The Heir and the Humble

Dates and plans

The next morning, as Devraj descended the stairs, he was greeted by a whirlwind of energy. Anya, his niece, ran towards him, her laughter infectious. Yuvraj, following close behind, muttered something about "traitors," his eyes glinting with mischief.

Devraj scooped Anya up, twirling her around in the air. She giggled, her laughter echoing through the hall. Setting her down, he ruffled her hair affectionately. "You're growing up so fast," he said, his voice filled with love.

Rani Devi approached, her eyes filled with concern. "Devraj, have you heard from Anjana?" she asked.

Devraj nodded. "She's making progress," he replied. "The situation is under control."

Rani Devi sighed with relief. "That's good," she said. "I was worried about her."

Turning to Devraj, she smiled. "I've spoken to the priest," she announced. "The engagement will be in four days, and the wedding in two weeks."

Devraj's heart skipped a beat. The reality of his impending marriage hit him with full force. He carefully handed anya to her mother and looked at Yuvraj, who was already busy making notes.

"I'll take care of the invitations and arrangements," Yuvraj said, a determined look in his eyes.

Devraj nodded. "Thank you," he replied.

Rani Devi turned to Devraj, her expression serious. "Remember, Devraj," she said, her voice filled with concern, "you're not alone anymore. You have a family to consider."

Devraj nodded, understanding the gravity of her words. "I know," he replied. "I'll be careful."

Devraj, his voice filled with a mixture of anticipation and trepidation, turned to his mother and Yuvraj. "There's something else I need to tell you," he began.

Rani Devi and Yuvraj exchanged concerned glances. "What is it, Dev?" Rani Devi asked, her voice filled with worry.

Devraj took a deep breath. "I... I met the ancient priest and had a breif conversation with him, there's a ritual that needs to be performed after the wedding," he explained. "It's a full moon ritual, a series of prayers I need to offer to lord shiva for few months and the rituals might ask for more sacrifices to end this curse with me."

A wave of shock washed over Rani Devi and Yuvraj. The implications of this revelation were profound. They had heard whispers of this ancient tradition, but they had never imagined it would affect Devraj.

Rani Devi's eyes filled with tears and collapsed on the nearby couch. "I want to be selfish for me son, But I can't..... I don't want the history to repeat" she exclaimed, her voice trembling.  

Yuvraj nodded in agreement. "It's too dangerous," he said, his voice filled with concern. "We can't risk Devraj's life."

Devraj, understanding their fears, tried to reassure them. "I know it's a lot to ask," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "But it's the only way to break the curse. At least our future generations will live in peace"

Rani Devi and Yuvraj exchanged glances, their hearts heavy with the weight of the decision. They knew that Devraj was a brave and determined young man, but they couldn't bear the thought of him facing such a perilous ordeal.

Finally, Rani Devi reached out and hugged Devraj tightly. "Whatever you decide, Think of anika and us. she should not get the same fate i got because of your father. You must protect yourself for us," she said, her voice filled with love and compassion.

Yuvraj nodded, his eyes filled with admiration and hugged him. "Please be safe for us , Dev," he said. "I'm proud to call you my brother."

Devraj returned their embraces, his heart filled with gratitude. He knew that he would need all the support he could get. The journey ahead was fraught with challenges, but he was determined to face them with courage and determination.

As they sat there, the weight of the upcoming events settling upon them, a sense of anticipation and trepidation filled the air. The future was uncertain, but they were ready to face it together.

As the night deepened, Yuvraj, unable to contain his excitement, decided to pay Devraj a visit. He knocked on Devraj's door, his heart pounding with anticipation.

Devraj, engrossed in his work, looked up, his expression softening into a smile as he saw his brother. "Come in, Yuvi," he said, gesturing for him to sit down.

Yuvraj settled himself on the bed, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "So, tell me, how's the future king doing?" he teased.

Devraj chuckled. "Busy as always," he replied. "But what brings you here at this late hour?"

Yuvraj leaned forward, his expression turning serious. "I wanted to talk to you about something important," he said.

Devraj nodded, his attention piqued. "Shoot," he replied.

Yuvraj hesitated for a moment, his eyes filled with a mix of concern and determination. "Dev, are you sure about this?" he asked, his voice filled with gravity. "Is this really what you want?"

Devraj paused, his mind racing. He thought about the sacrifices he would have to make, the challenges he would face. But then he thought about Anika, about the love they shared, the promise they had made to each other.

"Yes," he said, his voice firm. "This is what I want. I'm ready to face whatever comes my way. Someone has to do this to protect our family. Besides our grand father gathered a lot of information which will guide me and his and lord siva blessings will always be with me. i don't want to waste his efforts"

Yuvraj nodded, a sense of relief washing over him. "I'm glad," he said. "You're a braver man than I thought."

Devraj smiled. "It's not bravery," he replied. "It's love. Love for my kingdom, for my family, and for Anika."

Yuvraj nodded, Devraj returned the sentiment, his heart filled with warmth. They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of the decision hanging heavy in the air.

Finally, Devraj broke the silence. "We need to start preparing," he said, his voice filled with determination. "The rituals are complex, and we need to ensure everything is in place. "

Yuvraj nodded. "I'll get started on the arrangements," he said.

As they continued to discuss the details, a sense of purpose filled the room. The path ahead was fraught with challenges, but they were ready to face them together. The weight of the kingdom rested on their shoulders, but with love, determination, and the unwavering support of their loved ones, they were confident they could overcome any obstacle.