Ayan's throat was parched, his voice barely a whisper. "Why am I here? And what are all these empty boards?"
Laxmi looked at him with a knowing smile. "You came here. You should know."
"I need your help," Ayan's voice cracked as he spoke. "There was a car accident here a few days ago. Can you take me to that place?"
Laxmi leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Is the deal of slavery acceptable to you?"
Ayan straightened a defiant edge in his voice. "Not slavery, but you will have my cooperation."
Laxmi's eyes bore into Ayan. "An ordinary man, no matter how much he roams the king's palace, sits or dines with him, remains under the king's boot. Accept your servitude by offering your support."
Ayan hesitated, thinking for a moment before bowing his head. "What do you want from me?"
"You'll find out soon enough," Laxmi replied with a smirk. "Now follow."
