The Prince and his team settled into the expansive house on the outskirts of the village, a stark contrast to the rustic charm of the surrounding landscape. The house, a sprawling mansion with an ivy creeping up the walls, exuded an air of luxury but felt strangely isolated. Inside, the ornate furnishings and high ceilings reflected wealth, yet the tension among the Prince and his soldiers was palpable. The glow from the ornate chandeliers did little to lighten the weight of their impending mission, as the Prince gazed out the window, contemplating the lives thriving just beyond their walls.

_________

Meanwhile, at the university, Arushi's excitement radiated from her. She was a bright spark among her peers, with long, dark hair framing her face and those warm hazel eyes that flecked with gold that caught the light and mirrored her vibrant spirit and sparkled with determination. The classroom buzzed with energy as her professor announced the upcoming medical trip to the village. For Arushi, this was more than just an opportunity; it was a chance to fulfill her lifelong dream of helping those in need.

During the break, the vibrant hallways filled with laughter and chatter. Arushi and her best friend, Elena, who was always by her side with her silky long hair flowed behind her as she walked, catching the light and framing her cheerful face, quickly making their way toward the enrollment desk.

“Hey, Aru! Are you going to sign up?” Elena asked, her eyes shining with excitement.

“Of course! I can’t wait!” Arushi replied, her smile infectious. Just then, Chris sauntered over, confidence radiating from him like a magnet. His polished appearance and easy charm contrasted sharply with the genuine warmth Arushi embodied.

“Hey, lovely President! I heard you’re going on the trip. Can I join you? We could have some fun!” Chris said, his smirk teasing.

Arushi's expression hardened slightly. “No thanks! I’m going to help people, not to have fun with you.”

Chris shrugged, his persistence unwavering. “But—”

“Can’t you just leave her alone?” Elena interjected, her tone sharp. “Or should I tell our professor?”

“Stop being dramatic! I’m talking to her, not you!” Chris snapped back, irritation evident in his voice.

“Let’s just go, Elena. He’s not worth our time,” Arushi said, her patience thinning. “I’m excited about this trip, so let’s focus on that!”

“Right! You were going to sign up before me, weren’t you?” Elena teased, her tone playful as they approached the desk.

“You got me!” Arushi laughed, playfully punching Elena’s shoulder. Their laughter echoed down the hall, a bright spot amid the tension swirling around them.

________

Back at the house, the Prince observed the village through the window, where vibrant markets bustled and children played in the dusty streets. The contrast between the house's opulence and the village’s simplicity struck him. The people here were resilient, finding joy in the little things despite their struggles.

•••••••

In the mansion’s heart, the Prince stands still,

Gazing out where life flows, strong and real.

Markets are alive with color and cheer,

Children’s laughter, a song to hear.

Dusty paths, where dreams intertwine,

Simple joys in the bright sunshine.

Resilience blooms in every smile,

Finding hope in each precious mile.

A world of struggle, yet spirits soar,

In their warmth, he sees something more.

They reach for help, eyes full of light,

A call for connection, a plea for the right.

Two worlds apart, yet fates entwined,

In the tapestry of life, a thread is designed.

As he watches, his heart starts to sway,

In their laughter, he finds a new way.

________

He thought about how they relied on support from outsiders—much like Arushi aimed to provide.

As Arushi and Elena finalized their plans for the trip, Chris lingered in the background, his dark intentions simmering just beneath the surface. His interest in Arushi was more than just admiration; it was about control and conquest. He had a reputation that preceded him, and he thrived on power, leaving a trail of broken relationships behind him.

Arushi and Elena’s friendship was a fortress against his advances, a bond forged through years of shared dreams and laughter. As the date of the medical trip approached, Arushi felt a thrilling sense of purpose, ready to embrace the opportunity to make a difference. Little did she know that her path would soon intertwine with the Prince’s in ways that would challenge everything she believed.

The stakes were rising, not just for her but for both their worlds, teetering on the edge of fate.

^^^4th Oct, 2024~~^^^

^^^Noshika|••^^^

Zhh... Zhh...

