The weight of responsibility pressed heavily on Samrat's temples as he returned home. Though he held no official title of Sarpanch, his family's enduring influence ensured the panchayat's decisions echoed their counsel.

Adhiraj had effortlessly managed the village affairs, leaving Samrat feeling adrift in a sea of unfamiliar complexities. He sank into the sofa, a dull throb pulsating behind his eyes, a testament to the day's arduous learning curve.