Manish's life was far from unsatisfactory. His parents weren't overly wealthy or influential, but they weren't struggling either. Coming from a family with a modest background in the jewelry business, he had a normal upbringing. Yet, Manish himself was anything but ordinary, possessing a calmness and cunning that set him apart.
The day he got accepted into the best college in the region, he was overjoyed. Today marked his first day, and while others might have felt nervous, Manish approached it with a steady confidence. He knew this was just another step in his journey, one he would navigate with ease.
Flashback:
"Manish! Manish, wake up! You're going to be late for college. How did I raise such a careless boy?" Anita, his mother, called out impatiently.
When she entered his room and found it empty, her worry turned to frustration. "Where did this boy disappear to?" she muttered. Despite her strict demeanor, Anita and her husband were deeply devoted to their son. They never spoiled him, believing that a bit of discipline was crucial for nurturing his potential.
Manish emerged from his room with a calm, assured smile. "Mom, I'm already ready. No need to worry."
Anita looked at him, seeing the self-assurance that came from their rigorous upbringing. "Very good, my son. I guess the training your father and I gave you is paying off."
"Did you say something, Mom?"
"No, nothing important. Just don't be late for your first day!" Anita said, trying to hide her smile.
"I'm on my way now. And, by the way, you should check the milk on the stove."
"Milk? Oh no! Thank you for the reminder. Here's some money for breakfast—go ahead and get something to eat. Have a great day!"
With a confident nod and a knowing smile, Manish headed out the door, ready to face whatever challenges awaited him.
As Manish entered the college, he made his way directly to his classroom with a confident stride. Unlike many newcomers who struggled to find their way, Manish had meticulously prepared for every challenge ahead. His perfectionism and foresight ensured that he navigated the campus with ease.
After the first half of the day's lectures, he had a brief encounter that seemed minor but held significance for him. He met Keval, a fellow freshman who introduced himself with a friendly smile. "Hi, I'm Keval. I'm new here and you look like you might know your way around."
Manish, with his characteristic calmness, replied, "Actually, I'm as new as you. How about we explore together? I don't see any reason not to." They went to the canteen, had a quick meal, and continued to their next classes. Although this meeting seemed inconsequential, Manish felt a connection and assumed that Keval would be part of his college life.
As the day progressed, Manish's routine led him to the library. He was drawn to ancient texts, his passion evident as he explored the musty shelves. He stumbled upon an inscription that intrigued him.
"What is this inscription doing here? It should have been forgotten ages ago," he wondered aloud. Noting the ink was still fresh, he mused, "Looks like it was placed deliberately. And this must be the eye."
Manish's meticulous nature and curiosity drove him to unravel mysteries others might overlook.