Chapter 137: Candy

Unlike Kantipur, the capital, Kapilavastu serves as a crucial stronghold in western Nepal, where its role as a fortress is far more pronounced.

Even as a vassal to the Tibetans—a status shared by the neighboring kingdom of Zhangzhung—Nepal still faces threats, primarily from the south: India. Fortunately, since the collapse of the Harsha Empire, India has fractured into dozens of states, large and small. None of them pose a significant threat to Nepal's security, greatly easing the pressure on its defenses, yet the city remains a vital strategic point.

Border fortresses are typically compact. With a smaller area to defend, they require fewer men. By being built against mountains and rivers at treacherous locations, they often leverage the terrain to achieve unexpected results, much like the Stone Fortress. Kapilavastu is not quite as sheer, but it faces the Peacock River on one side and steep cliffs on the other, situated perfectly at a mountain pass. Even its city walls are built taller than those of the capital.

"Saraswati, thank heavens, you are alive."

Being held in a tight embrace by a short, middle-aged man, the woman felt an instinctive sense of revulsion. She forced herself to suppress the urge to push him away and offered a gentle reminder.

"Baniga, we do not have much time. Could we go inside to talk?"

"Of course, my Queen."

The man released her and led the way. The city gate closed slowly behind them. Archers on the walls scanned their surroundings with the vigilance of those facing a great enemy. Along the narrow streets, refugees were everywhere, their faces etched with terror.

"It’s the Queen!"
"Your Majesty."
"Your Highness."

Soon, people began to recognize her. Saraswati was greeted by a crowd lining the streets. The familiar titles brought tears to her eyes. Habitually, she straightened her posture, put on a proud expression, and waved continuously to the enthusiastic crowd, as if she had returned to her glory days.

"They have all fled from Kantipur. Poor souls, they have lost everything—their land, their families, their wealth. When I received the news, I was devastated. I thought I would never see you again in this life, my dear sister," Baniga explained, reaching out to take her hand.

Using her response as a cover, Saraswati subtly avoided his touch while maintaining an elegant smile. The cheers followed them all the way from the gate to the official residence in the center of the city. Baniga dismounted and reached out to help her down, but Saraswati ignored him and jumped from her horse on her own.

After climbing the steps and acknowledging the followers one last time, she walked inside side-by-side with Baniga. Beyond the entrance lay a long corridor, with a Nepalese soldier standing on either side.

The two Tang soldiers who had accompanied her, disguised as her attendants, did not enter. They waited outside the residence, looking at the scene with bored expressions. It was clear that the security here was tighter than expected. The people inside were prepared; a surprise attack like the one in Kantipur would not work. If they were to launch a frontal assault, whether with disorganized mountain tribesmen or the three thousand Tang troops, the casualties would be heavy. Perhaps this was why their commander needed this woman.

"Baniga, how many men can you... gather?" Once inside the room, before the woman could finish her sentence, she was grabbed from behind. A wave of hot breath against her ear left her both ashamed and furious.

With a sharp slap, she broke free, striking Baniga so hard he staggered.

"Do not forget, I am your Queen."

"There is no King anymore, and I hear the princes are all dead. What Queen is left? You are just my sister—the sister I have kept in my heart since you were fourteen. Do you know, when those old fools decided to marry you off to that even older fool, I went mad? I thought of you every day. Even when I had other women beneath me, the mere thought that that old man was..."

Baniga rubbed his cheek, rambling on without a hint of anger.

Saraswati’s rage slowly faded, leaving only a shy expression on her face. She reached out and brushed Baniga’s cheek.

"Does it still hurt?"

"Even if you had killed me, it wouldn't have mattered, my dear Saraswati," Baniga said, gazing at her infatuatedly.

The woman let him take her hand and offered a smile.

"My dear brother, forgive my outburst. You know, coming from a place as hellish as that can make one lose their senses."

"Saraswati, never say the word 'forgive' to your Baniga. This is your home, and we are your family. You may do as you please. Perhaps one day, you will reclaim your throne."

The woman’s smile deepened. She withdrew her hand without a trace and paced the room for a few steps.

"Then, let us plan our future."

"Now, tell me, how many men can you gather in Kapilavastu?"

Baniga watched her silhouette with disappointment; the feeling of being able to see but not touch was maddening.

"You should know that the original garrison in the city was only one thousand. After the news of the unrest arrived, I immediately conscripted more men. Now, I have over two thousand available, and that number is still growing. Every day, people flee from over there—some ran as soon as they heard the news, while others barely escaped after their homes were ransacked. So, my dear sister, which kind are you?"

"Neither. The Tang people brought me back. They want to discuss the future of this city with you."

"The Tang? Aren't they the ones supporting the mob?" Baniga asked, confused.

"Yes, they support the mob from the shadows, but they also need other support. The riots will not last forever. Don't you want to talk to them?"

"Do you want me to talk to them?"

"Of course. You know, your beloved niece is in their hands," Saraswati said with a look of sorrow.

"Oh, poor Elsie Rhea. Those savages will tear her apart," Baniga wailed dramatically. "Very well, as you wish, Saraswati. Baniga will do anything for you."

"Not for me—for us." Saraswati placed her hand in his palm and pressed down lightly.

Then, while he was still lost in his infatuation, she pulled her hand away and turned to drift out of the room.

"I have been traveling for days. I must wash and get a good night's sleep. The people I brought will take you to meet them. I hope that when I wake up, I will hear good news."

Baniga stared blankly at her retreating figure, like a child reluctant to part with a beloved treat.