The mobile vibrates lying on the couch stand, mentioning a call

Arushi answers her mobile phone, a hint of curiosity in her voice. On the other end, her friend Elena greets her enthusiastically, checking to see if she’s awake. Elena mentions that they’ll be arriving in 30 minutes, which instantly frustrates Arushi, revealing that she’s already been waiting for half an hour. Her tone conveys a mix of impatience and disbelief as she urges Elena to come quickly.

Elena, clearly enjoying the moment, laughs and reveals that it was just a playful tease. She reassures Arushi that they’ll actually be there in just 10 minutes. This revelation lightens the mood, but Arushi can’t help but pout at Elena’s playful trickery, feeling both annoyed and amused by her friend’s antics.

The call ends with Elena’s laughter ringing in Arushi’s ears, leaving her in a slightly exasperated but affectionate state. The exchange showcases the deep bond of their friendship, filled with playful banter and a sense of urgency as they prepare for their plans. It highlights their dynamic, where teasing is common, yet underlined by genuine care and excitement for their upcoming adventure.

After some time, the bus pulls into the village, and excitement fills the air as students file out, eager to begin their work. Arushi takes a deep breath, inhaling the fresh, earthy scent that mingles with the warmth of the setting sun, and exhales, a wide smile spreading across her face as she absorbs the vibrant surroundings.

Elena, standing nearby, beams at the joy radiating from Arushi, her enthusiasm infectious.

Elena: "Let’s go, buddy! Come on!" she calls out, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

Arushi: "Let’s go!" she replies, her voice filled with enthusiasm, mirroring Elena’s excitement.

The tents are already set up, colorful and inviting against the backdrop of the village. The villagers greet the students with wide smiles and grateful expressions, welcoming them as the doctors they’ve come to be. The atmosphere is thick with hope and anticipation, creating a sense of purpose among the students as they prepare to make a difference.

As the day transitions into evening, casting a golden hue across the landscape, everyone begins to head back to their tents, ready for a night of rest after their first day. Meanwhile, Arushi focuses on her mission; she kneels beside a small child who appears unwell, concerned etched on her face.

Arushi: "Do you think you’re alright, kiddo?" she asks gently, her voice soothing as she brushes a strand of hair away from his forehead.

Kid: "Yeah, sis, I’m just feeling really cold, and my nose is blocked..." he replies, his voice low and shivering, eyes wide with vulnerability.

Understanding his condition, Arushi nods with empathy, her heart aching for the child’s discomfort.

Elena: "Hey Aru! Aren’t you coming? It’s almost time; we have to go!" Elena’s voice cuts through the moment, a hint of urgency in her tone.

Arushi: "Yeah! You can leave; it’ll just take me 10 minutes. I’ll follow you to the tents shortly." She reassures Elena, her focus is still on the child.

Elena: "Alright, be careful on your way." Elena gives a quick wave before hurrying off, her footsteps fading into the distance.

Once she has administered the necessary medication to the child, Arushi offers comforting words, her expression softening.

Arushi: "Just take a good nap, and don’t forget to take these medicines after dinner, okay? Come back tomorrow! Bye!" she says with a warm chuckle, her kindness shining through.

Turning to the child's mother, she reassures her gently, her tone calm and sincere.

Arushi: "Ma'am, your child will be alright." Her voice is steady, infused with warmth and care, as she meets the mother’s anxious gaze.

This moment encapsulates Arushi’s dedication and compassion, highlighting her role not just as a student but as a source of comfort and hope for the villagers. The scene reflects the importance of their mission, illustrating the profound connections being formed in this rural setting, where every interaction is steeped in empathy and the promise of healing.

It’s already 6:30 PM, and darkness is settling in. She switches on her torch and starts walking.

As she makes her way to the tents, she hears footsteps following her.

It’s half a kilometer to the tents. She quickens her pace as she realizes who it is...

Arushi started walking faster when she came to know that it was Chris who was following her....

(Snatched her hand and caught it tightly making her feel uncomfortable)

Arushi: Leave... Let me go.. You... Just leave me....

Yelps Arushi in pain and fear

Chris: Do you think that I'm going to leave you so soon Ms President??

Says Chris with playful tone

Arushi bites the hand of Chris and starts running away from him who was wincing in pain.

In fear she runs into the wrong direction which leads her to a building in which the Prince lives...

The prince was walking along the way to the village to buy some stuff for dinner.

Unfortunately she bumped into the prince who is an Alien but also a good looking handsome man...

