTLE GIRL
Meanwhile Nolan was in his office with Brelina
The little girl was five months old and had been settled securely in her baby carrier earlier
She sucked on her white pacifier while looking around the room with curious violet eyes
Her pale hair stood out against her clothing and her tiny fingers kept moving whenever something caught her attention
Nolan sat in his office reviewing documents
Brelina had become a familiar presence in his life
Four months earlier he had found her abandoned in the rain
She had been so small and helpless that the memory still made something tighten inside his chest whenever he thought about it
He had taken her in
He had cared for her
And somewhere along the way the little girl had become far more than a responsibility
She had become his daughter in every way that mattered to him
Brelina began crawling towards his chair
Nolan looked down and smiled
Lina
He called her nickname
The baby continued crawling towards him
He reached down and helped her settle beside him before offering her a bottle of milk
Brelina immediately accepted it and began drinking happily
Nolan returned to his reports while keeping one eye on her
A few minutes later the office door opened
Boss
Three men and a woman entered
They stopped almost immediately when they saw him
Their expressions changed from professional seriousness to complete shock
Their boss was sitting in his office feeding a baby girl
The woman blinked several times
The men stared
Nolan looked up as though nothing unusual had happened
Welcome back How was the mission?
He asked
One of the men stepped forward
It was bloody boss
He answered
The girl standing beside him nodded
It was in your name
She added
Then she looked at the baby
Is that a baby girl?
She asked
The man with the deep voice beside her also looked at Nolan
Yes this is Brelina I found her four months ago in the rain Someone abandoned her
Nolan explained
The woman's expression softened immediately
Oh poor baby
She whispered
Nolan adjusted the bottle while Brelina continued drinking
I named her
He added
Brelina looked up at him and gave him a little smile
Her first tiny teeth were beginning to emerge
The sight made Nolan's expression soften
The deep voiced man looked between Nolan and the baby
So you adopted her as your daughter?
He asked
Something like that
Nolan replied
The three men were Oswald who was half Russian and half American Warren who was Western Russian and Horace who was half Mexican and half British
The woman was Agrona who was half Polish and half Russian
They had returned from a mission that had left them exhausted and covered in the evidence of a difficult assignment
Yet all four of them had temporarily forgotten about the mission
Their attention was on Brelina
The baby had finished her milk and was now playing with Nolan's tie
Nolan allowed her to pull at it while he reviewed the mission reports
Agrona stepped closer
Boss can I hold her?
She asked
Nolan looked at her and then at the baby
Here
He said
Agrona immediately took Brelina into her arms
Hello little one
She whispered
Brelina looked at her
Then the baby smiled and began clapping her hands
Agrona's entire face brightened
Awww
She exclaimed
She gently hugged the little girl while Brelina continued smiling at her
The others watched the scene with expressions they would never have expected to wear when entering their boss's office
They had known Nolan as a formidable man
They had seen his coldness his authority and the ruthless determination with which he handled his responsibilities
But they had never imagined seeing him sitting quietly in his office feeding a baby girl
And they certainly had never expected the sight to feel so natural
GRANDPA AND HIS BERRIES
At Nikolai's estate the girls were crawling around the playroom when Nikolai entered
He noticed Sohan and immediately smiled
Look it's Granny
He said while pointing towards him
The girls turned their attention towards Sohan
Rhea noticed both Sohan and Riyana
Her little face brightened
She began crawling towards them with enthusiastic movements
Hi my berries!
Sohan exclaimed
The girls immediately surrounded him
He lowered himself so that they could reach him more easily and opened his arms
Awww I missed you all so so so so much!
He declared
The girls giggled
Sohan kissed their foreheads one after another while holding them close
He had missed their laughter
He had missed their little voices
He had missed the way they reached for him whenever he entered a room
Riyana stood nearby watching the scene with a softened expression
The family had been through enough pain already
For a moment she allowed herself to enjoy the simple happiness of seeing the children together
But the reason for her visit remained at the back of her mind
Her daughter
Beneva
There were matters that could no longer be postponed
And before the night ended the past would finally demand to be heard
THE ARRIVAL OF THE DARK FEMININE QUEEN
Outside the estate Riyana stood waiting
She wore a dark blue saree that moved gently in the evening breeze
Her arms were folded across her chest
Her expression was serious
This was not a social visit
This was about her daughter
It was about Beneva
And it was about a promise that had been broken long ago
The cars arrived one after another and parked outside the estate
The doors opened
The visitors stepped out
Among them was a dark feminine woman whose presence immediately commanded attention
She stood with the confidence of someone accustomed to power and the silence that followed her seemed almost deliberate
Riyana watched her approach
Ria
The woman called
Riyana did not respond immediately
She held her anger in check while the woman came closer
Great to see you again
The visitor said
Riyana remained silent
She knew the woman too well to mistake politeness for innocence
She knew what this meeting represented
She knew why they had come
And she knew that beneath the formal greetings lay generations of secrets and expectations
The woman wore an exquisitely dark Bengali gothic ensemble crafted from the finest black silk and midnight velvet
Her luxurious floor length black saree was embroidered with intricate antique gold Bengali motifs dark crimson lotus flowers and ancient ornamental patterns that seemed to carry the secrets of forgotten generations
The heavily pleated fabric flowed around her like liquid darkness while the pallu draped elegantly over her shoulder Its edges were adorned with delicate black lace antique gold threadwork and tiny garnet gemstones that shimmered like drops of blood beneath the candlelight
Her fitted black velvet blouse featured a high neckline sheer lace sleeves extending to her wrists and elaborate gold embroidery shaped like twisted vines and blooming lotuses
A magnificent antique gold waist chain rested against her waist decorated with dark rubies and tiny dangling charms
