"Fate is inevitable and No one can escape from its decree,
Neither the frailest of the mortals nor mightiest of Gods."
The year 700 BC... a time shrouded in darkness and erased from the annals of history. A fierce Lightning bolt tears through ominous storm-blackened clouds, illuminating the devastating chaos beneath. Volcanic eruptions spewed molten lava, painting the sky with nightmarish shade of bloody crimson.
Oceans surge with unprecedented fury, swallowing coastal settlements beneath monstrous waves. As the humanity scatters in terror, their screams lost to the cacophony of nature's fury, creating auroras of devastation across the heavens.
The ominous thunderclouds loom over the ancient Earth as two figures hover above a ravaged Earth, their cosmic energies distorting reality. The earth quakes violently beneath their feet as those two formidable warriors clashed in a cataclysmic battle that threatened to obliterate all life. The very fabric of reality strains under their divine conflict.
"Your persistence is admirable, yet futile, only prolonging the inevitable. Accept the inevitable cleansing of divine order and make your demise less miserable," With a cold, emotionless voice, The first warrior, clad in blood-soaked dark armour and the mask of death, sneered as he sought to shatter his opponent's resolve.
"Never. I will never kneel before you, monster! You slaughtered them... my family... my friends... my people... You have taken everything from me. Their blood cries out for justice! You will make you pay for your sins!" the other warrior, clad in a blood-soaked blue armour and a shroud tied on his head, shook the whole atmosphere with his furious roar, as his eyes blazed with righteous fury.
The Lightning was crackling around his clenching fists as he faced the merciless entity who had assassinated his family and friends. His enraged face and eyes blazed with righteous fury was showing his determination to avenge the death of his family and people.
The other warrior, in stark contrast, remained serene and composed, meeting the furious warrior's gaze with icy indifference. Both warriors were determined to defend their own version of justice.
The Thunderous roars erupted from the sky as bolt of lightning struck to the earth between them, illuminating the darkened sky.
"I will fight until my last breath to avenge their death. I would choose to perish rather than embracing your twisted version of divine order!" the blue-armoured warrior proclaimed, as crackles of lightning danced around him as he takes a battle stance. His eyes sparkled with lightning, carefully plotting his next strike.
"So be it. Your determination is admirable, but this is the end of your story. Let your death serve as testament to the futility of defying the Heavenly Order," The dark-armoured warrior, exuding an air of cold precision, lifted his weapon with intent, ready to unleash a crushing strike.
With a thunderous roar, both warriors charged towards one other with their weapons crackling with a fierce energy that mirrored the strength of their determination.
The impact of their weapons was cataclysmic, causing a massive explosion across the landscape. The impact of their clash unleashed shockwaves rippling through the foundations of the Earth, shattering mountains and levelling forests.
Their collision creating a dazzling flash that illuminates the darkened world. Blood and sweat dripped down their faces, yet neither warrior would yield.
The living beings on earth fled in terror, desperately seeking refuge from the destruction that threatened to consume them. As the entire humanity was witnessing the clash of these formidable warriors, the terror of this brutal dance of destruction forever scarred into their collective memory.
This was the first time that they witnessed a phenomenon beyond their comprehension. Just the thought of it sends shivers through my very soul. The phenomenon signifies the dawn of the Heavenly Order of Genesis.... in other words... the grand reset of all Gods.
**********
Sigh! Two thousand seven hundred years... to that horrific Genocide... Yet these lingering echoes... making that cosmic nightmare feel like yesterday, clawing my deep scars to reopen wounds.
Even though I was mesmerizing the ethereal clouds, a nothingness was looming before my eyes. The wisps of memory, sharp as shards of glass, were piercing my pensive silence.
The ethereal glow of the Heavenly Realm couldn't dispel the shadows clinging to my memories. A frigid breeze whispering through the celestial realm, a stark echoes of the devastating Heavenly Order of Genesis, a massacre etched in my memory and pressing the weight of survival heavily in my heart.
"If only I had... been a bit younger and stronger back then. Would they still be here with me? Or Perhaps I should have perished with them? This burden... this loneliness... what's the purpose of enduring this endless suffering?" I clenched my fist, my knuckles white against my skin as a pain escaped my lips.
As I was engrossed in cursing my life for being a last remnant of that cataclysm, a cacophony of sound snapped me back to reality. Tracing those clamours, I directed my gaze down to the vibrant blue-green pearl, a tapestry of bustling life, Earth.