Arushi: Please help me !! That guy...

She says with fear with a shaky voice...

Chris: Hey Arushi!! Why are you hiding behind that man, aren't we classmates... Come on let's go together. He rasps not caring about the cold glares he is getting

Arushi: Who said that you are my classmate??

You are a-- she stopped, not wanting to get more trouble on her

The prince understood the situation and kicks Chris while he was coming to snatch Arushi's hand.

Chris: Oww !! How dare you to kick me!! Do you know who I am ?? Do you know who is my father ??

You'll face the consequences!

He says with a pain knowing in his voice but still with arrogant face.

Prince: I don't care who you are.

He says with a cold voice, not caring about who the person is.

The prince and Chris began to fight as Chris lunged at him with a small pocket knife. The prince quickly dodged the attack, using his leg making the knife fall down and Chris getting wound on his hand

Chris ran away from there, when he got to know that the Prince was stronger than him, he didn't want to get into trouble.

Arushi walks to the prince while looking at the wound on his right hand...

Prince: Are you alright??

He asks with a gentle and deep voice

Arushi had a shiver running down her spine by that raspy yet deep gentle voice.

Arushi: Yea i am, but you've been injured, your wound is bleeding, let me aid you first.

She says with low voice, worrying is visible in her eyes.

She takes the prince to her tent where Elena was waiting for her rival...

Elena: Hey Arushi!! Where have you been...

Are you alright ??

What happened you look upset ??

Why did you take this much time??

She asks not letting her friend have a chance to speak, she was so worried when Arushi did not return even if it was 30 minutes that had passed.

Arushi explains to Elena while clearing the wound of the prince...

Prince looks at Arushi, with lovely eyes, he saw her face for the first time now!

...Cease of the moment:...

...At the single glance, the world...

...stood still,...

...A spark ignited without will....

...A silent moment, hearts collide,...

...No words exchanged, yet worlds inside....

...And she looks at him now not...

...getting any reply...

...Your eyes met mine, and time...

...was caught,...

...A lifetime's dream in an instant thought....

...As if I'd known you all along,...

...A feeling deep, so sure, so strong....

...No need for reasons, none for doubt,...

...For in the gaze, I lived without....

...Love bloomed as fast as breath...

...takes flight,...

...A universe in just one sight....

He thought

^^^^^^4th Oct, 2024~~^^^^^^

^^^Noshika|••^^^

Elena called out to Arushi, who was deeply engrossed in her book, lost in a world of words and imagination. When she finally emerged from the tent, she held two tokens for food packets, a determined look on her face.

“Hey! Why are you taking two tokens?” Elena asked, raising an eyebrow in curiosity.

Arushi’s expression softened as she explained, “He saved my life. To treat his wound, I need to give him the pills, and he has to eat something first. Don’t you know that?”

“Of course I knew! But he could just go home with the medicine, right?” Elena replied, trying to understand her friend’s reasoning.

“I’ve asked him so many questions, but he hasn’t even told me his name,” Arushi said, her concern evident in her tone. She was genuinely worried about the mysterious prince and the state he was in.

“Oh, okay then. Take care of him. You’re right,” Elena conceded, sensing Arushi’s commitment.

The food supplies allowed only one token per person, and with a resigned sigh, Arushi took just one food plate, along with a piece of bread, feeling a pang of disappointment at the limited options.

“So, are you really just going to eat the bread?” Elena asked, observing Arushi’s choice with a hint of skepticism.

“Of course not! I’ll take some dry fruits my mom packed as well. I want to make sure he gets something nutritious,” Arushi replied confidently, her determination shining through.

“Huh! I’m done arguing with you. Just have whatever you want. You’re impossible sometimes,” Elena said, rolling her eyes with a mix of exasperation and affection.

Arushi then turned to the prince, who was sitting quietly beside the mattress, his demeanor calm despite the earlier chaos.

“You can eat. I’ll just take the bread for now. I’m not hungry—I already ate before the fight,” the prince said, his voice steady and reassuring.

“But…” Arushi started, but before she could finish her thought, he swiftly snatched the piece of bread from her hand and exited the tent, leaving her momentarily speechless just as Elena walked in.

“Hey! Why is he eating the bread? Didn’t you say—” Elena began, her curiosity piqued.

