The Secrets of the Elements novel Chapter 44

"Maya," whispered Zarna and pulled her behind. "Don't you think you are kind of provoking him?"

"I know what I'm doing," she murmured.

She stepped ahead and stood in the centre of the room. "What do you want from us?"

"The book," said the Prince.

Rutuja looked at the five. "Which book?" questioned Maya. "We don't know what you're talking about."

The Prince chortled. "You know I'm talking about Grantha. There's no need to pretend."

"These people have the book," said Daksh and pointed at them. "No, we don't," opposed Advika. "Do you see us carrying it?"

Rutuja's eyes fell on the black bag lying in the corner of the room. She tiptoed towards Rishi and bend towards him. "What did you hear? Do they have books-"

"Yes," murmured Rishi. "They do have a couple of books from the library I guess. Ru, we need to know what they know."

Rutuja took a few steps towards Advika. "No, but we know you know where it is," she said and crossed her arms.

"Guys," whispered Rishi and stepped in between the two groups formed. "Let's not be enemies here at least. Let's get out of here first, then we'll-"

"We don't need them," protested Daksh. "Neither do we," said Tej and titled his head.

"Okay, okay," interrupted Ray. "Let's us get out of here first, then we can continue with our differences."

"Exactly," added Rishi. "Let's help each other, add our powers, and get out of the Prince's clutches."

"What is all the murmuring about!?" thundered the cold voice.

"Lights. Camera. Action," said Daksh and marched towards Tej.

"These people," he almost yelled. "They have been hiding the book from us."

"Do you think we'd be stuck here with you if we had the book?" Tej yelled back at him.

"We don't know why you are here," Rutuja stepped in. "Nor do we," added Advika and slowly moved towards her bag kept in the corner. "I came here looking for clues for Grantha," said Rutuja. "You guys know where she is."