-|| United Hearts ||-
In the symphony of affection, their hearts found harmony, united as one.
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In the ethereal expanse of a melancholic eve, the firmament unfurled its tapestry of silver, as if the heavens themselves were weaving tales of woe. Raindrops, like crystalline tears, cascaded from the sobbing sky, each droplet a lament. And amidst this symphony of weeping clouds, a solitary figure stood swinging his mace, his heart echoing the deluge above, his soul awash in the torrents of ache.
"There was a time," Rukmini's voice quivered, reaching out to Bhima , "when we shared the same grief, Bhrata, when Pradyumna was kidnapped, and you had parted from Ghatotkacha. I thought we were siblings, bound by an unbreakable thread of the heart, after all the conversations we had through the years. Today, in your moment of anguish, did you not think of me Bhrata?"
Her words hung in the air, suspended between them, as Bhima hesitated to turn towards her but halted his mace. The weight of his own sorrow, the burden of his perceived inadequacy, held him captive. But Rukmini, undeterred by his silence, stood resolute, her unwavering presence a testament to her understanding.
"This war is mine, Devi," Bhima whispered, his voice barely a breath, as if afraid to disturb the fragile web of emotions surrounding them.
"Have you changed so much, Bhrata?" Rukmini's voice cut through the air, sharp and poignant. "Or have I become incapable of being your sister?"
Her words pierced Bhima's heart, and he finally met her gaze, his eyes brimming with unshed tears. With a heavy sigh, he relented, his defenses crumbling before the truth of their bond.
"Bhagini," Bhima said, his voice tinged with shock, "I have become incapable, Vaidarbhi. It's not that I didn't think about you after the dice game, in the depths of the forests, or even now, after this war. You have been the sister I have always yearned for."
"Bhrata, then who bestowed upon you the authority to keep my brother way from me?" Rukmini's tone softened, touched by the affection that she knew remained steadfast within Bhima's soul. Still, she stood resolute.
"The Queen of Dwarka, she would not wish to have a man stained by failure, a man perceived as bloodthirsty, as her brother," Bhima turned to place his mace in its resting place, a feeble attempt to conceal the tremor in his voice.
"That is but your perception, Bhrata, not the truth!" Rukmini moved to Bhima. "Failed? Who taught you such a concept, Bhrata? Surely it was not Dau. You—"
Rukmini's words were interrupted as Bhima extended a hand, presenting a gleaming dagger from the table where his mighty mace lay.
"If you truly believe that I have forsaken Dau and his teachings, Vaidarbhi, then I implore you to end my life at this very moment," Bhima's gaze met Rukmini's, his eyes brimming with vulnerability.
Silently, Rukmini accepted the dagger from him, placing it gently upon the table, wordless but deeply moved.
"Bhrata, this form of yours may be unfamiliar to others, an enigma shrouded in mystery. But I am your sister, and I comprehend you—I truly do," Rukmini's voice held a soothing tenderness. "You are not concerned with others' perceptions; you are worried about Valandhara and Draupadi, that they are being caught in the storm of your own struggles. More than anyone, you are unhappy with yourself."
"Perhaps, long ago, I glimpsed the essence of Madhava within you," Bhima attempted to divert the conversation, but Rukmini remained steadfast.
"You know I stand firmly in my place, Bhrata. If this is but a jest, then it is a poor one," Rukmini shook her head.
"You used to smile at my feeble attempts at humor, earlier" Bhima took a seat, and Rukmini settled beside him.
"And did I have any other choice before you, Mahabali?" Rukmini's words caressed the air, a moment of silence enveloping them before they both burst into laughter. Yet, within Bhima's laughter, a solitary tear found its way, revealing the depth of his emotions.
"Why could you not have been my true sister, Vaidarbhi? If you had graced Bhima's childhood, I would have never ceased to smile," Bhima's facade crumbled, his emotions laid bare before her.
