Rakshash Aur Rajkumari (The Devil And The Princess)

16• कर्तव्यता

Ambika, with her warm smile and open heart, believed fervently in the power of human connections. To her, love and admiration from others were the very essence of existence. "We live because of others," she often remarked, convinced that without the affection and esteem of those around us, life would lack meaning. For Ambika, the pursuit of love was not merely a desire but a necessity—an integral part of being alive.

Rudraksha, on the other hand, held a vastly different perspective. He saw life as a solitary journey, beginning and ending in solitude. "We are born alone and we will die alone," he would say, emphasizing the individual's ultimate isolation in the world. To Rudraksha, the purpose of life was self-discovery, unencumbered by the expectations and attachments of family or society. He believed that relationships only served to entangle and distract, veiling the truth of our existence beneath layers of Maya. The best life one can live is by living life alone, a life filled with freedom and detachment.

(Maya: Illusion)

For Ambika, this union was a culmination of her deepest desires—a testament to the power of love and connection she held dear. To Rudraksha, however, marriage was an unwelcome intrusion—an encumbrance that threatened the very essence of his solitary existence.

After their heartfelt conversation about self-love, Ambika and Rudraksha made the decision to return home together. Rudraksha was initially hesitant, knowing that their home held painful memories for Ambika, where she had experienced nightmares and distress. He worried about exposing her to that environment again.

"Are you sure you'll be okay going back there?" Rudraksha asked, concern etched on his face. "I don't want you to feel uncomfortable or afraid."

Ambika smiled softly, her eyes reflecting a newfound sense of determination. "I'll be fine, Rudra," she reassured him. "I won't be alone this time. With you by my side, I know I'll be safe. Your presence brings me peace."

Rudraksha's expression softened as he heard her words. He wanted nothing more than to protect and support Ambika through her recovery. "Alright," he agreed, taking her hand in his. "We'll go back home together."

Rudraksha kept a watchful eye on Ambika throughout the journey back. When they finally arrived, Ambika stepped into their home with a mix of emotions swirling within her. However, as Rudraksha stood beside her, she felt a sense of security she hadn't experienced in a long time.

Returning home, Ambika and Rudraksha were greeted by Garima, who had been anxiously waiting for their arrival. Garima's face displayed a mix of concern and relief as she welcomed them inside.

"Thank goodness you're back! I've been so worried," Garima exclaimed, her eyes scanning Ambika's face for reassurance.

Rudraksha led Garima and Ambika to the couch, where they all settled down. He began to explain everything that had transpired during Ambika's time at the hospital—the struggles with mental health, the challenges they were facing, and their decision to come back home together.

As Garima listened, her expression shifted from concern to profound emotion. When Rudraksha finished speaking, Garima's eyes filled with tears, and she pulled Ambika into a tight embrace.

"Oh, Ambika! How could you keep all this to yourself?" Garima scolded gently, her voice thick with emotion. "You should have told me. We promised to share everything, didn't we? You're like a sister to me."

Ambika looked up, her own eyes moist with tears. "I'm sorry, Garima," she whispered, her voice filled with remorse. "I didn't want to burden you."

Garima shook her head, her grip on Ambika tightening. "You're never a burden, Ambika. We're family. You should have trusted me."