Meera's Quest
Every Sunday, Amma packed a small steel box for Meera’s quests. Not big dragon quests, but lane-and-terrace quests. Today’s box held two soft idlis, still warm, and a tiny steel cup of chutney. “Your quests need fuel,” Amma smiled, tucking in a spoon.
Meera stepped into the bright, noisy street. Her quest was to reach Paati’s house on the next lane, all by herself. The sun felt hot. A scooter zoomed past. For a moment, Meera’s feet wanted to run back home.
Then she smelled jasmine from the flower-seller, heard a pressure cooker whistle, and felt the idli box bump against her side. Her heart felt brave.
Meera crossed the lane, climbed Paati’s stairs, and rang the bell. Paati opened the door, eyes shining. “Another quest finished,” Paati said, hugging her. Meera grinned. “Tomorrow, a new quest?”