Suhasini

Varsha stood in front of me. As I laid eyes on Varsha for the first time in what felt like an eternity, I couldn't help but notice the coldness in my former friend's gaze. Varsha's eyes, once so warm and inviting, now held a hint of resentment and pain. The air between us was heavy with unspoken words, with memories of a friendship that had once been vibrant and alive. I could see the hurt etched deep into Varsha's features. As we stood face to face, the silence between us was deafening. The surroundings seemed to fade into the background as my mind raced, trying to find the right words to ask her about the letter. The sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the pavement as the day waned on. The world around us buzzed with life, with the hustle and bustle of people going about their daily routines, unaware of the emotional turmoil that churned within us. 

Finally, Varsha broke the silence, her voice barely above a whisper. "I thought I knew you," she said, her words heavy with accusation. "I thought you were my friend." I felt a pang of guilt in my chest, a deep ache that mirrored the pain in Varsha's eyes. As I opened my mouth to speak, the words escaped me once again, lost in a sea of regret and missed opportunities. "I will never be able to look at you and Darsh again in the same way. But I will come to the others. If that is what you want." she said, her voice cracking. As she said, my heart broke for us even though I nodded.

"Miss Varshini, your Kesari is ready." Said the shopkeeper.

"Thank you," she said before quickly leaving after taking her Kesari. I watched as she left, shattered pieces of our hearts and our friendship.

***

As I stood on the riverbank, the cool water lapping gently at my bare feet, I watched my best friend Varsha skip stones across the crystal-clear water. Her laughter echoed through the tranquil surroundings, filling me with a sense of peace and contentment. The sun was shining brightly overhead, casting a warm golden glow over everything it touched. 

Varsha turned to me, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Come on, Suhasini! Join me in the water," she called, beckoning me with a mischievous grin. Without hesitation, I shed my shoes and socks and waded into the refreshing river, the sensation of the water embracing me like a long-lost friend. As we played in the river, our voices mingled with the gentle rustling of the leaves and the soothing gurgle of the water. Our laughter blending harmoniously with the symphony of nature surrounding us. The sunlight danced on the water, creating a dazzling display of shimmering ripples that reflected our joy and camaraderie. The lush greenery that lined the riverbanks swayed in the soft breeze. As the afternoon waned and the sun began its descent towards the horizon, we reluctantly made our way back to the shore.

(End of Flashback)

-------------------------------------------

"Akka, are you alright." Saraswati asked, concerned. Snapping me out of my memories.

"Ahh- I- yeah." I said.

"Hey Akka, what's on the menu today?" She asked, walking over to me. I looked up, my eyes lighting up with excitement. 

"Hey Chelli! I'm making Paneer biryani," I replied, a mischievous grin playing on my lips. She chuckled and grabbed a wooden spoon, ready to join in on the fun. As we worked together, the familiar rhythm of cooking with Saraswati filled me with a sense of comfort and happiness. We chatted about our day, sharing stories and laughing at inside jokes only we understood. 

Although I wish I could tell her about Varsha, it is between Varsha and me and I did not want animosity between Varsha and Saraswati. "So, how was your math test today?" I asked, stirring the sauce as Saraswati chopped up fresh tomatoes. 

Saraswati groaned dramatically. "Don't even get me started. I swear, math is going to be the death of me." 

I laughed, at her dramatics. "I hear you. But hey, at least we have this delicious biryani to look forward to, right?" As we finished up cooking, the kitchen was filled with the delicious aroma of our homemade meal. We set the table. Called for the others. After everyone started eating, Everyone was praising my and Saraswati cooking skills while Rushita and Devansh just said Nice job to Saraswati and ate food. As usual, there was silent dinner as Devansh hated noises.

***

When I sneaked out, this night. Ishaani was there she said that she would show where we could meet every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. We would for an and practice my archery skills on that day. She wasn't that pleased with this arrangement but neither was I.

Then, we head back to where the Surush was. She then left me in Sruthi's hands. Sruthi explained that. Near the river, at 11:30 the women would change while the men would change at 12. She gave my training clothes and we tested them. They worked perfectly and on the back, apparently the word, "Dancer," was written.

***

As I stood on the edge of the archery range, watching with admiration as the women practiced their precise aim and steady hands, little did I know that my peaceful moment would soon be shattered. In an instant, I felt a strong force pulling me into the shadows, my heart racing with fear as I realized, Ekaansh, had pulled me into the dark.

