Chapter 4: Kiran's Ordeal

4

Kiran took the tablet and froze, unmoving.

I could see a fine sheen of cold sweat breaking out on his forehead. His fists clenched tightly in his lap, and a bead of sweat rolled down his temple. His lips moved in a silent prayer to Ganesha for strength.

The beads trickled down his temples, catching the afternoon sunlight. From my vantage, I could almost hear his breath coming in short, shallow bursts. All around, the others waited, the hush broken only by the faint creak of sandalwood prayer beads.

Yes.

This spiritual tablet and the ratna core are much the same.

And what is my master now, if not something else?

He is the incubator for insect eggs.

As if seeking help—or perhaps sensing my gaze—Kiran turned to look at me.

But that single glance stirred a storm in my heart.

Though it was only for a split second, I saw a golden phantom flicker past.

My body could not help but tremble; it was a fear born of instinct—the reaction of an insect confronted by its natural enemy.

He truly is different.

After that flash, I feigned ignorance and patted his shoulder, asking:

"Why are you dazed? The Grand Guru still needs to rest—aren’t you going to thank him quickly?"

My hand lingered on his shoulder a moment longer, as if hoping the warmth of my touch could convey reassurance. In the way of old gurus, I masked my concern with gentle scolding.

Kiran hurriedly prostrated and bowed.

"Disciple thanks the Grand Guru, but I am not yet worthy to take this tablet."

"Guruji, I have already failed once. If I fail again this time, I will truly have let down the expectations and care of all my elders."

His voice cracked, just a little, the strain audible to those who listened closely. The air in the hall seemed to thicken, and a few heads turned, sensing the gravity of his words.

"I remember that in the next few days, some outer ashram brothers will also take their tablets and undergo purification. I wish to observe alongside Senior Brother Arjun."

His plea was humble, but his eyes gleamed with a quiet resolve. In the ancient traditions of Mahameru, such requests were rarely made.

"If possible, may Guruji keep this tablet for me for a few days… I am not yet worthy."

By now, his forehead was drenched in cold sweat. A single drop slid down the bridge of his nose and fell silently to the marble floor, leaving a tiny, glistening mark.

The hall fell silent. After a long pause, my master turned and returned to the golden light.

"Granted. With such resolve, you will surely succeed in foundation building."

His words hung in the air, both a challenge and a blessing. The light from the open marble wall seemed to shimmer more brightly for an instant before fading.

"Neel, your disciple is now your responsibility."

I bowed deeply to my master.

"Disciple understands."

Kiran also bowed respectfully.

"Disciple thanks the Grand Guru."