《The Cosmos Conqueror》 The scientific info Bazaar The venue was buzzing with the energy of brilliant minds from various fields¡ªscientists, doctors, researchers, and tech enthusiasts, all eager to present their latest innovations. The room was filled with the low hum of discussion as people mingled, exchanging ideas and debating the future of their respective disciplines. In the midst of this, there was a quiet undercurrent of skepticism. Dr. Azhini Nadarajan, a Siddha doctor, stood out as the sole representative of traditional medicine at this cutting-edge, multidisciplinary conference. The Siddha system, though ancient and revered in certain circles, was still emerging in the scientific world. The idea of a traditional medicine practitioner sharing research with a room full of high-tech specialists was met with subtle prejudice. Yet, Azhini had earned her place here. Her extensive fieldwork, successful research papers, and ability to marry ancient wisdom with modern science had brought her to the international stage. Her selection wasn¡¯t a fluke¡ªit was the result of years of hard work and groundbreaking research. But that didn¡¯t stop some of the attendees from raising an eyebrow at the thought of what a traditional medicine student could offer in a room full of tech experts. The whispers started to die down as the moderator stepped up to announce the next speaker. ¡°Dr. Azhini Nadarajan,¡± he called, and the audience fell into a brief, curious silence. --- In the back row, Kavin and his team sat, chatting amongst themselves. The group of four wasn¡¯t particularly interested in the proceedings¡ªat least not yet. Kavin, engrossed in his laptop, was tweaking code for their latest game project. Vicky, the animator, had his tablet open, sketching characters for their next game update. Mithun, the concept artist, was munching on snacks, his focus split between the presentation and his next bite. Meera, the scriptwriter, sat with her notebook, nervously flipping through her notes for the game¡¯s upcoming storyline. ¡°You think she¡¯s really going to impress everyone?¡± Mithun asked between bites, glancing at the stage. Vicky snorted. ¡°Who knows? It¡¯s kind of funny, isn¡¯t it? A Siddha doctor talking about science at a conference like this? Some people are probably thinking, ¡®What can she possibly contribute?¡¯¡±This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. Meera frowned. ¡°Don¡¯t be too harsh. She¡¯s here for a reason. Her research has been solid¡ªshe¡¯s earned her spot.¡± Kavin, still focused on his laptop, barely looked up. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m sure she¡¯s qualified,¡± he said with a shrug. ¡°But I¡¯m more interested in how this applies to our game. That¡¯s what we¡¯re here for, right?¡± Vicky grinned. ¡°You don¡¯t care, do you?¡± ¡°I care about ideas,¡± Kavin responded, his eyes flicking over the screen for a moment. ¡°If she has something interesting to say, I¡¯ll listen.¡± --- When the moderator called her name, there was a brief pause, and the audience fell into an uneasy silence. Dr. Azhini Nadarajan. Azhini stood up, her calm and confident posture drawing the eyes of the room. She made her way to the stage, her steps steady, unfazed by the lingering whispers of doubt in the air. She was used to this. In her years of research, she had faced much worse¡ªthis was just another moment in a long journey. When she reached the podium, she adjusted the microphone, and for a second, the room seemed to hold its breath. ¡°Good afternoon, everyone,¡± Azhini said, her voice clear and steady. ¡°Today, I¡¯ll be discussing suspended animation and metempsychosis, and how these concepts connect with the ancient principles of Siddha medicine.¡± There was a slight shift in the air, some in the audience unsure of how to react. Traditional medicine? In a tech-driven, scientific environment? Yet Azhini wasn¡¯t intimidated. She began her presentation, delving into how consciousness and the human spirit can exist beyond the limitations of the body¡ªa topic that bridged the worlds of ancient philosophy and cutting-edge research. As she explained the principles behind suspended animation and the concept of transferring consciousness, she quickly captured the room¡¯s attention. With every explanation, the audience, initially skeptical, began to recognize the profound relevance of her work. This wasn¡¯t just a discourse on ancient medicine¡ªit was a groundbreaking look at how ancient wisdom could inform and guide modern scientific research. --- Kavin, who had remained indifferent earlier, found his attention slowly shifting as Azhini spoke. He wasn¡¯t particularly interested in the connection between ancient practices and modern science, at least not in the context of Siddha. But as she elaborated on the idea of consciousness transfer and how it might be possible to transcend physical limitations, Kavin felt something click inside him. Her ideas weren¡¯t just philosophical musings¡ªthey had tangible applications. What if there was a way to integrate these concepts into their game, making it even more immersive, more real? What if he could take the concept of consciousness and create a truly transformative experience for players? Azhini''s words began to stir something deep within him. His mind raced as he imagined the possibilities. Could he use her ideas to take their game¡¯s VR experience to the next level? The very idea of transferring consciousness into a game world started to seem not only feasible but revolutionary. Kavin jotted down notes on his laptop, his earlier neutrality replaced by a spark of inspiration. He didn¡¯t know it yet, but this moment was the beginning of something huge. He had just experienced the breakthrough he¡¯d been waiting for¡ªone that could change everything. The Reckless Sprint Kavin¡¯s fingers moved furiously over his phone screen as he dashed out of the conference hall, ignoring the calls of his friends. His mind was buzzing with possibilities, each more thrilling than the last. Azhini¡¯s words about suspended animation, BCI, metempsychosis and the possibility of reaching those via combining traditional knowledge and modern technology had ignited something in him. He barely registered Vicky¡¯s confused shout behind him or Mithun¡¯s exasperated mutterings. The world outside the conference felt distant, the idea of achieving the impossible pulling him forward. Without a second thought, Kavin rushed to his secluded mansion, which he had long ago converted into a high-tech laboratory¡ªa place where his wildest ideas could take form. He had spent countless nights here, tinkering with algorithms, pushing the limits of virtual reality, and now, his latest breakthrough demanded his full attention. Vicky, Mithun, and Meera stood in the lobby of the conference hall, watching Kavin¡¯s retreating figure with a mix of disbelief and annoyance. Vicky scratched his head, staring at the space where Kavin had been a moment ago. ¡°Is he serious? Running off like that?¡± he asked, his voice tinged with frustration but also concern. ¡°He¡¯s off to his ¡®laboratory¡¯ again?,¡± Mithun muttered, barely looking up from his phone where he was already texting someone about the latest gossip from the event. "This guy and his mad experiments¡­ I swear, he¡¯s more obsessed with his lab than with us sometimes." Meera sighed and ran a hand through her hair. "Well, at least he''s not dragging us into his chaos for once." Vicky looked at her, perplexed. "Are you sure you don¡¯t mind? I thought we were supposed to brainstorm the new game level together, not go home early to stare at our screens."The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. Mithun grinned. "Exactly. If I¡¯m stuck here all night, I might as well eat my weight in snacks and gossip about how Kavin probably forgot to feed his cat again." Vicky raised an eyebrow. "Wait, he has a cat?" "You didn¡¯t know?¡± Mithun leaned in, lowering his voice, ¡°It¡¯s a completely black one. Always sneaks around in his lab. It''s like his little shadow." Meera chuckled, but her mind wandered back to Kavin¡¯s impulsive exit. Despite the frustration, she couldn¡¯t help but admire his drive. Even if it meant abandoning them to deal with all the aftermath. --- Meanwhile, at the Mansion-Laboratory: Kavin burst through the mansion¡¯s front door, his heart pounding with excitement and nerves. The old stone walls that had once seemed confining now felt like they were closing in on him as his mind raced. His fingers found their place on the keyboard as if guided by some unseen force. The room was bathed in the soft glow of several monitors and glowing consoles, each one humming with untapped potential. But something was off. His excitement was clouded by the sudden realization¡ªhe didn¡¯t have any of the details he needed. Not even the researcher''s contact information. His fingers froze above the keyboard as the panic set in. How could he contact Azhini? He immediately dialed Vicky. ¡°Vicky, I need her details¡ªAzhini¡¯s. Quick!¡± Vicky¡¯s voice, still muffled by the static, came through. ¡°What? Kavin, the conference ended an hour ago. I don¡¯t have her details.¡± Kavin swore under his breath. He had no choice but to find another way. But just as desperation was setting in, Mithun barged into the lab with a mischievous grin. ¡°I got it!¡± he announced proudly, holding up a small paper. ¡°Her email ID. Found it in the books of abstracts. You¡¯re welcome!¡± Kavin¡¯s eyes lit up, and he grabbed the piece of paper with a sigh of relief. ¡°Mithun, you¡¯re a lifesaver.¡± Mithun smirked, the pride of being the hero for once not lost on him. ¡°You owe me one. You¡¯ve got her email now. Maybe send her a nice message¡ªget her to help you with that crazy idea of yours.¡± Kavin didn¡¯t wait any longer. He opened his email and began typing, his fingers flying over the keyboard. This was it. --- The first message went out, and their email journey began. Kavin couldn¡¯t help but smile to himself. He had no idea what would come of this conversation, but he was certain it would be the start of something that could change everything. --- Echoes of the Past and Whispers of the Change Azhini opened the door of her small but cozy rental house, her eyes scanning the tidy living room illuminated by the soft orange hues of the setting sun. She removed her sandals with a sigh and placed her bag on the nearby table, her mind swirling with thoughts of the day. The memories of her presentation at the conference and the string of questions that followed still lingered. Some were skeptical, others genuinely curious. But she knew she had done well, and that was enough. Walking to the bathroom, she splashed her face with cold water, letting it refresh her tired skin. Her reflection stared back¡ªa woman in her mid-twenties, with expressive eyes that carried the weight of determination and exhaustion in equal measure. Azhini Nadarajan, the Siddha doctor from a small town, who had spent years proving herself in a world that often dismissed her field. The skepticism she faced was nothing new, but it no longer fazed her. She had learned to let her work speak for itself. ¡°If you truly want to be respected, prove you can survive without them. If you want to be celebrated, prove you can succeed without them.¡± These words had been her guiding mantra for as long as she could remember. They weren¡¯t advice from a loved one or lessons from a mentor¡ªthey were the harsh truths she had learned through life¡¯s trials. She closed her eyes, splashed water against her face, as water flows down her skin, memories flowed in her mind. Her parents¡¯ warm smiles were the first to greet her. That warmth, however, vanished in an instant¡ªa fatal car crash snatching them away and leaving her under the care of her uncle. Her uncle was neither cruel nor kind. He wasn¡¯t a villain, but he was far from a savior. He was simply a man burdened with responsibility he didn¡¯t ask for. Azhini didn¡¯t begrudge him. She knew he wasn¡¯t equipped to fill the void her parents left. If anything, she had learned early on that expecting kindness from others was often futile. But Azhini didn¡¯t just survive under his care¡ªshe thrived. She worked harder than anyone else her age, because she knew she couldn¡¯t afford not to. When she topped her district in her 10th exams, it wasn¡¯t just a victory; it was a declaration. When she secured state first in her 12th, it wasn¡¯t just an achievement; it was a warning to those who doubted her. And when she cracked NEET with a score that left everyone speechless, it wasn¡¯t just a milestone; it was proof that she could carve her path without anyone¡¯s help. She had done it all without private coaching, without expensive tuitions, and in Tamil medium from a government school. In her small town, she was nothing short of a star. But stars, she realized, often made others uncomfortable. Her uncle¡¯s family began to resent her. Her cousins, struggling to live up to the expectations set by her success, grew jealous. The humanly couple, as Azhini thought of them, couldn¡¯t completely ignore her accomplishments¡ªsociety wouldn¡¯t let them. But they couldn¡¯t celebrate her either. Instead, they found ways to diminish her, to remind her of her place in their household. It was during this period that her grandmother suffered a stroke. The humanly couple, already stretched thin, had no patience or resources for the ailing sixty-year-old woman. They admitted her to a nearby Siddha hospital, where they hoped the costs would be lower.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. Azhini had gone to the hospital reluctantly, not out of love for the couple but out of duty toward her grandmother. She hadn¡¯t expected that trip to change her life. But as her grandmother recovered, Azhini discovered a world she hadn¡¯t known existed. The Siddha hospital was unlike the sterile, impersonal facilities she had seen in textbooks. It was a place where ancient wisdom met human compassion, where remedies were crafted with care and patients were treated with respect. She had been fascinated. The CRRI sisters and brothers at the hospital had noticed her curiosity. Guided her through the basics of Siddha medicine and encouraging her to consider it as a career. When her grandmother recovered, Azhini made a decision that shocked everyone: she would study Siddha medicine. Her uncle¡¯s family hadn¡¯t objected¡ª it''s neither too high nor too low for them. And also gives space for their children to perform. So, simply perfect choice that even they struggle to come. They are naturally happy. At first, as a diligent student, Azhini immersed herself in her studies with unwavering focus, relying on her modest student stipend to sustain herself. However, as time passed, she began to confront the harsh realities of society¡ªthe prejudice, the dismissive remarks, and the skepticism toward the path she had chosen. But it was never in her nature to endure suffering passively or wait for a helping hand. She reminded herself of the principle that had guided her life: If you want to be celebrated by those around you, prove that you can succeed without them. Azhini understood that success was the only way to make her value undeniable to others. She believed that when people recognized the worth of what she offered, they would not only respect her but also protect her contributions for their own benefit. Driven by this conviction, she made it her mission to showcase the hidden treasures of traditional Siddha wisdom. To do so, she chose the most powerful tool at her disposal: science. It was through the language of science that she could bridge the gap between ancient traditions and the modern world, ensuring that her light would shine far beyond the shadows of doubt. So for her mission went well. It is not a loss for her. But there is still ways to go. As for now what''s she wants more is a sound sleep. Even though it''s still seven her body and mind craves it. Changing into one of her cotton pajamas, she brushed her long, wavy hair back and tied it loosely. The small, comforting rituals of her evening felt grounding. By the time she lay down on her single bed, her body melted into the mattress. After two hours of deep sleep, Azhini was abruptly pulled from her dreams by the persistent ringing of her phone. Groggily, she reached out, squinting at the glowing screen. The contact name, "Childhood Sweetheart ??," brought an instant warmth to her sleepy features, and a smile graced her lips. ¡°Hello,¡± she answered lovingly, her voice soft and tender despite the interruption. From the other end came a familiar voice¡ªwarm yet strict, full of affection wrapped in a tone of authority. ¡°Did you eat dinner, Azhini? Or are you still running on an empty stomach like always?¡± Azhini chuckled softly, leaning back against her pillow. ¡°I was too tired to cook,¡± she admitted, her voice tinged with guilt but laced with a quiet happiness. Her friend sighed dramatically, yet the worry in her tone was unmistakable. ¡°You¡¯ll never change, will you? Hold on, I¡¯m ordering food for you. It¡¯ll be there in thirty minutes. No excuses. And don¡¯t you dare try to send it back!¡± Before Azhini could protest, the woman on the other end¡ªher childhood friend who worked in a prominent IT company in Chennai¡ªcontinued her gentle scolding. This friend, who had been her constant companion through every storm and success, knew all of Azhini¡¯s secrets¡ªthe struggles she had hidden from the world, the moments of quiet triumph, and the bittersweet memories she carried in her heart. As the call ended with an order, not a suggestion, Azhini smiled to herself. No matter how tough life became, it was moments like this, filled with love and care from someone who truly understood her, that made everything feel worthwhile. In the meantime, as she waited for the love¡ªaka food¡ªsent by her childhood sweetheart, Azhini decided to make the most of her time. Stretching lazily, she pulled her laptop closer, intending to check her emails for any updates regarding her paper publications or conference feedback. The soft glow of the screen illuminated her face as she navigated through the inbox, her mind still drowsy from sleep but curious enough to sift through the mundane and the significant. What she didn¡¯t realize at that moment was that she wasn¡¯t just opening her laptop¡ªshe was unknowingly opening a new chapter in her life. A notification blinked on her screen, a new email waiting to be read. Something about it felt different, a pull that she couldn¡¯t quite explain. With a slight tilt of her head and a furrowed brow, Azhini clicked it open. And thus, without knowing, her ordinary evening began to unfold into something extraordinary. When Chaos Beckons 1 year passed from that fateful day. --- The morning greeted Azhini with a dull, overcast sky, its heavy clouds mirroring the turmoil within her. The muffled patter of drizzle against her window added to the quiet gloom that enveloped her apartment. She brewed herself a cup of bittersweet coffee, the aroma faintly soothing her restless thoughts. Wrapping both hands around the warm mug, she held on to it as though it were the only source of comfort she could cling to. Like clockwork, she opened her laptop and checked her emails. The usual flood of updates and newsletters filled her inbox, but nestled among them were three messages bearing good news¡ªher research papers had been accepted in PubMed-indexed, high-impact journals. Any other day, this achievement would have thrilled her, but today, it barely managed to bring a flicker of joy. She scrolled further and sighed heavily, her eyes catching a forwarded message from a colleague. It was one of those motivational chains, with Sigmund Freud¡¯s quote prominently displayed: "We are never so defenseless against suffering as when we love." Azhini chuckled darkly, muttering, ¡°How painfully true.¡± She took a sip of coffee, its bitterness matching her mood, and stared out at the rain-streaked window. She had taken the day off, hoping a break from her routine might help, but instead, the emptiness felt heavier. The stillness of her apartment and the idleness of her mind only amplified the thoughts she had been trying to suppress. With a deep sigh, she leaned back against her chair. Maybe busy duty days weren¡¯t so bad after all. Her brooding was abruptly interrupted by the sharp ring of her phone. Startled, she quickly grabbed it, the name flashing on the screen familiar. ¡°Azhu, come fast!¡± her colleague¡¯s voice was hurried, the urgency palpable even through the call. ¡°What?¡± Azhini asked, blinking in confusion. ¡°Speak slowly, I can¡¯t understand¡ª¡± ¡°No time for that! Professor is taking us to see a special case,¡± her colleague cut in, breathless. ¡°It¡¯s related to your research¡ªsuspended animation.¡± Azhini froze for a moment, the words sinking in. ¡°What did you just say?¡± ¡°You heard me!¡± her colleague shot back, irritation creeping into her voice. ¡°Come quickly! We¡¯ll leave in ten minutes. Don¡¯t be late!¡±Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. The line went dead before Azhini could ask for more details. For a moment, she sat still, her mind racing. Suspended animation? What could this case be about? Her curiosity sparked despite her lingering lethargy. In an instant, she placed the now-cold coffee mug on the table and sprang into action. Throwing on a simple kurta and tying her hair into a quick ponytail, she grabbed her essentials¡ªa notebook, her stethoscope, and her phone¡ªand rushed out of the door. As she stepped into the drizzling morning, a strange mix of unease and anticipation settled over her. She didn¡¯t know what awaited her, but something about this call felt different. The gloomy sky seemed to foreshadow that her day was about to change in ways she couldn¡¯t yet comprehend. --- Azhini hurried into the bustling department, the air electric with excitement and chaos. Doctors and students were rushing around, hastily packing medical kits, scribbling notes, and discussing theories, their chatter blending into a lively hum. ¡°Hey, guys!¡± she greeted breathlessly, pushing a stray strand of hair out of her face. ¡°Hey, Azhu,¡± Kumar called out, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Weren¡¯t you taking the day off today?¡± Before Azhini could respond, Priya handed her a water bottle and replied on her behalf, ¡°Yeah, she did. But this case is right up her alley. I called and dragged her here.¡± ¡°Yeah, yeah, alright,¡± Priya teased, nudging Azhini lightly. ¡°Our girl doesn¡¯t study ordinary cases, does she? This one¡¯s the rarest of the rare.¡± Kumar, still skeptical, chimed in, ¡°But we don¡¯t even know if it¡¯s really suspended animation. I mean, I¡¯ve never seen a case like that in my entire career.¡± Azhini nodded, catching her breath. ¡°You¡¯re right. I haven¡¯t either¡ªexcept once. That was a 108-year-old grandpa who was initially declared dead during assessment but turned out to be alive. His vitals were so slow and feeble, it was almost imperceptible. His family couldn¡¯t believe it. Luckily, one of our professors lived nearby and figured it out. After long history taking only she knew that the grand pa secretly followed an unknown sage. She showed me the case, and it changed my life. From that day on, I¡¯ve been obsessed with suspended animation.¡± Kumar whistled, shaking his head. ¡°Seriously, Azhu, you¡¯re lucky to have seen something like that.¡± Azhini chuckled darkly, her tone laced with irony. ¡°Not really.¡± Before anyone could respond, Priya leaned in excitedly. ¡°But listen, today¡¯s patient isn¡¯t some grandpa. I overheard our professor talking on the phone. The patient is a young man.¡± Her face lit up with intrigue. Kumar frowned. ¡°That¡¯s exactly why I¡¯m skeptical. Suspended animation in someone young? That¡¯s unusual.¡± ¡°Exactly,¡± Azhini said, adjusting her stethoscope around her neck. ¡°We can¡¯t jump to conclusions before assessing the case. For all we know, he could just be unconscious or in a coma. It could even be something common like a young stroke.¡± Priya grinned. ¡°Maybe, maybe. But you should¡¯ve seen our professor¡¯s face. It was priceless. He looked so tense, like he knew this wasn¡¯t an ordinary case.¡± ¡°What happened?¡± Azhini asked, her curiosity piqued. ¡°Don¡¯t keep me in suspense.¡± Kumar replied, ¡°We¡¯re just as clueless as you are. He got a phone call, and after that, everything changed. He started flipping through books, pacing back and forth, sweating like crazy. Then suddenly, he declared we were going to see a suspended animation case.¡± ¡°Seriously?¡± Azhini exclaimed, wide-eyed. ¡°What on earth is going on?¡± ¡°Exactly!¡± Priya said, her voice rising with excitement. ¡°How could you even think of staying safe and cozy at home when all this madness was happening here? That¡¯s why I called you. You would¡¯ve regretted missing out.¡± The group burst into laughter, their excitement infectious. ¡°Hey, stop chatting and get moving!¡± a senior doctor called out, gesturing toward the packed medical kits. ¡°Help load everything into the van, quickly!