Chapter 27 The Test and the Reckoning
Aarav's question hung in the air like a venomous serpent. What if my father is the Girgit Raj (Chameleon King).
Kiyan saw the horrific suspicion dawn on Aarav's face. No Aarav how is that possible.
It is Aarav insisted desperation sharpening his voice. Because today when I touched Papa I felt something strange.
But Aarav the Girgit Raj was from the old tales. How could he be here now.
It is possible Kiyan Aarav's eyes were burning. You have been alive for centuries too.
Kiyan fell silent his golden eyes narrowing in thought. Did did your father do something strange. Something your real father would not do.
Yes Aarav said rapidly. I tried to talk to him this morning but it was like he was not listening pretending he had not heard. Later I apologized for spilling milk on him and he forgave me but I never spilled any milk. And the strangest thing he had a Bluetooth earpiece in but no music was playing. When his phone rang it rang out loud. If it was connected to Bluetooth the phone would not make a sound.
Kiyan considered this carefully. It could all just be a misunderstanding Aarav. So far he has not harmed your family.
Aarav shook his head unsatisfied. So we wait for harm to happen.
Kiyan stepped closer placing his hands on Aarav's shoulders. I did not say that Aarav. We will handle this. Do not worry.
I know but I am still worried about my father. If the Girgit Raj is in our house where is my real father.
We will find him soon Kiyan said firmly. He guided Aarav back to the bench. You sit here. Rest.
No Kiyan I have to go home. I do not know what condition Didi might be in.
Alright. You go. Be careful.
Aarav tucked the tome under his arm started his bike and rode home. Kiyan watched him leave then vanished into the forest at impossible speed.
Aarav arrived home to find Arushi and his father sitting together watching TV. He quickly joined them.
You are alright Didi Aarav asked a thread of anxiety in his voice.
Arushi looked at him with surprise. Yes. Why would not I be. Aarav why are you asking so suddenly.
Aarav glanced at his father and forced a laugh. Nothing. I was just trying to scare you both. Everyone laughed along with him.
You guys sit tight I will be right back Aarav said and retreated to his room.
His mind raced. What is happening. How do I find out if Papa is real or not. How do I test him.
Just then a voice called Aarav beta.
Aarav went out. Yes Papa. You called.
Bhaskar said Beta I need a small favor. I have to get a blood test done. Let us go to the hospital if you are free
Aarav thought for a moment. Okay Papa. I will come.
Back in his room Aarav's thoughts churned. What new game is this. I have to be careful. He took a deep breath changed his clothes and went out. Let us go Papa.
Yes let us go beta.
Aarav started the bike Bhaskar climbed on behind. On the way Aarav asked Papa why the sudden blood test.
Bhaskar laughed lightly. Beta I have been feeling dizzy lately so I thought I should get checked.
Okay Papa.
Here we are the hospital. They dismounted and went inside. Bhaskar began his blood test procedure. Then he turned to Aarav. Beta you should get one too.
No Papa I am fine.
Beta just get it done. If there is anything we will know.
No Papa really I am okay.
Bhaskar's voice hardened. I said get it done.
Aarav was taken aback. Alright Papa. He went to the other side and joined the line of people giving blood samples.
After giving his sample Aarav came out. Bhaskar was waiting for him. They walked to the bike Aarav starting the engine Bhaskar settling behind him.
The report will come tomorrow Papa Aarav said.
Bhaskar smiled. Who cares about tomorrow. The work I came for today is done.
Aarav's grip on the handlebars tightened. What did you say Papa.
Nothing nothing. Just drive.
Aarav smiled inwardly. Papa. You are not my father. My father never yells at me. That is how I knew. Just like those men wanted Kiyan's blood you wanted mine in a different way so I would not suspect. But I switched my blood with someone else's. His hand brushed against his pant pocket where he had hidden his real blood sample.
They reached home and went to their respective rooms. Aarav quickly went to his bathroom and flushed the swapped blood sample down the toilet his mind whirling. Why did he want my blood.
Just then a sound came from his door. Aarav turned sharply. Bhaskar was standing there.
Aarav's heart jumped. Papa you
Aarav's mind screamed Did he see me.
Bhaskar's face was expressionless. He simply looked at Aarav his eyes two impenetrable dark voids.
Beta Bhaskar said his voice no longer the gentle affectionate tone. It was flat metallic. You showed great cleverness. But the game is over now.
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