A pair of ornate gold anklets whispered softly with every step
Around her neck lay several layers of traditional Bengali gold necklaces including a breathtaking choker set with deep red rubies black onyx and a blood red central gemstone
Her elaborate jhumka earrings framed her face while a delicate maang tikka rested against the centre of her forehead
A magnificent traditional Bengali nath curved gracefully beside her face with a fine gold chain sweeping towards her hair
Her wrists were adorned with stacks of black glass bangles interspersed with antique gold kadas while her fingers carried elaborate rings engraved with mysterious symbols from an ancient forgotten dynasty
Her long raven black hair cascaded down her back in thick waves partially gathered into an intricate braided arrangement adorned with black roses dark crimson lotus blossoms and antique gold hairpins
Her eyes were framed with dramatic kohl and smoky black eyeshadow
Her lips were painted a deep wine red
A small dark crimson bindi rested between her brows
A sheer black veil embroidered with delicate golden lotuses fell from the crown of her head trailing behind her like a shadow
Her black velvet heels featured intricate gold filigree and tiny garnet embellishments
Every detail of her appearance radiated the haunting magnificence of an ancient Bengali queen whose bloodline had survived centuries of forbidden secrets
Her beauty concealed a merciless intelligence
Her elegance carried the weight of an ancient dynasty
And her very presence commanded the silence of an entire room
The visitors followed their hostess inside the estate
As the cars settled outside the sky grew darker
The atmosphere seemed to change with the arrival of the night
Sohan approached Tasnim and kissed her cheeks in greeting
Nikolai was already seated when the visitors entered
His arms were folded across his chest
Men stood throughout the room while security personnel remained positioned around the estate
Nobody had come here casually
Everyone understood that the meeting was important
The dark feminine woman approached Nikolai
Nomoshkar
She greeted him with folded hands
Nikolai returned the greeting
Beneva?
The man asked
My darling wife is in school
Nikolai replied
Please take a seat
He gestured towards the available chairs
The visitors settled down
For several moments Nikolai and the woman simply stared at one another
Neither appeared willing to look away first
Their expressions remained controlled but there was an unmistakable tension between them
Sohan eventually entered the room
The girls are in the playroom by the way Nyxara has a fucking strong grip
He announced
Nikolai smiled proudly
That was his daughter
Strong willed even at such a young age
Sohan moved closer to the seating area
The dark feminine woman studied him
Sohan Murad
She said
The men standing nearby moved to attend to her as she prepared her cigarette
Sohan rolled up his sleeves and sat beside Nikolai
Riyana settled behind them
The room grew quiet again
Nikolai looked towards the woman
Shall we begin?
He asked
Of course
She answered
NISTARINI AND THE THIRTY WOMEN
The woman's name was Nistarini
She belonged to an ancient clan whose traditions had survived across generations
She had six children
Four daughters and two sons
Her daughters were Debasmita Tamalika Bhairavi and Shonali
Her sons were Ritwik and Shounak
They sat with her while more than thirty girls occupied the surrounding seats
The girls looked around curiously
Some whispered to one another
Others exchanged excited glances
Their curiosity became increasingly noticeable until Nistarini turned towards them
Shhhhhh
She commanded
The room immediately fell silent
Everyone understood that this was not the time for unnecessary conversation
Nistarini turned back towards Nikolai and Riyana
Where is Beneva?
She asked
In school She has work after school
Nikolai answered
Several men brought bags into the room and placed them nearby
Nistarini's gaze moved towards Riyana
Her expression hardened
Riyana you crossed the line and broke your promise to our clan
She declared
Riyana looked at her without flinching
Slowly she adjusted the saree around her waist
Then she smirked
She is my daughter
Riyana replied
Her voice was calm but carried a warning
And I know you too well Rini You will only use her for your selfish needs and your thirst for power That is why you made yourself more powerful
The room became still
Nistarini stared at Riyana
Riyana stared back
Neither woman appeared willing to retreat
They had known each other for years
They understood one another's strengths and weaknesses
They knew which words would cause the deepest wounds
And both understood that Beneva was the centre of their conflict
Their eyes seemed to glow with an intensity that made the people around them uncomfortable
The tension grew until Sohan reached for Riyana's hand
Ria
He called gently
Riyana looked towards him
She held his hand softly
The small gesture did not erase the anger in her expression but it reminded her that she was not standing alone
At that moment Rhea began crawling into the room
Her tiny hands moved against the floor as she made her way towards the adults
Babababaabb!
She babbled happily
Everyone turned to look at her
The sudden interruption broke the tension for a moment
Shonali leaned forward immediately
Aww what a cutie!
She exclaimed
Rhea looked around the room with innocent curiosity
Ritwik turned towards Sohan
One of Beneva's daughters?
He asked
Sohan nodded
She has eight girls right?
Ritwik continued
Yeah
Sohan replied
Rhea continued crawling across the floor
Nikolai reached down and offered her his finger
The baby immediately grabbed it
Her tiny hand closed around his finger with surprising strength
Nikolai laughed quietly
Rhea began playing with his fingers and giggling
He lowered his face towards hers and gently rubbed their noses together
The baby responded with another delighted laugh
The sight softened several faces around the room
Even the women who had arrived with Nistarini could not completely resist the charm of the little girl
Yet beneath the brief moment of warmth the larger question remained unanswered
Who was Beneva?
And why had so many people travelled across the world to find her?
THE RETURN OF THE QUEEN
Lilith had been working at the hotel
Her shift finally ended and she changed into her own clothes while the night shift workers began arriving
She gathered her belongings and entered her car
After a long day she wanted nothing more than to return home
She drove away and arrived at the mansion approximately ten minutes later
But the moment she entered the property she noticed the cars parked outside
There were too many of them
Lilith slowed her steps
She recognised her own mansion but the unusual gathering immediately caught her attention
What was happening?
