Chapter 35: Confrontation at Weapon Hall
The competition drew to a close, the echoes of the cheering crowd slowly fading as the participants began to disperse. Sanjeev, however, couldn't shake off the turmoil in his mind. His encounter with that girl... Milli. The memories that resurfaced were like a poisoned dagger twisting in his heart.
He saw her face, so innocent and beautiful in his past life, now twisted with cruelty and malice. He remembered their childhood, the laughter, the shared dreams, the innocent affection. And then, the betrayal. The sudden, brutal theft of his meridians, the agonizing pain, the chilling laughter that still haunted his nightmares.
The realization that Milli was here, in this sect, thriving under the patronage of Chief Elder Rui, fueled a burning rage within Sanjeev. He wanted to lash out, to take his revenge then and there. But he knew he couldn't. Not yet. The sect competition was still ongoing, and interfering would bring severe consequences. He had to be patient, to bide his time, and to plan his revenge carefully.
Milli, having won the final round, was basking in the glory of her victory. Chief Elder Rui, her face radiating pride, approached Milli and offered her a place as her personal disciple. Milli, without hesitation, accepted the offer, further solidifying her position and power within the sect.
Sanjeev watched the exchange with a clenched jaw, his fists trembling with suppressed fury. He wanted to scream, to challenge Milli, but he forced himself to remain calm. He had to think rationally.
Later that day, Sanjeev, Xiner, Aarav, and the other disciples who had passed the tests gathered at a designated altar. The atmosphere was thick with a mixture of excitement and anticipation, but Sanjeev's mood remained somber.
As the disciples mingled, Milli spotted Sanjeev in the crowd. A cruel smile twisted her lips as she approached him, her eyes glittering with mockery. "Well, well, well," she sneered, her voice dripping with disdain. "If it isn't the cripple. What are you doing here? Did you somehow manage to sneak past the first test?"
Her words were like salt on an open wound. Sanjeev's anger flared, but he managed to keep his voice level. "If I'm a cripple," he retorted, his voice dangerously low, "then you're lower than the dirt beneath my feet."
His unexpected retort silenced the crowd. The surrounding disciples gasped, their eyes widening in shock. Milli's face contorted with rage. She had not expected Sanjeev to dare speak to her in such a way.
"You dare—" she hissed, her hand flashing out in a palm strike aimed at Sanjeev's chest.
But Sanjeev was prepared. He had been honing his body refinement technique, strengthening his physical defenses. The palm strike connected, but it had no effect. Sanjeev didn't even flinch.
The crowd erupted in gasps and murmurs. They couldn't believe that Milli's attack had failed to leave a mark on Sanjeev. Milli herself was stunned. Her eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at Sanjeev, her hand trembling slightly.
Sanjeev seized the opportunity. He retaliated with a swift counter-strike, his fist aimed at Milli's face. But before his fist could connect, an elder intervened, his figure appearing between them like a sudden gust of wind.
"Enough!" the elder boomed, his voice filled with authority. "You are forbidden from fighting in this sacred place. Any disputes must be settled through official channels."
The elder's intervention diffused the immediate tension, but the animosity between Sanjeev and Milli remained palpable. Xiner, who had witnessed the entire exchange, rushed to Sanjeev's side, her face filled with concern.
"Sanjeev, who is that girl?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
Sanjeev took a deep breath, trying to compose himself. He knew he couldn't keep his past a secret from Xiner any longer. He had to tell her the truth.
He recounted his tragic past, the story of his childhood friendship with Milli, her betrayal, and the theft of his meridians. He spared no detail, his voice filled with a mixture of pain and bitterness.
"Milli and I grew up together," Sanjeev began, his voice heavy with sorrow. "We were inseparable, the best of friends. We shared everything - our dreams, our secrets, our laughter. I trusted her completely."
His voice hardened as he continued. "But Milli harbored a dark secret. She was obsessed with power, with achieving immortality. One day, she discovered an ancient text that spoke of a way to extract the extraordinary meridians from another person's body, granting the extractor immense potential."
Sanjeev paused, his face contorted with pain as he recalled the horrific event. "She found out that I was born with these unique meridians, far superior to ordinary ones. They were the key to achieving great power and a long life. And that's when her true nature was revealed."
He continued, his voice trembling slightly. "One day, Milli lured me to a secluded place, a place far from any prying eyes. I was only ten years old, completely unsuspecting of her treachery. She told me she wanted to show me a secret, a special place she had discovered."
"When we were alone, she took out an artifact - a dark, pulsating device that glowed with an eerie light. Before I could react, she activated it. The artifact emitted a powerful energy that enveloped my body, and I felt an excruciating pain, as if my very essence was being torn apart."
Sanjeev's voice cracked as he described the agony. "It was the meridian extraction device. Milli used it to forcefully rip my extraordinary meridians from my body. I screamed in agony, but she just laughed, her face twisted with cruel delight. She reveled in my suffering, in my helplessness."