"Am I not your sister now, Bhrata?" Rukmini's voice held a softness, her heart swelling with affection. "It is never too late, you see. Perhaps, it is the divine will that now I am meant to bring a smile to your face, as you retreat from it, my dear Bhrata. What woman would not yearn for such a protective, affectionate, and mighty man as her brother?"
"Madhavi," Bhima whispered, his voice trembling with an unfamiliar vulnerability. "I know not if I still possess reasons to smile. I am consumed by worry for Valandhara and Draupadi, Vaidarbhi, more than for myself. They are both so dear to me that words fail to capture the extent of my love for them. Yet, the hands meant to embellish their lives with joy have instead brought them torment. I failed to protect Draupadi on that fateful day,I have failed her when she had to accompany us into exile and now , I failed her children and maternal kin. Valandhara, I have subjected her to thirteen arduous years of desolation and grief, and even now, she struggles to reconcile with Kumari Bhanumati—her own sister. I do not know, Vaidarbhi, how I will face all of this. I find myself running from it, but for how long? I have already exposed my vulnerable side to them both. I do not wish to compound their suffering, but it seems that is the sole legacy I have bestowed upon them, despite my best intentions."
Rukmini listened intently, fully aware that Bhima did not often share such thoughts with anyone unless he considered them truly close. She understood the weight of his words, the burden that he carried within his soul.
"Bhrata, you still possess reasons to smile," Rukmini spoke with a comforting cadence, her words like balm to his wounded spirit. "Above all, you must know that Krishnaa and Valandhara do not hold you responsible. They may express their sorrow because it is the truth, but they do not place blame upon your shoulders. I understand that your actions on the battlefield have been reckless, and no justification can fully absolve you. But that does not make you a bloodthirsty man. To a warrior like you, Bhrata, I need not explain the nature of war. If you do not slay your foes, you shall be slain. Furthermore, Bhrata, consider the likes of Shri Ram and Hanuman. Even they, when confronted with women itself who personified Adharma, did not waver from their purpose. They were vanquished, for it was their destiny to be so. Then why do you burden yourself for vanquishing Adharma ?"
Rukmini paused, gauging the impact of her words, knowing that Bhima's transformation could only occur when he liberated himself from the shackles of guilt and self-deception.
"But, as a woman, Bhrata, let me impart one truth. If Dussassan had not met his just fate in that manner, I doubt any other retribution could have sufficed. It is not a justification for the act itself, but a validation of the fear it instills in the hearts of those who would think of commiting such heinous crimes," Rukmini's unwavering confidence in her stance bolstered Bhima's spirit.
"Bhrata, understand that no one here is without fault. And, personally, I believe that you did not drink his blood.You are not a blood-thirsty man, but a protector," Rukmini's unwavering conviction touched Bhima's heart, bringing forth a wellspring of tears.
"Do you even know," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion, "that you are wiser than people realize and your age, Vaidarbhi?"
Rukmini shook her head, her eyes filled with a mixture of affection and amusement.
"People wouldn't know that the Mahabali they feared can weave dark humor amidst the seriousness," Rukmini's words brought a flicker of a smile to Bhima's lips, a small crack in the fortress he had built around himself.
"Thank you, Vaidarbhi," Bhima said, his voice laced with gratitude. "I feel much better, honestly. And I promise you, I will strive to free myself from this pit of despair."
Rukmini's gentle smile radiated warmth and reassurance. "Is today a day for thanks, then?" she pondered aloud, a playful glint in her eyes.
Bhima chuckled, a rare sound that echoed through the air, and he feigned contrition, pretending to hold his ears in mock penance.
"Forgive me, Krishnapriyaa," Bhima teased. "It was my mistake to say 'thank you.' Your Bhrata is truly blessed to have a sister like you."
"Bhrata," Rukmini's voice softened, her smile mirroring his now.
In that moment, as their laughter intertwined with the echoes of the sorrows, Bhima felt a flicker of hope reignite within him. And Rukmini, his sister by heart, knew that this little talk had the power to guide him back to the path of light very soon.