She entered the house
Nikki?
She called
The voices inside the mansion stopped
The conversations and arguments that had filled the rooms fell silent
Every head turned towards the entrance
Nikolai stood up immediately
Welcome home Bambi
He said
Rhea was asleep in his arms
Lilith looked at him and then at the unfamiliar faces surrounding the room
Her expression became confused
Why were so many people in her house?
Why were they all staring at her?
And why did some of them look as though they had been waiting for her for years?
Nistarini stared at Lilith
For the first time that evening she was seeing Beneva face to face
The moment her eyes settled on the young woman her expression changed
Something about Lilith's presence was unmistakable
It was not merely her appearance
It was the feeling she carried into the room
The strength in her posture
The authority in her gaze
The strange sensation that seemed to settle over the people who looked at her
A girl sitting beside Nistarini whispered
Her Queen Maa her energy is…
She could not finish the sentence
Another girl leaned closer to her
I felt it too
She whispered
Nistarini remained silent
She had spent years waiting for this moment
She had searched for the woman who belonged to their ancient bloodline
She had wondered whether Beneva would ever appear before them
Now the woman was standing in front of her
And Nistarini understood that the stories had never fully captured the reality
Lilith was here
Their Queen was here
Oh my baby Lily
Riyana whispered
Lilith turned towards her mother
Then she immediately looked around the room again
Where are my girls?
She asked
She began looking for her daughters
The children were outside playing with one another
Lilith's attention returned to Nikolai
He approached her carefully
Bambi
He called
Actually there is something you need to know about your life
Lilith stopped walking
My life?
She repeated
Nikolai nodded
Lilith followed him towards the living room
Then she noticed Sohan
Baba?
She called
The moment the people around the room heard her voice they stood up
One after another they bowed their heads towards her
Beneva
They greeted her
Lilith blinked
She looked from one person to another
What was going on?
Why were these strangers bowing to her?
Why were they calling her Beneva?
And why did her mother look as though she had been carrying a secret for her entire life?
I… It is an honour to meet you Your Majesty
Tamalika said
She folded her hands and bent down to touch Lilith's feet
Lilith immediately stepped back
Hey!
She exclaimed
But before she could understand what was happening several others moved forward and touched her feet as well
Lilith lost her balance and fell onto the couch
OIIII!!!!!!!!!!!
She shouted
Everyone immediately stopped
Lilith stared at them in disbelief
WHAT IS HAPPENING?
WHAT IS GOING ON?
Her voice echoed throughout the living room
The visitors remained silent
Some lowered their heads
Others looked towards Nistarini
Riyana closed her eyes briefly and sighed
She had known that this conversation would not be easy
But seeing her daughter's bewilderment made the truth even harder to reveal
This is going to be a long talk
Riyana said
And so it began
THE FAMILY THAT WAITED IN NEW YORK
Meanwhile in New York Nihal was packing Khushi's hospital bag
Khushi sat nearby with one hand resting on her pregnant belly
Nihal checked the bag carefully
He made sure that everything they might need was packed before turning towards his wife
All done love
He announced
Khushi giggled
Funny huh?
Nihal asked
She nodded
He gave her a look before smiling
He had been trying to remain calm but the approaching birth had left him more nervous than he wanted to admit
Karim and Anika entered the room
What's up?
Karim asked
Nihal looked at him
Fist bump
Karim held out his fist and Nihal bumped it
The brief exchange made Khushi laugh again
Anika immediately moved closer to her
She checked Khushi and observed her condition carefully
Then her expression changed
Y'all have to go to the hospital now
She announced
Khushi looked at her
Anika continued
She is going into labour soon
Nihal froze
For one second he simply stared at her
Then he grabbed the hospital bag and the keys
Come on come come come on!
He said hurriedly
Khushi began giggling again
Even in the middle of the commotion she could not help finding his panic amusing
Aarav chuckled while Anika carefully helped Khushi towards the car
Nihal rushed ahead and opened the door
He helped Khushi settle into the seat before getting behind the wheel
The hospital was waiting
And their family was about to welcome another little life into the world
AVLEEN'S SECRET ILLNESS
Meanwhile in the hidden mansion Rurik and Avleen had been resting
They were dating and had been together for a year and a half
Their relationship had grown through the complicated circumstances surrounding their lives
But Avleen had been sick for months
Vlada was in her second year of nursing and had been increasingly concerned about her sister's condition
Avleen lay asleep while Dr Clara examined her
Rurik sat beside the bed watching her
His eyes rarely left her face
Is she okay?
He asked
Dr Clara looked at him
The test results are on their way
She replied
Avleen remained asleep
Rurik gently held her hand
He did not want to disturb her
He simply wanted to remain close enough that she would know someone was beside her when she woke up
The door suddenly opened
Vlada turned towards the entrance
Who are you?
She demanded
A man stood in the doorway
His attention immediately shifted towards Rurik's hand holding Avleen's
Why are you holding my sister's hand like that?
He asked sharply
Vlada stared at him
Ave has a brother?
She asked in surprise
The man looked at her
She has three brothers She is the only girl
He answered
He walked towards the bed and gently touched Avleen's forehead
She is sleeping
Rurik explained
I can see that
The man replied
He sat down beside his sister
His name was Hardeep
He looked at Avleen and then towards Dr Clara
She has a high fever right?