From heaven, my ethereal gaze was instantly fixed on mortal realm: bustling markets, serene parks, and the faint laughter of children chasing pigeons in a park. I was observing their routines with a newfound curiosity.
"These earthlings... such a strange creature... so engrossed in their mundane routine... living such a vibrant life... Unshackled from the burdens of divinity... almost enviable. Such fleeting, fragile existences. Yet, there's a certain... beauty to their struggles."
When I was busy admiring those smiling faces, I started imagining myself walking among them. A flicker of a smile danced on my lips.
"Perhaps it wouldn't be so bad... To experience their struggles, their joys... it would be rather refreshing and interesting experience to walk among them, instead of merely observing."
While I was lost in the world of imagination, a thought surfaced on my mind and my attention snagged on a lone figure in a park. A 13-year-old boy, sitting alone a bit far away on a swing, hunching over a notepad, scribbling furiously.
"There you are," my gaze softens and small smile graced my lips as I watched a familiar face with a comforting presence. Such an intriguing child. Seeing him always brings a sense of... peace.
"Ah, Saurabh... Your allure never fails to enchant me. I wonder when destiny will allow to cross our paths. You remind me of... someone... very dear to me," I said, twirling a strand of my long blue hair, while seeing him diligently scribbling.
I rose with a playful glint in my eyes as I saw a stranger expression on his face. I felt an almost irresistible urge to descend, to speak to the boy.
This boy... his radiant smile always lights up my day. Yet today... he is sitting alone troubled. What could be weighting his mind? I must descend to Earth and befriend him. I should... Perhaps I could...
An inexplicable warmth bloomed in my chest. I longed to spend some quality time with him... to know about him... to understand him. My celestial mind even imagined the scene of extending a hand, bridging the gap between gods and mortals.
"Ah, Lord Endymion, there you are. I was scouring the entire celestial realm for you? What are you doing here alone?" a familiar, playful voice broke the spell.
I flushed, caught off guard by sudden appearance of that beautiful face.
"Aa... Aaliyah! Don't sneak up on me like that. Must you always interrupt my quiet contemplation?" I said, smoothening my white celestial robes.
That beautiful face belonged to my angel attendant, Aaliyah. Her thick, black, silky hair that cascaded down to her waist, was enhancing the radiance of her lovely face. The pair of snow-white delicate wings that adorned her graceful body harmonized beautifully with the white attire she wore.
She floated beside me, leaning slightly forward to meet my gaze with a feigned look of anger sparkling in her eyes, her delicate hands resting gently on her hips.
"My, my, Lord Endymion. Were you stalking on that mortal child again?" Aaliyah's teasing, though light-hearted, enough to struck a chord within me and flush my cheeks faint pink. I jolted as if caught stealing star candy.
"Aaliyah! Don't be absurd. What do you really think of me?" I asked.
"A 2700-year-old Guardian Deity remarkably reduced to a creepy child stalker. What else I must think?" she said, with her voice dripping with sarcasm.
"What? Aaliyah, do I look like a stalker to you? I am merely performing a divine observation duty of a Guardian Deity," I said as a soft smile played on my lips.
"Divine Observation? Is that what you calling it now? If so, then shouldn't that extend to everyone? What makes that particular child above all those countless mortals to gain a fascination of a great Guardian Deity of Earth? He is just one of them," she said while tilting her head, with a curiosity evident in her eyes.
"No Aaliyah, he is not just any mortal. His name is Saurabh and he is... special. He reminds me of..." I paused as a smile danced on my face. I was avoiding her gaze, while flickering mine towards the Earth.
"Anyways... What brings you here, Aaliyah? It's not often you grace me with your presence unbidden," I added. Aaliyah paused to my question and her expression replaced by a look of remembrance.
"Oh, right! Lord Arcanus has summoned you. He has demanded your presence in his chamber immediately. I wonder, What mischief did you stirred up this time to provoke Father? Perhaps... he's finally stripping you of your Earthly Guardian title?" she playfully elbowed me, clearly relishing her thought, she giggled.
"Mischief? Oh Aaliyah, always jumping to the wrong conclusions," I said, my eyes widened slightly and my lips curved into a genuine smile.