In the dim light of the secluded corner where Ekaansh had dragged me, his piercing eyes bore into mine as he casually asked, "How has your week at Surush been so far?" His voice was low and chilling, sending shivers down my spine.

I could feel the tension in the air, thick and suffocating, as I struggled to come up with a response. My mind raced with a mix of emotions - fear, anger, and defiance. Despite the fear that gripped me, a flicker of determination ignited within me. I straightened my spine, meeting Ekaansh's gaze with unwavering strength. With a steady voice that betrayed none of the turmoil within me, I replied, "My week has been filled with qualities that you will never bring me." The words hung in the air between us, charged with unspoken challenges and hidden meanings. "What do you want?" I spat out.

"Suhasini we need to rehearse the speech that you will give to the Surush." Ekaansh said. I nodded with understandment but the urge to punch was still there. "The speech give go on like this," he said before continuing.

"My Surush, I am your leader. I have been watching you since we began this league, Surush, 5 years ago," he began, his words carrying a weight of importance, "I thank The Archer, The Teacher, The Gamer and The Swift for their help. The time has come for us to unite as one, to stand together in the face of adversity and darkness. Our Kingdom depends on us, on our courage and our unwavering resolve to protect all that we hold dear." I listened intently. I knew the importance of our mission, the gravity of the task that lay ahead. 

As Ekaansh continued, his words painted a vivid picture of the challenges that awaited them, the dangers that lurked in the shadows, waiting to strike at the heart of their kingdom. "Our league, Surush, is a beacon of hope in a world filled with uncertainty and fear," Ekaansh declared, his voice echoing through the still night air. "We must be vigilant, we must be strong, for our kingdom relies on us to save it from harm." As Ekaansh finished his speech. "My friends," he said, his eyes meeting mine with unwavering determination, "we stand on the brink of a great adventure, a journey that will test our courage and our convictions. But we are not alone. Together, we are strong. Together, we are the Surush," He concluded.

I clapped while beaming at him. "Now you will have to memorize this speech." he said. I pouted and asked, "Do I have too?"

He looked away, uncomfortably. "Yes."

Suhasini:- One. Ekaansh:- Zero.

"Fine," I grumbled but compiled.

***

I woke up to the gentle rays of the morning sun filtering through my curtains, casting a warm glow over my room. As I stretched and yawned, thoughts of Ekaansh, crept into my mind like unwelcome shadows. I couldn't shake off the lingering bitterness that had taken root in my heart, their rivalry simmering just beneath the surface.

Dragging myself out of bed, I went through my morning routine with a sense of detachment, each action mechanical and devoid of the usual spark that lit up my eyes. The mirror reflected a face that was a mask of composure, hiding the turmoil that churned within me. I wondered if Ekaansh ever thought about me the way I did about him, their animosity a heavy weight that I carried with me wherever I went.

As I step into the kitchen, a wave of warmth and inviting aromas envelops me. I tie my apron snugly around my waist, feeling the soft fabric against my skin, ready to embark on another culinary adventure. Before me, a colorful array of fresh ingredients awaits my touch. Vibrant red tomatoes, crisp green peppers, and fragrant herbs beckon me to create something delicious.

I pick up a sharp knife, its weight familiar in my hand, and begin to chop with precision and grace. The rhythmic thud of the knife against the cutting board is a soothing melody as I lose myself in the art of cooking. The sizzle of garlic hitting the pan releases a rich, savory aroma that fills the kitchen, making my stomach rumble in anticipation. I add the diced onions, watching as they slowly turn translucent and golden, releasing their sweet fragrance into the air. With a quick flick of the wrist, I add the colorful vegetables, their vibrant hues creating a feast for the eyes. As the dish simmers and bubbles on the stove, I take a moment to savor the sights, sounds, and smells of the kitchen around me. The soft glow of the overhead lights, the comforting warmth of the stove, and the gentle chatter of pots and pans all come together to create a cozy cocoon of culinary creativity. I smile to myself, knowing that soon, I will be able to share this delicious creation with those I love.

As usual, morning went on as the others came down had fun and stated eating. Just as I finished my meal, the sound of the front door opening shattered my peace. I turned around to see, the man who I shared my blood with.

I saw Karish Mehra, my father who had come home after 5 months of traveling. 

____________

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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