Suhasini

"So, what has he told you so far," The Teacher inquired.

"Pretty much what I will have to do." I laid out quite simply what Ekaansh had told me yesterday and today.

"So I have heard your requests. Quite brave of you to bargain with the crown prince." He teased.

I froze there suddenly. I was wondering how he had known. "Relax, I know who he truly is because I am his best friend. He also told what happened yesterday. How did know that only the royals have onyx eyes?" He asked.

"My mother told me," I said. In response to that, he hummed an Hmm to me.

"Well, I am Daksh Arya, or the Teacher as you know. Women usually practice Archery here but for your request. I, The Gamer, and the Detective will train you to spar and fight with weapons." he said.

"Wait, Daksh Arya, like the son of.." I trailed off as he nodded. I thought, How could he trust me so blindly, confiding in me with something so important, so sacred? His eyes searched mine for reassurance, and all I could offer in return was a hollow smile. The knowledge that he held me in such high regard, that they saw me as a pillar of strength and reliability, only served to intensify the guilt gnawing at my conscience. And he had just met me. As his words lingered in the air, I found myself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions— but what stood out was a deep sense of unworthiness. How could I, with all my flaws, be the one this group turned to in their time of need? The weight of his trust bore down on me like a lead blanket, suffocating me with its burden. I wanted to be the rock he needed, the unwavering support he and Ekaansh sought in their darkest moments. But as I stood there, grappling with my insecurities and doubts, I couldn't help but feel like a fraud—a mere imposter masquerading as someone deserving of their trust. Well, I am but... At that moment, as his words echoed in my ears, I made a silent vow to myself—to be worthy of the trust he had placed in me no matter the Deal that I made with Ekaansh.

"So, what next?" I said with difficulty.

"Now we look at men practicing. Did Nanda take you to the Weaver?" He said.

"Who is Nanda?" I asked confused.

"The Archer." He clarified. "By the way what is your code name." He asked.

"Dancer," I said and I was hit by a train of memories but I quickly cleared them away.

Then he took me to a clearing. Amid the bustle of the training grounds, I stood transfixed, my eyes wide with wonder as I watched the men prepare for battle. The air was thick with the sound of clanging swords and the shouts of warriors honing their skills. The moon cast a sliver of glow over the scene, illuminating the sweat glistening on their muscular frames. Each movement was deliberate and precise, a dance of strength and strategy as they sparred with one another. My gaze flickered from one fighter to the next, taking in the intricate footwork, the swift strikes, and the fierce determination etched on their faces. I could feel the energy crackling in the air, a palpable sense of anticipation for the challenges that lay ahead. My heart raced with a mixture of fear and excitement, a thrill of being so close to the heart of the action. As the warriors clashed and parried, I felt a surge of admiration for their skill and bravery. I saw the way they moved as one, a cohesive unit working towards a common goal. Their movements were like poetry in motion, a symphony of strength and agility that left me breathless. At that moment, I understood the true meaning of sacrifice and courage. I saw the price that these men were willing to pay to get back their kingdom, a weight of responsibility that lay heavy on their shoulders. And as I watched them train for battle, I knew that I could never forget the sight of these warriors, preparing to face whatever challenges came their way.

"I know they are amazing but would like to see the female army?" Daksh asked. I just nodded unable to say anything.

He led me further into the forest. A few minutes later, A gentle breeze rustled through the trees, carrying the sound of arrows slicing through the air. As he led me further into the calm surroundings I stood there, my eyes fixed on a group of female archers practicing their art with precision and grace. The archers moved with a fluidity that was mesmerizing to watch. Each movement was deliberate and controlled, a testament to the hours of practice and dedication they had put into mastering their craft. I was once again struck by wonder and couldn't help but admire the strength and focus of these women as they drew back their bows and released their arrows with unwavering determination. As the arrows flew through the air, I just marveled at the speed and accuracy with which they hit their targets. The thud of arrows hitting bullseyes echoed through the range, a satisfying sound that spoke to the skill of the archers. I could see the concentration etched on their faces, the intensity in their eyes as they aimed for perfection with each shot. At that moment, I felt a sense of awe and inspiration wash over me. I watched in awe as the female archers moved as one, their movements synchronized and harmonious. It was a beautiful sight to behold, a symphony of strength, focus, and skill that left me breathless. Helping these women was the Gamer. Her eyes narrowed at me even though when her eyes past me onto Daksh's, she smiled. I could not help but feel annoyed and admire her. I admire her for her accomplishments but I was annoyed by her coldness towards me.

I don't think your friend likes me a lot, Arya. I thought, irritated.

"Don't worry, she has trust issues. That is why she isn't that friendly. I apologize for her behavior." Daksh said. I jumped at that. I can't believe I said out loud. 

"It is not your fault, Arya." I smiled at him.

"You need not to call me Arya." He said.

"Now let me introduce you to the others."

***

After an hour, I was introduced to many people.

I met Sruthi and her friends. The Detective and The Cooker. The Gamer was my mentor. I was annoyed by that as I had to meet up with her more often. I did not mind that much because her sister, The Cooker was going to come along with Ishaani. The Gamer's name was Ishaani.

Then Daksh told me that I would have to go home for some security reasons. I agreed but I was disappointed as I wanted to talk more with Ekaansh but was glad that Daksh was by my side. He was very funny and nice.

"Thank you for dropping me off," I said as I neared my home.

"No problem. See you tomorrow." He said before he left in a rush.

I entered home and as soon as my head hit the pillow I fell into a deep slumber.

***

I was tired the next day when I woke up. I did my usual morning routine. Waking up, doing my nectaries, cooking, sending the kids to school, and then going to the well.

After the third and final trip to the well, I fell into another deep slumber.

After 2 hours, I woke up and went to buy some bangles for Rushita at her demand. As I entered the bustling market. The sun beat down on the colorful stalls, casting a warm glow over the array of bangles that sparkled in the light. I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the encounter ahead. As I made my way through the crowd, the vibrant hues of the bangles caught my eye. Each one seemed to whisper a different story, a different emotion. I reached out to touch a delicate gold bangle with intricate designs, imagining how it would look on my stepmother's wrist. My stepmother was a formidable woman, with a sharp tongue and an even sharper temper. She had never shown me kindness. I selected a set of silver bangles, each one adorned with tiny bells that tinkled softly as I held them. They were simple yet elegant. As I paid for them.

Then I went to buy some sweets for Priya and the others. I went to my favorite store. The one that I used to spend all of the time here with her. The One who left me all alone. As I paid for the sweets, I heard a familiar voice asking for some Kesari.

I turned around to see her. She froze and looked at me. We looked at each other as the tension between us grew.

____________

Akka - Older Sister

Annaya/Anna - Older Brother

Celli - Little Sister

Tammudu - Little Brother

Atta - Aunt

Amma - Mom

Nana - Father

(These are all Telugu)

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 : ̗̀➛ So who do you think "She" is? Any guesses?