Finally, after centuries, my prayers have finally heard by Father. A wave of excitement washed over me. Suppressing my joy, I turned to Aaliyah and said,
"If Father desires my presence, then let's not keep him waiting. Come along, Aaliyah."
Aaliyah bowed in agreement, ready to accompany me. In a shimmer of light, our divine pair vanished and materialized at a courtyard of prayer hall.
We traversed pearly white celestial pathways, while the air was shimmering with divine essence. Aaliyah's playful jabs were echoing behind me. Aaliyah trailed slightly behind me, with a face blend of curiosity and concern.
The temple's prayer hall loomed ahead. We stopped in front of the towering doors of the prayer hall, with intricate ornate carvings depicting ancient prophecies, which was shimmering with celestial energy.
"Wait here for me, Aaliyah. I will return shortly," I gestured her to stay put
"Yes, my lord. I'll be right here," She said as she nodded in agreement.
I, then walked towards the door, leaving Aaliyah to ponder about the reason of my summoning to the prayer hall.
As I approached, the massive doors swung open, revealing a dimly lit chamber pulsating with divine energy. Incense wisps were curled through the air, carrying the echoes of ancient prayers. With a steadying breath, I stepped inside, and the doors closed silently behind me.
Aaliyah gazed at the closed doors with a flicker of worry in her eyes, while whispering prayers for my safe return lingering on her soft pink lips.
**********
The prayer hall's vastness dwarfed me, amplified the echoing silence. Golden light pouring through the celestial palace windows was illuminating swirling nebulae painted on the high domed ceiling. The grand prayer hall was shimmering as ethereal light was illuminating every intricate detail.
I paced excitedly, my celestial robes were swirling around me. When I arrived at the prayer hall, anticipation was thrumming through me.
Before me was the colossal celestial figure, clad in blue attire, long white hair and a beard tumbled gracefully around his shoulders, a blue trident was gripped firmly in his hand and a crown of the same celestial blue rests upon its head.
That figure before me was Lord Arcanus, Supreme God of Reality, Creator of this Universe and the Father of all Celestial beings. The one who is known for his kindness towards his children but his wrath rattles the entire heaven. His celestial laws were unyielding and those who defy them faces severe punishment.
He was sitting upon his resplendent golden throne and dominating the space. I approached the throne where Lord Arcanus was sitting. My playful
demeanour momentarily subdued when I lowered in a respectful bow.
"O mighty Lord Arcanus, God of reality and creator of Omniverse, I humbly bow before you in obeisance."
"Rise, Endymion. You are welcome, my son. how are you? I sensed your yearning to see me in your heartfelt prayers. Now tell me, is that anything troubling my dear son?" Father inquired, his voice resonating with both power and grace.
I glanced upwards, meeting Father's gaze. I clasped my hands together with a hopeful gleam in my eyes. My heart was pounding with a mix of awe and anticipation. I hesitated for a moment but then I summoned my courage to say,
"Father, I am grateful that you listened to my prayer and summoned me, my life has been enriched. Father, I... I have a humble request. I seek your permission to visit the mortal world."
Hearing my request, he had mix reaction of surprise and curiosity evident on his face. He strokes his beard, contemplating my request. Leaning forward with his brow furrowed and his gaze piercing, he asked,
"The mortal world? And what has sparked a sudden curiosity about those puny mortals in you, Endymion?"
"Father, it's just... they possess a passion of life that I find intriguing. there is much I wish to learn about the mortals I am designated to protect, their needs and vulnerabilities. To fulfill my duties as a Guardian Deity more effectively, I believe experiencing their world first-hand is essential," I replied with unwavering confidence, masking my nervousness lingering inside me.
A ripple of astonishment washed over Lord Arcanus' face. His eyes narrowed slightly with a hint of concern flickering across his face.
"But son, the mortal world is a place of chaos and temptation. I am hesitant to grant this request of yours." I stood tall with my expression earnest and looked at Father pleadingly.
"Father... As your son, I will never succumb to the feeble chaos and temptations of this mortal realm. You raised me well. I assure you; I will be cautious and..."
Father raised a hand, stopping me mid-sentence. Silence was hung heavy in the air with the only sound the gentle hum of celestial energy. Father tapped his trident lightly against the floor and with a deep sigh, he said,
"Very well, Endymion. I grant you permission. However, there are two conditions. First, you must not reveal your true identities to mortal under any circumstances."