He asked
Yes but the results are coming
Dr Clara replied
Hardeep shook his head
No need because I know what is wrong with her I am a senior nurse I have been treating her since she was eight years old
Everyone turned towards him
Hardeep continued speaking
She has been struggling with it for years and it is called sepsis It is a life threatening disease Papa had it too That was what killed him We did not treat him properly and she got it from him
His voice grew quieter as he looked at his sister
The memory of their father remained painful
He had watched the disease take their father and now he was facing the possibility of losing his sister to the same condition
Dr Clara reviewed the reports
Her expression became serious
Actually yes
She said
She paused before continuing
And she also has skin cancer
Rurik stared at Avleen
For several moments he could not speak
He had known that she was sick
He had known that something was wrong
But hearing the full extent of her condition made the situation feel terrifyingly real
Dr Clara continued
We will start treatment soon For now we need to admit her to the hospital
Rurik immediately looked towards her
How much is the treatment?
He asked
Hardeep turned sharply towards him
Who are you to her to ask that question?
He demanded
Vlada looked between the two men
Well Papa and Ave have been dating for a year and a half now
She explained
Hardeep's expression changed
What?
He exclaimed
Dating?
He repeated in anger
He looked at Rurik as though he had just learned something completely unacceptable
Rurik remained beside Avleen
Stop please
Dr Clara interrupted
Loud noises are not good for her right now
Hardeep clenched his fist
The doctor continued
The price is twenty million pounds and her treatment is going to be in the United Kingdom
Hardeep immediately took out his phone and called his brothers
The situation had become urgent
They needed to make arrangements for Avleen's treatment
Rurik also took out his phone
He transferred the money and looked towards Dr Clara
I already sent the money More than that too so please start the arrangements
He said
Dr Clara nodded
Yes I will
She replied
Hardeep looked at Rurik with a hard expression
This relationship is not accepted You will get your money back Just stay away from her
Rurik turned towards him
No
He answered firmly
So please shut up and stop being arrogant Ave is sick I am not risking her life for your stupid anger
His voice carried an unmistakable warning
He was not going to abandon Avleen because her brother disapproved of their relationship
Not now
Not when she was fighting for her life
Seerat began packing Avleen's belongings while Dr Clara prepared to arrange her admission and treatment
Rurik remained beside Avleen holding her hand
He looked at her sleeping face and silently prayed that she would survive
He could argue with Hardeep later
He could deal with their family's disapproval later
Right now there was only one thing that mattered
Avleen had to live
THE TRUTH ABOUT BENEVA
Back at the mansion Lilith had been sitting in stunned silence for three hours
Three entire hours
Nikolai remained beside her while the family explained everything
They told her about the ancient clan
They told her about the bloodline
They told her about the generations of women who had held power
They told her about the promises and the traditions that had governed their lives for centuries
And they told her about Beneva
The name she had never known
The identity that had been hidden from her
The history that had existed long before she was born
Lilith listened as the truth unfolded around her
At first she had struggled to understand
Then disbelief had taken over
After disbelief came anger
And beneath the anger was a sadness so deep that she could barely find words for it
Nistarini sat before her with a cigarette in her hand
For centuries our clan has never felt a force as powerful as yours
She began
Her gaze remained fixed on Lilith
You belong to our clan You are our Queen even before you were born
Lilith's fingers tightened around the couch
Nikolai gently held her right hand
He could feel the tension in her fingers
He could see the way her shoulders had stiffened
But he did not interrupt
He knew that Lilith needed to hear the truth in its entirety before she could decide what to do with it
Rhea was asleep in her crib
The other girls were sleeping nearby after spending the evening playing together
For a moment the entire room seemed suspended in silence
Lilith slowly stood up
Her movements were unsteady
Bambi?
Nikolai called
She raised one hand towards him
She did not want him to speak yet
Her eyes were filled with a mixture of anger and disbelief
I was sold to the devil?
She asked
Her voice trembled
The question struck the room with devastating force
Riyana struggled to hold back her tears
She had imagined this moment countless times
She had rehearsed explanations in her mind
She had told herself that she would remain strong when her daughter finally learned the truth
But standing before Lilith now she realised that no explanation could erase the pain her daughter was experiencing
Lilith's body began trembling
Nikolai immediately moved closer and held her
He cupped her face gently in his hands
Bambi look at me
He whispered
She struggled to breathe evenly
He held her face carefully and waited until her eyes met his
You were sold to the devil Lilith
He said softly
You were never meant to be in that situation They helped your Mumma give birth to you She would have died alongside you too She was in a desperate situation and any mother would have done the same even when you had that accident they helped her She did not know there would be a price She forgot Bambi
Lilith looked towards Riyana
Her mother stood there fighting to keep herself together
Lilith searched her face for an explanation
She wanted answers
She wanted to understand why her life had been shaped by decisions made before she could even speak
She wanted to know why the people who claimed to belong to her had remained strangers for so long
Riyana could barely look at her
The guilt was written across her face
Nikolai continued holding Lilith
Ria left her high ranked position for you Beneva
Nistarini said
Her voice became colder
She betrayed us by keeping you away and making our clan fall apart My mother died while searching for you everywhere in this world We lost our wealth Our villages became like a living death
She paused
Neva
Nistarini looked directly at Lilith
Besides if it were not for your handsome husband your brothers would have been punished by you
Lilith's head snapped towards her
You leave my Bhais out of this!