¡± Snapping out of their conversation, everyone rushed to finish packing. Boxes, medical bags, and equipment were carried out in a flurry of motion. The professor entered the room just as they were finishing up, his face as composed as ever, though his eyes betrayed a sense of urgency. Without wasting another moment, he ushered them all into the waiting van. The rain drizzled lightly as the vehicle started its journey, leaving behind the familiar walls of their department. Azhini stared out at the gloomy skies, her mind racing with possibilities. She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that this was no ordinary case¡ªand that it might change everything. --- Between Duty and Distraction: The sun dipped low on the horizon as the college van bumped along the winding dirt road. Inside, the group of postgraduate doctors filled the space with chatter, their curiosity about the case turning into a mix of jokes and mild apprehension. ¡°Professor, which hospital we are going?¡± Asked Priya. ¡° We are not going to any hospital. We are going to the patient¡¯s residence¡± ¡°What?!¡± Several people shocked. ¡°A young man without consciousness, with feable vital signs not at hospital but kept at his residence? His family members must be cruel or low wits¡± Several doctors nodded. Usually at certain cases integrative approach needed at that kind of cases. Siddha or other ayush doctors would go to the allopathy hospital to give their opinion. They all thought that it was that kind of a case. But seems not. ¡°I still don¡¯t understand,¡± Nila groaned. ¡°Why are we going to some mansion instead of a proper hospital? Who treats patients in the middle of nowhere?¡± ¡°Maybe it¡¯s a VIP case,¡± Raghav quipped. ¡°Some eccentric millionaire who doesn¡¯t trust regular hospitals.¡± ¡°Or maybe,¡± Nila countered, her voice dropping dramatically, ¡°it¡¯s a ghost story.¡± Azhini sat near the window, half-listening to their conversation. Her eyes were fixed on the scenery outside, the dense trees casting long, creeping shadows across the road. ¡°Hey, Azhini,¡± Nila teased, leaning over. ¡°You¡¯ve been awfully quiet. Thinking about someone special?¡± Azhini shot her a sidelong glance. ¡°Yes. About a special group of annoying people I¡¯m stuck with right now.¡± Their laughter was interrupted as Dr. Shivaraman, seated at the front, turned to address them. ¡°This isn¡¯t your average case. You¡¯ll understand soon enough, but for now, focus and observe.¡± The van rounded a bend, and the mansion loomed into view. Isolated and imposing, it seemed to rise from the surrounding wilderness like a relic from another era.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. ¡°Wow,¡± Nila breathed. ¡°Is this a house or a fortress?¡± As the van came to a stop, the group stepped out into the cool evening air. Their initial awe turned to unease as their attention was drawn upward. Perched on the mansion¡¯s roof was a sleek, black cat. Its fur was so dark it seemed to absorb the fading sunlight, and its golden eyes gleamed like molten gold. ¡°What¡¯s with the cat?¡± Raghav muttered. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s the mansion¡¯s guard,¡± Nila joked nervously. But the cat wasn¡¯t looking at them all. Its gaze was locked unerringly on Azhini. The intensity of its stare made her skin prickle. ¡°Why is it staring at me?¡± she whispered. ¡°Clearly, you¡¯ve got a fan,¡± Raghav teased. Azhini tried to shake off the unease as they followed Dr. Shivaraman and the elderly man who had greeted them inside. The mansion¡¯s interior was an unsettling blend of grandeur and technology. While the walls boasted intricate carvings and antique decor, they were also lined with monitors, machines, and wires that snaked across the floor. The patient lay in the center of the room on a massive metallic cot, surrounded by softly glowing equipment. His pale face was striking, with features that seemed almost sculpted. As Azhini and her colleagues stepped closer to the patient lying in the strange cot, their footsteps echoed through the eerily quiet mansion. The soft hum of machines was the only other sound, an almost haunting reminder of the sterile environment they found themselves in. She could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on her, the unease of the unknown creeping in. The old man who led them into the mansion had silently stepped back, watching from a distance. ¡°Alright,¡± Dr. Sivaraaman began, adjusting his glasses. ¡°We¡¯ll start with some history taking first.¡± He motioned for Azhini to begin. ¡°Name of the patient?¡± Azhini asked, pulling out her notepad. She had a serious expression on hes face, but there was a hint of curiosity in her voice, ready to listen, when the response came: ¡°Kavin.¡± The name hit her like a jolt. For a moment, the world seemed to slow down around her. Kavin. The name was so familiar, and yet¡ªso distant. Her thoughts wandered involuntarily, taking her back to the emails that had, at one point, brought them together. Kavin, the brilliant yet reckless game developer, who is so interested in her studies. She never able to forget that fateful day when she read his first mail. --- Kavin¡¯s first mail, Dear (Shall I?) Dr. Azhini Nadarajan, I hope this email finds you well. Let me introduce myself¡ªI¡¯m Kavin, a game developer with a relentless drive to create something extraordinary. I attended your presentation on suspended animation and metempsychosis at the conference, and I¡¯ll admit, it completely turned my world upside down¡ªin the best way possible. Your ability to connect ancient wisdom with modern science was remarkable, and it sparked an idea I can¡¯t let go of. I¡¯ve always believed in chasing the impossible, and one of my dreams is to push VR and AR technology into uncharted territory. Your insights into consciousness transfer made me realize just how close we might be to achieving something ground-breaking. It¡¯s not just about creating a game or a technology¡ªit¡¯s about creating a new dimension of experience. But for that to happen, I need your help. I¡¯m seeking a deeper understanding of the principles you presented. How can suspended animation be achieved in a practical sense, and what role does it play in transferring consciousness? How far does the concept of metempsychosis extend beyond theory, and what does its applicability truly look like? I know this sounds ambitious¡ªreckless, even¡ªbut I¡¯ve always believed that true innovation requires a bit of audacity. I also know the value of collaboration, and I want to assure you that your role in shaping this vision will never go unrecognized. Even if this endeavor leads to something patentable in the future, you will be rightfully credited. I hope you¡¯ll consider being part of this journey. Together, we might just redefine what¡¯s possible. Looking forward to hearing from you. Warm regards, Kavin. Into the Unknown "Is it possible?" Azhini thought, her mind spinning. "Could it really be him? Has he achieved what he desired, with just a few words of guidance from me?" She shook her head, trying to dismiss the thought. This can''t be the same Kavin, she convinced herself. It must just be a coincidence. There are a hundred people named Kavin in the world. But the more she thought about it, the harder it became to ignore the eerie coincidence. Her pulse quickened, and the familiar feeling of uncertainty crept back. The sound of a cough broke her reverie. She blinked and turned her head, only to see her professor subtly clear his throat, his eyes darting toward her. But she was too lost in her thoughts to catch the signal. Noticing her absent-mindedness, Dr. Nila, always the pragmatic one, took charge. "Can we get more details?" she asked, her tone professional yet patient. "Do we know his full name? Age? Any history of trauma or illness?" Azhini was jolted from her thoughts by a nudge on her elbow. Priya, the ever-curious and mischievous colleague, leaned in and whispered, "Hey, does Kavin happen to be your secret crush?" Azhini blinked, still dazed, and stammered, "Yes... oh, no..." Her face flushed a deep shade of red, and Priya grinned mischievously. "Hehehe. Seems I¡¯ve diagnosed well. Is this the same Kavin? So your secret romance¡¯s ending is tragic, huh? Tch, tch." Azhini shot her a look of irritation, her blush deepening. "Shut it already, Priya," she muttered, but Priya just giggled, clearly enjoying the moment. "Hey, you two, stop chit-chatting," Senior Karthik called out, his voice cutting through the banter. "Go assess his tone and reflexes. We don¡¯t have all day." Everyone quickly snapped into action, their professionalism returning as they carried out their duties. Meanwhile, Dr. Sivaraaman and the old man had retreated to the balcony, quietly conversing. The serious expressions on their faces told Azhini that the conversation wasn¡¯t a pleasant one. After a thorough assessment, the doctors gathered around to summarize their findings. Azhini quickly reviewed her notes, trying to maintain her focus on the patient before her. When they had finished, they approached Dr. Sivaraaman and presented their conclusions. This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Dr. Sivaraaman listened intently, then exchanged a few low murmurs with the elderly man, his expression unreadable. Finally, he turned to Azhini. "Azhini," he said, his voice calm but urgent. "Can you look for my tablet? I think I left it near the cot." Azhini nodded and made her way back to the patient. The soft hum of the machines surrounded her, a steady reminder of the fragile life that lay before her. As she approached, something caught her eye¡ªa faint metallic glint near his ear. Frowning, she leaned closer and noticed a small, chip-like device embedded just inside the ear canal. Her curiosity piqued, she reached out to inspect it. Suddenly, a sharp edge on the cot nicked her finger, and she winced, pulling back instinctively. A drop of blood welled up and fell onto the metallic surface. The moment the blood touched the cot, it began to hum softly. Azhini froze, her breath catching as glowing inscriptions lit up along its edges. They illuminated in a sequence, each symbol more vivid than the last. She felt her chest tighten as she recognized the markings. These are... Chants and symbols, she realized, her mind racing. Ancient scripts... but arranged in a way I¡¯ve never seen before. Her pulse quickened, and despite the eerie glow, she leaned in closer. The intricate carvings seemed to beckon her. Compelled by curiosity¡ªand perhaps something deeper¡ªshe began to read the chants aloud, barely aware of her own voice. Each word resonated through the room, awakening the inscriptions further. With every syllable she uttered, the air grew colder and heavier, like the weight of centuries pressing down upon her. Her heart hammered in her chest, but she couldn¡¯t stop. The mystery was too great. Unnoticed by the others, a black cat silently slipped into the room. It moved with an uncanny grace and settled in a shadowed corner, its eyes fixed on her. Its gaze felt unsettlingly intelligent. As Azhini read the final inscription, the cot blazed with light, casting the entire room in an unearthly glow. The moment the last word left her lips, the cat leapt onto a nearby console, its paw pressing a button with startling precision. The machines around her roared to life, displays flashing orange and red. The chip in the patient¡¯s ear glowed brighter, pulsing in rhythm with the deep hum that now filled the room. Azhini felt a sudden chill seep into her bones. Her fingers turned numb, and her heart rate slowed unnaturally. Instinctively, she placed two fingers on her wrist, checking her pulse. Her doctor¡¯s mind kicked in, processing what was happening even as her body betrayed her. ¡°Pulse rate... dropping rapidly. Peripheral resistance decreasing. Respiratory rate slowing...¡± Her thoughts grew fragmented as she gasped for air. Her breaths came shallow and uneven, her vision blurring as the room tilted around her. ¡°Is this... the onset of suspended animation? But... why me?¡± Her body grew heavier, her limbs leaden, as a deep cold took over. Yet even in her deteriorating state, she clung to her observations. ¡°Body temperature... plummeting. Signs of hypothermia. This is... an artificial induction of suspended animation...¡± Through the haze, her gaze fell on the black cat. Its eyes glowed faintly in the cot¡¯s light, and its expression was almost... knowing. Then came the pull. A powerful force yanked at her, dragging her toward the cot. She resisted, her body straining against the invisible suction, but it was futile. Within seconds, the pull became unstoppable, and her body surrendered to it. The world around her dissolved into a vortex of light and sound. Colors blurred into streaks of gold and white, and the hum of the machines grew deafening before fading altogether. Then¡ªdarkness. --- The Nexus Awakens: A Beautiful Disruption The Nexus existed in a state of eternal stillness, a world untouched by time, where nothing was meant to begin and nothing would ever end. A place neither awake nor asleep, lingering on the edge of existence. The air shimmered with a soft, ethereal glow, as though the very fabric of this world was woven from threads of forgotten dreams. The sky stretched infinitely in every direction, a deep, endless blue dusted with shimmering constellations. Some stars flickered, forming fleeting shapes¡ªHorse''s head, Cart, Deer''s head, Bow and quiver etc making 27 different patterns¡ªthen dissolving as if the universe itself were whispering old myths. Occasionally, golden particles drifted lazily, moving like lost fireflies with no purpose, no urgency. Beneath the boundless sky, the floor of the Nexus mirrored a vast, glassy ocean, its surface carved with pulsing, glowing runes. The symbols were ancient, alive, their soft luminescence syncing with the heartbeat of the realm. Beneath the glass, glimpses of past and future shimmered¡ªfractured visions of places unseen, faces unknown. Shadows of the nine kingdoms hovered far beyond the horizon, appearing and disappearing like mirages in a desert of dreams. At the heart of this unmoving eternity stood the Central Spire, a towering crystalline monolith that hummed with a soundless melody. It had been glowing for eons, but there was no one to witness it, no one to hear its silent song. Until now. --- In the heart of the Nexus, upon a floating platform encircling the Central Spire, sat a man. Or rather, he lounged¡ªslumped with an effortless grace, one arm propped lazily against the throne of white stone, his golden-crowned head tilted slightly to the side. His attire matched the realm: pristine white, untouched by time or wear, but upon closer look, a certain disarray was evident. His suit, though regal, was slightly loosened at the collar, his golden bracelets clinking faintly as he shifted in his sleep. Rings adorned his fingers¡ªeach carved with symbols that meant nothing to him anymore. The golden crown upon his head sat askew, as if even it had grown tired of his disinterest. It held no gems, no embellishments¡ªjust a plain band of gold, heavy with forgotten authority. If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. And in his hand, resting lazily against the throne, was his staff¡ªa long, elegant rod of silver-white, crowned at the tip with a flawless glass orb. The orb held nothing, reflecting only the empty quiet of this place. He had been here for so long, resting in the nothingness, that even boredom had become too exhausting to acknowledge. Nothing had ever changed in the Nexus. Until now. --- It began as a soft tremor, a whisper of movement in a world that had never known change. The air shifted, the golden particles swirling unnaturally as if startled. The constellations flickered¡ªsome blinked out completely, as if the very sky had forgotten how to remain still. Then came the light. A streak of brilliant fire tore across the sky¡ªa comet, its tail burning with hues of gold, blue, and silver. It was fast, too fast for a place that had never known motion, and its descent shattered the silence of the Nexus. The ground, once tranquil glass, trembled as a shockwave of luminous energy rippled outward, warping reflections beneath the surface. The Central Spire, unshaken for eternity, pulsed violently, its hum turning into a resonant chime that echoed through the void. The golden runes flared, reacting instinctively, as if they recognized the comet¡¯s arrival as something sacred. And the man on the throne? His golden crown slipped further down his forehead, jolted slightly by the force. One of his rings clinked softly against his staff as his fingers twitched. His eyes opened. For the first time in his existence, he witnessed movement. Not the drifting of golden dust, not the slow shimmer of the runes, but something truly alive. The comet spiraled downward, crashing upon the glass floor in a burst of celestial light, leaving behind not a crater, not a ruin, but something far more astonishing. Curled up upon the glowing floor, a woman lay writhing in pain, her body trembling from the force of her arrival. She was not of this place. She was something new. And for the first time in an eternity, the man on the throne felt something stir within him. Something he had never felt before. And he did not know if he wanted it to stop. --- He frowned. Pain did not belong here. And yet, watching her suffer sparked something unfamiliar within him¡ªa discomfort that did not stem from boredom. Acting on instinct, he lifted his staff and tapped its base against the floor. The orb at its tip flared to life, releasing a soft cascade of white, stardust-like mist. It drifted toward her, wrapping around her trembling form, sinking into her skin like a balm. He watched as the tension in her body eased, as her breath evened out, as the pained expression melted into something softer. A single tear slipped from her eye, catching the Nexus¡¯ glow before disappearing into the floor. Her fingers flexed, her body shifting as if testing the ground beneath her. Slowly, cautiously, her eyes fluttered open. The Nexus¡¯ glow reflected in her gaze¡ªdeep, rich, and questioning. Then, her eyes met his. For a moment, neither of them spoke. He did not know how long they stared at each other¡ªtime had never mattered here before. Then, with an ease that felt almost foreign, he smiled. Not a smirk of amusement. Not a knowing, distant expression. A Bright and playful smile. With his staff still in one hand, he raised the other in a small wave, added a wink of an eye. A simple, almost playful gesture. And then, in a voice that had gone unused for a n eternity, he spoke the first word ever uttered in this space. "Hi." The Peacekeeper Who Stole My Peace Azhini groaned as a sharp, unfamiliar pain pierced through her temples. Her body felt heavy, as though it had been stretched thin across a tightrope. She instinctively tried to move, but her limbs seemed to resist her efforts, sluggish and disoriented. Every muscle screamed in protest, and her vision blurred as if she were staring into a fogged mirror. But then, as if something shifted within her, the pain slowly faded away. It was replaced by an almost surreal sense of calm¡ªan odd tranquility that made her think she was floating, or perhaps, that she was no longer tethered to her physical form. She took a deep breath, which felt less like an inhale of air and more like absorbing the very essence of the space around her. Blinking rapidly, she tried to make sense of her surroundings. The dim, ethereal blue light that bathed the area almost looked liquid, swirling around her like a slow-moving ocean. It wasn¡¯t the soft glow of an ordinary light source; it was as if the light itself had a life, a pulse, with the same rhythm as her heartbeat. Panic surged in her chest. Her head jerked upward, scanning the strange place she found herself in. The landscape was...otherworldly. There were no walls, no ceilings, just an endless expanse of this glowing blue atmosphere that seemed to stretch on forever. Her breath caught in her throat. She was no longer at the mansion, wasn¡¯t in the same world she had known. What is this? Where am I? Her roaming eyes finally settled on a throne placed in the centre of the Nexus. There, standing before her, was a man. A man dressed completely in white, from head to toe, like some sort of celestial figure or a character from an otherworldly myth. His smile was wide, and his eyes twinkled with something that she couldn''t understand , like he knew something she didn¡¯t. He waved at her. "Hi!" he said again, his voice far too casual for the surreal moment. "You look a bit lost," the man said with an air of light amusement, as if this situation was the most normal thing in the world. Azhini blinked at him, speechless, her mind scrambling for anything that could explain this. "Don''t worry. It''s just kinda jet lag. You''ll get used to it soon," he said, flashing a wide smile, as if he were offering a comforting promise. Azhini raised an eyebrow, trying to shake off the disorientation from her sudden plunge into this strange new world. The ethereal blue hue of the surroundings made everything seem otherworldly. She nodded silently, still trying to grasp the reality of her situation. ¡°Welcome to the Nexus,¡± he said with a dramatic sweep of his hand, gesturing to the vast expanse below. ¡°This is the main center that guards the peace and balance of the nine kingdoms you can see from here. I¡¯m Sam, in charge of making sure that peace stays intact. Well, as much as I can, anyway." Azhini glanced around, feeling the weight of the moment. Stolen story; please report. ¡°You see, lass," Sam continued, "the kingdoms, they look peaceful, don¡¯t they? Serene from here, right?" He motioned toward the distant lands, shimmering in the soft light. "But don''t be fooled. They¡¯re not. Great leaders are born there¡ªeach one capable of tremendous potential. But unfortunately, that doesn¡¯t mean peace. I mean, look at it this way: even two swords can''t sit quietly in a scabbard. How can nine swords expect to?" Azhini couldn¡¯t help but place her hand at her head, she could perceive the probably upcoming headache. "These nine rulers are unpredictable, wild. Too wild. It''s all I can do to keep my beauty sleep undisturbed." He sighed dramatically. "Worrying about them is aging me faster than I¡¯d like to admit." He leaned in closer with a mischievous grin. "But here''s the thing, Azhini. I have a secret weapon to deal with them." Before Azhini could react, Sam flicked his fingers. In an instant, an unfinished diadem appeared, hovering in the air before them. Its design was beautiful, yet clearly incomplete, as if it were waiting for something¡ªor someone. Azhini blinked, perplexed. ¡°What is it?¡± Sam chuckled, as if he¡¯d read her thoughts. "I know what you''re thinking: How is this trash going to bring peace?" He waved his hand dismissively. "Hahaha, don¡¯t worry. It definitely won¡¯t¡ªat least, not yet." Azhini frowned, intrigued despite herself. "Then why show me?" ¡°Ah, well, here''s the catch,¡± Sam said, his voice dropping a bit. ¡°Each of the nine rulers has a gem, a precious stone, and they guard it with their lives. If someone collects all the gems and completes this diadem¡­" He paused for effect, eyes gleaming. "That person can wear it and be considered the conqueror of this entire Cosmos. And when that happens, all the beings under this Cosmos will obey their command." Azhini¡¯s eyes widened, the gravity of his words sinking in. ¡°You mean¡­ whoever holds this diadem controls everything?