Nandini narrowed her eyes. “You want to know, how we captured you so easily? How we cancelled your spell?”

The mirth vanished from Charaka’s voice as he spoke. “I knew I couldn’t outrun you, Maharani. Your guards could never find me, but you were always different. I knew you would catch up to me in the forest soon. But you are the first person to overcome my earth magic spell.”

“You fool! The blindfold on your eyes has also impaired your logic. Do you think your weak earth magic is a match for our powers?” 

Nandini raised her hands. Swirling balls of fire appeared above her open palms. In a swift movement, she threw both fireballs at Charaka. 

The guards on the gallows jumped out of the way. Mid air the balls turned into chains, coiling around the prisoner. Stings from the fire forced Charaka back on his knees. Beads of sweat broke out all over his face. He gritted his teeth to stop from crying out loud. 

Nandini continued with energy. “We have trained in self-defense against assassins like you since we were nine. We know how to break every spell—be it earth magic, fire magic, water magic or wind magic.” She waved her hand. 

The fire chains around Charaka inched closer to his body, scorching his skin through his garments. 

“No,” he screamed in agony. “Stop! Release me!”

“Ah! Now you seek mercy, do you? We can just burn you alive at this very instant.”

Charaka shrieked in exasperation. “If you really wanted to, you could have burnt me alive in the forest. No, you brought me back here because you want a fair trial, don’t you? Burning me alive will be against everything you believe in.”

Nandini considered him for a moment. He sounded more desperate now. 

He’s right, though. I want him executed as per the laws of Amritambu. 

Reluctantly, she waved her hand and the fire chains vanished. Charaka doubled over, gasping for breath. 

“You’re right,” Nandini admitted. “Your crime is beyond our mercy and forfeits your right to freedom. The people of Amritambu want justice for Rajmata’s death. Even her brother, Maharaj Devimitra of Matsya, awaits news of your execution.”

He scoffed. “Why do you care? She was only your stepmother. I heard your birth mother is still alive. You can just bring her back here and make her the new Rajmata.”

“Is that what you think? Our birth mother never wanted to be Rajmata. If she heard you right now, she would rip out your tongue without a second thought.” She paused, gathering her thoughts together. “Rajmata Devisena was more than just our stepmother,” she said. “She was a friend, a mentor, and a pillar of strength. You’re right about one thing. She was the true ruler of this land. We shall honour her memory and rule Amritambu just like she taught us. But you don’t need to worry about that. You won’t live to see how these fragile hands bring glory to this kingdom.”