The Secrets of the Elements

The Memories

"If at all," Indra said as he paced back and forth in the small room. He and Dai Ma had travelled far away from the city to a secluded place where they could discuss the book and plan their next move.

"Indra," Dai Ma called out as she peered out the window of the cottage. "Daksh is your son. His mother died protecting the book. Will he ever turn against us? How can he join our enemies? Why would he?"

"I kept him away from all this - the academy, the book, everything - to protect him. But he took it differently," Indra replied, joining her by the window. He gazed up at the starry sky, which reminded him of his wife, Tara.

"Tara always wanted Daksh to carry on the legacy," Dai Ma said, leaning on her support stick. "It was her last wish. She wanted Daksh to be crowned as the next protector of the book."

"I know," Indra sighed. "But he's young, headstrong. He thinks he can do things his own way. He doesn't understand the danger involved."

"We need to bring him back," Dai Ma said firmly. "We can't afford to lose him to the enemy."

Indra closed his eyes and pictured Tara holding little Daksh in her arms. "She didn't know what she was asking for," he said quietly. "But I've always tried my best to give everything to Daksh," he added.

"You are a great father, Indra," Dai Ma said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You've protected him all these years. But now it's time to prepare him. He needs to know the truth and the responsibility that comes with it."

"I know," Indra nodded. "I'll talk to him when we get back to the city. But we have to be careful. We don't know who we can trust anymore."

"We'll figure it out together," Dai Ma reassured him. "For now, let's get some rest. We have a long journey ahead of us."

~~~~~~~

Advika tossed the noodles in the pan as Ray shaped the Manchurian. "I must say, you're as good as Ray," said Swarna and kept the ice cream to set in the freezer. Advika smiled and looked at Ray; he winked. 

"Mom," said Tej as he entered the kitchen. His eyes fell on Advika, who was busy tossing the noddle. The thought of Advika working in his kitchen with his mom made him happy. 

"Yes, son," said Swarna. "Do you want anything?"

"Can I help you with anything, mom?" asked Tej.

Swarna smiled at him. "Thank you, but we have everything under control. Why don't you go set the table for us?"

Tej nodded and headed towards the dining area. He picked up the plates and the cutlery and started arranging them on the table.

As he was setting up, Zarna came in and helped him out. "Thanks, Zarna," he said as he placed the last fork on the table.

"No problem," she said, smiling at him.

Just then, Ray entered the dining area, carrying the Manchurian. "Wow, that smells amazing," said Maya, who had just entered the room.

"Thanks," said Ray, grinning. "I made it myself."

Advika came in next, carrying the noodles. "Looks like we're all set," she said, placing the pan on the table.

Swarna came in last, carrying the glasses and water. "Let's eat," she said, smiling at everyone.