¡± "Exactly," Sam replied, nodding. "They could bring peace. End all wars. Save countless lives." He looked at her closely, his expression softening. "But here''s the problem: I already have a job. And while I¡¯m keeping things in balance here, I can¡¯t also bear the weight of being the conqueror. I have my limits. So¡­" He extended the diadem toward her, his voice now earnest. "Are you willing to take it? If you complete it, you could save so many lives, bring stability to this broken Cosmos. You could be the one to do it." --- "No I am not" "I am not doing it, I am not willing," Azhini said firmly, shaking her head. "I don''t even know how I came here, but I have to go. Please, send me where I belong. Thank you." Sam''s smile faltered for just a moment before he burst into a dramatic laugh. "No, no, no, my dear. That¡¯s beyond my power." He placed a hand on his chest and spoke in a mock-serious tone. "I think you don¡¯t quite understand the situation." He spread his arms wide, gesturing to the vast expanse around them. "I am only in charge of these nine kingdoms. I can send beings between them, sure. But as for sending you somewhere that doesn¡¯t belong to these nine realms..." He shook his head sorrowfully. "I¡¯m afraid I¡¯m powerless to do that." Azhini¡¯s frustration flared up. "Then what should I do now? I have friends, patients, and my own life to live back there. Even though this place is creepy, you seem like a good person. Can you at least tell me who can send me back?" In a placating tone. Sam gave her a long, teasing look, then leaned in close, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Hahaha, you are right. I am very kind-hearted." He paused for a moment, enjoying her puzzled expression before whispering in her ear, "Let me tell you who has enough power to send you back¡­ The Cosmic Conqueror." Azhini felt a wave of frustration sweep over her, and she glared at Sam. "So?" she asked, her tone sharp. Sam simply smiled, clearly enjoying her irritation. "So," he replied, dragging the word out. Azhini¡¯s fists clenched. "I have no choice from the beginning, do I?" "Hey, I am not that cruel you see. You can also wait here patiently with me for years, then there may be another individual come here and also willing to take this task, successfully become a cosmic conqueror and you can plead them to send you back" Azhini muttered a string of curses under her breath, silently scolding him. Sam, oblivious to her displeasure, simply beamed at her. After a moment of internal conflict, Azhini sighed deeply. Her shoulders slumped in resignation, but there was a flicker of determination in her eyes. "Okay then, Sam," she said, her voice steady but resigned. "I am willing." Sam¡¯s grin grew wider. "Good choice. Let¡¯s see how well you do with the weight of the cosmos on your shoulders." Azhini shot him a sideways glance but held her tongue, already steeling herself for the challenges ahead. ---- The Shattered Realities Azhini¡¯s eyes shone with determination as she focused on the man in white. Seeing her resolve, Sam sighed and finally began his explanation. ¡°My dear human lass, you¡¯ve heard of the nine planets and their lords, haven¡¯t you?¡± His voice carried a teasing lilt, but there was an undeniable authority behind it. ¡°These nine kingdoms were established by those very lords. After creating such a novel world, they each took a fragment of their spirit¡ªan essence of their power¡ªand sealed it within nine different gems.¡± He gestured toward a massive glowing screen, where symbols flickered and arranged themselves into intricate patterns. As he spoke, each name appeared in radiant letters. Ketu ¨C The Gem of Knowledge ¨C Inquisara Rahu ¨C The Gem of Shadows ¨C Nyxolith Sun ¨C The Gem of Authority ¨C Suryasraya Moon ¨C The Gem of Tranquility ¨C Indhumani Venus ¨C The Gem of Attraction ¨C Agarshamani Jupiter ¨C The Gem of Righteousness ¨C Dharmashila Mercury ¨C The Gem of Speech and Intellect ¨C Vakratna Mars ¨C The Gem of Valor ¨C Vajragni Saturn ¨C The Gem of Time ¨C Kaalachooda This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. ¡°These gems are the core of each kingdom, and their respective lords guard them with their very lives,¡± Sam continued. ¡°Your task is to collect them¡ªby whatever means you deem necessary.¡± He gave her a pointed look before continuing, ¡°Right now, you have no power. But throughout your journey, you¡¯ll find countless opportunities to develop your strength. You¡¯ll have exactly nine chances. Each time, your consciousness will be transferred into a different individual in one of the kingdoms. However, due to the damage sustained by your soul during the transfer, there will be a time limit. When it runs out, your host body will perish, and you¡¯ll be transported into another body in a different realm. No kingdom will be repeated twice.¡± Sam leaned closer, his gaze darkening. ¡°Remember this: karma is a boomerang. Your actions¡ªboth good and bad¡ªwill be recorded in a box meant solely for you. Should you choose to open it, there will be no turning back. Whatever fate it holds, you will have to endure it.¡± With a dramatic flourish, he pointed toward a massive, ornate wheel standing behind him. Its golden frame shimmered, embedded with swirling symbols that pulsed with an eerie glow. ¡°Now, it¡¯s time for your first destination,¡± he announced, straightening his posture. ¡°Spin the Wheel of Fate.¡± Lost in the momentum of his grand speech, Sam didn¡¯t bother glancing at Azhini¡¯s expression. If he had, he would have seen the slow progression of emotions on her face¡ªinitial curiosity, a dawning realization, pride, and finally, something that looked suspiciously like utter disbelief. And then¡ªshe laughed. Not a nervous chuckle or an amused smirk, but a full-blown, uncontrollable laugh. Sam blinked, utterly thrown off. He watched, stunned, as Azhini wiped the corners of her eyes and took a few steps closer to him. Before he could react, she cupped his face in her hands, her fingers warm against his skin. ¡°Wow,¡± she murmured, awe filling her voice. ¡°You¡¯re so real. The temperature, the texture, even the warmth¡­ Hold on¡ª¡± She took a quick breath near him. ¡°You smell real too! Oh my goodness.¡± She grinned, nodding to herself. ¡°That bastard is really talented.¡± Sam''s entire system seemed to glitch for a second. His ears turned scarlet, and his mouth opened and closed like a fish gasping for air. ¡°What the hell are you¡ª¡± Ignoring his flustered state, Azhini eagerly turned away and started inspecting the surroundings. The vast, surreal expanse of the world unfolded before her, filled with impossible architecture and a sky that looked like a living nebula. Every corner of the realm radiated a meticulous brilliance¡ªtoo detailed, too immersive to be just a game. Murmuring to herself, she whispered, ¡°They are truly brilliant.¡± Her lips curled into a smile, but a cold glint flickered in her eyes. She was not going to forgive them. Sam, still recovering from whatever the hell just happened, finally snapped. ¡°HEY! LUNATIC!¡± he shouted, waving a hand in front of her face. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?! Did you turn stupid from shock?¡± Azhini turned back to him, grinning mischievously. ¡°Scared? If you want, I can tell you a little secret that will creep you out.¡± She leaned closer, winking, her voice dropping to a playful whisper. ¡°Wanna hear it?¡± Awakening The Unwritten Azhini couldn¡¯t help but smile mischievously. Sam looked more confused than ever, his brow furrowed and his hand on his aching head. ¡°What is it?¡± he asked, completely unaware that he was about to regret his curiosity. ¡°Considering the gravity of the secret,¡± Azhini said, her lips curling into a playful smirk, ¡°it¡¯s important to prepare first, right?¡± ¡°What?¡± Sam echoed, still not getting it. Azhini leaned in, her tone suddenly serious as she fired a barrage of questions. ¡°What were you doing before my arrival? How long have you been here? How did you get here in the first place? You know magic, don¡¯t you? From whom did you learn? Your suit, is this the only one you¡¯ve got? Do you have parents? Do you eat? How did you survive without an energy source for this long? You know a lot about the nine kingdoms¡ªhave you really seen the kings?¡± Sam froze, staring at her wide-eyed. He slumped back onto his throne, clutching his head as if it might explode. ¡°Stop, stop, stop! Enough! I don¡¯t know the answers to any of your questions! Just tell me... who am I?¡± Azhini paused, letting the silence linger for a moment, before she spoke softly, yet with certainty, ¡°This is a world of a game. You¡¯re a guiding NPC, and I... I¡¯m a player.¡± Sam blinked in disbelief. ¡°What? What are you saying? It¡¯s just a game world, how can you say that?¡± Azhini¡¯s gaze grew distant as memories of her friend Kavin surfaced. ¡°A friend of mine is a game developer. I lost consciousness at his place... and ended up here.¡± She looked at Sam, the suspicion lingering in her mind. ¡°While you were explaining, I started to think this might all be a bit commercial. Let me put it in game terms, like you would explain to a player.¡± Azhini, deep in thought, began recounting the rules of the nine kingdoms: --- 9 Rules of the 9 Kingdoms Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. 1. Wheel of Fate: The first kingdom a player enters is chosen by a spinning wheel, ensuring an unpredictable start. The system assigns subsequent kingdoms based on undisclosed criteria. 2. Predetermined Path: The system dictates the order of the kingdoms after the first one. Players cannot choose where they go next, adding an element of fate. 3. Time-Limited Stay: Each kingdom has a set time limit. Once the limit expires, the player experiences a natural death (specific to that world''s lore). This forces strategic decision-making and prevents indefinite stays. 4. Cycle of Lives: Players have nine lives, and upon death, their consciousness transfers to a new kingdom. No kingdom can be revisited, making every decision in each world permanent. 5. Power of Gems: Each kingdom holds a unique sacred gem. Acquiring a gem grants the player a specific power that can be used in later challenges, shaping their journey. 6. Karma Meter & Pandora¡¯s Box: A karma meter records all actions¡ªgood and bad. At a critical moment, a Pandora¡¯s Box appears. If the player dares to open it, they must face the consequences of their accumulated karma, which could be either a blessing or a catastrophe. 7. Hidden Tasks & Rewards: Scattered across all kingdoms are secret tasks triggered under specific conditions. Completing them yields unique rewards, while ignoring them means missing out on potential advantages. 8. Interwoven Realms: The nine kingdoms are interconnected in mysterious ways. Actions in one kingdom may have repercussions in another, making careful decision-making crucial. 9. Law of Karma: The fundamental rule¡ªwhat you sow, you shall reap. Every decision, big or small, comes back around in some form, ensuring players experience the full weight of their choices. --- Sam¡¯s face fell as he sat there, completely broken. His hands gripped his throbbing head. ¡°So I¡¯m just a puppet... of some commercial entertainment?¡± His voice was barely a whisper. Azhini¡¯s heart softened at his defeated tone. She wanted to tell him, ¡°This is what happens when you break someone down and force them to face the harsh reality.¡± But looking at him, sulking and full of self-doubt, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to say it. Instead, she reached out, her voice gentle, ¡°Hey, don¡¯t think like that. My friend gave you consciousness. You¡¯re more like a human than you realize. You¡¯re more powerful than humans with your magic. You can live your own life, if you want to.¡± Azhini took his hands in hers, looking him in the eyes. ¡°Hey, look at me. Just think of it like you¡¯ve been born today, alright?¡± Sam gave a heavy sigh, running his hands through his damp hair. Slowly, a smile spread across his face. ¡°Then... shall we get to work now?¡± Azhini blinked, confused. ¡°What?¡± ¡°I already told you,¡± Sam said, raising an eyebrow, ¡°we can¡¯t end this without ¡®the cosmic conqueror.¡¯ So, let¡¯s go harvest some power.¡± Azhini¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°That¡¯s not it... are you going to come with me?¡± Sam snapped his fingers, and a giant board appeared in front of them, outlining the rules and ending with a button to ¡®spin the wheel and begin your journey.¡¯ He gave her a wry smile. ¡°I¡¯m not going to be some puppet who waits around forever, repeating the same lines.¡± He gave the board a dismissive flick. Azhini glanced at the board and then back at Sam, her lips curling into a smile. Together, they clasped hands and spun the Wheel of Fate. With a final press of the button, the world around them began to blur, their vision growing dim. But even as the edges of reality dissolved, their smiles never faded. Back to the mansion The air in the mansion trembled as a blinding light flared through the halls, followed by a deep, resonating hum. The doctors, along with the old man, rushed toward the source, their hearts pounding in a mix of fear and urgency. Inside the dimly lit lab, where strange machines blinked in eerie synchronization, they found two figures lying on the massive metal cot. Azhini was sprawled over Kavin, her head resting on his chest as if she had merely dozed off. The contrast was stark¡ªher pristine white coat against his dark, casual attire. Despite the chaos of moments before, they both looked¡­ at peace. Priya''s sharp gasp sliced through the silence. ¡°What the hell just happened here?!¡± Nila stood frozen, her hands covering her mouth, eyes wide in disbelief. Kumar, never one to miss an opportunity, let out a low whistle. The others turned to glare at him, making him raise his hands in defense. Senior Dr. Karthikeyan, ever the professional, ignored the side comments and swiftly moved to check Azhini¡¯s vitals. He pressed a digital thermometer to her ear and frowned at the reading. ¡°Her body temperature is alarmingly low¡­ pulse weak¡­ respiration shallow¡­¡± he reported grimly. The professor let out a long sigh, rubbing his temples as though expecting this outcome. The weight of the moment settled in. With nothing left to do but wait, the exhausted young doctors slumped onto the large, antique sofas in the hall. Priya took in the high ceilings, the tall, dusty bookshelves filled with ancient texts, and the whirring machines in the background. She huffed. ¡°So this booth bangala¨Clike lab is for artificially induced suspended animation?¡± The old man, ever the quiet observer, finally moved. Without a word, he placed steaming cups of coffee before them, the warmth seeping into their cold fingers. As Priya took a careful sip, she tilted her head toward their colleagues. ¡°So, he¡¯s indeed the same Kavin who mailed her back then?¡± She let out a dreamy sigh, her eyes practically turning into hearts. ¡°Oh my goodness! They seem like destined lovers.¡± Karthikeyan, who had seen that exact look in Priya¡¯s eyes whenever she read romance novels, shot her a look of utter disdain. ¡°We don¡¯t even know if they¡¯ll wake up or survive. Can you be serious for once?¡± Priya shrugged, unfazed. ¡°Senior, that¡¯s why you¡¯re still single even in your thirties. Marriages are made in heaven, you know. All of us are connected by the unknown red thread of fate.¡± Karthikeyan rolled his eyes so hard it looked painful. ¡°If they don¡¯t wake up, their marriage is more likely to be in heaven.¡± At that, Kumar¡ªwho had just taken a big gulp of coffee¡ªchoked and burst out laughing, sending coffee spraying onto Nila¡¯s sleeve. Nila''s slow turn toward Kumar was terrifying. A loud smack echoed through the hall. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. ¡°Aiyo! Nila! That hurts!¡± Kumar whined, rubbing his arm where she had landed a solid slap. Before the commotion could escalate, the front doors of the mansion swung open with a sharp creak. Three figures strode inside with purpose. The first was a stocky young man with an easygoing aura, who paid no mind to the tense atmosphere. Without sparing a glance at the doctors, he made a beeline for the kitchen, muttering something about needing food. The second, a tall and striking man, carried himself with casual confidence, though his eyes were filled with barely concealed concern. The third was an elegant woman, her long hair swaying as she moved with practiced composure. Her gaze flickered toward the old man, searching for answers. After a brief, urgent conversation with the old man, the two turned toward the young doctors. The tall man smiled, but something about the way his eyes studied them made the atmosphere tense. ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Vigneshwaran. Call me Vicky.¡± He gestured toward the woman beside him. ¡°This is Meera. We¡¯re Kavin¡¯s friends.¡± Before anyone could respond, Vicky¡¯s sharp gaze swept over them, assessing, calculating. His next words sent a visible chill through the room. ¡°I hope everyone here understands the gravity of this situation. This mansion is large and well-equipped. No one is leaving until my friend wakes up.¡± The doctors stiffened. ¡°Your mobile phones are being hacked as we speak. If anyone tries to contact the police, the press, or leak this information online¡ª¡± He smiled, a charming, disarming smile. ¡°Let¡¯s just say I won¡¯t be as friendly as I am now.¡± A quiet ding echoed. Everyone¡¯s phones vibrated at once. The girl sitting next to Vicky¡ªMeera¡ªdidn¡¯t even look up from her tablet as she murmured, ¡°Done.¡± The doctors hesitantly checked their screens. Their network signals were gone. Any attempt to call, message, or connect to the internet was now blocked. Silence stretched in the room. Kumar gulped. ¡°Well¡­ we¡¯re officially in a sci-fi movie.¡± Vicky clapped his hands once, breaking the tension. ¡°Now, shall we go check on our patients?¡± With that, the group headed back into the eerie, softly humming lab, where Kavin and Azhini lay in their mysterious slumber¡ªsuspended between worlds, awaiting their fate. ----- As Vicky and Meera entered the dimly lit lab, their initial worry was replaced by pure shock. Their expressions froze as they took in the sight before them¡ªKavin and Azhini lying motionless on the futuristic metal cot, Azhini¡¯s head resting against Kavin¡¯s chest in an oddly intimate pose. A loud crunch broke the silence. Mithun, who had been stuffing his mouth with chips, mumbled through a full mouth, ¡°What¡¯s up, guys? How¡¯s his condi¡ª¡± His words cut off the moment his eyes registered the scene. Half-chewed chips tumbled from his lips, landing messily on the floor. Priya, standing far too close to him, recoiled in disgust. ¡°Ew!" She hastily sidestepped, pushing Kumar into the unfortunate spot she just vacated. Mithun, oblivious to the gravity of the situation, suddenly snapped in outrage. ¡°Wait a damn minute! Are they dating already? Behind our backs? I¡¯m the one who found her email ID! And this is how he repays me? How dare he not tell me anything?!¡± His dramatic exclamation was met with a sharp smack to the back of his head. ¡°Ow!¡± Mithun clutched his head, wincing as he turned to glare at his attacker. Meera, who had delivered the blow with practiced elegance, raised a single, unimpressed eyebrow. Then, in a voice as soft as honey yet carrying an unmistakable edge, she turned to Kumar. ¡°Explain.¡± Kumar, caught like a deer in headlights, opened his mouth but no sound came out. He turned helplessly toward the others, his face twisted in a silent plea. Karthikeyan sighed, rubbing his temples. ¡°I¡¯ll explain.¡± And so, with precise detail, he relayed everything¡ªfrom Azhini¡¯s strange discovery of the mystical engravings to the blinding light that swallowed her whole. The room grew quieter with every word. The moment he finished, Mithun¡¯s jaw dropped. He pointed wildly at the unconscious pair. ¡°Oh my god, so he actually completed it? And went in himself? Also¡ª¡± he turned to the others, eyes wide with exaggerated disbelief, ¡°¡ªhe took his girlfriend with him?! Can you believe it?! I have to tell someone about this¡ª¡± With lightning speed, he whipped out his phone, only to find¡­ nothing. No signal. No network. No internet. Mithun blinked. ¡°Hey. What the¡ªwhy is mine hacked?¡± Meera, still eerily calm, replied smoothly, ¡°You were the first one.¡± Mithun turned his betrayed puppy eyes toward Vicky. ¡°But we¡¯re friends.¡± Vicky, leaning against the desk with a smirk that could only be described as villainous, simply replied, ¡°Exactly.¡± Mithun clutched his chest. ¡°That was unnecessary.¡± Ignoring his antics, Vicky strode toward the sleek control system positioned in the center of the lab. His fingers danced over the holographic interface, activating the monitors. The largest screen flickered to life, revealing a surreal sight: A vast, glowing blue world stretched endlessly, its skies shimmering like liquid sapphire. In the heart of it, at the very center of a swirling energy nexus, lay a figure dressed in pristine white, floating in a state of deep slumber. His expression was peaceful, undisturbed by the world around him. As if disrupting the serenity, a comet of light streaked across the screen. It shot toward the nexus like a falling star and¡ªupon impact¡ªunraveled into the form of a woman. Azhini. Her body was writhing, her face contorted in agony. The energy surrounding her flickered chaotically, as though something was rejecting her presence. A collective gasp filled the room. Priya clutched the nearest person¡¯s arm¡ªunfortunately for Kumar¡ªher fingers digging into his skin as she stammered, ¡°W-What is happening? Why is our friend Azhini lying there And she was look like she¡¯s in¡­ pain?¡± Meera, ever composed, exhaled softly. Her voice, though soothing, carried a heavy truth. ¡°Don¡¯t panic. What you¡¯re seeing is called BCI¡ªthe Brain-Computer Interface. Your friends¡¯ consciousness has been transmitted into the game world we created.¡± Silence. And then¡ª ¡°WHAT?!¡± The collective outcry from the doctors nearly shook the room. Sanjana - the sad soul of solar Kingdom. A colossal mountain pierces the heavens, its jagged cliffs veiled in wisps of golden mist. At its summit, an awe-inspiring copper fortress gleams like a second sun, its radiant walls shimmering under the sky¡¯s embrace. The fortress, standing proud and untouchable, is the heart of the Sun Kingdom, an eternal testament to power, prestige, and the unyielding brilliance of its rulers. Beneath this majestic castle, the kingdom unfolds in three concentric zones, each tier a delicate petal of civilization cradled at the mountain¡¯s feet¡ªlike a lotus yearning for the Sun¡¯s warmth and favor. Far below the fortress, within the confines of a known hospital in the Second Zone, a girl stirs. The sterile scent of medicinal herbs and warm lamp oil lingers in the air. The weight of exhaustion clings to her limbs, her senses sluggish, her body foreign. As she shifts, a sharp sting flares from her wrist¡ªa bandage tightly wrapped around it, a grim testament to despair. Yet, it is the searing ache in her skull that demands her attention, pulsing with a relentless, burning throb. Then, like an unstoppable tide, memories flood in¡ªdisjointed, fragmented, yet impossibly vivid. Sanjana. That was this girls name. No¡ªthis was her name now. Along with these memories, these emotions, these burdens. The high and mighty Solar Kingdom, a realm forged under the rule of Great King Vivasvanthan, had stood for generations, guided by the wisdom and power of its founding Seven Horses¡ªnoble families entrusted with the kingdom¡¯s vital affairs: Administration Law Revenue Food and Civil Supplies Home Affairs External Affairs Military Affairs Their heirs continued to serve as ministers, shaping the kingdom¡¯s future. But history had its own way of shifting power. King Jothir Bhanu, the father of the previous king, once found himself at the mercy of assassins. Wounded and helpless, he was saved by a commoner family, who tended to his wounds and sheltered him from danger. