As the group entered the outskirts of the quiet town, a sense of calm enveloped Anik and Rina, though it didn't quite soothe the storm within them. The streets were simple yet vibrant, dotted with small houses and trees that swayed gently in the breeze. The air was crisp, carrying the faint aroma of fresh flowers. For a moment, Anik couldn't help but admire the simplicity and tranquility of this place, so different from the chaos and pain they had just escaped.
Arpan turned toward them, his face lighting up with a smile. "This is my home," he said, gesturing toward the modest house ahead. "It's not much, but my parents are kind. They'll help you both."
Rina gave him a grateful nod, her exhaustion evident in her eyes. She stayed close to Luna, who had been a comforting presence. Luna's earlier words about being an elder sister lingered in Rina's mind, bringing her a small measure of solace.
Anik, however, lagged behind, lost in his thoughts. As they crossed a shallow, sparkling river, the gentle murmur of the water seemed to amplify the weight in his chest. His hand instinctively reached for the locket hanging around his neck—the one Rose had given him. He clenched it tightly, the memory of her smile flashing in his mind.
"I promised you," he whispered to himself, his voice trembling. "You would see the Paradise of Eternity. I failed you, Rose. I failed everyone."
His vision blurred with unshed tears as guilt clawed at him. The locket felt heavier than ever, a stark reminder of his broken promises.
"Anik," Luna's voice broke through his thoughts, gentle yet concerned.
He quickly wiped his eyes and turned to face her, masking his emotions behind a neutral expression. "What is it?"
"You're not okay," Luna said softly, stepping closer. "I can see it. You don't have to tell me everything, but… sometimes it helps to share."
Anik hesitated, his gaze dropping to the ground. "It's nothing," he replied curtly, brushing past her.
Luna watched him go, her heart heavy with unspoken worry. "You're carrying something too big for just yourself," she murmured under her breath.
Meanwhile, Arpan walked beside Rina, his excitement bubbling over as they approached his home. "You're going to love it here," he said cheerfully. "My dad's amazing, and he's going to make sure you both feel at home."
Rina smiled faintly, grateful for his kindness. "Thank you," she said, her voice quiet. "You and Luna have been so kind to us. I… I don't know how to repay you."
"You don't have to," Arpan replied with a grin. "That's what friends are for."
As they reached the house, Arpan's father was busy decorating for the birthday celebration. The morning sun bathed the scene in a golden glow, and the soft chatter of birds provided a cheerful backdrop.
"My dear birthday boy!" his father exclaimed from atop a ladder. "You're home early! Are you that excited for your big day? Luna, thank you for keeping an eye on him."
Luna smiled, waving off the thanks. "It's nothing, Dad. Where are the decorations?"
"Over there, near the flower pot," he replied, gesturing with a nod.
His eyes then fell on Anik and Rina, and his cheerful demeanor faltered. His expression shifted from surprise to disbelief, his breath catching in his throat.
"Who… who are they?" he stammered, climbing down the ladder hastily.
"They're friends we found near the ancient tree," Arpan explained, confused by his father's sudden change in tone.
His father's face turned pale, his voice dropping to a grave whisper. "Inside. Now."
Arpan and Luna exchanged a puzzled glance but obeyed, following their father into the house. Anik and Rina stood outside, unsure of what was happening but sensing the tension.
Inside, Arpan's father closed the door tightly and turned to his children, his face lined with fear. "Tell me exactly where you found them," he demanded.
"By the ancient tree," Arpan said, his confusion growing. "What's wrong, Dad? They're just kids who needed help."
"They are not just kids," his father said, his voice trembling. "Do you remember the story I told you yesterday? About the multiverse and the supreme ruler, King Regulus?"
Arpan nodded slowly. "Yeah, but what does that have to do with—"
"Those children outside," his father interrupted, "are his. They are the children of King Regulus."
Arpan and Luna froze, their minds racing to process the revelation.
"You can't be serious," Luna said, her voice barely audible.
"I wish I weren't," their father replied, running a hand through his hair. "But there's no mistaking it. Their aura, their presence—it's unmistakable. If they're here, something catastrophic must have happened."
Arpan's chest tightened as he recalled the desperation in Anik's eyes and Rina's haunted expression. "Dad… what does this mean for us? For the town?"
His father's gaze was solemn. "It means we're in danger. If anyone learns they're here, it could bring ruin not just to our town but to our entire universe."
