down to the river, filled the pouch with water and headed for the edge of the jungle. But where was Maruti? The moon was kind, beaming softly to light her way. Silently she chanted the healing mantra which soon began to vibrate within her, keeping lurking spirits at bay. A shadow joined her soon after—Maruti had arrived. Relieved, she reached down to pat his furry head. Together they moved forward, bypassing clumps of thorn trees and rocks, Maruti taking the lead, turning around frequently to ensure she was all right.

Through the darkness, she glimpsed the old cottage. The thought of her blind mother alone in that grimy stone hut gripped her with such intense sorrow that she came to an abrupt halt. Motioning to Maruti to wait for her, she walked stealthily to the window. In the dim light, she made o...

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