Dharmyudh : The Rewritten Destiny

10. Ram - Bharat

Treta Yug,
Ayodhya,

Amidst the twinkling city, which mirrored the starry night sky, the silhouette of a man stood quietly by the grand balcony of his chamber. The cityscape below was alive, a mesmerizing mosaic of lights, reflecting the countless lamps that flickered and glowed like a sea of earthly stars. He had made it a habit, an almost ritualistic routine, to come here every day and lose himself in the wonder of the city's brilliant illumination, finding a strange comfort in the vibrant tapestry of life that thrived beneath him. This sacred solitude was interrupted only by the memories of his beloved, his soulmate, who had once stood beside him, sharing these moments with equal wonder and serenity.

The ache of her absence lingered, a silent companion to his nightly vigils. Yet, he held firmly onto the hope, the unwavering belief, that they would be reunited. He felt deep within that the time for their grand reunion was nearing, foretold by the whispering winds and the gentle rustling of leaves. The belief that their fates would soon intertwine once more was a beacon in his heart, a guiding light amidst the darkness of separation.

Suddenly, the sound of the gates opening behind him pulled him back from his reverie. He slowly turned around to face the entrance of the chamber. As the flickering light of torches danced across the polished surfaces, casting long shadows, it revealed his noble form. Standing there was no ordinary man, but the revered Lord Ram, a figure of divine grace and enduring strength. His presence was calm and commanding, adorned with a serene smile that was said to never leave his face, even amidst the hardest trials and tribulations. It was this eternal smile, a testament to his unwavering courage and resilience, that inspired all who beheld it with immense hope and peace.

His younger brothers entered the chamber one by one, each casting curious glances around the dimly lit room before their eyes settled on him. As they walked towards him, their footsteps echoed softly against the marble floor, amplifying the gravity of the moment. He just observed them, his gaze steady and thoughtful, as they halted in front of him, an unspoken understanding passing between the four siblings.

Bharat, Lakshman, and Shatrughna exchanged brief, questioning glances with each other, their unvoiced thoughts visible in their expressive eyes. Each wondered what was about to unfold, aware that this meeting had been charged with anticipation and significance.

Bharat, clearing his throat to break the silence, ventured tentatively,

Bharat :- Bhaiya?

Ram’s face softened with a gentle smile, filled with a quiet warmth that was both reassuring and welcoming.

Ram :- I was waiting for you only. Please, have a seat.

He replied, his voice calm and composed, yet holding a note of gentle urgency.
With a sense of both relief and curiosity, the three brothers moved to the comfortable seating area. They settled onto the plush sofa, which surrounded a circular table that seemed to invite intimate conversations. As they took their seats, they looked expectantly at their elder brother, awaiting his words. The room seemed to stand still for a moment, the air thick with anticipation and the depth of familial bond that tied them together.

Ram, observing each of their faces, took a deep breath, preparing to share the news that had prompted this gathering. His brothers, their posture attentive and respectful, leaned forward slightly, eager to listen as Ram prepared to speak. The trust and camaraderie shared between them was palpable, reminiscent of countless moments from their shared past.

Ram gazed out the window with a serene expression as he spoke, the golden hues of the lamps casting a warm glow over the room.

Ram :- I was thinking about it a lot lately. All our kids have grown up, each of them having blossomed into remarkable individuals, capable and well-versed in all the responsibilities they've shouldered over time. It's as though peace has gently woven itself into the very fabric of our lives, and balance, once elusive, has finally been restored.