Rudra Tara - A Love Bound By Duty

3.RUDRAKSH

Each new day brings me happiness, as my family and friends continually support and love me, showering me with affection. After my shower and getting dressed, I went to the temple for the Shiv pooja and then meditated for a while. Following that, I had breakfast and proceeded with my daily routine of organizing soldiers and briefing them on their duties. With many enemies lurking, eager to attack our kingdom, it is crucial to maintain vigilance. After reviewing the security arrangements, I had lunch and then accompanied my father to the Rajsabha (royal court). Since my Rajyabhishek (crowning ceremony) is approaching, it's essential to learn and understand all aspects of governance.

In my view, a person found guilty should face severe punishment to deter others from committing similar offenses. Yes, I am ruthless and cold-hearted towards my enemies, but I possess a softer side reserved for my family, especially my mother and father.

When my father's reign concludes, I will ascend to rule this kingdom, the most powerful and expansive in the world. However, my ambition extends beyond this; I aspire to conquer every kingdom until I achieve the title of Rajadhiraj (King of Kings). To realize this dream, I am prepared to cross any boundaries and overcome all obstacles

After reflecting on all these things, I went to see my mother, who was busy preparing meals. Despite having numerous maids to do the work, she always manages to make time for us. We prefer the food she cooks- no one can match her exquisite skills in the kitchen. Even I cannot deny this fact. As I entered the kitchen, everyone looked at me with shocked expressions, as if a ghost had walked in.

"What are you doing here, Rajkumar Rudraaksh? This is not your place," my mother said.

I immediately responded, "Wherever my mother is, that is my place."

"Kings and princes don't belong in the kitchen," she insisted.

"Raani Maa, I just wanted to spend some time with you, but here you are, busy with your tasks. Don't you love me? Despite having a mountain of responsibilities, I still managed to come here. But now you're telling me I don't belong?" I said dramatically, smirking to myself. I knew no one could outwit me, whether in battle or with words.

She sighed, instructed a maid to bring a bowl of kheer, and then led me outside to the private resting area, reserved only for family members.

As we ate, my mother asked, "What about marriage, my dear son?"

"Mom, I'm here to spend time with you, and you've already started with this topic," I replied quickly.

"But tell me, what are your thoughts about marriage?" she pressed.

I answered, "I will marry a woman who can strengthen our kingdom, someone who will add power so that I can become even more powerful."

"And what about love?" she asked softly.

"Love is not in my dictionary, especially not for women. They only care about wealth and powerful kings. They don't love ordinary men," I replied firmly.

"This is wrong thinking, Rudra. Not everyone is the same," she said gently.

"Let's change the topic, please, Mom," I requested, eager to avoid further discussion.

After talking with her for a while, I headed towards the Rajya Sabha to oversee the royal duties as Daily attacks were occurring in our kingdom, but I was unable to find their source. Our entire family was sleeping in fear due to the attacks happening within our palace. Although I am here, I can't protect my entire family, which is the main issue. I want them to sleep peacefully, but I am unable to ensure that. I have searched extensively throughout the kingdom, but I haven't found any evidence or clues about the source of these attacks after discussing about this matter with the whole ministers and kings we drifted towards protecting them. Once that was done, I set out to inspect my kingdom. It's so vast that it's impossible to cover in a single day- it would take at least a month to survey the entire realm that my father built.

As I walked through the streets, I noticed girls shouting and cheering upon seeing me. This is something I dislike. Would they still admire me if they knew I was just an ordinary man? Or is it the title of Prince of the strongest kingdom that makes me special? I may never know the answer in this lifetime.

Exhausted from the day's work, I finally retreated to my room, collapsed into bed, and fell into a deep slumber.