Devouring Flames

Mortality is a boon as it is a bane, and none are exceptions to its nature. However, the journey seems only complete for those who have served their purpose in life. What about the others?

“Devouring Flames” by Nikhila Kotni & R. S. Chintalapati explore what happens if characters set on a purpose do not fulfil their cause. It shows how death doesn’t bother about an individual’s pain, suffering, or desire.

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Credits

This contribution was co-written by R. S. Chintalapati, edited by Tarun Chintam, & photographed by Ravindra Patoju.

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Product

This short story is available in paperback & ebook.

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Cover Photo by Ravindra Patoju

Naina found her seat and placed her cabin baggage before resting beside the window. It didn’t matter to her what the others on the plane were doing as she was lost in her thoughts about her grandmother’s condition. There was a part of her that wished she had built a more affectionate relationship with her much sooner but now, it was too late to nurture a bond.

While she was lost in her thoughts, a little girl arrived holding her grandfather’s hand and sat beside Naina in the middle seat while her grandfather sat in the last seat.

Looking at her, Naina smiled but the girl didn’t. Wondering what happened, Naina extended her hand before introducing herself, “Hello little one! My name is Naina.”

She looked at her grandfather before cautiously shaking hands. A moment later, she faintly whispered, “My name is Kreeti.”

Hoping to cheer her up, Naina offered, “Would you like to sit beside the window?”

A faint smile appeared on her face and soon enough, they swapped their seats. Looking at Naina, her grandfather said, “Thank you magalu. You saved me the trouble of persuading you.”

Before Naina could assure him that no persuasion would have been needed, she heard, “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome onboard Flight AI 812 with service from Dubai to Mangalore. We are currently third in line for take-off and are expected to be in the air in approximately seven minutes. We ask that you please fasten your seatbelts at this time and secure all baggage underneath your seat or in the overhead compartments. We also ask that your seats and table trays are in the upright position for take-off. Please turn off all personal electronic devices, including laptops and cell phones. Smoking is prohibited for the duration of the flight. Thank you for choosing Air Express Airlines. Enjoy your flight.”

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