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. In their humble home, he witnessed the struggles of the lower zones, their hardships painted in every sunken face and weary sigh. But more than that, he saw something else¡ªa fire, an ambition, a hunger to rise. Recognizing their potential, he established the Government Exams, allowing even commoners a chance to rise through merit. His decision shook the foundations of the First Zone¡¯s elite. Furious whispers spread, but the king remained steadfast. "If you are a true Sun, prove it with your brilliance." It took three generations for the Third Zone to carve a place in history. And in that time, a new figure rose from the dust of the lower ranks¡ªMinister Arkan, the hero of the commoners. But not for her. For Sanjana, Arkan was the villain of her life. His rise to power cast her family into the shadows. Her father, once the son of a noble minister, had been subdued, humiliated, and laughed at. His marriage crumbled, her grandfather took her mother back to the First Zone, and she and her brother, Ishaan, were pushed into the Second Zone. Yet, to her, the Second Zone wasn¡¯t a curse. Here, doctors healed the suffering. Merchants traded in rare goods, filling the streets with colors and scents from all over the kingdom. Soldiers trained with their gleaming weapons, their techniques sharp, their movements captivating. Life was lively, full of new wonders. She and Ishaan made their own happiness. Their father, however, never recovered. He couldn¡¯t fit in. He couldn¡¯t shake the shame. He longed to reclaim their lost prestige¡ªand when Ishaan refused to be his tool, he turned his gaze to her. At first, he placed all his hopes on Ishaan, forcing him to study for the Government Exams. But Ishaan had no patience for books¡ªhis twin swords were his passion, and his hands, made for battle, rejected the pen. His master praised him, calling him the greatest duel swordsman since the legendary Blue Horse of the Military. Though no one had truly seen the Blue Horse fight, Ishaan carried his pride in that comparison. "How could a hand that wields a sword hold a pen?" Ishaan had grumbled after yet another brutal beating from their father. One night, he came to her, eyes gleaming with mischief. "I¡¯m leaving with a merchant caravan to the Moon Kingdom. I¡¯ll bring back your sister-in-law." She knew it was nothing more than another of his wild fantasies, but she nodded, waved, and smiled like she always did. And so, Ishaan escaped. But she was left behind. Caught in their father¡¯s relentless grip. He wanted her to become a doctor¡ªno, he wanted her to find her way into the First Zone. He wanted her to marry a nobleman, a "true Sun," someone who could restore their family¡¯s dignity. But how could she find her Sun when even looking at the First Zone¡¯s noble sons was rare as a rainbow. That''s why he finds the legitimate way - Becoming a doctor. As a doctor she could enter into zone 1 inorder to treat them. So, she studied. She memorized herbs and their uses, recited medical formulas, and endured sleepless nights filled with endless books. She learned to make medicine, to recognize disease patterns, to listen and diagnose. But medicine was not just knowledge. It required precision, patience, and nerves of steel. She had none of these. Once, she had fainted when a soldier was rushed into her teacher¡¯s hospital¡ªa young warrior whose arm had been severed in a "friendly" match. She had watched in horror as his dreams shattered along with his limb. "You must remain calm in the face of agony," her teacher had said. But how could she remain calm when confronted with suffering? Still, she persisted. Through fear, through exhaustion, through tears. And one day, she finally became a doctor. Was she truly worthy of that title? Even after years of study, she wasn¡¯t sure. She had knowledge, but did she have the skill? The strength? But none of that mattered. She had done what her father wanted. She had no idea that the real battle was only just beginning. Dawn after the Dusk At first, her father was overjoyed. He built her a clinic of her own, a proud monument to his long-held dream. He imagined her curing nobles, earning prestige, restoring their lost honor. But days passed. Then weeks. And not one patient from the First Zone sought her help. Her father waited, his patience dwindling with each silent day. He watched, his once-bright hopes turning into seething resentment, as his daughter, his daughter, lowered herself to treating Third Zoners¡ªthe very people he despised. It enraged him. He forbade her from stepping into the Third Zone. Prevented her from treating the very people who needed her the most. And so, she sat. Day after day, trapped within the clinic¡¯s empty walls, her only solace was writing letters to Ishaan. She poured her thoughts, her loneliness, her silent cries into each letter, sealing them with desperate hope. But she never knew if the pigeons found him. She never got a reply. Yet, she never stopped writing. Then, one day, her father came with a new plan. He had finally realized the truth¡ªhigher officials only trusted Ranked Doctors, those who held official recognition within the Sun Kingdom¡¯s elite medical circle. No noble, no minister, no commander would come to a newbie like her. So now, he demanded that she take the Ranked Doctor Examination. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. She couldn¡¯t. It wasn¡¯t just a theoretical test¡ªit required hands-on experience, mastery over complex medical procedures, and above all, flawless execution under pressure. There were only twelve Ranked Doctors in the entire Solar Kingdom. To earn a title, she had to outshine the kingdom¡¯s finest physicians. But her father wouldn¡¯t listen. "Living in embarrassment is worse than death," he said. Those words settled over her like a haunted spell, looping endlessly in her mind, growing heavier each time they echoed. She had fought so long, so hard. But this battle¡­ this one, she wasn¡¯t sure she could win. She knew. As a doctor, as someone who had dedicated her life to understanding the fragility of existence, she knew exactly what was happening to her. This wasn''t exhaustion. This wasn''t just stress. This was an illness of the mind, one more dangerous than any fatal wound. But knowing didn''t meant she could stop it. The thoughts crept in, subtle at first. Then louder. Then relentless. She visited her teacher, the one person she trusted. She told him everything the feeling being trapped in a life that wasn''t hers to live. He listened. He understood. And he gave her two things: advice and medicine. "Talk to your father," he said as if it were that simple. As if words alone could undo years of fear and pressure. Still she tried. She took the medicine. For two days she forced herself to believe it would help. Then she stopped. Because in the end, what was the point? One night, in the still silence of her empty clinic she made a decision that no one could ever undo. As the warmth of life spilled away, she finally found something she had been searching for. Peace. ---- Awakening A single tear slipped down her cheek. She wasn¡¯t sure why. Was it for the girl¡ªthe true owner of this body¡ªwho had suffered so much? Was it from the pounding pain in her head? Or was it from the throbbing sting in her wrist? It seemed to be the last. Someone was squeezing her wounded hand. A sharp jolt of pain pulled her further into consciousness. Her eyelids, heavy and reluctant, parted to reveal a youth beside her bed. Handsome yet disheveled, his face was streaked with tears. He clutched her injured hand with trembling fingers, gripping it too tightly, unaware of the pain he was causing. "I shouldn¡¯t have left... I shouldn¡¯t have left..." he muttered, over and over, his voice choked with regret. Her throat was dry, her voice barely above a whisper, but she forced out two words¡ª "Let go." "Pain." The youth jolted as if struck, his grief momentarily overtaken by shock and relief. Seeing her awake, he scrambled to call for the doctor, his voice urgent. But before leaving her side, he turned back, scolding her, blaming her, blaming himself for everything. She watched him, this boy who had left, who had returned, who now wept at her side. A strange, unfamiliar warmth spread in her chest. Lifting a weak hand, she beckoned him closer. He hesitated, then leaned in. And with a raspy breath, she asked the most important question¡ª "Where is my sister-in-law?" Silence. His face darkened instantly, embarrassment creeping into his features. Success. Satisfied, she let her eyes drift shut again, a faint smile playing on her lips. And this time, she slept in peace. The psychic abode The room was dimly lit, the patient, who had been lying motionless, stirred. Slowly, she pushed herself up and sat on the bed. "Sam..." she called. A dense white mist coalesced before her, forming into a man with an ethereal presence. His sharp eyes scanned her with concern. "Are you alright? My power is greatly diminished this far from the Nexus, so I couldn¡¯t instantly ease your condition." Sanjana¡ªno, Azhini¡ªfelt the lingering cool sensation that had soothed her consciousness when she had first arrived in this world. A small smile tugged at her lips. So it was him back then... She patted the space beside her and gestured for him to sit. "Thanks to you, I already feel much better. The headache has subsided." Sam sighed in relief. "That¡¯s good. Did you receive this girl¡¯s memories?" Azhini¡ªnow merged with Sanjana¡¯s consciousness¡ªnodded, her expression darkening. "Yes, I did. It¡¯s tragic..." She recounted Sanjana¡¯s story, her heart weighed by the events that led to her current state. Sam listened intently before responding, "That is tragic. But before we go further, have you checked your Psychic Abode?" Azhini blinked. "My what?" Sam leaned forward slightly. "It¡¯s a space within your consciousness where you can track your progress and gain insights about your mission. Try accessing it." She hesitated, then nodded. "How?" "Close your eyes," Sam instructed, his voice calm and steady. "Focus on the center of your forehead. Breathe in¡­ breathe out¡­ Relax. Let your mind expand." Azhini followed his guidance. At first, there was only darkness. Then¡ª A vast grassland stretched before her, a gentle breeze swaying the golden-green blades. A humble wooden house stood in the distance. Drawn to it, she walked forward, the soft earth beneath her feet grounding her. "I see a wooden house," she murmured. "Good," Sam¡¯s voice echoed in her mind. "Can you see the door? Try opening it." She reached out, grasped the handle, and pushed. Inside was a small hall with a single wooden chair and table. Above the table lay a parchment map¡ªdetailed and intricate. As she stepped closer, she noticed a red cross marking her current location. Near the main palace of the first zone, a ruby gem pulsed with a crimson glow. Stolen story; please report. "This is a map of the Solar Kingdom," she whispered. ? Sam¡¯s voice remained steady. "That gem marks your next objective. But look around¡ªthere is more to see." Three doors stood before her, each inscribed with a name: 1. The Chamber of Destiny 2. The Chamber of Accumulated Fortune 3. The Chamber of Karma Curiosity stirred within her. She stepped toward the first door and opened it. Inside, a thick, ancient book rested upon a pedestal. The title read: Chronicle of Fate. As soon as she touched it, the pages flipped on their own, glowing with golden light, before stopping at a particular chapter. "The Sun Dynasty: The Life of Sanjana" Her entire past had been recorded here. Every choice, every hardship¡ªwritten in ink that shimmered like sunlight. Her wandering eyes stopped at somewhere, her breath hitching as her gaze landed on a majestic clock towering before her. Its intricate golden frame gleamed under the dim, ethereal glow that bathed the chamber. But what truly sent a shiver down her spine was the movement of its hands¡ªthey were ticking in reverse. Her eyes flickered to the date displayed on its face. Her heart pounded. It wasn¡¯t today¡¯s date. It wasn¡¯t even from the past. It was six years ahead. A whisper of cold air curled around her, and an unsettling realization gripped her¡ªthis wasn¡¯t just a clock. It was a prophecy, a warning, a portal, it saying that she only has six years in this solar kingdom. A large notice board stood beside it, displaying: Main Quest: Become a Ranked Doctor ? Getting a pass in to the first zone ? Reputation +10% ? Special Item: Solar Furnace ? Failure: Unable to enter the first zone ? Reputation -5% She exited and entered the second chamber. Bookshelves lined the walls, filled with medical texts Sanjana had studied before her consciousness was merged. A checklist hung beside them, listing skills she had acquired and those yet to be learned. Finally, she opened the Chamber of Karma. Inside, two enormous meters stood side by side, shimmering faintly. Currently they read zero¡ªuntouched, untainted. "These measure your Karma," Sam¡¯s voice explained. "Your actions will fill them over time, shaping your fate in this world." Taking a deep breath, she stepped back. "I understand." With Sam¡¯s guidance, she withdrew from her Psychic Abode and returned to reality. As she opened her eyes, she met his gaze. "That was... fascinating," she admitted. Sanjana¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement as she turned to Sam. ¡°I love this concept! The Psychic Abode as a personal space for players to track their journey, save progress, and manage quests¡ªit adds so much depth to the game world. Since I¡¯m the only player, my land is empty except for my house. But imagine if more players joined¡­ It would be so much livelier!¡± She paused, a new idea striking her. ¡°What if there was a feature that allowed players to visit each other¡¯s spaces? And the Chronicle of Fate¡ªif it could record exceptional player stories with consent, some players could even become legends in the game¡¯s history!¡± Her voice carried an infectious energy, and for a moment, Sam just watched her, a strange tightness settling in his chest. Weird¡­ What is this feeling? But seeing her enthusiasm, he couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°So this is actually a game space,¡± he mused. ¡°Huh¡­ interesting.¡± Before he could say more, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed from outside. A commotion. Sanjana turned toward the doorway just as the curtain was yanked aside. Her father stood there, breathless, worry etched into every line of his face. But before he could step inside, a voice lashed out like a whip. ¡°You have no right to be here.¡± Sanjana¡¯s brother blocked the entrance, his fists clenched, shoulders tense. His face was dark with frustration, resentment spilling over like a dam breaking. "How dare you show up now? When she needed you the most, where were you? Do you even realize what she¡¯s been through?!" Their father stood frozen, his gaze falling to the floor. His hands trembled at his sides, as if he wanted to reach out but didn¡¯t know how. A heavy silence filled the room. Then, in a voice barely above a whisper, he spoke. ¡°I was wrong¡­¡± Sanjana¡¯s breath hitched. ¡°I thought I was protecting you,¡± he continued, his voice thick with regret. ¡°I thought I was doing what was best. But I see now that my family¡ªmy children¡ªshould have always been my first priority.¡± He swallowed hard, his next words breaking slightly. ¡°I won¡¯t stand in your way anymore. You can follow whatever path you desire.¡± A lump formed in Sanjana¡¯s throat. She looked at the man before her¡ªnot just as the strict father who had once opposed her dreams, but as someone who was trying, in his own way, to mend what was broken. She took a deep breath, her voice steady. ¡°Appa¡­ I love this profession.¡± He lifted his gaze, searching her face. ¡°I want to take the test,¡± she said firmly. ¡°But you have to promise me¡ªyou won¡¯t interfere with the kind of patients I choose to treat.¡± Her father stiffened, his lips pressing together in conflict. For a moment, she thought he would argue. Then, slowly, he nodded. His expression was a mixture of pride and guilt. ¡°I promise.¡± A deep exhale left her lips. For the first time in years, it felt like she could finally breathe. It''s seems like her feelings completely merged with Sanjana''s. A strange scare formed can she able to live as normal after leaving this world? Ishaans Lunar Misadventures As soon as their father left, Ishaan let out a deep sigh and sat beside Sanjana. He ran his fingers through her hair gently, the way he used to when they were kids. His eyes, dark with worry, searched her face. "Sanju¡­ are you really sure about this?" His voice was quiet, almost hesitant. "You don¡¯t have to push yourself so hard. Even Appa finally admitted his mistake. Why do you still feel like you have to prove something?" Sanjana blinked, startled. The words "No, Naana" slipped from her lips naturally, like they had in childhood. Her lips curled into a soft, nostalgic smile. She gave him a small, determined smile. "I thought everything through. I know I can crack this exam and become a ranked doctor." Ishaan exhaled, shaking his head before a mischievous smirk crept onto his face. "If you¡¯re so sure, then fine. But tell me one thing¡ªwhy do your words now sound completely different from what you wrote in those letters?" Sanjana¡¯s eyes widened in shock. "Wait¡ªYOU READ THEM?!" Ishaan leaned back, clearly enjoying her reaction. "Of course I did. How do you think I managed to show up at the perfect time?" Sanjana gawked at him. "But¡­ but Fluffy always came back with nothing! I thought my letters were lost!" Ishaan chuckled, shaking his head fondly. "Sanju, Fluffy is smarter than both of us combined. That little dove never once failed you. It tracked me down when no one else could." Sanjana¡¯s heart swelled with emotion. She had sent countless letters with their childhood pet, watching it return empty-clawed every time. She had convinced herself it had failed. But in reality, Fluffy had been her silent messenger all along. This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. "That sneaky little bird¡­ I should have known." Her voice wavered between awe and exasperation. Ishaan smirked. "Underestimated your own dove, huh? Tsk tsk." She huffed playfully but couldn¡¯t stop the warmth that spread through her chest. "Fine, fine. But tell me¡ªwhat happened? Why didn¡¯t you come back sooner?" Ishaan¡¯s smirk dimmed slightly, replaced by a shadow of bitterness. "We were scammed, Sanju. Those men fed us grand stories about the Lunar Kingdom¡ªabout its beautiful women and unmatched artistry. But in reality? They just made us work like pigs in exchange for food and water. We barely managed to escape." Sanjana gasped, eyes wide. "Wait¡ªyou really went to the Lunar Continent?" Ishaan nodded dramatically. "Oh yes. And let me tell you¡ªit was something else." Sanjana leaned in, curiosity burning in her eyes. "Tell me everything! Were the women as beautiful as they say?" Ishaan sighed, rubbing his temples. "Sanju¡­ they were ridiculously beautiful. Their skin was like solid milk, their movements as fluid as poetry. And unlike our strict, duty-bound people, their cities were bursting with music, dance, and art." Sanjana perked up. "Ooooh, so did you talk to any of them?" Ishaan groaned. "I tried! But even their normal conversations were in poems. It took me forever to figure out what they were saying." Sanjana grinned wickedly. "Oho, so? Did you propose to one of them?" Ishaan looked horrified. "Sanju, let me tell you something. Those women have terrible taste in men." Sanjana burst out laughing. "Wait, wait¡ªwhat happened? Did you get dumped?!" Ishaan scowled, looking truly traumatized. "Getting dumped would¡¯ve been better than what actually happened." Sanjana gasped theatrically. "What did they do?!" Ishaan rubbed his face, as if reliving a nightmare. "First, they sighed dramatically. Then they asked me how many lovers I had. I proudly told them none¡ªthat I was a noble man, devoted to one woman for life." Sanjana clasped her hands together. "Aww, so romantic!" Ishaan glared. "No, Sanju. They LAUGHED at me. Then they teased me, saying even their five-year-old brothers already had five girlfriends. I ran away. Embarrassed. Forever." Sanjana collapsed into laughter, clutching her stomach. "Oh my god! What a dark memory! Hahaha!" Ishaan groaned, rubbing his temples. "Those women are beyond saving. They get played by overly dramatic playboys and STILL choose them. I don¡¯t understand them at all." Sanjana wiped away tears of laughter. "Ishaan Naana, you deserve better. Maybe we should visit the Venus Kingdom next!" Ishaan shot her a mock glare. "Enough teasing, madam. Your body is weak, and you need to rest." Before she could protest, he pushed her down gently, covering her with a warm blanket. He dimmed the oil lamp, letting the soft flickering light cast gentle shadows around the room. As he reached the door, he turned back, his voice soft yet firm. "Good night, Sanju." Sanjana, her heart warm despite everything, smiled. "Good night, Naana." And with that, he stepped out into the quiet night, leaving behind the echoes of laughter, the flutter of a dove¡¯s wings, and the comfort of a long-lost bond finally rekindled. Beyond the Barriers Sanjana busied herself with packing, preparing to travel to the outskirts with a small group of attendants. Though her family belonged to the fallen upper class, their status still carried weight. At her father¡¯s insistence, she agreed to take people with her¡ªan arrangement she saw as practical rather than restrictive, knowing their presence would be useful during the journey and the medical campaign. Ishaan repeatedly urged her to rest, but thanks to Sam¡¯s assistance, her body had fully healed. Still, she knew the clock in the Destiny Chamber was steadily counting down her days¡ªidleness was a luxury she couldn¡¯t afford. While she couldn¡¯t personally step into the First Zone, Sam could. She sent him ahead to "check the water," to assess the situation there, while she focused on the Third Zone. This medical campaign was more than just a mission¡ªit was a strategy. By engaging directly with the people, she could understand their living conditions, health struggles, and needs while also building credibility. Influence wasn¡¯t just about rank; her professor had always emphasized that the voices of the people carried more weight than any official title. This was her chance to "strike two mangoes with one stone." With everything packed, they set off for the Third Zone on a horse-drawn carriage, the outdated travel facilities a reminder of how different life was here. Along the way, Sanjana took the time to gather essential herbs¡ªnot just for emergencies, but also as a way to subtly establish her presence. --- It took them half a day to reach the outskirts. Unlike the Middle Zone, the Third Zone was greener, its vast farmlands stretching like an emerald carpet. At its heart lay the farmers¡¯ fields, brimming with life. Lord Sun showered his kindness here, nurturing the trees heavy with fruit, fields rich with pulses, and pastures lush with greenery. The entire landscape resembled a vibrant oasis. Everywhere she looked, life thrived in harmony. Farmers worked their fields, their hands moving with practiced ease as they sang folk songs in rhythm with the cuckoos¡¯ calls. Children ran about, laughing, their carefree energy blending into the melody of the land. A little farther ahead, carpenters skillfully shaped wood into fine creations, while blacksmiths, drenched in sweat, struck red-hot metal with heavy hammers, sending sparks dancing into the air like fireflies. Potters molded mother earth with gentle hands, spinning clay into wonders, while women carried those earthen vessels to fetch water. Their voices rose in laughter and teasing banter, so intertwined with the rippling water that it was hard to tell whether it was the women or the water itself that was laughing. Sanjana observed it all in quiet contemplation. The true creators of the Sun Kingdom lived here¡ªsimply, happily, in tune with the land¡ªwhile the users, who basked in their labor, lived extravagantly, yet their faces hardened with calculations, unsatisfaction and competitive stress. --- After meeting with the in-charge of the Third Zone, conveying their purpose, and receiving his approval, they set up their camp. The sight of it immediately drew a crowd, curiosity and anticipation shining in the eyes of the people who gathered around. Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator. --- The gathered crowd in the third zone murmured with curiosity, their eyes filled with both hope and skepticism. It wasn¡¯t every day that a doctor came to their forsaken corner of the world. Sanjana stood before them, her voice steady yet warm. ¡°This medical camp is for all of you. Your health matters. We are here to provide check-ups, medicines, and assistance for those in need.¡± A ripple of gratitude passed through some of the listeners. An elderly woman, her face lined with hardship, spoke with quiet astonishment, ¡°No one has ever cared about our health before. If we need a doctor, we must travel to the middle zone¡ªif we can afford it. No doctor has ever come here.¡± But before the sentiment could spread, a young man¡¯s scoffing voice cut through the crowd. ¡°Soori,¡± someone whispered, already bracing for trouble. With arms crossed and a cynical smirk, Soori tilted his head. ¡°There¡¯s no measurement of suffering, only the measurement of money when choosing a customer, right, doctor?¡± His voice carried sharpness, his words laced with bitter amusement. ¡°Don¡¯t live in delusions, friends. These days, even the sun shines brighter through the casements of the upper class while brushing past our withered windows.¡± A sudden silence settled over the crowd. The weight of his words lingered in the air. Unbeknownst to Soori, a certain man among them clenched his wrist so tightly that his veins stood out, his jaw tightening as if suppressing something. Before the tension could thicken, a commanding voice intervened. ¡°Enough, Soori,¡± the leader of the third zone said firmly, stepping forward. His presence alone was enough to quiet most of the murmuring. ¡°Don¡¯t speak nonsense. It was the fallen great sun, Jothir Bhanu¡¯s grace, that allowed us to take part in the government entrance exams. Look at Minister Arkan¡ªour pride. Food and supplies are reaching us as they should. What more do you expect? Why tarnish the name of the sun publicly?¡± Soori let out a short, hollow laugh. ¡°The government exams?¡± he echoed, his tone dripping with irony. ¡°Yes, they¡¯ve shown us their ¡®kindness,¡¯ haven¡¯t they? What a joke.¡± He turned to the crowd, his expression dark with resentment. ¡°How can a child who is only now learning A, B, C, and D as the first generation compete with those raised under the wings of former ministers? I heard from a merchant in the second zone¡ªfirst-zone kids have libraries, schools, universities. What do we have? Nothing.¡± He sneered. ¡°But of course, the great ranked doctors rush to serve the upper zones at their beck and call. Tell me, how many of you here have ever been treated by a ranked doctor?¡± Silence followed. The uncomfortable kind. His gaze flickered toward Sanjana. ¡°And what about you, ma¡¯am?¡± His smirk deepened. ¡°You¡¯re probably just a newbie, aren¡¯t you?