In the hushed sanctuary of a tear-stained chamber, Krishna beheld Subhadra, her countenance drenched in sorrow that was mirrored now in the depths of his own melancholic gaze. Softly, his voice, laden with concern, wove through the silence, delicately reaching the chambers of her troubled heart.
"Vrushneyi, why do you lament in solitude?" Krishna's words, like gentle tendrils, enveloped the room, tenderly seeking solace for his sister's distress. Subhadra, rising from her bed, blinked away the glistening droplets that clung to her lashes, a veil hiding her pain.
"No, Bhrata," she tried to speak in her normal tone, but Krishna, walking toward her, interrupted her.
"I acknowledge that you have grown up," Krishna began, his voice tender as Subhadra smiled faintly, comforted by his presence. He gently held her shoulders, gesturing for her to sit as he settled beside her. "Yet, even now, I can discern when my sister's smile is genuine and when it conceals her sorrows."
Subhadra broke down, her tears flowing freely, while Krishna, with a brother's affection and the love of a father, took her trembling hand into his. His eyes mirrored her pain, a reflection of the heart-break she went through.
"If you are not happy here, how can you ensure joy for your family?" Krishna asked softly, his words carrying a gentle weight.
Subhadra's tears continued to stream down her face as she shook her head. "No, Bhrata," she said, turning away from him, her back facing him, and Krishna rose to stand beside her. "I cannot entertain such thoughts now. Although my Swami stands by my side, urging me to leave for Dwarka, how can I abandon him? In that moment, when he spoke, I was submerged in a sea of sorrow. But ultimately, he is the reason I draw breath. Even if my family here agrees to my happiness and decision, what about Dwarka? Leaving my home and returning to my maternal place would tarnish our family's reputation."
Krishna approached her, placing a calming hand on her shoulder, and looked into her eyes from the side, providing solace as he voiced the truth. "Family encompasses the four cardinal directions, shielding you from all adversity Vurshneyi ," he assured her. Subhadra, tears still brimming in her eyes, listened intently as he continued, "It is not a family that sacrifices its loved ones for empty fame. You have the right to choose your own happiness. Your happiness can never cast a shadow upon Krishna parivaar. You are my sister, the daughter of Dwarka, and you shall always remain so."
Krishna turned Subhadra to face him, unwavering in his support, and spoke with resolute determination. "You have forever been a river, Vrushneyi. It is your duty to flow, even when faced with obstacles. You do not flee, but confront them head-on, standing tall in the face of adversity. You do not merely thunder, but rain. It is this very trait that empowered Abhimanyu to fight until the last breath of his life. I understand, Vrushneyi, that your sorrow is undeniable. However, by denying yourself happiness, are you truly paving the way for your family's joy? Just say the word, and I shall speak to Bua, bringing you home for a while."
Subhadra wiped away her tears, her voice now steady, without a tremor. "No, Bhrata, there is no need for that. You need not trouble yourself. Your sister, until this day, remains steadfast in your vision. You have stood by me through every trial, in every phase of my life. Today, I must forge my own path back home, Bhrata. I shall choose my happiness and speak my desires."
Subhadra clasped his hand, tears mingling with a gentle smile. "Thank you, Bhrata, for always guiding me in the right direction. You have been my unwavering support when I needed it most." Krishna smiled, patting her cheek affectionately before placing his hand upon her head, offering his blessing.
"I shall pray, Bhrata," Subhadra thought within herself, knowing her brother who understood everything, yet carried the weight of losses, even if unspoken. "May all my Bhabhi's forever stand by your side in every circumstance."
In that moment, their souls intertwined, bound by a sibling love that transcended earthly ties. They shared a connection so profound, a testament to the unbreakable bond between siblings.
Draupadi felt a surge of surprise as arms wrapped around her from behind, enveloping her in an embrace that seemed to hold her sorrows at bay.