Luna swallowed hard, her mind spinning. "But they're just kids. They're hurt and scared. We can't just turn them away."
"We won't," their father said firmly. "But we must tread carefully. One wrong move, one slip of information, and we could all pay the price."
Outside, Anik stared at the closed door, his mind clouded with unease. He glanced at Rina, who was fidgeting nervously. "Stay close to me," he said softly.
Rina nodded, gripping his hand tightly. "Do you think they'll send us away?"
"No," Anik replied, though he wasn't sure he believed it himself. "We'll figure this out. We always do."
Inside, Arpan and Luna exchanged a determined glance. "Whatever happens," Arpan said quietly, "we're not abandoning them."
Luna nodded in agreement. "We'll protect them. No matter what."
Arpan and Luna stepped outside, deliberately putting on casual smiles to mask the gravity of their recent conversation. They knew they had to be careful with their words, but the warmth in their hearts remained genuine.
Anik immediately sensed something unusual. His sharp gaze darted between the two. "Did something happen?" he asked, his voice tinged with suspicion.
Arpan shook his head quickly, laughing lightly. "Nothing at all. My dad just needed help with some decorations. You know, birthday stuff. Also, you and Rina can stay with us as long as you need."
Anik's expression softened, though a flicker of doubt lingered in his eyes. "Really? Your family is okay with letting two strangers stay with you?"
"Of course," Arpan replied, stepping forward and clapping a hand on Anik's shoulder. "From now on, you and I are brothers. That's all there is to it. Brothers take care of each other, no questions asked."
The sincerity in Arpan's voice struck a chord in Anik. He paused, a rare smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Thank you… but how can I repay you? How can I thank your family?"
Before Arpan could respond, Anik's sharp mind connected the dots. "Wait," he said, his tone more serious now. "You know, don't you? You know who we really are."
Arpan and Luna exchanged a brief glance, their smiles faltering for just a moment before Arpan admitted, "Yes, we know."
To their surprise, Anik let out a relieved sigh, his shoulders relaxing. "Good. That's all I needed to hear. At least I don't have to pretend."
Luna observed him carefully, her curiosity evident. "Anik, you clearly have incredible powers, yet you act so… normal. Why?"
Anik's gaze dropped to the ground, his voice subdued. "I'll explain everything later," he said. "But right now, Rina and I need rest. It's been… a long day."
Arpan smiled and nodded. "Say no more. Come with me."
Arpan led Anik and Rina to his room, carefully guiding Rina, who was still visibly shaken. The room was small but cozy, with soft cushions and a makeshift bed quickly arranged by Arpan. He handed them fresh towels and a pitcher of cool water.
"Make yourselves comfortable," he said gently. "You're safe here, I promise."
Rina gave him a timid smile. "Thank you," she whispered.
Arpan knelt beside her, his voice soft. "Don't worry about anything, okay? My parents are kind, and they'll treat you like family."
Anik, watching the interaction, felt a rare sense of gratitude. "You're a good person, Arpan," he said simply.
Arpan shrugged with a smile. "That's what brothers are for.
While Arpan tended to Anik and Rina, Luna joined her father in decorating the house. She carried a box of colorful streamers and balloons, her movements quick and efficient.
"Dad," she said as she climbed onto a chair to hang the streamers, "you really scared me earlier. What's going on?"
Her father glanced at her, his expression softening. "I'm sorry, Luna. I didn't mean to worry you. It's just… those kids, they carry a weight bigger than any of us can comprehend."
Luna paused, tying a knot. "I can see it in their eyes. Especially Anik. It's like he's carrying the entire universe on his shoulders."
Her father sighed. "He might be, Luna. And we must do everything we can to protect them, no matter what."
Luna nodded, her resolve strengthening. "We will, Dad. They're part of our family now."
As Luna finished decorating, Arpan's mother entered the room carrying a tray of tea and snacks. Her eyes lit up as she saw Luna bustling around.
"Luna, you've outdone yourself," she said warmly. "The house looks beautiful."
Luna smiled. "Thanks, Mom. It's for Arpan's birthday, after all."
Her mother placed the tray down and glanced toward the hallway. "And who are these special guests Arpan mentioned?"
Luna hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "They're… new friends. They needed help, so Arpan brought them home."
Curious, Arpan's mother walked to the room where Anik and Rina were resting. She knocked gently before stepping inside, her gaze softening as she saw the two children.