¡± Sanjana opened her mouth, but before she could respond, a sharp voice rang out. ¡°Watch your mouth, boy!¡± It was one of Sanjana¡¯s attendants, her face flushed with anger. ¡°Your resentment is understandable, but don¡¯t you dare judge everyone the same way. Our lady here may not be a ranked doctor yet, but let me tell you something¡ªtwo days ago, a noble lady struggled with a difficult labor because of her oversized fetus. Even a ranked doctor was helpless, but our young lady intervened and safely delivered the baby.¡± She took a step closer, fire in her eyes. ¡°You stand here crying about inequality while judging people by their rank? What an irony!¡± A stunned silence followed. The crowd whispered amongst themselves, glancing at Sanjana with newfound awe. Soori, for all his sharp tongue, looked genuinely taken aback. Sanjana felt her face warm. The situation itself wasn¡¯t an issue¡ªshe could handle criticism. But being publicly defended like this? That made her feel¡­ shy. Technically, the incident was true. But the ranked doctor had been her teacher. That was the only reason she had been allowed to step in. If it had been anyone else in her position, they wouldn¡¯t have even been permitted to stand near the noblewoman, let alone treat her. She knew the weight of ranking all too well. Clearing her throat lightly, she composed herself. ¡°Knowing politics is important,¡± she said, her voice calm but firm, ¡°but knowing health is even more important. Form a line, come one by one, and I will assess and prescribe medicines accordingly. If anyone at home is too sick to move, give their address to my assistant¡ªI will visit them myself.¡± She paused before adding, ¡°Thank you.¡± That seemed to ease the tension. The crowd, including Soori, hesitated for a moment before slowly forming a line. The skepticism hadn¡¯t fully faded, but curiosity and necessity had won over. One by one, they began voicing their health concerns. Sanjana let out a quiet breath, steadying herself. The real work was just beginning. The Commanding Stranger The medical camp was bustling with activity. A long queue of people waited eagerly, seeking relief from their ailments. Dr. Sanjana, along with her team of assistants, worked tirelessly¡ªassessing patients, providing medical advice, prescribing diets, and educating them about hygiene. To some, she handed pre-prepared medicines; to others, she instructed her assistants to prepare instant remedies. And for a few, she took out the herbs she had gathered along the way, demonstrating their uses and teaching them where to find them. She mingled seamlessly with the people, her demeanor shifting as needed. To those who required care, she offered gentle compassion. To those who needed discipline, her tone sharpened, infused with a firm resolve. When necessary, she scolded people for their harmful habits, her words laced with a stern warning that sometimes even instilled fear. Yet, she also provided hope, lightening the mood with occasional gossip to better understand the people''s lives and struggles. As she observed, she realized something unsettling¡ªdespite being in the suburbs, where she expected to see numerous children, the number was surprisingly low. Was it due to the influence of higher-class trends? Or was it simply the nature of the Solar Kingdom¡¯s people, many of whom remained single, focusing solely on their careers? Even among married couples, the desire to prioritize work over raising children was evident. Combined with inadequate medical services, this trend had led to a drastic decline in birth rates. While she was lost in contemplation, she remained oblivious to two pairs of eyes watching her closely. One gaze held awe mixed with guilt. The other burned with fiery passion¡ªan unspoken intensity beyond mere admiration. The owner of the former gaze decided to take action. As Sanjana was bent over, assessing an elderly woman, a rough, sun-kissed hand wearing a copper bracelet entered her field of vision, holding a tumbler of water. She blinked in mild surprise before looking up. Soori. ¡°Take a break before you collapse, ma¡¯am,¡± he said gruffly, his voice carrying an uncharacteristic softness. Amusement flickered in Sanjana¡¯s eyes as she accepted the tumbler with an arched brow. ¡°Oh?¡± she mused, tilting her head. ¡°You do have a kind side, after all.¡± Behind him, his gang had already begun distributing refreshments to the rest of her team. The sight made her lips curl into a small, genuine smile. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said. At the same time, he muttered, ¡°Sorry.¡± Their gazes locked, the words colliding in the air. Then, almost in sync, they looked away, a chuckle escaping them both. The atmosphere around them softened, the initial tension giving way to something warmer, more familiar. This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. She had already developed a quiet respect for Soori¡ªthe boy who observed everything with a sharp eye and had the courage to voice his thoughts. Though reckless and defiant, his willingness to make amends showed promise. To Soori, she had become an almost mythical figure¡ªan idol he hadn¡¯t realized he needed. But amidst this tranquil moment, an unseen heart clenched painfully. As if mirroring the turmoil within, the sun began its slow descent, the golden hues dimming further. The peaceful scene was shattered by the sound of hurried gallops. A man on horseback rushed toward them, shouting, ¡°Soori! Hurry back home¡ªSis Aavya is in labor!¡± Soori¡¯s face paled. ¡°What? When?¡± ¡°Just five minutes before I set off!¡± the young man exclaimed as he dismounted. Sanjana immediately stepped forward. ¡°How far is she?¡± The man hesitated, casting a quick glance at Soori, as if unsure whether to answer. Soori, still shaken, took a breath before introducing her. ¡°She¡¯s a doctor. She came here to help.¡± With that, the man quickly responded, ¡°About an hour¡¯s ride from here.¡± Sanjana frowned. ¡°That¡¯s too long. We don¡¯t have time to find another carriage at this hour. Take ours. I¡¯ll come along in case of an emergency. Sometimes, labor pains can be false alarms. If we act fast, we might reach before the real contractions begin.¡± The man scratched the back of his head. ¡°Sister Aavya lives in the nearby village, but we have to cross a small mountain. The path is too narrow for a carriage.¡± Sanjana¡¯s stomach dropped. ¡°Oh my God,¡± she breathed. ¡°Then what do we do? A woman in labor riding a horse for an hour is not an option!¡± Soori clenched his jaw, looking helpless for the first time. Just as a tense silence settled over them, a deep, commanding voice cut through the air. ¡°I can help.¡± The sheer authority in those three words made every head turn. Sanjana followed their gazes and froze. A man¡ªtaller than Soori by at least a foot¡ªstood before them. His sharp, chiseled features were accentuated by the dying sunlight, his presence almost too striking to be real. His eyes, razor-sharp and piercing, seemed to dissect everything in sight. He wore a white, collarless half-sleeved shirt, fastened only at the center by a simple brown thread. The upper portion hung loose, revealing a half-glowing chest that reminded her of the copper fort of the Sun Kingdom itself. His broad, muscular frame radiated raw strength, exuding an effortless dominance that demanded obedience. ¡°We have seven horses,¡± he stated, his tone leaving no room for argument. ¡°Two riders per horse. Doctor and her assistants make five. The extra two horses can carry medical supplies. You can ride with a friend. Let¡¯s not waste time.¡± It wasn¡¯t a suggestion. It was a decree. For a moment, everyone stood in stunned silence before his men sprang into action. It wasn¡¯t until then that Sanjana snapped back to reality. Wait. Two people per horse? She turned to her assistants, all of whom shook their heads vigorously. None of them knew how to ride. What now? Before she could think, a strong, calloused hand stretched toward her. ¡°Let me help you,¡± the deep voice murmured. Her gaze shot up, meeting the man¡¯s penetrating eyes. Her breath hitched. For the first time in her life, she felt shy. She had seen handsome men before¡ªSam, Ishaan, Soori, even Kavin lying unconscious. But this man¡­ he was different. He wasn¡¯t just attractive; he was overwhelmingly male. A living embodiment of strength and power. The thought of sitting so close to him for an entire hour made her heart race uncomfortably. Get a grip, Sanjana! Biting the inside of her cheek, she forced herself to move, hesitantly placing her hand in his. Effortlessly, he lifted her. For a moment, she felt as if she were floating¡ªweightless in the air. The sensation sent an unfamiliar rush through her. As she settled onto the horse, two firm hands gripped her shoulders. His voice, deep yet surprisingly gentle, brushed against her ear. ¡°Are you alright? Comfortable?¡± She swallowed. Words failed her. She merely nodded. The warmth of his hands lingered a moment longer before he withdrew. ¡°We¡¯re leaving now,¡± he announced. ¡°If you feel unsteady, lean on me.¡± Lean on him? Oh, dear. Sanjana took a shaky breath. ¡°Okay,¡± she managed. As the horses surged forward, she clutched the reins tightly, trying to ignore the strong, steady presence behind her. The journey had begun. And so had something else¡ªsomething far more dangerous than the road ahead. Stirrups and Stirrings Sanjana clutched the reins tightly, hoping the thunderous gallop of the horses would mask the wild beating of her heart. Then she felt it¡ªtwo strong hands gripping the reins alongside hers. She glanced down, and realization struck. This position¡­ It was almost an embrace. No, it was 75% a hug, wasn''t it? The warmth of him on either side, his presence engulfing her without crossing any boundaries. She shut her eyes, trying to suppress the chaotic thoughts flooding her mind. But that only made things worse. Now, she could hear his deep, measured breathing, feel the slight shift of his muscles as he adjusted the reins. Frustrated, she forced herself to focus on the road ahead. But her mind betrayed her, drifting back to him¡ªthe way he spoke, the way he carried himself, the way he extended his hand like a true gentleman. No unwanted touches. No unnecessary words. Nothing she could dismiss as ¡®just another man.¡¯ And that was precisely the problem. No, this won¡¯t do. If this continued for another hour, she would forget all the carefully studied treatment procedures she needed to serve. She¡¯d stand there, dumbfounded, instead of tending to Aavya. Determined to ground herself, she retreated into her mental abode. To her surprise, the Destiny Chamber had a new quest notification: Side Quest: Help Aavya successfully give birth. Success Rewards: ? Reputation Increase: +10% ? An Eternal Sister ¨C Chayya (Ability Unknown) ? New Ability ¨C Pathosight Failure Consequences: ? Reputation Decrease: -5% Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. Accept or Reject? Sanjana barely hesitated. How could she turn away from someone in need? With a firm nod, she chose Accept. A quick glance at the Karma Chamber showed a surge in the blue meter. Was that a good or bad sign? She made a mental note to discuss it with Sam later. For now, she retreated to the Accumulated Fortune Room, flipping through her mental collection of medical books until she finally found some peace. --- A slight jolt shook her back to reality. Her eyes fluttered open, only to meet a pair of fire-lit eyes staring straight into hers. For a fleeting moment, she felt like she was still dreaming. Her gaze traced downward¡ªthe high nose bridge, sharp and proud, like the slopes of the Solar Kingdom¡¯s mountains. No wonder even the great Lord Sun loves to fell for them at dusk. She exhaled softly, utterly mesmerized. ¡°So beautiful¡­¡± The words slipped out before she could stop them. A burst of laughter jolted her awake. Heat flooded her face as she realized what she¡¯d just said¡ªout loud. Shit! She hastily covered her face, but there was no hiding from this humiliation. The man responsible for her predicament, however, remained composed. ¡°Are you tired?¡± His voice was steady, as if he hadn¡¯t just heard her foolish confession. ¡°The horses can¡¯t go any further. We have to walk from here.¡± ¡°No, no, no, no!¡± The words tumbled out too fast. She winced. Too many no¡¯s, idiot. She forced herself to slow down. ¡°I mean¡ªI can walk. I¡¯m perfectly fine.¡± Without another word, he dismounted. Just as he reached to help her down, Soori brought over a horse ladder. Sanjana wasted no time climbing down, determined to maintain what little dignity she had left. Before she could dwell on it further, his voice cut through the air, sharp and authoritative. ¡°Take the horses. Find water. Feed them properly. I want them well-rested.¡± The command to his subordinates, though reasonable, carried an unmistakable edge of irritation. She turned around to look thinking what''s up with him. But the ethereal scene before her shocked her even further. The handsome stranger stood with both hands full¡ªcarrying all of their medical equipment. All of it. Stuff that had previously been strapped to two horses. Her brain short-circuited. Are you serious?! Her gaze traveled from his hands to his forearms¡ªtaut muscles, bulging veins. She swallowed hard. Her friends had gushed about a man¡¯s musculature before, but she¡¯d never given such things a second thought. Now, standing before this human embodiment of strength, every word they¡¯d said suddenly made sense. Feeling her stare, she quickly averted her gaze. Thankfully, he had walked ahead, putting some distance between them. Sanjana let out a small sigh of relief. Then, out of nowhere, an image flashed in her mind¡ªhim walking ahead of her, two children on his shoulders, two more clinging to his arms. A small, inexplicable smile played on her lips. Wait. What the hell am I thinking?! She smacked her forehead¡ªloudly. Her assistants jumped. ¡°What happened, Lady? You¡¯ve been acting weird this whole trip.¡± ¡°Can¡¯t you see? She lost something valuable,¡± one of them said sagely. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me¡ªit¡¯s our lady¡¯s heart?¡± another teased. ¡°Shut it, all of you!¡± she snapped, desperate to steer the conversation elsewhere. ¡°We have important business. Focus and walk quickly.¡± ¡°Ah, so she finally realized,¡± murmured one of them, far too smug for her liking. --- A Cry in the Dark The moment they stepped into Aavya¡¯s home, the air inside felt heavy with tension. The dimly lit room smelled of sweat, medicinal herbs, and something faintly metallic¡ªthe unmistakable scent of labor. Aavya lay on a thin mattress, her face pale and drenched in exhaustion. Her belly, though rounded, appeared smaller than expected. Azhini wasted no time. Kneeling beside the woman, she placed a steady hand on the abdomen, her fingers pressing gently but firmly. Something didn¡¯t feel right. Without hesitation, she lowered her ear directly onto the skin, listening intently. The heartbeat was there¡ªstrong and rhythmic. A relieved sigh left her lips. But the uterine height... it was lower than it should be for a full-term pregnancy. ¡°Was your last monthly period accurate?¡± Azhini asked, her voice calm but urgent. Aavya nodded weakly. ¡°Yes¡­ it was nearly ten months ago.¡± That ruled out a premature baby. That meant the baby was either small for gestational age or something more concerning. And there was no time to dwell on possibilities¡ªher water had already broken, though thankfully, it wasn¡¯t meconium-stained. No sign of distress yet. Azhini rolled up her sleeves, then reached for the bowl of water nearby. She cleansed her hands meticulously¡ªfirst with water, then soapnut solution, then again with water before finishing with alcohol. Meanwhile, her attendants sterilized her tools, passing them briefly through fire before wiping them down with alcohol-soaked cloths. ¡°We¡¯re almost there,¡± Azhini murmured as she slipped on gloves. ¡°I need to check how far along she is.¡± Aavya let out a soft whimper but nodded. Azhini performed a quick per vaginal (PV) examination¡ªseven centimeters dilated. She was already in the active phase of labor. But something felt¡­ off. Pushing her hand further, Azhini¡¯s brows furrowed. A soft, bumpy surface greeted her fingertips, but as she explored further, she froze. A mouth? But no tongue or gums¡­ Her heart skipped. Meconium-stained fluid coated her fingers when she withdrew them. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. A breech. Azhini swallowed her nerves. ¡°The baby is coming bottom-first,¡± she announced, forcing her voice to remain even. The murmurs among the attendants grew worried, but Azhini lifted a hand, silencing them. There was no room for panic. ¡°We¡¯ll manage. But we need to help the baby descend.¡± She barked a series of instructions¡ªattendants massaged Varma points, while another helped Aavya drink a carefully measured herbal concoction to aid the process. Tears mixed with sweat on the mother¡¯s face as she labored through the pain, clutching onto the hands holding her. When the cervix finally reached ten centimeters, the room held its breath. The buttocks emerged first. Azhini whispered a quick prayer. No cord prolapse. That was one hurdle cleared. Aavya gave a mighty push, and the baby¡¯s flexed legs followed. Azhini exhaled in relief. A complete breech. But the shoulders¡­ Two minutes passed. Still no movement. Azhini wiped the sweat from her brow. The longer this took, the greater the risk of hypoxia and intracranial hemorrhage. She had to act fast. ¡°Pass me the knife,¡± she ordered, voice steady despite the tension curling in her gut. A sharp, sterile blade was pressed into her palm. With precision, she performed an episiotomy, allowing more space for delivery. ¡°Push, Aavya! Just a little more!¡± Encouragement rang through the room as Azhini worked. She first attempted a gentle downward traction¡ªno luck. Gritting her teeth, she double-checked for any obstructions. No cord around the neck. Good. She grasped the baby¡¯s hips firmly, rotating him a full 180 degrees. A sharp cry rang out¡ªthe tiny arms had been freed! Azhini quickly rotated him the other way, releasing the second arm. One final step. Only the head remained inside. ¡°Supra-pubic pressure,¡± she instructed, her voice clipped but controlled. An attendant applied firm pressure above Aavya¡¯s pelvis while Azhini positioned her right hand under the baby¡¯s shoulders. Carefully, she inserted two fingers into his tiny mouth, ensuring his head remained flexed. One gentle downward pull. A brief moment of resistance¡ªthen¡ª A wail split the silence. The tension in the room shattered, replaced by gasps of relief. Azhini let out a short laugh, exhausted yet victorious. ¡°He¡¯s here,¡± she breathed. Cutting the cord with practiced efficiency, she handed the newborn to two waiting attendants. ¡°Check his vitals.¡± Moments later, a clean, swaddled baby was nestled into his mother¡¯s arms. Tears streamed freely down Aavya¡¯s face as she cradled her son, whispering soft prayers of gratitude. Azhini stood up, stretching her stiff limbs before stepping outside. The moment she did, she was met with two anxious figures¡ªSoori and the young man who had guided them here. She wiped her damp forehead and beamed. ¡°Congratulations, Soori. You have a son-in-law now.¡± Soori¡¯s mouth fell open, eyes flicking between her and the house. ¡°A tiny one, yes, but active like his mama,¡± Azhini added, amusement twinkling in her tired eyes. The young man beside Soori tensed, his hands clenched into fists. His shoulders, which had been stiff with worry, finally slumped as he let out a shaky breath. With tears brimming in his eyes, he managed a choked, ¡°Thank you.¡± Azhini simply nodded, watching as he rushed inside. She leaned against the doorway for a moment, feeling the weight of exhaustion settle in¡ªbut for now, she allowed herself a rare moment of satisfaction. Tonight, life had won. The Moon-lit Murmurs Leaning against the doorway with satisfaction, she suddenly felt a sharp, piercing headache. A searing pain shot through her skull, forcing her to clutch her head as she sank to the floor. Alarmed, a young man dashed toward her, his eyes wide with concern. He knelt beside her, supporting her, but she barely registered his presence. Her vision blurred, and then¡ª A translucent blue board materialized in front of her, flickering with a series of notifications: "Congratulations! You have succeeded in the subquest." Reward: Reputation Increase: +10% Obtained an Eternal Sister ¨C Chayya Abilities: 1. Possesses 25% of all your abilities. 2. Acts as your surrogate for seven days. 3. Can withstand heavy explosives and extreme heat. 4. Three-day cooldown after use. "Congratulations! You have obtained the ability of Pathosight." Right eye can shift between microscopic and macroscopic views. Usability: Three times per day. "Congratulations! Player has awakened the Chamber of Self." Player can now receive game update notifications. You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. Can check stats and skills in the Chamber of Self within the psychic abode. A strange weightlessness overtook her. Her body felt like it was floating. When she came to her senses, she found herself cradled in someone''s arms¡ªin a princess carry. Panic surged through her. Instinctively, she clung to him. Sensing her movement, he stopped in his tracks. His voice, laced with worry, reached her ears. "What happened to you? Does your head still hurt? Are you feeling dizzy?" The warmth in his tone softened something in her chest. She exhaled and replied, "It hurt before, but not now. Put me down, I can walk." But as if he hadn''t heard, he carried her to the stone platform beneath a sprawling Banyan tree. Only then did he gently set her down. "The fresh air will help," he said, his voice steady and calm. The scenery around them was breathtaking. The night sky stretched endlessly, free of clouds, with stars twinkling like scattered diamonds. The nearby torch cast a golden glow, painting one side of his face in warm light, while the other remained in soft shadow. A short distance away, a mountain stream flowed gently, shimmering like molten gold and silver under the moonlight. Adhitya unbuckled the leather pouch strapped to his waist and retrieved a ripe mango. He walked over to the stream, rinsed it carefully, and then pulled out a sharp knife. Watching him slice the fruit with practiced ease, Sanjana couldn¡¯t help but wonder¡ªwas that knife really just for cutting fruit? She sighed inwardly, shaking off the thought. Looking at him, she asked, "What do I call you?" He offered her a neatly cut slice as he answered, "I am Adhitya. Please don¡¯t ask anything else about me." She accepted the fruit without hesitation, a small smile playing on her lips. "I understand. Thank you for always helping me at the right time." Her expression held a deeper meaning, and she chuckled lightly as she tasted the sweet mango. "And¡­ I am Sanjana. You can ask anything about me." She said this with a generous, open expression. Adhitya let out a low chuckle. "Hahaha, that¡¯s an honor, ma¡¯am. But right now, I only want to know one thing¡ªhow hungry you are." He handed her another slice. Sanjana hesitated before taking it, a shy smile forming. "Thank you again for your chivalry, Mr. Adhitya. I had some refreshments before we set off. I¡¯m not that hungry, so you can have the rest." But when he still extended another piece, she sighed in playful exasperation, giving him a helpless look. "I need your thoughts on something, and for that, you need to have energy. So eat more," he said, his tone light yet firm. Amused, she raised an eyebrow. "Oh my, and what might that be?" His expression shifted, turning serious. The flickering torchlight reflected in his eyes, making them appear darker, more intense. "You heard Soori¡¯s talk earlier, didn¡¯t you?" Sanjana tilted her head slightly. "You mean before the camp began?" Adhitya nodded. "Yes. What¡¯s your take on it?" Sanjana leaned back slightly, thoughtful. "Mmm¡­ He wasn¡¯t wrong. The situation for the people of the Third Zone is anything but fair. The government exams aren¡¯t an equal competition either." She paused, glancing at him before continuing. "Take health issues, for example. Just last week, I helped deliver a baby for an aristocratic woman. The baby was massive, and the mother was diabetic. But here? The newborns are SGA, and the mothers are severely malnourished. You don¡¯t need advanced tests to see the difference¡ªit¡¯s obvious to the naked eye." Adhitya remained silent for a moment, absorbing her words. The crackling of the torch and the distant rush of the stream were the only sounds between them. Then, he exhaled slowly. "That¡¯s exactly what I was thinking." His tone carried an edge¡ªsomething deeper, something unresolved. "Everyone resents such rulers, right?" Adhitya¡¯s voice was calm, yet there was an edge to it. He turned the mango slice between his fingers, eyes glinting with thoughtfulness under the torchlight. "The sun can¡¯t be this biased¡­ Right? From your perspective, what could be a solution to this situation?" Sanjana leaned back slightly, gazing at the night sky as if searching for answers in the stars. "Yeah¡­ The sun can¡¯t be biased. Never." The silent Catalyst "Yeah¡­ The sun can¡¯t be biased. Never." Her voice held certainty. She took a deep breath before continuing, "This situation can be reversed, but only with carefully devised plans for the people. We need to build schools, colleges, universities, and hospitals in the Third Zone itself. Appoint carefully selected doctors and teachers so that they, too, can enjoy the knowledge and opportunities that First Zoners have. And Soori made a valid point¡ªcompetition between these two groups is unfair. Introducing reservations and incentives might help." Sanjana tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Let me explain it this way¡ªsay there are ten government seats available. If we set a 10% reservation for Third Zoners, at least one seat will be allocated to a deserving candidate from that group, even if their score is lower than the top-ranking First Zoners. This ensures they get opportunities despite systemic disadvantages." Adhitya frowned slightly, tossing the mango seed into the stream. "I understand incentives. But is it fair to deny a more qualified candidate just because of where they were born?" Sanjana exhaled, her voice calm but firm. "Fairness isn¡¯t just about individual merit. It¡¯s about correcting imbalances that have existed for generations. Third Zoners never had access to proper education, resources, or guidance like First Zoners did. If we only look at test scores, we ignore the decades of disadvantages that held them back. Reservation isn¡¯t about giving handouts¡ªit¡¯s about giving a fair starting point." Adhitya tapped the hilt of his knife against his palm, deep in thought. "Mmm¡­ Introducing something like this would definitely help them get into schools and colleges faster. Constructing new institutions will take time, but this seems like a quick remedy." His gaze drifted toward the distant mountains, where the mist curled around the peaks. "Soori¡¯s words hold truth, but his voice won¡¯t travel beyond this territory. This, however¡­ this could give them empowerment. Their thoughts, skills, and knowledge could contribute to the nation''s growth. It really seems like a good idea¡­ A bridge between the First and Third Zones." Sanjana suddenly noticed him looking at her intently. "Why are you staring at me like that?" A small smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. "You¡¯re brilliant." Heat crept up her neck, and she waved a dismissive hand. ("I only explained an age-old practice of my own time and history, but now, in a certain someone''s eyes, I¡¯ve become a real Ambedkar. What do I do with this guilt of plagiarism?") She let out a nervous chuckle. "Hehehe. These aren¡¯t my original thoughts, you see. They belong to a great, great, great ancestor of ours." Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator. Adhitya tilted his head. "Is that so? I¡¯ve never heard of it." Sanjana shrugged, thinking to herself, ("Naturally, you wouldn¡¯t.") "Where did you learn all this?" he pressed. Sanjana stiffened. "Uh¡­ um¡­" She cleared her throat and forced a grin. "Well, my brother travels a lot. He once went to the Lunar Kingdom and studied their ancient poetry manuscripts. He taught me everything he learned!" She let out an awkward laugh. At that very moment, miles away, in the Second Zone, Ishaan sneezed¡ªcompletely unaware of the storm his own sister had just unleashed. Adhitya, intrigued, leaned forward slightly. "Ohhh¡­ But there¡¯s a problem with this idea, don¡¯t you think?" Sanjana raised an eyebrow. "What problem?" "The First Zoners will strongly oppose such schemes. It will be their turn to claim that the sun is biased." Sanjana exhaled, tilting her face toward the sky. "That¡¯s inevitable. But look at it this way¡ªright now, it''s nighttime. Can we call it unfair? The sun hasn¡¯t disappeared; it has simply moved to the opposite side, showering its warmth elsewhere. We¡¯re just waiting for our turn. A true decision-maker¡ªa king¡ªcan never be completely kind. Any decision made for one group will inevitably hurt another." She turned to face Adhitya, her eyes gleaming. "That¡¯s why we represent Lord Surya as ¡®Arai Subhar¡¯¡ªhalf good. Because only someone who is half-good to both sides can be a true leader. Being fair isn¡¯t about pleasing everyone; it¡¯s about balancing the scales. And Reservation is not a permanent concept it''s a temporary social levelling tool." Adhitya¡¯s fingers tightened around the knife¡¯s hilt, his expression shifting as if something inside him had just snapped into place. "Being half-good to both¡­" he murmured. His eyes darkened, lost in deep contemplation. Sanjana frowned. "Hey¡­ What¡¯s up with that look? It¡¯s kind of scary." Adhitya let out a chuckle, shaking his head. "Haha, don¡¯t mind me. Carry on." Sanjana hesitated before speaking again. "First of all, the Zones must be abolished. People should be free to live wherever they choose. Let them mingle. Let them learn about each other. Ignorance and curiosity are equally dangerous diseases¡ªonly knowledge can cure them. If First Zoners understand the struggles of Third Zoners, and Third Zoners overcome their fear of First Zoners, trust will naturally follow. And once that happens¡­ I believe they will embrace each other." Adhitya studied her closely. "Do you really think that will happen?" Sanjana sighed, her thoughts drifting to the endless conflicts that still existed in her own time. Even now, people fought over caste, status, and power. "I don¡¯t know," she admitted softly. "Normally, people do¡­ if we eliminate the shadows that cloud their hearts." Adhitya¡¯s gaze turned distant. "Shadows¡­ they are always variables." His mind was elsewhere now, lost in a maze of thoughts. Sanjana narrowed her eyes. "What now?" Adhitya exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Nothing. It¡¯s getting late. You should go inside and rest." She nodded, standing up and dusting off her robes. But a strange unease lingered in her chest. ("Why do I feel like¡­ if I go to sleep now, I won¡¯t see him again?") She turned back abruptly. "Hey! Be careful on your way." Adhitya chuckled. "Is it that obvious?" Sanjana shrugged, offering him a small smile. "Goodbye, then." As she turned to leave, his voice stopped her. "Sanjana." She glanced over her shoulder. "What?" His eyes held an unreadable intensity. "I didn¡¯t tell you much about myself yet. But... Try not to forget me." Sanjana let out a soft laugh. "Forget you? A man as mysterious as you? Not a chance. You''ll be a legend in the bedtime stories I tell my children." Adhitya stared at her for a long moment. Then, out of nowhere, he smacked his forehead with his palm. She blinked. "What¡¯s that for?" His voice was quieter this time. "I¡¯m sorry, but¡­ have you... Perhaps... already found your sun?" Sanjana smiled mischievously, stepping backward. "Aren¡¯t you in a hurry? Go on. If we meet again¡­ I¡¯ll tell you." Adhitya exhaled, shaking his head with a small smirk. "I¡¯ll wait, then. See you." Sanjana nodded. "Yeah. See you." As she walked away, she had a strange feeling¡ªlike she had just witnessed the beginning of something f ar greater than herself. And behind her, Adhitya watched until she disappeared into the night. Through the Eyes of the Heir Date: 1015, May, 23. The first light of dawn stretched across the sky, painting it in hues of deep orange and soft gold. A thin veil of mist still clung to the palace gardens, reluctant to part as the warmth of the rising sun touched the land. From beyond the high walls, the distant calls of waking birds echoed through the courtyards, their melodies blending with the rhythmic chant of temple bells. The quiet murmur of palace servants preparing for the day formed a soft backdrop as Prince Adhitya Vivasvanthan stepped out onto the marble balcony of his chambers. The cool morning breeze stirred his obsidian eyes, carrying with it the lingering chill of the night. He inhaled deeply, letting the crisp air ground him before turning toward the grand mirror before him. The heavy gold ornaments adorning his body caught the soft morning light¡ªeach piece a symbol of his lineage, his duty, his kingdom. Yet, as he removed them one by one, placing them carefully on the carved wooden table beside him, he felt a strange sense of relief. Stripped of his princely adornments, he fastened the simple white shirt over his frame, tying it at the front with a sturdy brown thread. A leather pouch bag settled at his waist, its familiar weight grounding him. The sharp glint of his knife caught his eye as he secured it to his belt. Today, he was not the Prince of the Solar Kingdom. Today, he was just Adhitya, a man seeking clarity in a kingdom clouded by tensions. His grandfather¡¯s words echoed in his mind: "The sun cannot be biased, lil¡¯ one. You must have a vision that includes every nook and corner of this kingdom and plans for the well-being of all." King Jothir Bhanu had ruled with unshaken fairness, but even on his deathbed, he had whispered regrets¡ªuncertainty over whether he had truly achieved his dream of an equal kingdom. Under his father¡¯s rule, everything moved as it should, yet Adhitya couldn¡¯t ignore the lingering unease. The undercurrents of discord, the weight of unspoken grievances¡­ and every time Arkan entered the great hall, the uncomfortable shift in the air was impossible to ignore. If he was to rule one day, he needed to understand. He needed to see with his own eyes where everything had begun. With quiet resolve, he descended from his chambers. His men were already prepared, their horses restless, their eyes sharp with unspoken questions. But there was no need for words. Adhitya mounted his horse, gripping the reins firmly. The golden light of morning bathed the palace behind him as they set off. This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. Without knowing that a sun was waiting for him at the end of this journey¡ªto illuminate his clouded mind. --- The Third Zone stretched before them, vast and untamed. Unlike the well-structured cities of the inner zones, this land bore the weight of survival on its shoulders. Crops stood resilient against the wind, the people moved with quiet determination, and the air carried a sense of defiance¡ªan unspoken promise that they would endure, no matter how the world shifted around them. Adhitya rode ahead, his sharp gaze sweeping the landscape. Behind him, his men followed in disciplined silence, their presence like a shadow of authority in a land that had learned to distrust it. A scout approached, quick and efficient, bowing slightly before delivering his report. ¡°Your Highness, a medical campaign has been set up nearby.¡± Adhitya raised a brow. ¡°A campaign? For medicines?¡± His tone held mild amusement. ¡°What¡¯s their motive?¡± The scout hesitated for a fraction before replying, ¡°Uncertain, sir. But the doctor in charge reportedly said that coming to the environment of those who are suffering is necessary for a doctor to assess the root cause. That a mere prescription cannot be based on disease alone, because each person is shaped by their surroundings.¡± A murmur passed through his men. Even in Adhitya¡¯s own mind, the words lingered longer than they should have. It was¡­ an interesting perspective. And wasn¡¯t it eerily close to the reason for his own visit here? Still, he scoffed lightly. ¡°Don¡¯t be fooled by his words,¡± he said, his tone even. ¡°We live in an era of shadows. This could just be a clever tactic to promote a clinic.¡± He tilted his head slightly, considering. ¡°Though¡­ as far as tactics go, it¡¯s an effective one.¡± His men nodded in agreement. Then, a younger soldier, one of the more eager ones, spoke up, his expression oddly dreamy. ¡°Sir, it¡¯s not he but she.¡± Adhitya barely had time to process that before another soldier, more composed, added, ¡°She is the second child of Arun Prabhu¡ªthe son of the former Minister of Food and Supplies.¡± That name pulled Adhitya¡¯s focus sharply. Arun Prabhu? A man who had once stood at the pinnacle of the First Zone¡¯s political elite, only to be overshadowed by Arkan¡ªa minister of Third Zone origins who had outperformed many, securing a higher post. Because of that, Arun Prabhu had lost everything. His position, his prestige, and even his personal life had crumbled under the weight of his downfall. He had been ridiculed, his marriage had collapsed, and now he lived in the Second Zone instead of the First. And now¡­ his daughter was here? In the Third Zone? Suspicion curled in Adhitya¡¯s mind. A girl from a family that had once been at the heart of the elite, now standing among those they had once ruled over¡ªoffering medical aid? It was either an act of rebellion¡­ or a deception. Before he could voice his thoughts, the younger soldier, still dazed, added, ¡°And she¡¯s very pretty.¡± That broke the tension. Laughter erupted among the men as they elbowed him, jeering playfully. ¡°Ah, now we see why you¡¯re so interested!¡± one teased. ¡°You saw a beauty and lost your mind, huh?¡± The young soldier crossed his arms. ¡°I only stated facts,¡± he muttered, earning another round of chuckles. Adhitya, however, remained silent, his thoughts shifting. The daughter of Arun Prabhu. What was she really doing here? He reined in his horse, eyes dark with intrigue. ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± he ordered. ¡°I want to see this ¡®campaign¡¯ for myself.¡± The laughter died down, and in an instant, his men fell back into disciplined formation. As they rode toward the camp, one thought echoed in Adhitya ¡¯s mind. Let¡¯s see just what kind of person this doctor really is. The Suns Silent Orbit Adhitya stood at the edge of the gathering, his posture deceptively at ease, his obsidian eyes fixed on the scene before him. His men were scattered throughout¡ªsome observing curiously, others feigning disinterest¡ªbut he alone stood unmoving, his fingers lightly brushing the hilt of his sword as if tethering himself to reality. Soori, the young man whose voice had sliced through the murmuring crowd like a blade, stood rigid, his arms crossed in defiance. "There¡¯s no measurement of suffering¡ªonly the measurement of money when choosing a customer, right, doctor?" There was bitterness in his voice. A resentment nurtured by years of watching his people struggle. Adhitya had heard such accusations before¡ªwhispered in the dark alleys of the third zone, where suspicion was second nature. But here, among the very people who bore those whispers in their flesh and bones, the weight of Soori¡¯s words landed differently. His fingers curled into his palm, his wrist tightening until his veins stood out against his skin. He forced himself to relax. Reacting wouldn¡¯t serve him here. He needed to listen. To understand. But the doctor did not react as expected. She neither flinched nor countered with sharp words. Instead, she regarded Soori with an unreadable calm. Not the artificial, disciplined rigidity of higher officials in court, but something deeper¡ªsomething built from experience. Adhitya felt a strange sense of intrigue. A pull toward deciphering the layers in her composed expression. At first, it was careful listening. Then understanding. And then, admiration. But what was there to admire in someone who was being shouted at? Could it be because of him that she was here, camping in this forsaken place without his father¡¯s knowledge? Could it be the start of a legendary love story that would overturn the kingdom¡¯s rigid traditions? The thought irritated him in a way nothing else ever had. Soori¡¯s outbursts had never mattered before¡ªnot when he hurled accusations at their family¡¯s governance, not when he stood on makeshift platforms stirring unrest. But now? Now, Adhitya found himself watching¡ªnot Soori, but her. Watching for the flicker of admiration in her eyes, watching for the possibility that another man¡¯s words might mean something to her. Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. His jaw tightened. Then, the unexpected happened. One of the doctor¡¯s attendants¡ªfierce and unyielding¡ªspoke up, fire burning in her voice as she defended her lady. The sharpness in her words, the undeniable truth in her argument, momentarily silenced Soori. Loyalty like that was not something easily earned. And for the first time, the doctor¡¯s expression shifted¡ªjust slightly. A flicker of gratitude toward her attendant. And then, she spoke. "Knowing politics is important. But knowing health is even more important." Her voice was neither loud nor low, neither sharp nor placating. It was steady, well-articulated. A voice that commanded attention without demanding submission. It had the precision of a scalpel¡ªcutting, but never reckless. There was no attempt to pacify Soori¡¯s resentment, only a simple, undeniable truth. Adhitya felt something shift inside him. "She isn¡¯t without hope." A small smile lingered at the edge of his lips. And then, she moved. She wove through the gathered people with an ease that made it seem as if she belonged there. The shift in her demeanor was subtle yet profound. She was no longer just a figure of quiet strength¡ªshe became something more. Something seamless. His eyes followed her movements¡ªthe way she carried herself through the crowd, effortlessly adapting between individuals and groups. Then, they focused on the smaller things: The way she tucked in an unruly strand of hair without a second thought. The way her eyes softened with empathy one moment, then sharpened with strictness the next. The way her lips pressed together when she was genuinely angry about the people''s self-destructive habits. The way she laughed with children, a rare lightness breaking through the weight of her responsibilities. She never lost composure, yet she was never distant. She knew when to divert gossip into meaningful discussions and when to let it be. She knew what to pick and process from the outpouring of grievances. She knew how to listen. And Adhitya found himself unable to look away. Meanwhile, his men were far less captivated. Some had wandered off to rest, while others engaged in idle teasing. "So? How¡¯s your heart, Bhaskar?" One of them smirked, nudging a sulking subordinate. "Broken," Bhaskar grumbled. "I was prepared to fight for her heart, but how does one fight the sun itself? The gods are cruel, my friends." The group erupted into laughter. Even though they laughed and eased the pain of their brother they couldn''t help but sympathiesed him. In the Solar Kingdom, one did not simply take an interest in another. There were no fleeting affections, no temporary companionships. If one''s heart was claimed, it was for life. If their Sun was out of reach, they were expected to remain in the shadows¡ªalone. There were no second loves. No alternatives. No exceptions. It was why many remained single, why their kingdom¡¯s population dwindled despite its vast lands. They could just ask, clarify, help even tease because it was their buddy Bhaskar but no one, however, dared to direct such questions toward Adhitya himself. They knew better. Even those tempted to fake an illness just to be treated by the doctor hesitated. The prince had strictly prohibited it. And besides¡ªhe was certain that even if they tried, she would see through them in an instant. While the others found rest, their young prince did not. His curiosity refused to settle. Love which is truly injurious to every one. Tch. As the saying goes, even if love remains silent, the rival never does. Something far more troublesome unfolded before their eyes. That damned Soori¡ªclearly harboring a death wish¡ªhad the audacity to interrupt the lady while she was tending to her patient. And with nothing but a mere glass of water, he had somehow managed to reconcile with her. They spoke with ease, their conversation flowing naturally, the tension from before seemingly forgotten. And then, to make matters worse, they laughed¡ªtogether. The prince¡¯s men shifted uncomfortably. Comparing their own prince¡ªwho had yet to even show his face to the lady¡ªto this boy, Soori was undeniably scoring points. None of them dared to turn around to gauge their prince¡¯s reaction. There was no need. The heat radiating from where he stood was enough to tell them everything. They sighed in unison. The kings Gambit The medical camp bustled with life, yet Adhitya barely registered the crowd. His attention was locked onto one person¡ªthe woman who moved seamlessly between the patients, her voice shifting from firm to gentle, her hands working tirelessly to heal. Dr. Sanjana. She was unlike any woman he had ever encountered. There was no pretense in her actions, no exaggerated kindness for show. Every word she spoke had weight; every command she gave was met with swift obedience. Even Soori, the reckless boy with a sharp tongue, seemed drawn to her like a moth to a flame. And that was precisely what unsettled Adhitya. For the first time in his life, he found himself¡­ jealous. A foreign emotion, one that he neither welcomed nor knew how to handle. The sight of her eyes, warm with admiration as she looked at Soori, twisted something deep within him. He was not one to compete for anyone¡¯s attention¡ªnever had he needed to. Yet now, an unfamiliar urge surged through him. She was going to be the first and last. That realization struck him with force. He had never considered courting anyone before, never felt the need. But for her, he would fight¡ªeven if he did not yet know how. And then, fate presented an opportunity. The moment the messenger arrived, announcing the emergency, Adhitya saw his chance. Without hesitation, he stepped forward. His voice, steady and authoritative, cut through the chaos. ¡°I can help.¡± You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. The words were not merely an offer but a decision¡ªa declaration. He had already planned everything before they even turned to look at him. He watched as Sanjana¡¯s mind worked rapidly, considering the situation. He could see her hesitance when it came to riding. His sharp gaze caught the small, fleeting glances she cast at Soori, at her assistants. She didn¡¯t know how to ride. And neither did they. Anticipating her dilemma, he did something he had never done for a woman before. He extended his hand toward her. And then, he waited. At first, it was merely a test of patience. But as the seconds stretched, he felt the first sting of embarrassment. Would she refuse him? Would she prefer Soori instead? His heart pounded, but not a flicker of emotion showed on his face. Years of training as a future king had taught him to mask his thoughts, to never reveal weakness. Today, he silently thanked his tutors for that invaluable lesson. If not for them, he might have been visibly flustered¡ªa thought he could not even begin to accept. But then¡ªfinally¡ªher hand slipped into his. A rush of emotion swelled within him, so potent that he almost faltered. He had never felt something quite like it before¡ªthis quiet, inexplicable joy. For the first time in his life, he had wanted something purely for himself. And now, he had it. He pulled her up effortlessly, catching the slight tremor in her frame. She was unbalanced. Because of him. A deep satisfaction settled in his chest. He had never derived pleasure from another¡¯s weakness, but this was different. This was her¡ªthe woman who had unknowingly changed something in him. Controlling the involuntary smile that threatened to form was the hardest part. But after a moment, he stopped trying. As the horses surged forward, her warmth pressed against his chest, her uncertain grip tightening on the reins. Suddenly a mischievous thought sprouted in his mind. Before he could stop himself, the words tumbled out¡ªsmooth, casual, almost teasing. ¡°If you feel unsteady, lean on me.¡± The moment they left his lips, he bit the inside of his cheek. What if she snapped back with one of her prickly remarks? What if she scowled, called him shameless, and pushed herself away? What if¡ª Gods forbid¡ªshe wanted to get off the horse entirely? Adhitya stiffened, bracing himself. This woman was more than capable of doing all that and worse. He was anticipating her reaction. Not with dread¡ªbut with a strange, unfamiliar excitement. Since when had he become like this? If any of his subordinates had taken advantage of a chivalrous act with such a remark, he would have been the first to reprimand them. Yet here he was, barely suppressing an amused smirk. And then, just as his thoughts threatened to spiral further¡ª A hesitant, airy ¡°Okay.