Kai hurries through the forest, feeling a sense of awareness. His encounter with the striking emerald wolf has been quite remarkable. Now he faces a matter.
He has to catch a train bound for Indraprastha, and time seems to be slipping.
Checking his phone, he glances at the clock; it's 5:15 a.m., Sunday.
Arriving at the train station, Kai rushes towards the ticket counter, his heart racing with a sense of urgency.
The same old man he meets when he first arrives stands behind the counter, his face weathered by years of experience.
"Excuse me," Kai begins, trying to hide his anxiety. "Is there any other train to Indraprastha, apart from the one at 2:00 a.m.?"
The old man studies the train schedules for a moment before shaking his head. "I'm afraid not. There are no public trains available at this hour."
Kai's expression drops as he comprehends the seriousness of the situation. If he can't make it back home by evening, it will lead to a multitude of issues.
His shoulders sag. His face reveals a combination of sadness and concern.
Observing Kai's distress, the elderly gentleman lets out a sigh, his worry evident on his face.
"There is one option," he begins cautiously, "but I must warn you, it's far from safe. I strongly advise waiting for the evening train."
Kai bites his lip, torn by the dilemma. He can't afford to wait until evening and can't divulge the reason either.
"Please," he implores the old man, "tell me about the other option."
The old man hesitates, knowing the risks involved. "Very well," he relents, "but I must warn you, it's not safe.
There's a new prototype train, the SpiritRail Express, running on spiritual energy.
It stops at various stations, including Indraprastha. It's fast; you should reach your destination in about five hours."
He hesitates, his face showing signs of worry. "But I must tell you, the last time it was tested, things didn't go as planned. That's why I wouldn't advise it."
Kai listens attentively to the man's words, carefully weighing the potential risks. After a moment of silence, he raises his gaze, locking eyes with the older gentleman.
"I understand your concern. I have to catch that train."
The old man lets out a sigh, realizing that Kai has already made his decision. He guides Kai to another section of the station where an impressive and futuristic-looking train stands like a marvel of technology.
"This is it," says the old man, with continued concern in his voice. "Please be careful, young man."
Kai nods appreciatively. Offers a smile. "Don't worry, I will be careful."
With determination in his step, he steps onto the platform, ready to embark on this journey.