The Heir and the Humble

Engagement

The day of the engagement dawned, casting a golden hue over the palace. The air was thick with anticipation as dignitaries from across the land, including prominent politicians, celebrities, all village sarpanch's and civil servants, gathered to witness the union of Devraj and Anika.

Security was at an all-time high. Elite guards patrolled the palace grounds, their eyes scanning the crowds for any sign of trouble. The city was on lockdown, with roads closed and checkpoints set up at strategic locations.

Amidst the grandeur and pomp, Devraj and Anika stood at the altar, their hands clasped together. Their friends from New York, Alex, Ethan, Ben, and Emily, were in attendance, their presence a comforting reminder of their past lives. Emily, who had harbored a crush on Devraj during their college days, watched as he exchanged vows with Anika, a bittersweet smile playing on her lips.

As Devraj and Anika exchanged rings, the crowd erupted in cheers. The celebration was a grand affair, filled with laughter, music, and dancing. The palace was a sea of color, the people filled with a sense of optimism.

Later that evening, as the guests began to depart, Devraj and Anika found themselves alone in a quiet corner of the palace. They sat on a bench, their hands intertwined.

"I can't believe it's finally over," Anika said, her voice filled with a mix of relief and excitement.

Devraj smiled. "It's just the beginning," he replied. "We have a lifetime ahead of us."

Emily, who had been observing them from a distance, approached them. "You two are adorable," she teased.

Devraj and Anika laughed. "Leave us alone, Emily," Devraj said playfully.

Emily rolled her eyes. "Whatever," she replied. "Just remember, if you ever need anything, I'm a phone call away."

Devraj and Anika thanked her, anika's heart filled with gratitude for their friends' unwavering support. As they watched Emily walk away, Devraj turned to Anika.

"I'm so glad you have friends like her," she said.

Anika nodded. "Me too," he replied. "They've been there for me through thick and thin. Never expected anything in return from me except some love and caring"

They sat in silence for a moment, enjoying each other's company. Then, Devraj leaned in and kissed her softly. Anika returned the kiss, her heart filled with love and anticipation for the future.

Devraj and Anika found themselves alone, their hearts filled with the glow of their recent engagement. the moonlight casting an ethereal glow over them.

"Happy engagement, Anika," Devraj said, his voice filled with love and anticipation.

Anika smiled, her eyes sparkling with happiness. " Happy engagement, Devraj garu," she replied.

Devraj hesitated for a moment, his mind racing with the weight of the secret he was about to reveal. "There's something you should know," he began, his voice filled with a mixture of trepidation and determination.

Anika's eyes widened in concern. "What is it?" she asked, her voice soft.

Devraj took a deep breath. "After our marriage, there's something I need to do," he said, his voice barely a whisper.

Anika's heart pounded in her chest. "What is it?" she asked, her voice filled with anxiety.

Devraj hesitated, his mind racing. "It's an ancient full moon ritual," he explained. "It's something I've been hiding from you."

Anika's eyes widened in shock. "What is it?" she asked, her voice trembling.

Devraj took a deep breath. "I have to perform some rituals in our temple for around 6 months. It demands my sacrifices. I have to offer the gods whatever they demand to set our family free from all the negativity happening from centuries," he said, his voice barely a whisper.

Anika's face paled. "What?" she exclaimed, her voice filled with horror.

Devraj nodded. "It's a requirement for the ritual and it may ask much more from me and i am willing to give up anything it may ask," he explained. "It's the only way to break the curse and for our full life."

Anika's eyes filled with tears. "I can't believe this," she said, her voice shaking. "We're just getting married in a week, and you're telling me this?"

Devraj reached out and took her hand. "No, Anika," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "It's not a sacrifice. It's a way to protect us, to ensure our future and our kids together."

Anika's eyes filled with doubt. "How can you be sure?" she asked, her voice filled with uncertainty.

Devraj hesitated. He knew that words alone were not enough to convince her. He needed to show her the truth, the gravity of the situation.

"I've seen the scriptures and consulted many priests who are related to the history of Varma dynasty," he said, his voice filled with determination. "The curse is real, and the sacrifice is necessary. If not, it will take my life as exchange."

Anika's heart ached with the weight of the revelation. She knew that Devraj was telling the truth, but the thought of sacrificing her life for him was unbearable.

"I am scared. I don't want to lose you Devraj garu," she said, her voice filled with despair.

Devraj reached out and took her hands in his. "I know," he said, his voice filled with understanding. "It's a lot to ask. But I promise, I will break this curse and be with you safe and sound for the rest of our lives."

Anika looked at him, her eyes filled with love and hope. "I trust you," she said, her voice barely a whisper. "Whatever happens, I'm with you."

Devraj squeezed her hands and hugged her tightly, his heart filled with gratitude. He knew that they would face many challenges ahead, but with Anika by his side, he was ready to face anything.