¡± His heart thudded with quiet triumph. Thus the journey had begun. And so had something far more dangerous. So Beautiful... Wait, What?! The horses galloped through the night, their rhythmic strides steady against the earth. The air carried the scent of rain-soaked soil and distant embers. Yet, despite the cool breeze, warmth pressed against him¡ªsmall, steady, undeniably present. Sanjana. She had been restless at first, fingers tightening and loosening around the reins, shifting every so often. He had sensed her inner turmoil, though he neither knew nor cared to know what troubled her. Until she went still. The sudden change had him glancing down, only to be met with an unexpected sight. She was asleep. Adhitya¡¯s hold on the reins faltered for the briefest second. She had fallen asleep. Here. Now. In his presence. His immediate thought was logical¡ªHow could she sleep in this situation? A midnight ride, with a stranger, on an unknown path? Either she was far too trusting, or she was so exhausted that even logic had abandoned her. His second thought was far less reasonable. Wait¡­ did I lose my charm? Most women¡ªno, all women¡ªwho ever stood near him either avoided his gaze entirely or turned into a flustered mess. Yet here she was, nestled in his arms, snoring softly. Is she¡­ treating me like an elder brother or something? A strange sense of crisis crept up his spine. He frowned, stealing another glance at her. Her face was serene, completely at peace. That didn¡¯t help his predicament. A small part of him was pleased¡ªa very small part. She wasn¡¯t guarded against him. That meant, at some level, she trusted him. But another part of him? Utterly offended. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Was he aging? Was he becoming one of those ¡®safe¡¯ older men women saw as non-threatening? He hadn¡¯t even reached his prime yet! His lips parted, half-tempted to wake her up and demand an explanation. Then, her head shifted slightly, her forehead grazing his chest. He inhaled sharply. No. It was better if she didn¡¯t wake up right now. The logical part of his brain finally caught up. This isn¡¯t safe. A lone woman, sleeping defenselessly in the presence of a man she barely knew? What if he were someone else? Someone with bad intentions? His brows furrowed as he studied her again. He had seen exhaustion before. This wasn¡¯t just ordinary fatigue. Her breathing was deep, her muscles relaxed like someone who had burned through every ounce of their energy. The place had finally come. The horses couldn¡¯t go any further¡ªthey had to walk from here. Adhitya, still reluctant, took a slow breath before gently shaking her by the shoulders. Her eyelashes fluttered open, delicate and slow. Would this be how the first blossom of a flower looked? he wondered, momentarily dazed. Her eyes were different now¡ªnothing like the sharp, piercing gaze she had while treating patients. Those eyes had already managed to shake his composure before. But these eyes? Oh, my goodness¡­ They were unruly, lazy, as if she hadn¡¯t yet returned fully to reality. And worst of all, they didn¡¯t stay still. First, they locked onto his eyes¡ªdirect, unapologetic. Then, slowly, they traveled downward. Adhitya stiffened. What¡­ was this? No woman had ever dared to look at him like this before. His presence alone either made them nervous or cautious. Even the fiercest of warrior women and high-ranking officials barely met his gaze. But she? She was openly¡­ admiring him? Like he was some kind of masterpiece? A flicker of anger sparked. But then, just as quickly, every single one of his previous worries about his charm disappeared into thin air. I was worried I¡¯d lost my appeal? What a joke. If anything, he now had irrefutable proof that his presence still held power. A strange sense of satisfaction settled in his chest. But just as he started feeling smug, reality hit him like a hammer. Hang on. Shouldn¡¯t I be the one making her flustered? Shouldn¡¯t I be the one looking at her like this, forcing her gaze away in embarrassment? Why is this happening in reverse?! And just when he thought this couldn''t get any worse¡ª ¡°So beautiful¡­¡± She said it. She actually said it. Out loud. And not in a whisper. No. It was loud enough for the people around them to hear. Adhitya froze. His entire body screamed to facepalm, but the laughter around him only fueled his horror. Heads turned. Including Soori¡¯s. I am never hearing the end of this. But instead of feeling humiliated, something strange happened. The embarrassment morphed into a twisted sense of achievement. By the time she fully woke up and realized what had happened, he had somehow managed to even out his voice, asking, ¡°Are you tired? The horses can¡¯t go any further. We have to walk from here.¡± Her reaction, however, nearly sent him over the edge again. ¡°No, no, no, no!¡± she blurted out too quickly before stammering, ¡°I mean¡ªI can walk. I¡¯m perfectly fine.¡± Adhitya, still desperate to salvage his shattered masculinity, planned to demount first and gracefully assist her down¡ªlike a true hero, retrieving his lost pride. But then¡ªthat damned Soori brought a ladder. His mood took an instant nosedive. That meddling brat had interrupted again. Without thinking, he snapped, ¡°Take the horses. Find water. Feed them properly. I want them well-rested.¡± It was only when Sanjana¡¯s grateful gaze toward Soori finally shifted to him that he realized¡ª Oh. That was too loud. But it was too late now. And then¡ªwhat in the heavens was that gaze?! Shock. Amazement. Something else he could not identify. She wasn¡¯t even looking at his face anymore. Why is she staring at my arms? And did she just gulp?! Panic shot through his veins. Shit. Shit. Shit. He turned sharply and strode ahead. But even with his back turned, he could feel her gaze lingering. He swallowed hard. No. No way. This wasn¡¯t happening. His jaw tightened, and his steps quickened, but the realization refused to leave him. Am I¡­ Am I¡­ SHY?! --- Torchlight Conversations The moment they stepped into Aavya¡¯s home, the heavy scent of blood, broken water, and anxious murmurs filled the air. Adhitya inhaled sharply. This too is a battlefield. The cries of pain, the hurried footsteps, the tense silence between contractions¡ªit all mirrored the anticipation before a clash of swords. Only here, life was fighting to enter, not to survive. He and Soori remained outside, forced to bear the weight of helpless waiting. The boy who had earlier spoken with defiance against the government now sat frozen, his hands clenched, fear carved into his face. Adhitya sighed and found a place to sit. The atmosphere was thick with tension, broken only by the ceaseless movement of attendants rushing in and out¡ªsome carrying bowls filled with water, others with cloth soaked in blood, herbs, or carefully measured potions. Through the open doorway, Sanjana¡¯s voice rang out¡ªclear, composed, commanding. The hesitant, flustered woman from before had vanished, replaced by a doctor who wielded skill and certainty like a warrior wielded a blade. It was not just her words but the unwavering steadiness behind them that caught his attention. If she were a woman whose mind was clouded with pink-tinted fantasies, she wouldn¡¯t stand here, in the heart of chaos, holding another¡¯s life in her hands. His thoughts were interrupted by hushed whispers among the attendants. ¡°The baby is too small, and it¡¯s coming bottom-first¡­ This will be difficult.¡± ¡°But it¡¯s a complete breech. If anyone can do it, our lady can.¡± ¡°I know she can deliver it, but delivering it without complications¡­ that¡¯s the real battle.¡± Beside him, Soori had gone pale. A dark shade of worry deepened on his face, sweat glistening on his brow. Without a word, Adhitya handed him a cup of water, patting his back in silent reassurance before returning to his spot. He didn¡¯t speak¡ªwhat could words do in the face of uncertainty? But he had faith in her. Even if the worst happened, even if she failed, his belief in her wouldn¡¯t waver. Because he understood. Just as he carried the weight of soldiers'' lives in battle, she now carried the weight of two. Life¡ªwhether one or many¡ªwas still life. And the pressure of responsibility never changed. Suddenly, a sharp cry pierced the tense air, echoing through the small house. Adhitya stiffened. Was this¡­ the first cry of a newborn? It was the first time he had ever heard it¡ªa sound so raw, so full of life, that it sent shivers down his spine. Goosebumps prickled his skin as the weight of the moment settled in. Beside him, Soori let out a trembling breath, his hand pressing over his chest. "Thank the Lord Sun," he whispered, voice thick with emotion. His lips curved into a smile, yet tears spilled freely down his weathered face. Relief, joy, and gratitude blended in his expression, overwhelming in its sincerity. And then, the door creaked open. Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. Sanjana stepped out. She was smiling. And then she spoke. ¡°Congratulations, Soori. You have a son-in-law now.¡± Her exhaustion was laced with amusement. ¡°A tiny one, yes, but active like his mama.¡± There was no expectation of gratitude in her voice, no pride of victory¡ªjust the calm acceptance of someone who had done their duty. Like she had finished a routine, nothing more. He liked this side of her even more. Soori choked out a heartfelt thank you before rushing inside to see his niece. But, Suddenly she knitted her brows she clutch her forehead before she sank to the ground. Adhitya''s heart dropped. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you in pain? Where does it hurt?¡± He crouched beside her, supporting her, but she didn¡¯t seem to hear him. Her eyes were unfocused, staring into nothingness. The way she sat there, frozen, scared him more than if she had screamed. Without a second thought, he scooped her into his arms. She stirred slightly as he carried her outside. Sensing her movement, he immediately started again with his bombardment of questions. Fortunately she answered this time "It hurt before, but not now. Put me down, I can walk.¡± Of course, he wasn¡¯t willing. He gently set her down only when they reached the tree, watching her closely. She still looked pale. He let out a breath and pulled out the mango he had saved earlier. She hadn¡¯t eaten all day¡ªhe was sure of it. As he cleaned it, he wanted to ask her so many things. What had happened just now? Why did she look so lost? But he didn¡¯t know how to begin. Luckily, she broke the silence first. ¡°What do I call you?¡± Thus their intellectual conversation begins, Sitting by the torchlight, Adhitya watched as Sanjana accepted the mango slice he offered. She was open, warm, and entirely unguarded in a way that unsettled him. He had always been cautious with his words, but she? She offered everything freely. Her understanding of the world intrigued him, especially when they began discussing Soori¡¯s speech. At first he actually started the conversation only to find how much of a impact is that brat caused in her heart. But she was nothing like ordinary girl immediately fallen for a hotblooded hero but far more matured and has clear thoughts regarding current politics as expected of a girl that he likes. > "The sun can¡¯t be biased¡­ Right?" He asked the question, not really expecting an answer. But she gave him one anyway, with a certainty that made him pause. > "The sun can¡¯t be biased. Never." Her ideas were radical, yet logical. She spoke of restructuring society, ensuring education and healthcare, and most of all, giving the disadvantaged a fair starting point. The concept of reservation¡ªan intentional balancing of the scales¡ªwas something he had never considered deeply before. But she explained it with a clarity that made him see its necessity. > "Fairness isn¡¯t just about individual merit. It¡¯s about correcting imbalances that have existed for generations." Her words forced him to re-evaluate his stance. If the sun truly shone equally on all, why was there still so much darkness? And could a ruler truly be fair if he only catered to one side? She answered that, too. > "A true decision-maker¡ªa king¡ªcan never be completely kind. Any decision made for one group will inevitably hurt another." Her philosophy struck something deep within him. > "That¡¯s why we represent Lord Surya as ¡®Arai Subhar¡¯¡ªhalf good. Because only someone who is half-good to both sides can be a true leader." Something shifted inside him. He had spent years wondering about the nature of power, justice, and governance. And here she was, explaining it in a way he had never heard before. It was frustrating, fascinating, and, above all, undeniably true. When she turned to leave, he knew¡ªthis was not an ordinary conversation. This was a moment that would change him. So he stopped her. > "Sanjana." She turned. "What?" > "I didn¡¯t tell you much about myself yet. But¡­ Try not to forget me." She laughed. "Forget you? A man as mysterious as you? Not a chance." And then, before he could stop himself, he asked the question that had been nagging at him. > "I¡¯m sorry, but¡­ have you... Perhaps... already found your sun?" Her playful response did nothing to ease the strange tightness in his chest. > "Aren¡¯t you in a hurry? Go on. If we meet again¡­ I¡¯ll tell you." He exhaled, shaking his head with a small smirk. "I¡¯ll wait, then. See you." But as she walked away, he felt something unfamiliar settle inside him¡ªan unsettling, inesc apable certainty. He would see her again. And when he did, everything would change. No they must change. Between Illusion and Reality The night in the Solar Kingdom was unnervingly still. A silence that pressed against his thoughts, suffocating them. Sam sat atop the tiled roof of Sanjana¡¯s house, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon. The golden glow of the First Zone shimmered in the distance, but his mind wasn¡¯t on politics anymore. His mind was on her. Azhini¡ªor was it even her anymore? Every day, she slipped further away, her presence morphing into someone else¡¯s. Sanjana wasn¡¯t just a disguise anymore. She was real. And that terrified him. --- He had gone to the First Zone, thinking he would uncover useful information. Instead, he returned more confused than before. The political divide was clear¡ªThe Modernists and The Traditionalists. The Modernists preached progress, advocating trade with Venus, alliances with Guru, and the scientific advancements of Kethu. They sought external influence, embracing change. The Traditionalists clung to the past, rejecting outsiders, fearing the influence of Rahu and Kethu, and treating their kingdom¡¯s customs as sacred. And yet, the Traditionalists were the ones who had accepted Arkan. That fact shook Sam. He had assumed the progressive faction would be more open-minded, more welcoming towards the people of the Third Zone. But they weren¡¯t. Instead, they ignored them completely. To them, the Third Zone wasn¡¯t even worth debating. "They are ruled by them. They have their duties to do, if they forget that and greed for more, then who will do them?" That was the sentiment among the Modernists. Their concept of "progress" didn¡¯t include the lower zones. Their battle for power was only for the elites. Sam had left the First Zone with a bitter taste in his mouth. He had planned to tell Azhini¡ªto warn her. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. But when he returned, he realized¡­ her situation was far worse than the First Zone itself. --- Her sleep patterns had changed. Azhini had never been the type to follow a rigid schedule. She would work for days without rest, then sleep at odd hours, often in a chair or on a pile of books. But now? She woke up exactly at 5 AM. She slept precisely at 9 PM. Her belongings, once scattered with a scientist¡¯s absentmindedness, were now meticulously arranged. Even her sword¡ªa weapon she had barely touched before¡ªwas sharpened daily. She spoke to Ishaan, her elder brother, with the ease of someone who had known him her entire life. Their interactions were no longer strained, no longer hesitant. And the final, undeniable proof? When Ishaan injured himself during sword training, she reacted instantly¡ªnot with feigned concern, not with calculated words, but with genuine fear. Her panic, her desperation, her trembling hands as she tended to his wound¡ªnone of it was an act. Sanjana was no longer a role she was playing. Sanjana was who she had become. And the worst part? She was distancing herself from him. --- Then came the final blow. She told him about Adhitya. Her voice was different when she spoke of him. And her expression¡­ Sam had seen that look before. A look that spoke of trust, admiration¡ªlonging. And it shook him to his core. At first, frustration boiled in him. Was she friend-zoning him for some unknown stranger? But as he thought deeper, the frustration turned into something else¡ªfear. She wasn¡¯t just falling for someone. She was forgetting who she was. Forgetting why she came here. Forgetting what was real. --- So he asked her. And her answer shattered everything. "Why do you think that I¡¯m Azhini and not Sanjana?" she asked, her voice calm, her eyes unreadable. "What if my real identity is Sanjana? What if I¡¯ve always been her?" Sam felt a chill crawl up his spine. "What the hell are you saying?" "You know I attempted suicide once." Her voice was eerily clinical. Detached. Like a doctor diagnosing a patient. "What if my mind created this ¡®game world¡¯ as an escape mechanism? What if I convinced myself that I was from another place just to cope with my past?" His pulse pounded in his ears. "No. That¡¯s not¡ªYou told me this was a game. You made me leave my Nexus and follow you. We need to find the gems and end this before¡ª" She clutched her forehead, her breath uneven. "Sam, listen." She exhaled sharply, as if fighting against a headache. "I am suffering from Depersonalization Disorder. I feel disconnected from reality, so my brain might have fabricated this ¡®other world¡¯ to cope. And you¡ª" She turned to him, her gaze steady. Too steady. "You could be a hallucination. A delusion I created to survive." Sam felt his breath hitch. For a moment, he couldn¡¯t speak. Then, finally, he let out a hollow chuckle. "You think I¡¯m some imaginary friend?" She didn¡¯t answer. His fists clenched. "Well. That¡¯s just perfect." Taking a step forward, he spoke in a low, measured voice. "You think this world isn¡¯t real? You think I¡¯m not real? Then let me tell you something real, Azhini." His expression hardened. "You have six years. Half a year is already gone. If you lose yourself here, your real body will die. And if you don¡¯t find a way out, you¡¯ll be reborn in this world again and again¡ªa cycle of nine lives. After that?" He paused, his voice dropping to a whisper. "You¡¯ll be erased. Forever." She stood there, silent. Unmoved. That was when he knew. She was already slipping away. He let out a self-mocking chuckle and turned away. "It¡¯s always your choice, Azhini." His voice softened, almost resigned. "Stay here or move forward. Just¡­ don¡¯t forget what you came for." And with that, he walked away. --- He should feel relieved. He had done his part. Warned her. Given her the facts. Then why did it feel like he was the one disappearing? "Am I¡­ over-invested in a player?" he muttered to himself. He had spent too long thinking of her as Azhini. But if she was no longer Azhini, then¡­ Then what was he supposed to do now? For the first time, Sam didn¡¯t have an answer. And that terrified him. The Mirror Within The room was silent. Sanjana sat cross-legged on her bed, hands resting on her knees, fingers trembling. Sam¡¯s words lingered in the air, pressing against her chest like an unseen force, suffocating her. "What if my real identity is Sanjana? What if I¡¯ve always been her?" Her own voice echoed in her mind, sharp and unforgiving. Ishaan. Adhitya. Her father. The sting of a blade against her wrist. The cold loneliness she had carried for years. Her failures. Her laughter. If this isn¡¯t real, then what is? A sharp, searing pain split her skull, as though two selves were waging war inside her. Her breath grew unsteady, shallow. She clenched her fists. She needed to go deeper. Deeper into her mind. Into her memories. And so, she did. She dove into the abyss of her thoughts, letting the pain swallow her whole. --- A vision flickered before her¡ªa vast blue-hued Nexus stretching endlessly. At its center stood a man dressed in white, his features blurred yet eerily familiar. Pain. Severe, gut-wrenching pain. Her mind spun. A metallic cot, carved with ancient inscriptions. A man lying unconscious on it. A name¡ªKavin. If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. Kavin¡­ The source of everything. The one who created this world. The one who disappeared. The one who brought her here. His letters. His words. His absence. Her world shifted. The illusion cracked. And then¡ª A voice. Deep, gentle, yet firm. "Desire is the cause of the never-ending birth and death cycle, my dear." Her pulse slowed. She knew that voice. "We all have desires. And for those desires, we chase illusions, forgetting the purpose of our existence." Her master. The old man outside her college¡ªeccentric, wise, and often dismissed as a weirdo. He had once told her¡ª "We believe in the temporary world. We crave it. We try to possess it, never wanting to let go. And that¡­ is the root of all suffering." "Everything around you is temporary. The only thing that lasts is the kindness in you. Believe in none but yourself. Be you, my child. No matter how many forms the world takes, if you remain true to yourself, nothing can break you." "Yes, you do not belong here. But you are meant to serve here. Don¡¯t forget your purpose." "Yet¡­ don¡¯t forget to be you." --- The pain ceased. Her mind cleared. She was Azhini. She was Sanjana. She was both. And she was neither. And now, she understood. The world didn¡¯t define her. Not this one. Not the one she came from. Not the ones she would enter in the future. She was who she chose to be. Like climate change, the world around her shifted. People changed. She changed¡ªoften in ways even she didn¡¯t recognize. Change was the only constant. Every form she had taken, every version of herself, was still her. Every decision she made was hers alone. First, she had to embrace herself. Love herself. Accept herself. Only then could she move forward. The tension in her brow eased. --- She took a deep breath, processing her thoughts. I am in the Solar Kingdom now. As Sanjana. Thinking of this world as a mere game no longer fit. That logic didn¡¯t hold anymore. Kavin must have created a microcosm¡ªa parallel world¡ªusing his own soul or consciousness. He gave the same level of awareness to every NPC he created. That means¡­ they aren¡¯t just NPCs anymore. Her stomach twisted. Is he nuts? If he created such a world, how does he plan to control it? Frustrating. No. She exhaled slowly, forcing herself to calm down. Calm. Calm. Om¡­ --- Her consciousness had been transferred into this girl, Sanjana. That meant she was Sanjana. Her emotions. Her responsibilities. Her life. They all belonged to Azhini now. But she also had to remain aware¡ªshe was only here for six years. No, five and a half. That was all the time she had. She needed a plan. Sanjana¡¯s family needed stability. Her responsibilities had to be fulfilled. And above all¡ª She had to obtain the Gem of Authority, S¨±ry¨¡?raya. That goal would always remain at the core of her journey. --- Azhini gasped as her eyes flew open. The room remained unchanged¡ªthe bed, the soft candlelight flickering against the walls¡ªbut something within her had shifted. Her breathing was steady now, her mind clear. She touched her face, feeling the dampness of sweat and tears. The pain had been unbearable, but she had emerged from it with newfound clarity. And then, she noticed him. Sam was beside her, silent as ever. His posture was relaxed yet attentive, as if he had been there for a long time. But when? She hadn¡¯t sensed his arrival. Had he been watching over her this whole time? "Are you alright?" His voice was careful, gentle. "You don¡¯t have to push yourself so hard. We can take it slow. I¡¯ll be here." His voice carried warmth. Concern etched across his features. As if he were coaxing a child. Azhini¡¯s lips curved into a small, tired smile. "I thought you were angry at me?" The young man pouted sligh tly, shaking his head. "How could I be? You¡¯re the only one I have now." Azhini¡¯s heart clenched at his words. Warmth. After everything, there was warmth. Back to the mansion: The Battle Within The storm outside raged with a vengeance, clawing at the mansion as if demanding entry. Rain lashed against the windows, and the wind shrieked through unseen cracks, an eerie symphony to the chaos unfolding within. The mansion was dimly lit, the intermittent blinking of advanced instruments casting ghostly shadows across the walls. The air felt heavy, thick with unspoken words and growing unease. At the center of the room, a massive metal cot stood like an altar. Upon it, two figures lay motionless, their forms eerily still, as if trapped in a dream. But it was the screen before them that gripped everyone''s attention. A girl stood alone on the vast digital landscape, her white cotton half-saree billowing in an unseen breeze. A single knot held her sleeveless blouse together at her back, a stark contrast to her