"Hello there," she said kindly. "I'm Arpan's mother. Are you feeling okay?"
Rina looked up, her expression wary but curious. "I'm… fine. Thank you."
Anik nodded silently, his guard still up.
Arpan's mother knelt beside them, her tone soothing. "You don't need to worry about anything here. You're safe, and we'll take care of you as if you were our own."
For the first time in what felt like an eternity, Rina felt a flicker of hope. "Thank you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Anik met the woman's gaze, his usual stoicism softening. "We're grateful," he said, his voice low but sincere.
Arpan's mother smiled and placed a comforting hand on Rina's shoulder. "Rest now, both of you. We'll talk more when you're ready.
As the family settled into their roles of caretakers, Arpan stepped outside to catch his breath. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the town. He looked back at the house, his thoughts racing.
"They've been through so much," he murmured to himself. "But I'll do everything I can to help them. No matter what."
From a distance, Luna watched her brother, her heart swelling with pride. Together, they would protect Anik and Rina, forging bonds that would transcend the secrets of the universe.
The evening had settled into a serene glow, with golden hues from streetlights illuminating the world outside. The once-bustling streets now carried a peaceful charm, their quiet rhythm broken only by the occasional laughter of children playing.
Rina sat by the window, her small frame illuminated by the warm, ambient light. Her fingers traced idle patterns on the glass as she gazed at the glowing streets, a mix of wonder and sadness in her eyes. She was lost in her thoughts when a soft creak drew her attention.
The door opened slowly, and Luna stepped in, her presence warm and inviting. "You're still awake," she said gently, her voice breaking the silence without shattering it.
Rina turned her head, a faint smile gracing her lips. "I'm okay. I feel better now. Thank you for taking care of us," she said, her voice quiet but genuine.
As Rina shifted slightly, she glanced at her brother, still fast asleep. She reached out tentatively to wake him, but Luna stepped forward, placing a hand on her arm. "It's okay," Luna said softly. "I think Anik needs more rest."
Luna walked over and sat beside Rina on the bed, her movements calm and deliberate. She observed the young girl for a moment before gently cupping her face, her fingers brushing against Rina's cheeks. "Now," Luna said with a tender smile, "you can tell me what really happened to both of you. I could ask Anik, but he needs his rest right now."
Rina hesitated, her eyes flickering with memories she'd been trying to suppress. But Luna's warmth felt safe, and the walls Rina had built around herself began to crumble.
"Me, my brother Anik, and my mother Seraphina went to a beautiful planet—Earth," Rina began, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "We went there to explore and build connections. My mother was a great researcher, always curious about the universe. My dad… he's so strong and kind-hearted."
Luna listened intently, her eyes lighting up at the mention of Earth. "Earth," she repeated thoughtfully. "I've heard about that planet before. It sounds wonderful. What happened when you arrived?"
Rina's gaze drifted back to the window, her lips curving into a soft smile. "It was beautiful… fascinating, really. The cities sparkled like jewels, and the people were so lively. We had so much fun. We met General Alston and his daughter, Rose. Rose, Anik, and I became close friends. Everything felt perfect."
Luna's face softened, imagining the scene. "That sounds like a dream," she said. "You even made new friends. Tell me more."
Rina's smile grew, her voice warming as she continued. "My brother Anik and Rose were very close," she said, glancing at Luna.
Luna tilted her head, a knowing glint in her eyes. "You mean they loved each other?"
Rina blinked, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I don't know for sure. But they spent every moment together—exploring cities, playing games, talking late into the night. They were so happy. I think… I think Sister Rose loved my brother very much."
Luna chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair from Rina's face. "I see. You're growing up, Rina. You'll understand these things better someday. But everything seemed perfect… what happened to change it all?"
Rina's smile faded, her hands gripping the edge of the blanket tightly. Her voice grew quieter, laced with pain. "One night, I heard an explosion. Everything happened so fast… I can't remember all the details. A bad person… he hurt my mother. He destroyed everything. He hurt Sister Rose and my brother."
Luna's breath caught in her throat, her eyes widening. "What… what did Anik do?"
Rina swallowed hard, tears pooling in her eyes. "My brother tried everything to save Rose. He fought so hard… but he couldn't. At the end… we had to escape. We left Earth, but my brother… he was broken. He couldn't save anyone. And the locket he wears now," she said, her voice cracking, "it was the last thing Rose gave him."