"Satya," Draupadi whispered, turning to face her Satyabhama, their eyes filled with tears as the latter gently wiped Draupadi's cheeks. Both their hearts heavy with emotion , for Satyabhama it was the sorrow of Draupadi. They moved to sit on the regal couch, seeking solace in each other's presence.
"Tell me, Krishnaa, what troubles your restless spirit?" Satyabhama looked deeply into Draupadi's eyes, her voice filled with genuine concern.
"Satyaa, it is about Maa," Draupadi whispered, her voice trembling. "I convinced her to move to Hastinapura, understanding that Panchala would never be the same after all the losses and Bhabhi's had departed for their maternal homes. But now, Maa stands all alone. How can I help her, Satyaa?"
"She still has someone, Panchali," Satyabhama spoke softly, a gentle smile gracing her lips. "You, her daughter. I know it is not easy for any woman, especially someone like Mata who had her entire world centered around her family, to bear such losses at this age. We can support her by ensuring she never feels alone, by showering her with love and making her feel that life is not a burden upon her, nor is she a burden upon her children. But in all of this, I am certain that you will not be alone. The Pandavas will stand by you, tending to Mata as well."
"Do you think my presence alone will suffice, Satyaa?" Draupadi touched her forehead, her brow furrowed with uncertainty. "Won't this place constantly remind her of what she has lost? I am starting to doubt my own decision."
"Panchali, does Thanu's presence remind you of your losses or bring you solace? The answer to the question in your heart lies in that," Satyaa placed her hand upon Draupadi's, a reassuring touch. "You have made the right decision."
"Thanu," Draupadi's mind was struck with a sudden thunderous thought, "Satyaa, her Vivaha..."
"Panchali," Satyabhama interrupted gently, a soft smile gracing her lips understanding Draupadi's heart, "Do not worry about it. When the time comes, we will discuss it."
Draupadi's mind spun with thoughts of Suthanu leaving Hastinapura. She couldn't selfishly hold her daughter back, but was she truly prepared to send her away? Was her family in the right circumstances, and were her lords ready to let go of the member who held a vital place in their lives?
"Vivaha?" Suthanu leaned against a nearby pillar, grasping it for support as she overheard the palace maids conversing outside her chambers. She loved Bhanu, and her heart yearned for their union. But at this critical juncture?
Her heart ached with conflicting emotions, torn between the duty of a daughter , the love of Bhanu that she had to protect and the weight of the circumstances surrounding them.
If this comes out in the royal court in front of her parents officially , it would end with her either pushing the wedding for some time considering her duties to her family but breaking the heart of Bhanu who waited so patiently for her or she would have to go ahead with the wedding - abandoning her parents when they need her the most.
She turned to the moon , ' Chandra dev , what test is this now ? '.
The decision loomed ahead, laden with significance, and she couldn't help but wonder if the time was truly ripe for such a union. For the first time perhaps , Suthanu was caught in the webs of morality - one side her family and the other side - her love. Breaking any one would end ultimately in her ruin.
Her worst fear had come true when her wedding was broached in the family chamber by Yuyutsu - soon. Bhanu and Suthanu's eyes met while her parents who least thought about it's probability were taken aback.
Time had thrown her off into the webs and now , it was about the decision !
To be continued...
A/N : Spoilers , well well...no , not revealing.
A little note :
I love writing Bhanupriyaa. It's a hobby that I dearly do - anytime I am free or am down with moodswings. Votes and comments never really did matter to me maybe that's why I could continue writing in all these years.
Yet now , seeing so many people read yet not leaving acknowledgement or a little appreciation by hitting the stars or saying a few words is deeply sadenning. I dearly miss my old readers.
Sometimes , I feel like quiting yet stay back for the few readers who haven't left it's side even now. I am grateful to them from the bottom of my heart. Though you never know , when that overpowers you though , leaving with no choice but to quit.
Ultimately , I don't want to quit but sometimes , I feel helpless too. Silence readers please do break your silence.
Please do leave your votes and comments !