"And second, should any celestial emergency arise in the heavens, you must return immediately. Take Aaliyah with you for assistance as she is very reliable," He added, striking his trident on the floor with the sound echoing like thunder.
"I understand, Father. All conditions are acceptable," Upon hearing his both conditions, I said in agreement, with a relief washing over me as if a weight lifting from my shoulders.
With permission granted, I bowed once again before making my exit while picturing a vivid image of mortal world in my mind as my heart was soaring with anticipation for my upcoming journey.
The celestial air was humming with anticipation as I prepared for my journey to Earth, eager to connect with someone and learn the ways of mortals. My heart was fluttering with a mix of excitement and a touch of nervous energy. I picked up my pace with a wide smile illuminating my face.
"Finally! Father has granted my request! Now, Time to share this good news with! This is going be an enlightening experience."
**********
Outside the ornate prayer hall, celestial light was shimmering on the pearly gates. Sunlight glinted off the ornate carvings, reflecting Aaliyah's anxious frown. She was pacing restlessly with her wings rustling softly.
"He's been in there for ages... What could Father possibly want with Lord Endymion? Could it be... did he really do something to provoke Father?"
While Aaliyah paced anxiously from one side to the another, the majestic golden doors of the Holy Prayer Hall suddenly creak opened.
There I stood, framed in the doorway, a subtle smile playing on my lips. As I stepped outside, the imposing doors behind me swung shut with a thunderous boom.
Upon catching my sight, she rushed towards me with her wings fluttering slightly in excitement and unleashed the fury of her questions.
"Lord Endymion! What happened? Why did Father summoned you? Is everything okay? Did he really stripped you down from your position of Guardian Deity?" I stride out, with a subtle smile playing on my lips, and said teasingly,
"My, my, my dear Aaliyah. Always a worrywart, aren't you? Do you really believe that you will be able to get rid of me so easily? If so, then to your disappointment, you will not leave my side for the next millennium."
Listening my playful jabs and laughter, with a hint of irritation, she crossed her arms and replied,
"This isn't funny, my lord. Now tell me, what truly happened inside? Why did Father summoned you so urgently?"
Noticing the concern etched on her face, with a playful glint in my eyes, I said,
"Relax, little dove. Everything went swimmingly. In fact, I have some exciting news for you. Guess someone is going on a little trip."
"A trip? Who's going? And where?" she inquired, with her eyes widened in surprise. I let out a theatrical sigh, looking towards the swirling while clouds in the sky.
"Father has assigned me a new task. I'm going on a little trip to the mortal realm. Celestial duties, you know. He ordered me to visit the mortal realm to understand the mortals and their life. And you, my dear Aaliyah, are coming with me," I declared with a mischievous grin, resting my hand gently on her shoulder.
Hearing me, Aaliyah froze and her expression shifted from relief to disbelief. Surprise flooded on Aaliyah's face which quickly replaced by annoyance. As her eyes widen and her wings momentarily ceased their flutter, she shouted,
"What?! We? But when did we... Lord Endymion, you can't just make these decisions without consulting me! Why you always drag me to you curious curiosity adventure without even consulting me? What about my duties here? Honestly, Lord Endymion, sometimes... you really annoy me with your reckless decisions."
She stamped her foot with a faint blush creeping up her cheeks. In an instant, her demeanour shifted, and she approached me, her eyes narrowing with suspicion. With her hands resting firmly on her waist, she scrutinized me, as if searching for a hidden motive and asked,
"My lord, would you care to explain what kind of 'celestial duties' have sparked this sudden burst of inspiration? Because I smell a conspiracy brewing. I've known you for ages, and something about this assignment feels less like a direct command from Father and more like a favour granted to someone's plea. Speak the truth, my lord. Did you manipulate Father to get permission for this trip?"
Aaliyah's gaze pierced through me like a thousand daggers. After all these years, it was clear she had every reason to be suspicious. Yet, I held my ground, raising an eyebrow as I asked,
"Don't be absurd. And what, don't tell me you don't want to join me, Aaliyah? Do you really want to miss a chance to experience the mortal world first-hand?"
Aaliyah's irritation melted away as she listened, replaced by a flicker of excitement in her eyes. A faint blush creeped onto her cheeks. She was struggling to maintain her feigned annoyance while her heart was fluttering. Twirling a curl around her finger and glancing away, she whispered.