“Yeah! I was about to explain, but he took it and left!” Arushi interrupted, her frustration bubbling to the surface. It was clear she wanted to help him, but he seemed so closed off.

“Hm,” Elena responded thoughtfully, her brow furrowing as she considered the situation.

After a while, Elena decided to find some rest and went to her other friend, leaving Arushi alone with her thoughts. Meanwhile, Arushi chose to leave the prince in the tent and headed to the bus, feeling fatigued and needing a nap.

A few hours later, the atmosphere in the bus shifted as the prince quietly entered, his movements careful not to disturb Arushi. He took a blanket from a nearby seat and gently draped it over her, who was still sleeping in a sitting position, her head leaning slightly to one side.

As he turned to leave, Arushi stirred, her eyes fluttering open. “Hey! Thanks for the blanket!” she murmured, a sleepy smile forming on her lips. Her heart swelled with warmth at the small act of kindness, feeling grateful for his consideration even in his own time of need.

The prince offered a small smile before leaving the bus, settling onto the ground and gazing up at the stars that twinkled brilliantly in the night sky. Each star reminded him of home, and a wave of nostalgia washed over him as he realized how much he missed his home planet.

Meanwhile, Arushi took the blanket with her and joined him, sitting down beside him. The night was peaceful, filled with the gentle sounds of insects chirping, creating a soft, melodic backdrop.

“How is your wound? Do you still feel pain?” Arushi asked, her voice filled with concern.

“I’m alright. You don’t need to worry,” the prince replied, trying to reassure her.

Curiosity sparkled in her eyes as she pressed on. “Who are you, by the way? Thanks for your help back there. If you need any assistance, just ask me.”

“Thanks! No mention,” he said, grateful for her kindness.

Arushi’s worry returned as she noticed a faint trace of blood seeping through the bandage. She quickly retrieved her first aid kit and carefully rewrapped his wound with a new bandage. The prince couldn’t help but admire her attentiveness and the genuine care she showed toward him and others she trusted.

“Actually, I’m not from this village or this city,” the prince finally admitted. “I came here for work. Do you know of any jobs that might suit me?”

Arushi tilted her head, intrigued. “I can help you figure that out if you tell me what you studied.”

“I can do anything!” he replied confidently.

“Anything? Okay, then. Try to hack my mobile using this laptop,” she challenged, handing her laptop over to him, unaware of his extraordinary abilities.

With a flicker of a smile, he accepted the challenge. His fingers danced across the keyboard with remarkable speed, and in mere seconds, he had hacked her mobile. Arushi watched in stunned amazement, trying to process how someone could accomplish such a feat so quickly, especially in a small village.

“Based on your talents, you could easily land a good job in the city with a reputable company,” she remarked, still in disbelief.

The prince nodded thoughtfully. “My friend is with me. You can go back to the tent and get some rest. I’ll come back tomorrow morning with him.”

True to his word, the next morning, he returned with his friend Mateo. The prince recounted everything that had transpired the night before, trying to convince Mateo of Arushi’s kindness and sincerity. The prince pondered the peaceful lives of the people on Earth, realizing that they lived with love and care for one another. He understood that just because some were selfish, it didn’t mean he should judge everyone; punishing the innocent would be a grave mistake.

After their time in the village, the prince and Mateo prepared to return to the city alongside Arushi and Elena, a new bond forming between them. They were ready to explore the possibilities that awaited them, all the while cherishing the connections they had made during their brief but impactful encounter.

...Two souls beneath the vast night sky,...

...In silence shared, where...

...dreams can fly....

...A wounded heart, a gentle touch,...

...In fleeting moments, they felt so much....

..."Stars twinkled bright, like whispers...

...of home,...

...Each shimmering light a story...

...to roam....

...With care and kindness, they...

...drew near,...

...In the quiet night, they conquered fear....

...“Who are you?” she asked, her eyes aglow,...

...“Thank you for saving me; I want to know.”...

...He smiled softly, secrets concealed,...

...In their connection, a bond revealed....

...Paths may diverge, yet hope remains,...

...In the tapestry of life, love still gains....

...For every parting holds a...

...promise bright,...

...That destiny weaves their paths...

...in light."...

^^^4th Oct, 2024~~^^^

^^^Noshika|••^^^