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Chapter 1: The Call of Peace

The war between the Rathores and Veerendra Singh’s family had lasted for generations—an endless cycle of vengeance and pride that had cost countless lives. Rumors whispered through villages, and the air itself seemed heavy with resentment. But Veerendra Singh, patriarch of his family, was tired. Tired of the bloodshed, the hatred, and the constant fear that his own sons would be drawn into a war that had begun long before their time.

One evening, in the quiet of his study, Veerendra summoned his trusted advisor. “The Rathores must come to an end with this feud,” he said, his voice steady but carrying the weight of decades. “I will call Pratap. He is the leader of their family now, and if there is to be peace, it must start with him.”

Veerendra’s plan was simple but dangerous. He would call Pratap under the pretext of a private meeting—no aides, no guards, no witnesses. Trust would have to be built from scratch, without anyone to spy, report, or sabotage.

The next morning, a royal messenger from Veerendra Singh’s estate rode swiftly through the sandy paths of the desert, reaching the Rathore palace with a sealed letter. The message read:

"Pratap Rathore,

I request your presence at my estate tomorrow at dawn. This is a private matter concerning the future of our families. Your cooperation will be appreciated.

—Veerendra Singh"

Pratap read the note, his brow furrowing. A private meeting with Veerendra Singh? Without witnesses? It was unusual, suspicious even, but perhaps also an opportunity. The war had cost him too much; too many had died for pride, and he was beginning to wonder if peace was truly possible.

As he prepared to leave, Pratap’s younger brother warned him, “Be careful. This could be a trap. Our ancestors’ feud runs deep—they don’t forgive easily.”

Pratap nodded, the resolve in his eyes hardening. “I know the risks. But if I do not take this chance, the blood will never stop flowing.”

The sun rose over the desert, casting long shadows over the sand as Pratap set out on his journey. Unknown to him, Veerendra Singh waited in his private chamber, calm yet alert. The first step toward ending a centuries-old war was about to begin, and neither man knew exactly where it would lead.

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