Serenity

Parth responded by stating, "We are willing to accept your first condition. However, regarding the second condition, it may not be advisable to assert that their adversaries have withdrawn. Additionally, the well-being of your friend remains uncertain. He engaged in a direct confrontation with Kaal, a formidable tantric practitioner, surpassing most in power. It would be a relief if he emerged from that encounter unscathed. You express a strong desire to see him."

Parth, the fact that you may not measure up to Kaal or any other individual does not imply that no one can overcome him. Although I lack knowledge of the specific magic you mention, it is evident that he possesses greater power than you. Furthermore, he assured me of his commitment to escort me, and I have every reason to trust his word, particularly in my case. Regarding your agreement or disagreement, I must depart immediately. You have no alternative, as you require my assistance. Therefore, if you wish for my cooperation, you must adhere to my conditions, even if they run counter to your preferences or my safety.

Parth silently pondered, "This determined young lady, can't she simply be compliant? Does she believe she's in a position to argue with me? Let's see how steadfast she can be." He then asked Maya, "What if I were to disagree?"

Maya responded, "As I mentioned before, you don't really have another option, much like when you left me with no choice but to impersonate Tara. I assure you I will act as her until you locate her, or she returns. Until then, you must acquiesce to my requests. Otherwise, you'll need to find someone else to assume her identity. In any case, I don't concern myself with the reasons behind your need for a counterfeit."

Parth was at a loss for words and gestured toward Maya, indicating his frustration. Yet all that escaped his lips was a simple, "You..."

After extensive deliberations and a careful consideration of the advantages and disadvantages, they ultimately consented to granting my request on this one occasion. I had anticipated traveling to the location by conventional means, but to my surprise, they wasted no time and employed teleportation.

Fortunately, it was the early hours of the morning, and the site was somewhat secluded, reducing the likelihood of attracting attention.

As I stood before 'Serenity,' I couldn't help but reflect on the origins of its name. It brought to mind my initial visit to this estate two years prior, and as I gazed upon it, memories of that time began flooding back for Maya as well.

Maya was walking beside Veer with her backpack. She asked him in astonishment, "Mr. Wolf, is this... your home?"

Veer responded, "Yes, indeed. Otherwise, do you believe I am merely making empty claims with the intent of pursuing you?"

I playfully remarked, "I must admit, I didn't anticipate that someone engaging with formidable adversaries would reside in such an expansive estate, especially one surrounded by such tranquility and a meticulously tended garden."

Veer continued in a jesting manner, "In that case, Miss Rabbit, would you care to share more about this?"

Maya inquired, "Are you genuinely certain you're not making unfounded claims? Nevertheless, your keen eye for aesthetics is evident. You've cultivated an impressive array of plant species here, with the Lotus pond standing out as a particularly delightful feature. I'm curious, how much time and investment did it take to discover and nurture these diverse Lotus varieties? They truly are exquisite."

Veer turned towards her and quipped, "So, Miss Rabbit has an affection for Lotus."

As Maya stooped to retrieve a Lotus from the pond, she suddenly refocused and remarked, "That doesn't quite address my question. In any case, what is the name of your residence?"

Veer remarked, "I haven't assigned a name to it yet. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to share them."

Maya, both elated and taken aback by his offer, responded, "Oh, what a wonderful opportunity. Alright, considering the abundance of pets that provide lively company and the tranquil garden that imparts a sense of serenity and peace to the mind, I propose the name 'Serenity.'"

Veer chuckled at Maya's choice of name, "Serenity! Miss, are you certain you're naming a residence and not a park? Why christen a house with a garden? Quite amusing, I must say."

Maya expressed her frustration, stating, "Mr. Wolf, you sought my opinion and are now casting blame. Nonetheless, what's objectionable about the name? This place exudes tranquility, offering respite for anyone seeking solace from their concerns. Furthermore, it's the garden that I've christened, not your esteemed abode."

