Akshara: A Shattered Past, An Uncertain Future

CHAPTER - 2 (A NEW BEGINNING)

Later at night, Akshara heard a calm voice in her mind, reassuring her not to worry and to go with the flow of time, as every situation has a greater purpose in the journey of life. Initially frightened, she soon found comfort in the soothing tone of the voice and woke up to find herself once again in the same hut, lying on the same bed.

Though still scared, she placed her faith in Mahadev and decided to trust the voice, choosing to go with the flow of time. Soon after, the same old woman entered, offering her a kind smile. This time, Akshara attempted a small, forced smile in return. After years of hardship, she had almost forgotten how to smile, but she pushed those thoughts aside and decided to speak with the old woman, who was patiently waiting. The woman handed Akshara a small mud tumbler of water to clear her throat and informed her about the month-long coma she had been in. She then gently asked Akshara about her family and background.

Akshara, not ready to reveal the truth, lied, saying she was from a distant village, an orphan searching for work. Just then, Akshara felt dizzy, and her stomach growled with hunger, making her feel embarrassed. The old woman, however, gave her an understanding smile and quickly brought her food. Grateful, Akshara ate quickly, and afterward, asked the old woman if there was any work she could do to earn her keep. The woman told her to rest for the night and assured her that she could meet their leader in the morning to discuss further, offering her assistance if needed.

That night, Akshara struggled to sleep, her mind swirling with uncertainty about her future in Dwapar Yug and her purpose in this place. Eventually, she drifted off in the early hours of the morning.

The next day, a middle-aged woman came to see her, providing her with clothes and directing her to bathe. Akshara, grateful, completed her morning routine and was soon summoned to meet Hiranbhanu, the head of the Nishadhas, in an auditorium-like space under a big tree to discuss her situation. The old woman who was the doctor accompanied her and explained her circumstances—that Akshara was an orphan seeking work, which relieved Akshara of the guilt she felt about lying to the people who had saved her. Still, she wasn't ready to discuss her past. The crowd around them had mixed reactions—some pitied her, others were envious of her beauty, while some were suspicious and irritated.

In the end, Hiranbhanu declared that Akshara would stay with the tribe, living in his home as his daughter. The announcement stunned the crowd into silence. Akshara, however, was panicked, her thoughts racing back to her life in Kaliyug, where she had lived with her father, who regularly beat her. She stood frozen, overwhelmed by the memories.

As the crowd dispersed, the old woman approached Akshara again, showing her the path to Hiranbhanu's cottage. She spoke about how fortunate Akshara was, but Akshara barely listened, her mind still tangled with thoughts of what the future might hold.

Meanwhile, Hiranbhanu, observing her expressions, was confused by her reluctance and inner turmoil. He decided to give her the time she needed to adjust before attempting to bond with her. Just then, a letter arrived from King Jarasandha of Magadh, summoning Hiranbhanu to the royal court. He rushed off to fulfill his duties, making a mental note to speak with the young girl later—and to finally ask her name.

Will Akshara accept Hiranbhanu as her father, despite her painful past? Or will Hiranbhanu understand her reluctance and forge a bond with her in time? Only time will tell...