She shouted
The room went silent
Her brothers lowered their heads
Nobody wanted to challenge her in that moment
Nikolai held her hand more firmly
Lilith was breathing heavily
Her anger had become impossible to conceal
She had spent her life learning how to survive the world she knew
Now she was being told that an entirely different world had existed around her all along
A world that had claimed ownership of her before she was born
A world that had expected her to fulfil a role she had never chosen
And a world that had apparently suffered consequences because her mother had decided to protect her
Lilith looked towards Nistarini
She did not know what to say
She did not know whether she wanted to scream or cry
All she knew was that she had never agreed to any of this
And nobody had asked her permission
THE ATTACK ON NOCTURNE
Before Lilith could say anything else a woman rushed into the mansion
Amelia
Her arms were bleeding and her breathing was uneven
The sight immediately changed the atmosphere in the room
Boss!
She called
Lilith turned towards her
Amelia what happened?
Lilith asked as she hurried forward and caught her before she could stumble
Amelia struggled to breathe
Boss they took our weapons
She managed to say
The words made Lilith's expression change
Other injured members of the group entered behind Amelia
Their clothes were damaged
Some had blood on their faces
Others were struggling to remain upright
Nora approached with an urgent expression
Boss they have Xander and Emilia
She reported
For several seconds Lilith remained completely still
Then she slowly straightened
The grief in her face did not disappear
The anger did not fade
But something else emerged beneath both emotions
The woman who had been struggling to understand her past was now confronting an immediate threat to the people under her protection
And she knew exactly what she needed to do
Lilith turned towards Nikolai
He looked at her carefully
She held his gaze
Nikolai look at me
She said
Her voice was sharp enough to make the entire room fall silent
He flinched slightly at the sudden command
So did several of the men standing nearby
Lilith did not look away
King of Kings I would like to purchase one of your finest weapons please for I have a mission
She declared
Nikolai stared at her
For a moment he seemed to assess the situation
Then he reached for his phone
All she said
Lilith added
I want five hundred guards in one hour
Nikolai looked at her
The woman he loved was standing before him with tears still lingering in her eyes and anger burning beneath her skin
He understood that this was not the moment to question her determination
Yes love
He replied
His voice was calm
He immediately began making arrangements
Nora stepped forward and handed Lilith a key
Lilith accepted it
She looked around the room
This will be discussed later
She announced
Then she turned and walked upstairs
The conversation about her past was not over
Not even close
But Xander and Emilia were in danger
And Lilith would not leave them there
She entered her room and took a shower
The warm water ran over her skin while she tried to steady her thoughts
Her mind remained crowded with questions
The ancient clan
The title of Queen
The promises her mother had broken
The suffering Nistarini had described
The people who had been waiting for her
And now the attack against her own people
Lilith closed her eyes
She could not afford to collapse
Not while others were depending on her
She had a mission
And she intended to finish it
THE OLD WAREHOUSE
The warehouse stood in a neglected part of the city
Its iron doors were heavy and its interior was filled with the smell of rust dust and smoke
Several women were gathered inside
Some were injured
Others sat against the walls while their captors moved around them
Emilia's head was bleeding
She tried to remain upright despite the pain
Xander stood nearby
His ears twitched at the sound of footsteps outside
The leader of the group approached Emilia with a mocking smile
Where is your so called Boss now?
She taunted
Emilia slowly lifted her head
Even with blood running down her face she managed to smirk
The leader frowned
Emilia looked directly at her
You all really think Boss is weak because she did not show herself in the underworld
She said
Her voice was strained but unwavering
But there is one thing you do not know
She paused
When Boss gets mad nobody will survive
The leader laughed
Oh please spare us the talks
She said dismissively
At that exact moment a loud bang echoed against the warehouse doors
Everyone turned towards the entrance
The leader frowned
What was that?
She demanded
Emilia's smirk widened
Not what
She whispered
But who
Another bang shook the building
The iron doors trembled
Then they burst open
The noise echoed throughout the warehouse
The people inside gasped
Dust rose from the floor
Several men turned towards the entrance while others instinctively stepped backwards
A small woman stood in the doorway
She looked almost delicate compared with the armed men surrounding her
But there was nothing uncertain about her posture
She carried a Zweihänder sword
Her expression was calm
Her gaze was cold
And the silence that followed her arrival was more frightening than the noise of the doors
Greetings
The tiny woman announced
You have my girls so I am here to take them home
She glanced towards Emilia and Xander
It is almost dinner time right girls?
Emilia and Xander looked at her
Yes boss
They answered together
The woman held the Zweihänder in her hand while the men pointed their guns towards her
She did not appear impressed
The leader stepped forward
So you are the new leader of the Nocturne Matriarch?
She asked
The tiny Supreme Matriarch smirked
The leader had barely finished speaking when the woman moved
She threw the Zweihänder directly into the leader's chest
The entire warehouse erupted into chaos
The leader staggered
The woman ran towards her with astonishing speed
Before anyone could react she reached her and leaned close
Shhhhhh
She whispered
Sleep tight
Then she pulled the sword free
The leader's body fell
For a moment the remaining men stood frozen in horror
They had expected a confrontation
They had expected threats
They had expected the woman to negotiate for the release of her people
They had not expected her to move so quickly
They had not expected her to show so little hesitation
And they had certainly not expected the leader to fall before she could issue another command
The Supreme Matriarch turned towards the others
Kill them
She ordered
Gunfire erupted throughout the warehouse
The armed men tried to respond but the guards accompanying the Matriarch moved into action
Amid the chaos she reached Emilia and Xander
Their captors were distracted and the guards quickly secured their release
The injured women were carried out of the warehouse
The Supreme Matriarch followed them outside
She had come to bring her people home
And she was not leaving anyone behind
THE FIVE HUNDRED DISHES
Back at the estate the staff had spent hours preparing the banquet
The dining room had been transformed into a magnificent celebration of Indian and Bengali cuisine
Long tables were arranged beneath elaborate chandeliers
Gold and silver serving vessels gleamed beneath the lights
Crystal beverage dispensers stood beside floral arrangements
The entire room carried the fragrance of spices saffron rosewater and freshly prepared dishes
More than five hundred dishes had been requested
The kitchen staff had worked tirelessly to prepare a royal feast worthy of the gathering
Nistarini and the others were escorted towards the dining room
The moment the girls saw the tables their eyes widened
Wowwww!