fragile form. The sorrow in her eyes was unbearable, a silent call for stay towards the retreating figure frozen in time. The weight of the scene pressed down on the room, mirroring the emotions of those watching. Even Mithun had stopped eating. Vicky rubbed his eyes and sighed. Meera''s jaw clenched. Nila silently wiped away a tear. Then, Priya''s voice shattered the silence. "I can''t tolerate this anymore!" she yelled, springing to her feet. "How dare you play with her mind and emotions like this? Who gave you permission? We''re going to sue you!" Vicky, momentarily stunned, raised his hands in defense. "Hello, hello-madam, keep your voice down! This was an accident. No one here abducted your friend or experimented on her. Got it?" "OMG, of course, I got it right!" Priya snapped. "This was clearly a trap set by your so-called friend for our Azhini!" Kumar, equally furious, stepped in. "Well said, Priya. You''ve been doing secret research in isolation, and now our friend is suffering because of it. This isn''t any different from an abduction! Yet you refuse to give us a proper explanation. What makes you any better than criminals?" Mithun, unfazed by the chaos, leaned back and popped another chip into his mouth. "Wow. This is getting interesting." Vicky''s patience snapped. "How is this Kavin''s fault? Your friend''s own words drove him to this! Do you even realize how much training he went through? How many experiments he conducted on himself? He''s just as comatose as Azhini! At least you have a way to track what''s happening on her side. We don''t even know where he is, what he''s going through, or if he''ll ever come back. We''re just as terrified as you! Got it?" "If you want to sue, then sue," Meera cut in coldly. She pulled out a document and held it up. "But Azhini is part of this project. This is her signature. I assume you recognize it?" Priya sucked in a breath. This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. "She agreed to provide her knowledge for the development of this project," Meera continued. "In exchange, she was promised a share of the future profits. We''re not just some random researchers messing with her life. She''s our partner." Priya gritted her teeth. "That girl is seriously..." she muttered under her breath. Karthikeyan, who had remained silent until now, finally spoke up. "We understand the situation. But I hope you all realize the severity of this. She''s going through something unimaginable. Even if she wakes up, we have no guarantee her mental state will remain stable." He exhaled deeply. "The only fortunate thing is that six months in the game world have only been half a day here. But we still don''t know how long this will last. A body can''t survive indefinitely in a comatose state. Without proper nourishment, how can she remain healthy?" "That''s exactly what I asked Kavin when he first brought up the idea," Meera admitted. "But he told me Azhini had a solution-suspended animation. It''s like hibernation. Yogis who master advanced pranayama techniques can enter that state. Kavin trained relentlessly for it." She gestured toward his still body. "Look at him. He''s been in this state for five days, but his vitals are stable. His body hasn''t deteriorated." "He may have trained, but what about Azhini?" Karthikeyan challenged. "Could she withstand this?" Silence fell over the room. No one had an answer. Mithun, finishing his chips, leaned forward and grinned. "Believe me. She''s already doing great. They will find those gems." Priya scoffed. Mithun''s eyes narrowed. "Hey, what''s with that attitude? Just because I eat a lot, don''t underestimate me! I''m the concept artist of this game. The world you''re seeing, the NPCs'' powers, the game''s rules? All designed by me. And I''m telling you-she''s doing way better than any of us expected." He grabbed the mouse from Vicky and rewound the footage. "Watch carefully." The screen flickered, shifting to Azhini''s arrival in The Nexus. In the eternal stillness of the Nexus, a fiery comet crashed, bringing Azhini into a world untouched by change. Sam, the golden-crowned guardian, watched with intrigue as unfamiliar emotions stirred within him. With a tap of his staff, he eased her pain. Mithun''s voice was calm but firm. "Do you understand what it means to successfully transfer a person''s awareness into a game world? Their mind-thoughts, perception, memories, reasoning-detaches from their physical body and re-anchors into a digital or alternate reality." "Unlike traditional VR, where the body remains active in the real world, this method involves a full neural link. The machine we designed breaks down consciousness into neural data and reassembles it inside the game environment. Of course, it''s Azhini''s traditional magic-like knowledge that made it actually work." "But do you know how it feels when your consciousness is transmitted into the game?" Mithun smirked. "It''s ten times worse than jet lag. The brain is used to processing real-world signals from the five senses, but now it''s being flooded with artificial sensory data. The pain is immense. Sometimes, it even causes synesthesia-mixing of senses." The footage fast-forwarded to Azhini waking up in the Solar Dynasty, reborn as Sanjana. Mithun leaned back. "She encountered it again there-the same pain, but worse. Sam''s power was weak, and the memories of Sanjana were overwhelming. Even then, she managed to push through. But here''s the problem-" He pointed at the screen. "The longer she stays, the more she''s forgetting who she really is. Her mind is choosing to erase Azhini in favor of Sanjana." Priya paled. "That''s... horrifying." Mithun nodded. "That''s the real trick of the game. Players must never lose themselves completely, or it''s over." He turned to Azhini''s friends. "Even if you don''t trust us, can''t you trust her? She''s fought through worse." Before he could finish, Priya slammed her hand on the desk. "Rubbish! What kind of horrible thing have you created, endangering people''s minds and bodies while calling it a game?! This isn''t a game-it''s cyber terrorism!" --- Kumar''s voice joined hers. "And what kind of logic is that?! Just because she can handle it, does that mean she should?!" Meera''s gaze sharpened. "Correction. It''s not just because of her capabilities. She is part of our project. We were supposed to plan and decide who to send in first, but Kavin jumped in recklessly. Everything spiraled out of our hands." Her voice lowered. "We didn''t choose her. She was pulled in accidentally. But since she''s there... trust her. Everything will go smoothly." Priya''s laugh was bitter. "What a coincidence." Meera ignored her and turned to Mithun. "What about Kavin? What''s your evaluation?" Mithun sighed, stuffing another chip into his mouth. "I couldn''t figure that bastard out at first. When I saw Sam''s kindness toward Azhini and his rebellion after realizing it was a game world, I thought he was Kavin. But then..." He fast-forwarded the footage. The screen now showed Adhitya, the radiant prince of the Solar Dynasty, his piercing gaze locked onto Sanjana as she explained political strategies. Vicky let out a slow exhale. "Damn. That''s the same expression Kavin had when he listened to Azhini''s conference paper." "Exactly," Mithun said. A heavy realization settled over the room. A sudden tremor rattled the mansion. Thunder roared, and a streak of lightning split the sky. The massive double doors creaked open with a ghostly groan. A figure stepped in. Tall. Unwavering. On his shoulder sat a black cat, its sharp golden eyes glinting in the dim light, its tail swaying with an air of knowing arrogance. Silence fell. The storm outside howled, but inside, all eyes were on the man who had just entered. --- Back to the mansion: The Storm Brings A Stranger The storm outside raged violently, lightning slashing through the sky, momentarily illuminating the eerie mansion. Wind howled against the windows, rattling them as if demanding to be let in. Then-BANG. The heavy front door slammed open without warning. A tall figure stepped inside, silhouetted against the storm. He did not knock. He did not hesitate. He entered as if the house itself had been waiting for him. His dhoti, folded up to his knees, revealed strong, long legs, the kind honed by both discipline and hardship. A khaddar shirt, its first two buttons undone, clung damply to his frame. The collar bulged strangely, as if something was tucked inside. His hands gripped an old iron suitcase, rusted at the edges, worn yet unbreakable-just like the man carrying it. His sharp features, carved like they belonged to an old warrior painting, were framed by thick, slightly damp hair that refused to settle. But it was his eyes-piercing, knowing, ancient yet alive-that made the air in the room feel heavier. The kind of gaze that could strip you of pretense and see straight into your soul. The commotion in the room froze as everyone turned to stare at this stranger-this man who was clearly not simple. But if he noticed the attention, he did not show it. He removed his slippers and stepped inside, unhurried. The soaked bandana on his head was undone with a flick of his wrist, transforming into a towel in his grasp. Without ceremony, he rubbed the rain off his face and hair, then shook the towel once, spreading it over the nearby sofa to dry. A black cat, previously lounging on the sofa, flicked its tail in mild irritation at being displaced-only to jump up and perch itself on the man''s shoulders with practiced ease. It purred contently, rubbing its head against his temple. He lifted a hand and patted its head absentmindedly, the gesture practiced, automatic. The cat, now perched like a king on a throne, gave the rest of the room an arrogant, assessing glance. Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Not a single word had been spoken. Without acknowledging the stunned group around him, the man walked straight to the center of the lab. His sharp gaze swept over Azhini and Kavin, scanning their conditions with precise, deliberate intensity. It was as if no one else existed. As if he had been drawn here by something beyond mere human understanding. --- Vicky narrowed his eyes. "Hey mister, who the hell are you? And... What exactly are you doing?" The man tilted his head slightly, as if amused by the question. "Thavachelvan," he answered, his voice carrying both patience and finality. "And you have all wasted enough time." His eyes flickered toward the massive screen, where Azhini''s trembling form stood frozen, clutching the last remnants of her identity. "Continue playing, I wanna know what''s happening there." Vicky frustrated by the stranger came in as he pleased and ordering around "Fuck.., another nut job." But sudden realisation struck him "Hey... Wait? How do you even know what it was?" "She doesn''t have much time left," he murmured. "And neither does he." His gaze shifted toward the cot-toward Kavin. Priya took a sharp step forward. "Wait-what do you mean? You know what''s happening to them? Who are you to come in here and act like you-" "The only person in this room," Thavachelvan interrupted smoothly, "who understands the true cost of what they are going through." The wind howled through the open doorway, and for a fleeting moment, the black cat let out a low, rumbling purr-almost as if it was laughing. ---- Vicky groaned, rubbing his temples. "Great. Another cryptic guy. Just what we needed." Mithun whispered to Meera, "Do you think he''s a villain or an anti-hero?" Meera, arms crossed, deadpanned, "Knowing our luck? Probably both." As the arguments spiraled, another set of footsteps echoed down the grand staircase. Professor Sivaraaman emerged from the upper level, followed closely by the old man who had greeted them upon arrival. His usually composed face broke into something resembling amusement when he laid eyes on the newcomer. "Thavachelvan..." the professor murmured. "So you do remember," Thavachelvan looked up at him and nodded. "Wow... it''s really is you." The tall man-Thavachelvan-shrugged. Sivaraaman descended a few more steps, arms crossed. "When did you arrive?" Thavachelvan raised a single eyebrow. Sivaraaman sighed, already looking exhausted. "Alright"... "wait-hang on. Let me get this straight. You are the mysterious teacher who''s been interrupting my student''s focus on research?" Thavachelvan merely tilted his head slightly. "You spoke too much." Sivaraaman smirked. "Since you speak too little." The sharp grin on his face held a hint of mischief. The storm outside rumbled again, as if punctuating the absurdity of their exchange. Priya''s patience snapped. "PROFESSOR! Can someone please explain what the hell is going on? Who is he?" Sivaraaman exhaled slowly, then, in the most casual tone imaginable, said- "My eternal headache." A dead silence fell over the room. Everyone turned their heads in sync, eyes bouncing between the two men. "WHAT?!" Even the black cat seemed unimpressed, flicking its tail before jumping onto the table, as if this level of drama was beneath its concern. Meanwhile, Thavachelvan and Sivaraaman, after locking eyes for a brief moment, coolly averted their gazes-because acknowledging their history was appare ntly too much effort. Mithun whispered to Meera again. "Okay, definitely an anti-hero." ---- Back to the mansion: The Algorithm Of Soul The atmosphere inside the mansion had shifted. The eerie, majestic grandeur of the place now felt suffocating, thick with the kind of tension that made even the air feel heavy. The group stood in stunned silence, still processing the unexpected familiarity between Professor Sivaraaman and the mysterious man before them-Thavachelvan. Even if the acknowledgment came in the form of an old rivalry, it was still acknowledgment. But Thavachelvan wasn''t concerned with past wars. His sharp eyes remained fixed on Kavin and Azhini, his scrutiny unwavering. Without hesitation, he took their pulse, checked their ¨¡dh¨¡ras, observed their breath, and peered deeply into their eyes. Then, in his signature calm yet foreboding voice, he finally spoke. "We don''t have time to brag about our wars here, Siva." Sivaraaman stiffened. His friend rarely spoke, and when he did, it was never without reason. "Why? What do you mean... What have you found?" Thavachelvan''s gaze didn''t waver. "The boy''s body is stable. His soul isn''t." A collective chill ran through the group. Sivaraaman''s breath hitched. "And Azhini?" "Her body can withstand only Trimandala before it collapses. Her soul is stable-for now. But the moment she forgets herself in the game, she''s gone." A sharp intake of breath was heard. Karthikeyan felt a jolt of shock course through him. "Trimandala...? That means she only has 144 days! Could she really manage? What if she-" He didn''t dare complete the thought. His fists clenched involuntarily, anxiety settling deep in his bones. Sivaraaman''s voice sharpened with urgency. "Thavachelvan, don''t just throw riddles at us! Explain properly!" But Thavachelvan simply looked at him with unfaltering calm, a silent declaration that there would be no further explanations. Then, in one swift motion, he reached behind his collar and pulled out a slender object that had been concealed beneath his shirt. The unnatural bulge at the back of his neck earlier-this was the cause. A bamboo staff. Without hesitation, he pressed his thumb against a hidden groove, releasing a fine powder from within. He knelt and, with precise, deliberate strokes, began tracing intricate patterns onto the ground. Yantras, spirals, symbols that seemed to vibrate with an unseen energy. If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. And then came the chanting. Low, resonant, carrying a weight that seeped into the very walls of the mansion. Mithun squinted at the symbols forming on the floor. "Okay... either this is some next-level coding trick or we''ve officially entered the Tamil Nadu edition of Doctor Strange." Vicky leaned in. "Do you think he''s drawing a cheat code? Like, unlimited lives or something?" Mithun sighed. "Forget cheat codes. If he can make free food appear, I''m in." Before anyone could react, Thavachelvan''s voice cut through the room like a blade. "No more talking. Press play. Now." The command was aimed directly at Vicky. Vicky flinched, hands hovering over the controls, hesitating. "W-Wait, but-" "Now!" Thavachelvan''s tone brooked no argument. Even Sivaraaman gave a sharp nod. Reluctantly, Vicky pressed play. The screen flickered back to life. There, displayed in unnerving clarity, was Azhini-no, Sanjana. Her virtual avatar sat cross-legged on the game''s terrain, but something was wrong. Her face was pale, sweat rolling down her temples. Her lips trembled. Tears streamed down her cheeks. Before her, Sam sat stiffly, hands clenched into tight fists. He was visibly tense, utterly at a loss. His eyes darted between her trembling form and the world around them, his worry mirroring the concern gripping everyone in the mansion. Silence. No one breathed. They could see what was happening, but none of them could perceive what was happening inside her mind. The screen could only show so much. But one person could. Thavachelvan. Without hesitation, he walked to the bindhu-the exact center of the yantra he had drawn. Lowering himself, he sat cross-legged within it and closed his eyes. The chanting resumed. Strange syllables layered with an unnatural resonance. Meera, watching intently, felt a shiver crawl up her spine. "This doesn''t make sense. Azhini''s inside a digital space. Her neural activity should be dictated by the game''s algorithms, not some... chant from the outside. How is he influencing her consciousness? Is this some kind of-" Her breath hitched. "A humanoid machine? Or something even more advanced?" On the screen, Azhini''s breath steadied. The storm in her eyes cleared. And then-she woke up. A warm conversation began between Sam and Azhini. In the mansion, no one spoke. It was apparent that Thavachelvan had done something. The situation had stabilized. But how? How did he influence a transferred consciousness from outside the game? Wasn''t that... cheating reality itself? As confusion swirled, Thavachelvan rose fluidly. His bamboo staff spun effortlessly in his hands, the force and air from his movement erasing the yantra he had drawn. Then, in one smooth motion, he leaped- -and landed cross-legged on the very tip of his bamboo staff. The staff stood upright. Defying gravity. Defying logic. A collective gasp. Mithun''s jaw dropped. "Okay, I''m officially convinced. Either gravity doesn''t apply to him, or he was born in a wire-fu action scene." Vicky muttered, "I was going to say it''s CGI, but we''re in real life... right?" Unfazed, Thavachelvan merely closed his eyes and said, "Ask your questions. One by one." Sivaraaman sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Can''t you do anything normal?" Then, noticing the mesmerized expressions of the younger doctors, he clicked his tongue. "Don''t get fooled by him, ladies. This man is my classmate. At the age of 55. And he pledged to never marry." The girls instantly blushed and gasped in unison. "PROFESSOR!" The boys coughed awkwardly. Mithun whispered to Vicky, "Okay, but if this guy was on Tinder, I swear he''d break the algorithm." Vicky nodded solemnly. "Facts." And with that, the chaos in the mansion only deepened. --- The unfazed Thavachelvan let others to ask him questions now. But unfortunately, he was the type to drag you through the fire, make you question your very existence, and leave you wondering if you really needed to know it, in the first place. Knowledge comes at a cost. And soon, they would understand. Not all answers are meant to be received painlessly. Some must be earned. And some... leave a scar. --- A Question More Dangerous than an Answer Sam lay on her lap, his head nestled against her like a child seeking comfort. His long limbs curled beside her, as if trying to disappear into himself. Azhini sighed, threading her fingers through his hair absentmindedly. She wasn¡¯t used to this kind of closeness, but strangely, it didn¡¯t make her uncomfortable. "Scared you that much, huh?" she murmured, staring at the flickering candlelight. Sam mumbled something unintelligible. She allowed him to stay there, her mind drifting. Master Thavachelvan. That voice that had guided her, given her clarity. That eccentric, infuriating, brilliant old man who had once told her, ¡°A good question is more dangerous than a bad answer.¡± And then, inevitably, her thoughts wandered further¡ªto a certain someone and his peculiar letters. Even now, just thinking about them, a light heat crept up her cheeks. --- Kavin¡¯s Letter To Dr. Azhini Nadarajan, The Architect of My Suffering (And Possibly My Salvation?) Dear Azhini, I know you won¡¯t complain about how long it took me to write this letter (openly, of course), but let me remind you that time moves differently here. If I told you it¡¯s only been a few days since I got here, would you believe me? No? Fine. Neither would I. The point is, I met your mentor Mr. Thavachelvan. Yes, the Thavachelvan. The one you kept mentioning in a tone of reverence that I assumed was reserved for ancient sages or mythical beings. Thank you (note the sarcasm) for introducing such a character into my life. Really, from the bottom of my heart. If I survive this, I will never forget your generosity. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Honestly, I had only planned to ask him about pranayama-based suspended animation and other techniques that might help induce it. You know, a few discussions, maybe some insights, and then I¡¯d be on my way. Simple. Logical. But the moment I asked my first question, he looked at me¡ªlike he was evaluating my very existence¡ªand said, ¡°Knowledge only goes to those who suit it. Do you suit the answer you seek?¡± And that¡¯s when my life took a very sharp, unexpected turn. What followed can only be described as a descent into well-organized torture. He didn¡¯t just give me answers¡ªhe made me earn them. He threw me into a hellish training routine where every muscle in my body and nerves of my brain screamed betrayal. I couldn''t escape. I couldn''t even reply to you. Digital devices? Prohibited. Free time? Non-existent. At one point, I even started questioning if I had asked something deeply forbidden. Or if you had secretly recommended me for this suffering as payback for all my sarcasm. But here¡¯s the part I didn¡¯t expect. Somewhere along the way, amidst the exhaustion and frustration, I started to respect him. Not just as a teacher, but as someone who gets it. I see why you remember him as your guru forever. He¡¯s¡­ something else. A storm and a guide rolled into one. And strangely enough, I think he sees something in me too. Maybe a bit of himself. Maybe potential. Maybe just another idiot who won¡¯t give up. I don¡¯t know if I like him. But I know he likes me¡ªprobably in the same uncertain way I feel about him. And if that¡¯s the case, I can confidently say¡­ it runs in the lineage, doesn¡¯t it? Now, tell me, Azhini¡ªdo you suit the answer this question seeks? With hopes, Your Kavin. --- "Evil bastard," she muttered. "Good with words." Sam, still resting against her, cracked one eye open. "Who are you cursing now?" "Nobody. Just someone who owes me a lot of compensation." "Sounds like a personal grudge." "It is a personal grudge." She shook off the lingering warmth in her chest. No use thinking about him now. There were bigger things at hand. "Forget him," she said briskly. "Tell me about the first zone. Our mission is S¨±ry¨¡?raya, not nostalgia." Sam blinked. "Wow. Now you¡¯re back to yourself." Then, without warning, he sat upright and hugged her tight. Azhini stiffened. "Okay, okay¡ªalright. I get it. Are you going to talk or not?" Sam let go, grinning. "I¡¯m talking, I¡¯m talking!" He leaned back and began narrating everything he had observed. She learnt the situation of first zone from Sam. The seemingly modern faction is not modern, in the cloak of modernity they actually indulge in various prestigious pleasure activities yet their mind is not evolved into real modern thoughts. Contrary to the modern the orthodox still has the impartiality of the Sun.Azhini leaned forward, absorbing every word. "So¡­ the situation is unstable." "Very," Sam confirmed. "But that¡¯s the Monarch¡¯s problem, not ours," Azhini said, cracking her knuckles. "We only care about S¨±ry¨¡?raya." Unfortunately, Sam hadn¡¯t found a single lead on the Gem of Authority. Not even whispers. "The only place that might have records is the library in the first zone," he said. "So I have to go to the first zone." Sam nodded. "And the first step?" Azhini exhaled. "The Ranked Doctor Examination." It was set to take place in ten days. No time to waste. She stood up, rolling her shoulders. "Alright. Time to prepare." Sam gave her a mock salute. "I¡¯ll be your test subject. Ishaan can be your assistant. And your father¡ª" "Will make sure I don¡¯t collapse before the actual exam," she finished, smirking. Sam grinned. "Exactly."