My Days in Indraprasth - Subhadra

Part 29

"I can't promise to fix all your problems. But I can promise that you don't have to face them alone." ~ Subhadra

⚰⚰⚰⚰⚰⚰⚰⚰⚰⚰⚰⚰⚰

Long Chapter Ahead.

The week after my birthday passed in a way that felt like seconds.

Before leaving for Indraprasth, Arya wished to meet Brata Balram and Brata Krishna to seek their permission. While my Bhabhis showered us with gifts, Brata Krishna had suggestions to give Arya about the planned Rajsurya Yagna.

Brata Balram, on the other hand, stood at a distance watching me interact with my maid.

"Princess, I have packed Prince Arjun's birthday gift along with the other ones. And as per your instruction, I made sure nobody notices it."

I thanked her for her help and now walked to Brata Balram who happily blessed me, "I hope you and Arjun are not upset with me for sending both of you on that exile." He enquired and I shook my head smiling at him.

"Of course not Bratashri!" I said reassuringly.

His smile faltered as he continued, "I- I don't know what took over me that I got so impulsive and-" He paused before looking at Arya for a brief moment, "But from now onwards, I will keep my anger in check and not let it being unhappiness in your marriage." He concluded.

"What do you mean Bratashri?" I asked, clearly confused.

"I already suspected Arjun of ill-treating you in your marriage and now going one step ahead, I sent him on an exile with you." I looked at Arya and then at Brata Balram.

"He is young now and very much besotted by his love for you. But after initial years of marriage pass, these feelings will fade away. That time, reminiscing such events will not only lead to displeasure but also create issues between the two of you."

I huffed.

Little did my brother know that the exile had given us some of the most memorable moments of our life.

The late night conversations, the shared challenges of arranging fuel, cooking in a mud pot, fetching water from a faraway well, his birthday surprise, traversing the crowded markets holding his hand- this exile made me realize how lovely everyday moments in a couple's life could be.

"But we are grateful Brata." I said and he looked at me surprised.

"Arya's duties as the commander and my tasks as a Princess are so relentless that we hardly get quality time together in the palace. This exile gave us lots of time to observe, admire, love and understand each other. Thank you Bratashri!" I said, wrapping my arms around Brata Balram.

He smiled and hugged me in return, "I'm glad if Arjun thinks the same, Bhadra."

"I can vouch for him, Bratashri. And I can also vouch for the fact that he'll never let his royal pride comes in between our marriage. And nor will I let any difference creep in our marriage."

"It's time for us to leave, Brata Balram." Both of us turned to Arya and he nodded, "Have a safe journey, both of you."

We nodded and after seeking the blessings of my parents and brothers, got on the chariot and in no time, we had crossed the borders of Dwarka.

All along the journey, Arya was silent enjoying the rugged beauty of the trees while Brata Balram's words kept playing in the back of my mind.

Is Arya really unhappy with the exile period we served in Dwarka? Brata Yudhisthir had also approved Brata Balram's decision, so there's little risk of Indraprasth taking offence. Or wait did Arya just put up with whatever happened for my sake?