They exclaimed
The feast was extraordinary
There were traditional Indian and Bengali dishes representing different regions and culinary traditions
The tables were filled with fragrant biryanis royal pulaos rich curries slow cooked meats delicate fish preparations and elaborate vegetarian dishes
There were platters of kebabs fried delicacies savoury pastries breads chutneys pickles and freshly prepared accompaniments
The dessert tables were equally impressive
Bengali sweets sat beside Indian milk based desserts while trays of delicate pastries and elaborate confections were arranged in beautiful displays
The beverages included traditional teas sherbets lassis and refreshing fruit drinks
The feast included Hyderabadi Dum Mutton Biryani Lucknowi Awadhi Biryani Kolkata Mutton Biryani Kolkata Chicken Biryani Malabar Chicken Biryani Thalassery Mutton Biryani Ambur Mutton Biryani Dindigul Biryani Sindhi Biryani Kashmiri Mutton Biryani Mughlai Chicken Biryani Hyderabadi Vegetable Dum Biryani Paneer Biryani Egg Biryani Kerala Fish Biryani Prawn Biryani Basanti Polao Bengali Mishti Pulao Kashmiri Yakhni Pulao Royal Chicken Pulao Mutton Pulao Vegetable Pulao Saffron Pulao Ghee Rice Jeera Rice Bengali Gobindobhog Rice Bangladeshi Kalijeera Rice Coconut Rice Lemon Rice Bhuna Khichuri Bengali Bhoger Khichuri Bangladeshi Beef Khichuri and Mutton Khichuri
There was Hyderabadi Bagara Rice Butter Chicken Chicken Tikka Masala Shahi Chicken Korma Mughlai Chicken Curry Chicken Lababdar Chicken Changezi Chicken Handi Chicken Malai Curry Punjabi Chicken Curry Chicken Do Pyaza Chicken Bhuna Chicken Pasanda Chicken Saagwala Chicken Chettinad Goan Chicken Xacuti Kashmiri Rogan Josh Awadhi Mutton Korma Hyderabadi Mutton Marag Royal Mutton Nihari Mutton Pasanda Mutton Shahi Korma Rajasthani Laal Maas Rajasthani Safed Maas Punjabi Mutton Curry Mutton Bhuna Mutton Do Pyaza Mutton Dum Pukht Mutton Kolhapuri Mutton Keema Masala Kashmiri Tabak Maaz Beef Kala Bhuna Traditional Beef Bhuna Beef Rezala Beef Korma Beef Shatkora Beef Akhni Mutton Akhni Chicken Akhni Traditional Old Dhaka Kacchi Mutton Biryani Dhakaiya Chicken Biryani Old Dhaka Beef Tehari Traditional Morog Polao Royal Mutton Polao Fragrant Beef Polao Bangladeshi Chicken Roast Shahi Chicken Roast Bengali Mutton Roast Beef Chap Bengali Kosha Mangsho Bengali Mutton Rezala Bengali Chicken Rezala Chicken Chaap Mutton Chaap Bengali Chicken Kasha Bengali Mutton Kasha Traditional Bengali Chicken Curry Bengali Egg Curry Duck Bhuna and Duck Curry with Ash Gourd
The fish preparations included Shorshe Ilish Bhapa Ilish Ilish Paturi Ilish Bhaja Ilish Macher Jhol Ilish Tel Jhol Ilish Polao Ilish Khichuri Doi Ilish Ilish Korma Bengali Chingri Malai Curry Golda Chingri Bhuna Bagda Chingri Curry Chingri Bhapa Chingri Paturi Chingri Bhorta Prawn Malai Curry Bengali Chingri Bhorta Chingri Do Pyaza Royal Prawn Masala Giant Prawns in Saffron Coconut Gravy Rui Maacher Kalia Katla Maacher Kalia Pabda Maacher Jhal Bhetki Paturi Chitol Maacher Muitha Koi Maacher Jhol Magur Maacher Jhol Shol Maacher Curry Tengra Maacher Jhal Parshe Maacher Jhal Muri Ghonto Maacher Matha Diye Moong Dal Bengali Doi Maach Bengali Fish Kalia Bengali Fish Rezala and Bhetki Maacher Jhol
The kebab and seafood stations offered Bengali Chicken Chaap Chicken Reshmi Kebabs Chicken Seekh Kebabs Awadhi Galouti Kebabs Kakori Seekh Kebabs Lucknowi Shami Kebabs Mughlai Chicken Malai Tikka Tandoori Chicken Tikka Mutton Burra Kebabs Tandoori Lamb Chops Mutton Boti Kebabs Royal Mutton Chapli Kebabs Chicken Changezi Bites Mini Chicken Chaap Mutton Keema Samosas Chicken Seekh Roll Slices Tandoori Lobster Tails Garlic Butter Prawns Tandoori King Prawns Amritsari Fish Fry Kolkata Bhetki Fish Fingers Prawn Koliwada Ajwaini Fish Tikka Kerala Karimeen Pollichathu Goan Recheado Pomfret Crispy Bengali Fish Fry Prawn Ghee Roast Malabar Pepper Prawns Bengali Chingri Paturi Crab Masala Croquettes and Mini Fish Cutlets
The vegetarian starters included Paneer Tikka with Mint Chutney Malai Paneer Tikka Tandoori Mushroom Tikka Bharwa Aloo Amritsari Paneer Pakora Bengali Beguni Bengali Vegetable Chop Mochar Chop Dahi Bhalla Raj Kachori Aloo Tikki Chaat Mini Kachori with Spiced Lentils Crispy Onion Bhaji Vegetable Seekh Kebabs Stuffed Baby Potatoes with Royal Spices Royal Pani Puri Dahi Puri Papdi Chaat Bengali Phuchka Kolkata Aloo Kabli Raj Kachori Chaat Delhi Style Aloo Tikki Chaat Mumbai Pav Bhaji Mini Chole Bhature Bengali Egg Rolls Kolkata Chicken Rolls Kolkata Mutton Rolls Mughlai Paratha with Spiced Filling Mini Keema Pav Mini Paneer Kathi Rolls