"It's not that... it's just... perhaps next time, it would be better if you could, you know, ask me beforehand? So I can prepare myself."
Noticing the rosy hue on her cheeks, a gentle smile crept across my face. relished our well-rehearsed routine of teasing exchanges. Aaliyah was right about one thing; my charm could indeed sway others to my will.
"Duly noted, my dear. Besides, I need someone to in the mortal world to keep me out of troubles. Now stop whining like a child and Pack your celestial bags, Aaliyah. We have no moment to lose!"
"So soon?" She asked, her face turning an even brighter shade of pink. She paused for a moment, letting out a resigned sigh, knowing her resistance is futile. A sarcastic smile crept onto her lips as she shut her eyes,
"Babysitting a deity in a mortal world? Ah... fine. Seems I'm out of my options. But listen, if things inevitably goes wrong, I'll be blaming it entirely on you," she declared, her smiling face shifting back to that familiar, exasperated expression as she pointed a finger at me with an air of authority.
I leaned back slightly, raising my hands to shoulder height, a mischievous glint dancing in my eyes as I replied with a chuckle,
"Fine by me, my dear Aaliyah. I promise, you are gonna enjoy this trip."
I gently grasped her delicate hand, which send a warm tingle through her. For a brief moment, she stood still, her gaze fixed on me, her cheeks blooming with a rosy hue. As she lifted her eyes to meet mine, I felt her heart fluttering.
"Are you prepared to leave, Aaliyah?" I asked captivated by her radiant, flushed face. My words broke the spell on her and she averted her face from me blushing.
"Yes, my lord."
Saurabh, it seems our paths are finally destined to cross. I'm on my way to you. Wait for me, I whispered into my thoughts.
I gazed at Earth once more, the very spot where Saurabh was sitting. A smile appeared on my face. Aaliyah and I closed our eyes and I began to weave a series of spells. As my spells ended, a brilliant light enveloped us, erasing us from heaven.
**********
The air crackled with energy as two entities materialized amidst the bustling city street. As we manifested, The vibrant sounds of urban life swirled around us.
"Ah! We finally arrived to the mortal realm. Aaliyah, welcome to India, the place where holy saints once lived. Right now, we are standing on the bustling streets of Mumbai, the richest city of India," I said, smilingly widening my arms. As I was saying, a rickshaw zipped past us blaring horn and Aaliyah jumped in surprise.
"Ah! What was that? Where are we?" Aaliyah asked while covering her ears.
"By the seven heavens! What a foul cloud of black smoke it was exerting?" Aaliyah wrinkled her nose at the noxious fumes of that passing auto-rickshaw.
"A vibrant tapestry of humanity, isn't it?" I waved grandly at the crowded street.
"Tapestry? It's more like a tangled web of... mortals! An overwhelming cloud of dust, a cacophony of sounds, an abundance of... pollution! And just look at them, all crammed together like ants in a hill. How mortals even live here?"
"Each absorbed in their own pursuits. Such selfish creatures, consuming and tainting the world without a thought for the consequences," She fanned herself with her delicate hand, trying to cool herself.
An aroma of chai and Vadapav was mingling in the air, a street vendor was handing a child a colourful balloon, a group of children was sharing a street snack and their laughter was ringing like a music through the air, another street vendor showcased an array of vibrant flowers. While observing all this, I smiled,
"Ah, but despite their flaws, they have a unique charm, these humans. A fascinating paradox, don't you think?"
"Fascinating paradox? I highly doubt that. Tell me, my lord, What is your true motive for bringing me to this mortal realm? It can't be mere sightseeing," she narrowed her eyes suspiciously. I smiled enigmatically with a glint in my eye and began to stroll down the street,
"Patience, Aaliyah. You will understand everything. For now, simply follow me."
Aaliyah trailed behind me, her celestial wings softly shimmering as I started navigating the crowded streets. Mumbai's vibrant tapestry unfolded before us. As we navigated the labyrinthine streets, Aaliyah's initial disdain slowly turned into a childish curiosity. She eagerly pointed at a skyscraper and whizzing cars,
"What are these towering structures? Do they reach to the heavens? And those thunderous, metallic creatures in motion... Are they some sort of demon beasts?"
