**Episode 5**
**Daytime**
Luni is working at a restaurant. A news report on the TV catches her attention. The anchor announces: *"An Indian intruder has sneaked into our Authoritarian City. This person likely doesn't know the laws here. If anyone sees this Indian intruder, inform the police immediately. Until then, namaskar."* Watching the news, Luni thinks, *"Are they talking about that strange boy I met yesterday?"* She then gets back to her work.
**Nighttime**
While heading home, Luni sees a boy sitting by the river, writing in a diary. She approaches him and realizes he is the same stranger. Luni sits beside him and asks, *"You're from India, right? Why did you come here?"* The boy replies, *"My name is Ariya. I'm new to this city and I'm from India."* Luni asks, *"So why did you come here? What are the rules? And why aren't outsiders allowed?"* Ariya thinks to himself, *"It seems she is new here too."* Before he can say anything, police sirens begin to blare from all directions. Ariya says, *"You should leave, it could be dangerous for you here."*
Luni asks, *"And what about you?"* Ariya replies, *"Don't worry about me, I'll stay here."*
Without a word, Luni grabs Ariya hand and pulls him along as they run. She says, *"It's dangerous here. You can stay at my rented house for today. Look, I don't know your business here, but I'm helping you anyway."* For a moment, Ariya feels as if she is someone special. Luni quickly brings him into her rented house and lets go of his hand. She peeks out the window and sees the police making an announcement: *"An Indian boy is here; do not hide him in your homes. We will find him tomorrow."* Luni takes a deep breath and says, *"I'm going to my room to sleep. You sleep in the living room."* Ariya asks, *"Why do you want to help me? You could be in danger."* Luni replies, *"Stop talking nonsense and let me sleep."* Rubbing her eyes, she says, *"Good night, Ariya"*
Ariya smiles and falls asleep on the sofa.
Diksha story soul 🧿
Don,t be a silent readeri tell me how you like this chapter in comment 🤝