Gradually, she overcame her inner turmoil and found herself standing at the gate, contemplating whether to ring the bell.

I have a profound affection for nature; to be more accurate, I harbor a deep, almost obsessive love for it. My preference for tranquility leads me to steer clear of social gatherings and other forms of entertainment. In stark contrast, my brother exudes a vivacious personality, thriving in lively environments and embracing a bustling lifestyle. At times, I find myself pondering the reasons behind our stark differences, despite sharing blood ties. 'Serenity' stands as the most breathtaking location I had ever encountered until that moment - serene, revitalizing, and possessing an exceedingly magnificent landscape. Consequently, I chose to christen it as a place of calm and purity.

For a considerable duration, there was no response. Even though I had unrestricted access to his residence, I hesitated to enter without the courtesy of ringing the doorbell. Veer repeatedly assured me that knocking was unnecessary, and I could freely walk in. Regrettably, I never heeded his advice. However, on this particular day, I decided to adhere to his suggestion. I cautiously unlocked the gate with my fingerprint and entered his home, reminiscing about the times we had spent together.

We all retain memories, whether they be pleasant or distressing, as we deem them profoundly significant. Memory is a gift bestowed upon us by a higher power, but the painful recollections are the most difficult to shed. Until this very moment, each visit to this place has been devoid of painful memories. However, this time, I find myself engulfed in an anguish that weighs upon my heart like a burdensome stone. Apart from Veer, there is another individual here whom I cannot overlook – Uncle Jaafar, a middle-aged gentleman who serves as a butler. It is intriguing to note that their dynamic transcends the conventional bounds of an employer-employee relationship. I recollect Uncle Jaafar mentioning that he has been with Veer since the latter's childhood.

Maya inquired, "Uncle Jaafar, may I inquire about Veer's family?"

Jaafar responded with a touch of humor, "Ah, it seems my young lady is growing more inquisitive about Veer and beginning to ponder over his family."

Maya chose to engage in some playful banter and inquired, "Dearest uncle, please stop speculating and enlighten me about his parents. I've never had the chance to glimpse his parents here, not to mention a family album or any photographs of them."

Jaafar replied, "Are you absolutely certain you've explored every nook and cranny of this residence? Perhaps there are places you have yet to visit that could offer you more insight into him. Besides, why should I divulge details about my little kid?"

Maya's frustration was palpable as she retorted, "Respect your age, sir, and don't allow your good looks to go to your head. If you don't divulge the information, I'll certainly find my own way. And as for calling him a 'little kid,' that's quite the understatement. Just look at his towering height and impressive physique; he could probably move mountains. There's hardly a childlike quality to his appearance, as you've previously suggested. In fact, if there's anyone being deceived here, I believe it's more likely to be me. Hmph."

Jaafar's laughter ceased, and he relented, saying, "Very well, I won't jest any longer. The truth is, Mr. and Mrs. reside abroad, tending to their business ventures. Sir is quite self-sufficient and has lived independently since he was a child."

Maya inquired, "Uncle Jaafar, are you not human?"

Jaafar was taken aback by her inquiry, "Excuse me?"

Maya responded, "Considering that you, a human, reside with him, it's rather perplexing to assert that he lives alone. Moreover, I find your explanation quite implausible. If he genuinely desired independence, he could certainly achieve it without the need for physical distance from his family, not even a single contact. If you intend to offer an explanation, could you provide something more reasonable and credible?"

Jaafar explained, "Young lady, I assure you, I'm speaking the absolute truth. His family's absence aside, he has been self-sufficient since the tender age of 12. He handles all his responsibilities, and even now, I'm not allowed to assist with his tasks."

Maya responded, "Nevertheless, you misled me, and it's left me feeling hurt. As a consequence, I decree that you refrain from speaking for the next two days."

Jaafar expressed his astonishment, saying, "My dear miss, if you are hurt, why should I remain silent for two days?"

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