The temple courtyard was quiet for the first time in days. Mukul sat on a moss-covered stone, the golden glow of the dragon reflecting softly on the walls. Around him, Meera, Anaya, Kavya, Saira, and Liyana lounged, catching their breath after the intense battle and the revelations of his lineage.
Kavya nudged him playfully. "You know, for someone destined to be a legendary healer-warrior, you're awfully serious all the time."
Mukul smirked. "I'm serious because people are trying to kill me."
Liyana leaned back on her elbows, grinning. "Maybe you should lighten up. The world doesn't always need a serious hero—it needs a charming one too."
Anaya rolled her eyes. "Charming? You barely know how to flirt without blushing."
Mukul felt heat rise to his cheeks, but before he could answer, Meera piped up. "Actually, I think he's doing fine. Besides, it's kind of cute watching him get flustered."
Saira smiled quietly, but there was amusement in her eyes. "He's learning," she said softly.
Kavya leaned closer, teasing. "Oh, you're learning all right. You're learning how to survive—and how to survive being around all of us."
Mukul sighed dramatically. "Surviving all of you is more dangerous than fighting an army of black suits."
Liyana laughed, tossing her silver hair over her shoulder. "Then we'll just have to make it interesting."
For a moment, the tension of the past battles lifted. Laughter filled the courtyard, light and unrestrained. Mukul realized something important: even in the midst of danger, these moments of joy and connection were vital. They weren't just allies—they were friends, confidantes, and maybe even something more.
Anaya smirked, nudging him. "You know, if you survive this city, the mafia, and whoever else is out there, you might have to learn how to handle… feelings too."
Mukul blinked. "Feelings? I have plenty of feelings—I just don't know what to do with all of them at once."
Kavya laughed. "Good luck with that. You've got five very opinionated women around you, each with their own ideas about how you should feel—and act."
Saira tilted her head, soft but teasing. "And each of us believes in you, Mukul. Don't forget that."
Mukul smiled, feeling a warmth spread through his chest. He had fought battles, uncovered ancient secrets, and faced enemies far stronger than himself—but none of that compared to understanding the hearts of the women standing beside him.
Suddenly, a gust of wind blew through the courtyard, rustling the scrolls and leaves. The dragon's golden roar echoed overhead, a gentle reminder that the city was still dangerous, and threats could appear at any moment.
Liyana hopped to her feet. "Speaking of danger… maybe a little training session? You know, keep your reflexes sharp—and give us a chance to show off too."
Mukul groaned, but there was a smile in his eyes. "Fine. But no throwing me off the roof this time."
Kavya grinned. "No promises."
As the group moved into playful sparring, laughter and teasing filled the air. The dragon circled above, golden wings shimmering in the fading light, as if approving of the camaraderie and bonds forming among them.
For Mukul, it was clear: surviving the city, uncovering his lineage, and mastering his powers were only part of the journey. Learning to navigate the hearts, trust, and companionship of these women was just as important. And perhaps, just perhaps, this circle of allies—and friends—would teach him as much about love as it would about destiny.
The night stretched on with laughter, light-hearted challenges, and subtle sparks of connection. Mukul realized that in this dangerous, chaotic world, moments like these—filled with love, teasing, and laughter—were the ones worth fighting for.
And above it all, the dragon's golden light reminded him: even in darkness, warmth and hope could shine through.