"These are the Marvels of human ingenuity, my dear. Those are buildings, where humans live and work. And those are vehicles, the machines they use for travel. Everything you see here... are the testament to human achievements, wouldn't you agree?" I replied, a playful smile dancing on my lips, infused with pride for what humanity has achieved.
"Humans, though flawed, but possesses a remarkable ability of creation. Their minds, next to the Gods, are the most intricate in all creation. They manipulate the five elements - earth, water, fire, air, and lightning - to their will. They can shape the world into their own miniature utopias with their brains, their greatest strength," I continued.
As we strolled along, we stumbled upon a small park, a refreshing oasis of greenery nestled within a concrete jungle. Aaliyah's eyes sparkled as she stepped through the main gate. A playful stray cat chasing a butterfly, children playing hide-n-seek, an adorable puppy chasing pigeons and a vendor selling snacks. A beautiful smile blossomed on her lovely face as she moved her rosy lips,
"This place...it's quite pleasant." She observed a flock of pigeons fluttering around a fountain,
"And look, those feathered creatures! They're so...free. Such a vibrant tapestry of life. Incredible! But what if these mortals see us?" she glanced around nervously.
"Fear not, my dear Aaliyah. I've cast a spell of invisibility on both of us. We're mere observers, invisible to mortal eyes," I winked reassuringly.
As we were wandering along, I suddenly picked up my pace, seeking refuge behind a sprawling banyan tree in front of me. Aaliyah, noticing my movement, quickly joined me. The banyan tree stood tall had roots like ancient veins of a giant monster.
"Why are we hiding here, my lord? What's so special about this place?" she inquired, scanning the park curiously. I gazed intently at her and smiled,
"Ah, My dear Aaliyah, we finally arrived at our destination."
**********
Sunlight was dappling through the leaves, a vibrant park was buzzing with echoes o laughter and playful shrieks of children. A lone boy was on a swing, scribbling intently in his notepad, lost in his own world. Captivated by him, I was leaning against the Banyan tree with my eyes fixed on him.
"Fascinating... truly fascinating..."
"What's so fascinating, my lord? Another stray cat?" she inquired, adjusting her wings with subtly sarcasm.
I pointed my finger towards a boy clad in a black hoodie and pants, headphones draped around his neck, sitting alone on a swing, scribbling in a notepad.
"Not a cat, Aaliyah. A human child, a very specific one."
Aaliyah followed my gaze with a brow furrowing a little,
"Who? That boy with the notepad? There's something about him that feels oddly familiar... hold on... isn't he...? He's the same boy you are always stalk from heaven, isn't he? My lord, you dragged me to this mortal world for... him?"
"Aaliyah! For the heaven's sake, I am not a stalker. And yes, he is that fascinating soul I have been observing for quite some time from heaven. Now listen, I want to befriend him, and you, Aaliyah will lend me a hand," I said, a smile graced my lips with a hint of wistful longing in my tone.
"What? Befriend a mortal? Are you out of your mind? My lord! Have you completely forgotten Father's conditions? He specifically forbade us from revealing ourselves to humans," Aaliyah reminded, crossing her arms tightly.
"Now, now, Aaliyah. Father has forbade us revealing our true identities to the mortals, but he didn't mention anything about befriending them! There's a subtle difference in two. Besides, forging a bond with a mortal could be quite the adventure, don't you think?," I smirked with a mischievous twinkle in my eyes as I cleverly twisted the condition set by Father.
Aaliyah continued to gaze at me with confused eyes, as if my words had yet to sink in. I smiled at her and put a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"There's no need to fret, Aaliyah. Everything will turn out just fine. Besides, I have a plan. I know how to make things play out without breaking any law."
I closed my eyes and incanted an arcane of spells. A flash of light enveloped me, the air around me started shimmering with magical energy.
"Azarath... Metrion... Ninths!"
The light enveloping me subsided, revealing a sharp black suit clung on my body and sunglasses perching on my nose. Dressed like this, I felt like stepping straight out of a movie from the human realm... Something like... Men in Black, perhaps?
"Ta-da! Well? What do you think?"
I struck a stylish pose, tilting my sunglasses. Aaliyah, however, was less than impressed. With her arms crossed and a sceptical look on her face, she wrinkled her nose and remarked,
"Absolute nonsense. You resembles a suspicious child abductor. You'll terrify the poor boy to death and will probably think you're trying to abduct him."