Luna's heart ached as she listened. She reached out, pulling Rina into a gentle embrace. "I'm so sorry," she whispered, her own tears falling freely. "You've both been through so much. But you're safe now. We're here for you."
Rina leaned into the hug, her small body trembling as she finally let herself cry. Luna held her tightly, stroking her hair and murmuring soothing words. In that moment, the weight of Rina's grief felt a little lighter, shared between them.
Outside the window, the streets continued to glow, a quiet reminder that even in darkness, light could persist.
The room was bathed in soft, warm light as Luna gently pulled away from Rina. Her concern for the young girl lingered in her gaze, but she forced a smile to lighten the mood. "Rina," Luna said softly, "Arpan's friends are starting to arrive for his birthday. Would you like to come with me? It might be nice to meet everyone."
Rina hesitated, her fingers playing with the edge of her blanket. "No," she said quietly, looking away. "I'm okay. You can go. I… I need some time alone."
Luna studied her for a moment, then nodded understandingly.
"Alright," she said. "But if you change your mind or need anything, just call for me. You're part of our family now."
Rina offered a small, grateful smile. "Thank you," she whispered.
Luna left the room, her heart heavy with the story Rina had shared. The pain that both siblings carried was immense, yet she admired their resilience. She made her way downstairs, where the celebration was beginning to take shape.
The living room was alive with the sounds of laughter and cheerful conversation. Arpan's friends had started to gather, filling the house with their lively energy. The space was adorned with colorful decorations—streamers, balloons, and a large banner that read "Happy Birthday, Arpan!"
Arpan stood near the center, his usual carefree grin even brighter tonight. He greeted each friend warmly, joking and chatting as though the world outside held no troubles. But beneath his joy, he kept glancing toward the staircase, silently hoping that Anik and Rina might join the celebration.
Luna entered the room, immediately falling into her role as hostess. She approached Arpan with a playful smirk. "Birthday boy," she teased, "are you going to help me with the food, or are you too busy being the center of attention?"
Arpan laughed, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright! I'll help… after the cake!"
In the kitchen, Luna's mother, Maya, was busy arranging dishes. The scent of freshly cooked food wafted through the air, filling the house with an inviting aroma. Luna joined her, rolling up her sleeves.
"You've outdone yourself, Mother," Luna said, admiring the spread.
Maya chuckled, her eyes warm. "It's Arpan's special day. I wanted everything to be perfect. But I'm grateful for the help, Luna. Let's make sure everyone leaves with full stomachs and happy hearts."
The highlight of the evening came when Arpan's father, Thomas, carried the cake into the room. It was a simple yet beautiful creation, adorned with colorful frosting and a single candle in the shape of Arpan's age. The room burst into applause as the cake was set on the table.
"Speech! Speech!" one of Arpan's friends called out, and soon the entire room was chanting.
Arpan laughed, scratching the back of his head. "Alright, alright. A speech it is," he said, stepping forward. "First of all, thank you all for being here tonight. It means a lot to me. You guys are the best. And to my family—Mother, Father, and Luna—thank you for making this day so special. I wouldn't trade you for anything."
The room erupted in cheers as Arpan leaned forward to blow out the candle. "Make a wish!" someone shouted.
Arpan paused for a moment, closing his eyes. Though he didn't say it aloud, his wish was simple for Anik and Rina to find peace and for their unspoken bond to grow stronger. With a deep breath, he blew out the candle, and the room filled with applause.
As the cake was served, Maya and Luna brought out the dinner. The table was a feast of flavors, from savory curries to freshly baked bread and vibrant salads. Maya moved gracefully through the room, her quiet smile reflecting her pride and joy.
"Eat up, everyone," she said, her tone warm. "There's plenty to go around."
Thomas, meanwhile, observed the celebration from a distance. He stood near the doorway, his arms crossed, his expression thoughtful. His eyes often drifted toward the staircase, where Anik and Rina were absent.
"They'll come around," Maya said softly, joining him for a moment.
Thomas nodded. "I know," he said, his voice low. "They've been through so much. But I see strength in that boy. He's hiding it now, but it's there. And Rina… she's a sweet girl. They'll find their place here."
Maya placed a hand on his arm. "We'll give them the space they need. For now, let's focus on Arpan. It's his night."
Thomas smiled, the weight in his eyes easing slightly. "You're right. Let's make it a night to remember."