Suraj had been swamped with work, juggling meetings with crew members, actors, and vendors. As both the director and producer of Raw's Rampage, his responsibilities seemed endless. Yet, every time he glanced at Aryan, who was sprawled on the couch at home looking bored, a pang of guilt hit him. Summer holidays had started, and Aryan deserved more than being cooped up while Suraj drowned in work.
That evening, as they sat for dinner, Aryan poked at his food lazily, muttering something about how all his friends were going on exciting trips. Suraj couldn't ignore it anymore. Setting his fork down, he smiled and said, "What if I told you that you're coming with me to Russia for the shoot?"
Aryan's eyes widened in disbelief. "Wait… what? Seriously?"
"Yes, seriously," Suraj said, grinning. "You've been so patient, letting me focus on work. It's only fair you get to be part of the adventure. But there are rules, okay? You stay close to me or the crew at all times. No wandering off on your own, Aryan."
Aryan jumped from his chair, practically vibrating with excitement. "I promise, bhaiya! I'll stick to you like glue. Oh man, Russia! I'm going to see snow, right? And the sets? And how you make those explosions?"
Suraj laughed, shaking his head. "Yes, you'll see it all. Just don't distract the crew too much."
The next few days were a whirlwind. Suraj informed the production team of the new addition to the trip, ensuring Aryan's presence wouldn't disrupt the schedule. He also began making arrangements for Aryan's comfort, knowing the long shooting hours could be challenging for his younger brother.
When Suraj finally sat Aryan down to explain the plan, Aryan was practically bouncing with energy. "We'll leave in four days," Suraj said. "Make sure you pack warm clothes. And don't forget your comic books for the flight."
---
The days leading up to their departure were filled with a flurry of preparations. The crew finalized permissions, actors adjusted their schedules, and equipment was shipped ahead to Russia. Aryan, on the other hand, spent most of his time pestering Suraj with questions about what to expect.
"Bhaiya, what's Russia like? Do they really have bears walking on the streets?"
"Who told you that?" Suraj asked, laughing. "No, Aryan. No bears. But it's going to be cold, so get ready for some serious layering."
Aryan nodded eagerly. "And what about the sets? Will there be swords? Explosions? Can I help with anything?"
Suraj put a hand on Aryan's shoulder, his tone serious but affectionate. "You can help by being my shadow and staying safe. I need to focus on directing, and I don't want to worry about where you are every second."
Aryan saluted playfully. "Yes, sir!"
---
The night before their flight, Aryan could barely sleep. Suraj found him sitting on his bed, flipping through his sketchbook.
"Can't sleep?" Suraj asked, sitting beside him.
"I'm just too excited," Aryan admitted, showing a sketch of what looked like a warrior holding a flaming sword. "Do you think you can put this in one of your movies someday?"
Suraj examined the sketch, impressed by Aryan's creativity. "Who knows? Maybe you'll be the one making movies in the future. For now, let's focus on getting through this shoot."
Aryan beamed, hugging his brother tightly.
---
The day of the flight arrived, and the two brothers boarded the plane along with the core crew and cast members. Aryan was glued to the window, marveling at the sight of clouds from above.
"Bhaiya, this is already the best trip ever," Aryan said, his face pressed against the glass.
Suraj chuckled, leaning back in his seat. "Just wait until you see the sets. This is only the beginning."
---
Upon landing in Russia, the icy wind greeted them as they stepped out of the airport. Aryan's eyes sparkled as he saw his breath fog up in the cold air. "It's like magic!" he exclaimed.
The crew quickly settled into their accommodations, and Suraj ensured Aryan was comfortable before diving into the hectic schedule. Over the next few days, the team worked tirelessly to prepare the sets, rehearse scenes, and finalize logistics. Aryan, true to his word, stuck close to Suraj or one of the assistant directors, his wide-eyed curiosity endearing him to the crew.
On the first day of shooting, Aryan got his first taste of the action. He watched in awe as actors rehearsed their fight sequences and technicians set up elaborate rigs for an explosion scene. When the cameras rolled, he sat quietly behind Suraj, watching his brother orchestrate the chaos with calm authority.
"That was perfect!" Suraj called out after a take, clapping his hands.
Aryan leaned over, whispering, "You're like a general commanding an army."
Suraj smiled, ruffling Aryan's hair. "And you're my second-in-command, remember?"
---
As the days went by, Aryan became a beloved presence on set. The crew often joked that he was their unofficial morale booster, always ready with a cheerful comment or an offer to help carry something small.
One evening, after wrapping up a long day, Aryan sat beside Suraj near the monitors. "Bhaiya, this is so cool. I never knew how much work went into making movies. You're amazing."
Suraj looked at his younger brother, his exhaustion fading in the warmth of Aryan's admiration. "It's a lot of work, but having you here makes it worth it. Just wait until you see the final product—it'll all come together like magic."
Aryan nodded, his face glowing with pride. For Suraj, this trip was more than a chance to bond with Aryan—it was a reminder of why he worked so hard. The Blood Bound Chronicles weren't just a project; they were a legacy, something that Aryan could one day look back on with pride.
As they walked back to their hotel that night, snow crunching under their feet, Aryan slipped his hand into Suraj's. "Bhaiya, do you think I can be in one of your movies someday?"
Suraj looked down at him, his heart swelling with love. "One day, Commander. One day."
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Author note:-
:- support the story with power stones as it gives extra chapters and motivation
:- two more chapters to go until mass release
Ends
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