Ouch! That was a bit harsh from Aaliyah. Huh... my dear loyal attendant, always ready with a critique. I rubbed my chin, surveying my appearance from head to toe.
"Perhaps you're right. This outfit does seem suspicious. He might even get scared if he sees me. Well then, let's try again."
I began chanting another spell and a bright light enveloped me. The park's vibrant colours intensified as my magic wove through the air. As light subsided, I shifted into a form of a young boy, mirroring Saurabh's age, clad in a blue hoodie over a white T-shirt, black jeans and white sneakers.
"So Aaliyah, how about this appearance?" I inquired.
She sighed exasperatedly at my new form, yet a hint of amusement was flickering in her eyes. She crossed her arms with a sceptical expressions,
"And now you resembles... a child. Honestly, what's the plan now, your tiny lord? Why in this disguise?"
I twirled my blue hair with my fingers, adopting a teenager tone and replied,
"Because you were right about the last form. That was a bit too...intense and suspicious. But this form is much friendly and approachable. Now, since we have a perfect disguise, we need a cover story to convince him."
I tapped my chin thoughtfully for a while. My gaze shifted to Aaliyah who was curiously staring at me. A smile played on my face.
"Now, Aaliyah, my dear. Transform into a little girl. You'll role-play my sister."
"Siblings? But why? I would prefer to role-play more...as a friend... of the same age. Role-playing a sister will be... a bit awkward," A faint pink blush on her cheeks replaced by a surprise.
"No Aaliyah, a sister will add more charm and depth to my cover story and is less suspicious. Come on, Aaliyah. It'll be fun! Now, transform. We don't have all day," I reminded her our task.
Aaliyah stole a glance at me, a blend of frustration and fondness was in her eyes. She stamped her foot and whispered,
"Blockhead, never understands my feelings. Fine, your sister. Azarath... Metrion... Ninths!" With a sigh, she closed her eyes and chanted her own spell to transform.
Light swirled around her, shaping her into a little girl. She was wearing a white and black dress with a white border. Her hair was styled into two petite ponytails adorned with pink ribbons. She resembled a cute little angel who could melt any heart.
"Marvellous! Wow, Aaliyah, you look... so beautiful," I exclaimed, momentarily captivated by her appearance.
"Could you stop staring at me like this. It's really awkward, especially for someone who's pretending to be my older brother. Now Let's finish this quickly so we can return to our world," Aaliyah said, stealing her eyes from me, while a rosy blush was evident on her cheeks. I steadied my fluttering heart and took her hand,
"Come little sister! Let's go make a new friend," I said, pulling her hand gently, we made our way to the swing set, where Saurabh was sitting, lost in his own world.
**********
The park was alive with the sweet symphony of birdsong, harmonizing with the gentle breeze rustling leaves and chirping crickets. Squirrels were darting across the grass, gathering acorns and the sunlight was dappling the grass.
A boy of about 13, wearing a black, long-sleeved hoodie and grey, loose pants, was sitting alone on a swing in a small park in the middle of the city. With a pen twirling in one hand, he fixated on the notebook resting on his lap.
He was tapping his pen against the pages, occasionally biting the tip while his eyes were glued to his notebook. After scribbling furiously, he was erasing it with a harsh stroke it with a frustrated sigh.
"No, that's not correct either. This fight scene just isn't dynamic enough!"
He ripped another page and threw the crumpled paper ball over his shoulder. Another crumpled page joins the growing pile around the swing. Saurabh continued this cycle, lost in whirlwind of frustration. The discarded paper balls gathered around the swing was a testament to Saurabh's creative struggle.
As Aaliyah and I approached him, our eyes were drawn to the flurry of discarded paper. I raised an eyebrow, examining the paper mess. Grabbing one of the paper balls and tossing it in my hand, I said,
"Hey, Earth to paper thrower! I don't know what you're up to, but back in America, it's considered a bad habit littering in a public park."
Saurabh, lost in his creative struggle, finally snapped out of it, meeting my gaze. He blinked, momentarily speechless, staring at me with his pen still hovering near his mouth. Aaliyah skipped up beside me and her bright eyes were taking in the scene as she tugs on my sleeve.
A gentle breeze drifted through the park... stirring the leaves into a lively whirl twirling them gracefully between Saurabh and me... witnessing a symbolic event of... the Meeting of Two Realms.
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