The vegetarian main courses included Shahi Paneer Paneer Butter Masala Paneer Lababdar Kadai Paneer Palak Paneer Paneer Pasanda Malai Kofta Navratan Korma Kashmiri Dum Aloo Punjabi Dal Makhani Dal Tadka Dal Fry Vegetable Jalfrezi Shahi Mushroom Curry Vegetable Handi Gujarati Undhiyu Punjabi Sarson Ka Saag Makki Ki Roti Rajasthani Dal Baati Churma Gujarati Kadhi Punjabi Kadhi Pakora Rajma Masala Pindi Chana Amritsari Chole Chole Bhature Kala Chana Curry Gujarati Sev Tameta Maharashtrian Bharli Vangi Veg Kolhapuri Mushroom Matar Bhindi Masala Bharwa Bhindi Aloo Gobi Aloo Matar Baingan Bharta Bengali Shukto Aloo Posto Chhanar Dalna Dhokar Dalna Mochar Ghonto Echorer Dalna Labra Lau Chingri Kumro Ghonto Phulkopir Dalna Jhinge Posto Potol Posto Sajner Data Chorchori Pui Shak Chorchori Bandhakopi Ghonto Bengali Beetroot Chop Aloo Chop Enchorer Chop Vegetable Pakora Paneer Pakora and Crispy Papad Bhaja
The accompaniments included Cucumber and Mint Raita Pineapple Raita Boondi Raita Fresh Garden Salad with Pomegranate Royal Mint and Coriander Chutney Bengali Kasundi Mustard Sauce Green Chilli and Coriander Chutney Tamarind and Date Chutney Sweet Mango Chutney Fresh Mint Yogurt Sauce Roasted Garlic Chutney Coconut Chutney Tomato and Date Chutney Pickled Red Onions Traditional Indian Mixed Pickles Bengali Sweet Tomato Chutney Fresh Lemon Wedges Roasted Cumin Raita Saffron Yogurt Dip and Spiced Buttermilk
The bread selection included Butter Naan Garlic Naan Cheese Naan Kashmiri Naan Peshawari Naan Keema Naan Amritsari Kulcha Paneer Kulcha Onion Kulcha Laccha Paratha Aloo Paratha Gobi Paratha Paneer Paratha Mooli Paratha Keema Paratha Mughlai Paratha Malabar Parotta Kerala Porotta Tandoori Roti Missi Roti Makki Ki Roti Bajra Roti Jowar Bhakri Rumali Roti Sheermal Baqarkhani Bread Khameeri Roti Bengali Luchi Bengali Kochuri Radhaballabhi Bengali Dal Puri Bengali Aloo Puri Appam Kerala Pathiri and Kerala Puttu
The dessert tables featured Kolkata Rosogolla Rajbhog Nolen Gur Sandesh Kacha Golla Bengali Cham Cham Langcha Pantua Ledikeni Mihidana Sitabhog Shor Bhaja Shor Puri Nolen Gur Mishti Doi Traditional Mishti Doi Bhapa Doi Bengali Payesh Nolen Gur Payesh Chaler Payesh Bengali Pithe Payesh Joynagarer Moa Royal Rasmalai Kesar Rasmalai Gulab Jamun Kala Jamun Shahi Tukda Double Ka Meetha Rabri Falooda Saffron Rabri Kesar Pista Kulfi Mango Kulfi Matka Kulfi Royal Jalebi Imarti Ghewar Malai Ghewar Gajar Ka Halwa Moong Dal Halwa Badam Halwa Sooji Halwa Mysore Pak Kaju Katli Pista Barfi Kesar Peda Motichoor Ladoo Besan Ladoo Coconut Ladoo Patishapta Dudh Puli Bhapa Pitha Chitoi Pitha Gokul Pitha Nakshi Pitha Taler Bora Khaja Pitha Coconut Filled Puli Pitha Traditional Bengali Malpua Pithe Payesh Murir Moa Kheerer Chop Nolen Gur Sandesh Bites Modak Ukadiche Modak Kozhukattai Ada Pradhaman Palada Payasam Semiya Payasam Paruppu Payasam Coconut Barfi Badam Katli Anjeer Barfi Dry Fruit Ladoo Kesar Pista Roll Karachi Halwa Bombay Ice Halwa Soan Papdi Balushahi Shakkarpara Namak Para Gujiya Mawa Gujiya Karanji Puran Poli Traditional Bengali Mishti Doi Sandesh with Rosewater Pistachio Sandesh Mini Rasmalai Cups Saffron Rabri Tartlets Chocolate Dipped Dry Fruits Almond and Pistachio Katli Mini Gulab Jamun Mini Jalebi Spirals Cardamom Infused Milk Cake Rosewater Peda Coconut Ladoo Bites Kesar Badam Halwa Bites Silver Leaf Garnished Barfi and Pistachio and Rose Indian Fusion Sweets
There were also Royal Dry Fruits Premium Almonds Pistachios Cashews Dates Stuffed with Almonds and Pistachios Saffron Glazed Almonds Fresh Seasonal Fruit Arrangements Rose Petal Candied Fruits Mini Kachoris Mini Amritsari Paneer Tikkas Bite Sized Galouti Kebabs Fresh Alphonso Mango Lassi Royal Rose and Pistachio Milk Gondhoraj Lime Sherbet Saffron and Cardamom Thandai Mango and Lychee Cooler Pomegranate and Rosewater Refresher Tender Coconut Water with Fresh Mint Bengali Aam Pora Sherbet Kesar Badam Milk Royal Badam Sharbat Kesar Pista Falooda Fresh Sugarcane Juice with Lime Masala Chai Kashmiri Kahwa Bengali Doodh Cha Saffron Milk Cardamom Milk Ginger and Honey Tea Fresh Mint Tea Rose and Lemon Sherbet Sweet Lassi Salted Lassi Fresh Pomegranate Juice Lychee Cooler and Chilled Almond Milk
The grand presentation included a tower of Kolkata Rosogolla a silver platter of Nolen Gur Sandesh royal Rasmalai garnished with saffron and pistachios a tiered display of Kaju Katli Gulab Jamun in warm saffron syrup mini Bengali Patishapta a royal Mishti Doi collection a grand Kulfi selection a saffron Rabri fountain a tower of Bengali Cham Cham rosewater and pistachio Barfi Kesar Pista Kulfi with crushed almonds mini Shahi Tukda a grand assortment of Indian Ladoos traditional Bengali Pitha platters a royal dry fruit and nut dessert board warm Gajar Ka Halwa with almonds Bengali Payesh with Nolen Gur and the Imperial Signature Dessert featuring an extraordinary celebration of saffron pistachio rosewater cardamom almonds and rich Bengali Nolen Gur
