The sun had just risen over the sprawling Raichand estate, painting the courtyard in golden hues. Within the halls, the air buzzed with a mixture of anticipation, curiosity, and subtle tension. Today was the day Mukul Ahir—now officially Avni Raichand— would meet his cousins for the first time.
Though still young, Mukul had been trained in every art and skill imaginable by Aditya Varma and Kabir Rathore. Martial arts, literature, science, strategy, internal power cultivation, and even subtle manipulation of energy—all had been instilled in him from birth. Yet, the Raichand and Malhotra children were formidable in their own right, prodigies in medicine, technology, combat, diplomacy, and espionage.
The stage was set for a meeting that would test both alliances and rivalries.
The First Encounter
Veer Raichand, Mukul's cousin, was the first to approach. The two stared at each other—Veer, confident in his leadership and combat prowess; Mukul, calm, unflinching, radiating an aura that unnerved even the eldest.
"You're… him?" Veer asked, a hint of challenge in his tone.
Mukul tilted his head, studying Veer. "I am Mukul… Avni Raichand," he said softly, yet every word carried authority. "I have trained, and I will learn from all of you, just as you may learn from me."
A hush fell over the others. Even Aryan Raichand, observing from a distance, noticed the subtle tension—here was a boy who commanded respect simply by being.
Lessons Begin
The first session was informal but revealing.
Martial Arts Sparring: Veer and Vanya attempted to test Mukul's combat skills. Within moments, Mukul countered with precision, not brute force, deflecting attacks effortlessly. Yet he did not dominate—he allowed them to learn, to grow, forming a silent bond of respect.
Strategy and Tactics: Arin Raichand, the strategist, introduced a war-game simulation. Mukul immediately understood patterns, predicting moves before they were made, earning surprised glances from Arin and Aahana. The cousins realized that while rivalry existed, Mukul's presence would sharpen their skills.
Science and Innovation: Riyaan and Kiara Raichand tested him with complex engineering puzzles. Mukul solved them with ease but also offered suggestions that revealed creative thinking beyond conventional logic, earning admiration.
Spiritual and Internal Power: Vanya and Aarohi guided Mukul through basic meditation and energy channeling. He adapted quickly, blending techniques learned from the masters with what he intuitively felt, leaving his cousins in awe.
Rivalry and Alliance
Though Mukul impressed everyone, the day was not without tension:
Vivaan Raichand, prideful and competitive, felt a spark of jealousy. "We are the heirs of the Raichand family," he muttered, "and yet he… he makes us look ordinary."
Varun Raichand, younger and quieter, approached Mukul cautiously. "You're… different," he admitted. "But maybe… we can learn from each other."
By the end of the day, a subtle balance had formed. Rivalry fueled growth, while alliances were forged through respect and shared challenges. The cousins recognized that Mukul's power was formidable—but together, they could rise even higher.
A Mother's Pride
Avni watched from a distance, Mukul standing tall among his cousins. A proud smile touched her lips. "You are learning well," she whispered, "not just skills, but balance—strength with humility, leadership with respect. This is how you will rise, Mukul… Avni Raichand."
The cousins, unaware of the full scope of Mukul's training under Aditya Varma and Kabir Rathore, were already being shaped by his presence. In the weeks and months ahead, this mixture of rivalry and alliance would form the foundation for their future as leaders, warriors, and protectors of the family's legacy.