Laxita - The Mage's Awakening

19 - Veer

Veer's POV

The first thing which I experienced as soon as I regained my consciousness was a sharp pain in my chest. I opened my eyes and found myself in a comfy bed. My first thought was - I am alive! My injuries were partially treated and they didn't hurt as much. There was a particularly deep wound on my chest which was hurting as hell. Other than that, I was fine. I was patched up with bandages around my chest and arms. I blinked a few times and opened my eyes wider. Considering the injuries, it was a miracle that I had survived.

This place was familiar. Too familiar. Where was- Ah! I recognized this place. It was the medical room of Soma Sangha. But, I had no recollection of how I got here. This room explains the miraculous recovery. The only thing I remember was asking a girl for help. Was I rescued by a mage? I was lucky that someone found me, otherwise....I don't even want to imagine the consequences. 

I tried to get up when I heard a voice.

"If I were you, I wouldn't be in such a hurry to get up young man."

It was the association's head, Bhargav ji. Oh, How much I missed that scowl.

"I missed you too old man. So, how long has it been since we last met?" 

There was humour in my voice and judging by his expressions, he was not happy about it. How delightful. Getting on his nerves was my favourite hobby and honestly, I never got bored of it.

"If my memory serves correctly, it has been almost 6 months. We last met in Som Nagari at the yearly festival."

"Yes, you were the 'special guest' over there. How can I forget." I sighed dramatically.

"And how can I forget that you caused quite a lot of trouble that day!"

"Umm...Let's not dwell on the past."

I gave him a goofy grin and he glared at me. It made me laugh and his frown deepened. Always such a predictable response.

"I heard the sound of laughter and instantly knew that you were awake."

I saw Shobha ji entering the room. My supporter and protector. Her presence was a welcoming change which I needed when faced with Bhargav ji's anger.

"Shobha ji, please ask your husband to stop glaring at me. It's scary." I pouted.

"No one can trouble my son as long as I am here." She patted my head lovingly.

Both of us laughed. This association always felt like a second home to me. Despite being a non mage, they never made me feel like an outsider. They felt like family.

"I know you are trying to lighten the mood Veer but seriously what happened? You almost died and we have no clue what went down," there was concern in her eyes which immediately sobered me up.

"The traitors were planning a conspiracy against Somapura. I discovered the truth and they planned to kill me", I said casually. A shock registered on their faces. 

"It's a long story actually. I'll tell you in detail once I get better. Don't worry so much. Look at me, I'm fine." They were not convinced but they decided to drop it.

"In the meantime, can you allow me to stay here for a little while? At least until I hatch a plan?"

"You are welcome to stay here as long as you want." I beamed at his response. This is what I needed for time-being, a safe haven. A place where I can peacefully gauge the situation and plan my future steps. 

"And, I also wanted to meet my saviour. Is that possible?" I owe my life to her so I had to meet her. I wanted to thank her in person.

"The girl who saved you is my niece. Her name is Laxita. I'll call her here so that you could meet her."