Everything was presented in an extravagant palace banquet with ornate gold and silver serving vessels crystal beverage dispensers magnificent floral arrangements luxurious table settings and an unforgettable atmosphere of Indian and Bengali royal grandeur
Nistarini looked across the tables
For a moment she appeared genuinely impressed
She reached for one of the dishes and tasted it
This is good
She remarked
The girls exchanged excited looks
They had never seen such a magnificent spread of food in one place
Some admired the desserts while others discussed the different dishes
The room was filled with conversation and excitement
Outside Nikolai sat with Azenari
He was feeding her milk while waiting for her mother to return
A guard held an umbrella above him to protect him and the baby from the weather
Nikolai looked down at his daughter
She drank quietly while he adjusted her position in his arms
His thoughts remained with Lilith
He knew that the conversation about her past had been difficult
He knew that she might need time to understand everything she had learned
But he also knew that she would never allow her fear or confusion to stop her from protecting the people she loved
That was who Lilith was
And he loved her for it
WELCOME HOME BAMBI
Lilith finally returned home with Xander and Emilia
The moment she entered the estate Nikolai looked up
Welcome home
He said
Lilith stopped in front of him
For a few seconds she said nothing
Her face was exhausted
Her eyes carried the weight of the evening
And beneath her composure lay a grief she could no longer keep hidden
Nikolai carefully passed Azenari to a trusted member of the household before turning towards his wife
He reached for Lilith and lifted her into his arms
She immediately broke down
The tears she had been holding back finally spilled over
Nikolai held her close
He gently rocked her as though she were the most precious thing in the world
Shhhh
He whispered
Lilith cried harder
She wrapped her arms around his neck and held him tightly
The truth about her identity had shaken everything she believed about herself
She had learned that an ancient clan considered her its Queen
She had discovered that her mother had made decisions that had shaped her entire existence
She had been told about the suffering of people she had never known
She had been confronted with a history she had never chosen
And in the middle of all that she had been forced to protect her own people from an attack
She had been strong when Amelia arrived bleeding
She had been decisive when she learned that Xander and Emilia had been captured
She had given orders and taken action
She had walked into the warehouse and brought her people home
But now that she was back in her husband's arms she no longer needed to pretend that she was unaffected
She could cry
She could hurt
She could admit that she was overwhelmed
Nikolai continued rocking her gently
His hand moved slowly over her back
He did not ask her to explain
He did not demand that she stop crying
He simply held her
He knew that there were moments when even the strongest person needed somewhere safe to fall apart
And for Lilith he wanted that place to be his arms
She held him even more tightly
He kissed her slowly and pressed his forehead against hers
Lilith buried her face against his neck
Nikolai closed his eyes and held her as though he could protect her from every painful truth she had learned that evening
He remembered the darkest moments of his own life
He remembered the days when his anger and grief had threatened to consume him
He remembered how Lilith had stayed beside him through moments when he could barely understand himself
She had held him when he had been at his weakest
She had comforted him when he had struggled to find words
She had loved him without demanding that he hide every wound
Now it was his turn
He would hold her through her darkest moments
He would remain beside her while she learned how to understand the truth about her past
He would give her the time she needed to decide what her future would look like
And he would never allow anyone to make her believe that her birth had taken away her right to choose her own life
Lilith's sobs gradually softened
She remained in his arms
Nikolai kissed her again and gently rocked her
Neither of them spoke
They did not need to
For that moment the ancient clan could wait
The unanswered questions could wait
The title of Queen could wait
The secrets of the past could wait
Because beneath every title and every bloodline Lilith was still the woman Nikolai loved
His wife
His Bambi
His home
And as she clung to him beneath the quiet lights of their mansion Nikolai held her with the same tenderness she had once given him when he had been lost in his own darkness
The woman who had spent her life fighting to survive finally allowed herself to be held
And the man who had promised to stand beside her did not let go