Xiner listened in horror, her face pale and tears streaming down her cheeks. She couldn't believe the cruelty that Sanjeev had endured.
Sanjeev continued, his voice filled with bitterness. "The pain was unbearable. It felt like my life force was being ripped away. When it was over, I was left with crippled meridians, no different from an ordinary person. My dreams of cultivation, of becoming a powerful warrior, were shattered."
But Milli's cruelty didn't end there. "As I lay there, weak and broken, Milli poisoned me," Sanjeev revealed, his voice filled with a cold fury. "She used a rare and insidious poison, one that specifically targeted the meridians. It wasn't a lethal poison, but it was far more insidious. It blocked the flow of spiritual energy in my meridians, preventing me from cultivating ever again. It was a slow, agonizing death for my potential."
"She wanted to make sure I could never rise again, never become a threat to her. She stole my future, my potential, my very destiny." Sanjeev's voice was filled with a pain that resonated deep within Xiner's heart.
Xiner was beyond words. She couldn't fathom the depths of Milli's depravity. To betray a friend, a child, in such a brutal and calculated manner... it was monstrous.
Sanjeev's voice softened slightly as he looked at Xiner, his eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and determination. "That's why I can never forgive her," he said. "She took everything from me. But I won't let her win. I will get my revenge. I will make her pay for what she did."
Xiner reached out and took Sanjeev's hand, her grip firm and reassuring. "Don't worry, Sanjeev," she said, her voice filled with determination. "We will get justice for you. We will make her pay for what she did."
Sanjeev squeezed her hand gratefully. He knew that with Xiner and his other friends by his side, he could face any challenge.
The elder who had stopped the fight cleared his throat, drawing the attention of the disciples. "Those of you who have been chosen by a master may now proceed to the inner sect," he announced. "Those who have not been chosen may select a peak according to your preferences."
Sanjeev, Xiner, and Aarav exchanged glances. Sanjeev had already been accepted by the Alchemist Peak Master, and Xiner had been chosen by the Beast Taming Elder. Aarav, too, would likely join the Alchemy Peak with Sanjeev.
As the disciples began to disperse, a sense of melancholy settled over the group. They realized that their paths were about to diverge. Xiner and Sanjeev would be going to different peaks, and even Aarav would be busy with his own training. They would no longer be able to spend as much time together as they used to.
Xiner's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "I'm going to miss you, Sanjeev," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I don't know how I'm going to cope without seeing you every day."
Sanjeev felt a pang of sadness in his heart. He would miss Xiner terribly. Her presence had been a constant source of comfort and support.
He reached out and gently cupped her face in his hands. "I'll miss you too, Xiner," he said, his voice filled with tenderness. "But we have to be strong. We have to focus on our training and become stronger. Only then can we protect ourselves and the people we care about."
He leaned in and kissed her, his lips lingering on hers for a moment. It was a tender, passionate kiss, a promise of enduring love and unwavering commitment.
Aarav, watching the scene with a bittersweet smile, turned to Xuner. He had developed a fondness for the stoic weapon refiner, and he hoped that their separation wouldn't be permanent.
He stepped closer to her, his heart pounding in his chest. "Xuner," he began, his voice slightly hesitant, "I... I'm going to miss you too. Will we... will we see each other again?"
Xuner, who had been trying to maintain her composure, blushed slightly at Aarav's words. She had grown to appreciate his cheerful nature and his unwavering support.
"Of course, we will," she replied, her voice soft. "We are all part of the Lotus Blade Sect. We will find ways to meet."
Aarav's face lit up with relief. He wanted to kiss her, to express his feelings in a more tangible way, but Xuner suddenly turned away, a hint of shyness in her eyes.
"I... I have to go now," she said quickly. "I need to go to Weapon Refinement Peak."
With that, she turned and walked away, leaving Aarav standing there, a mixture of disappointment and longing in his heart.
Sanjeev and Aarav then made their way to Alchemy Peak. As they arrived, they were greeted by Elder Ye Tan, who had gathered the new disciples who had chosen to join his peak.
Elder Ye Tan, his face beaming with pride, introduced Sanjeev and Aarav to the other disciples, highlighting their exceptional talent in alchemy. The other disciples looked at Sanjeev and Aarav with a mixture of awe and respect.
"Welcome to Alchemy Peak," Elder Ye Tan announced, his voice filled with warmth. "Here, you will hone your skills, deepen your understanding of the Dao, and strive to reach the pinnacle of alchemy. As new disciples, you will each be given a token that will allow you to select a weapon from the Weapon Hall. This is a tradition for all new inner sect disciples."
Sanjeev and Aarav thanked Elder Ye Tan and then headed towards the Weapon Hall. As they approached the hall, they could feel the powerful energies radiating from within. The Weapon Hall was not just a storage place for weapons; it was a place imbued with the essence of countless battles and the craftsmanship of generations of weapon smiths.
The hall itself was an imposing structure, built from a dark, metallic ore that seemed to absorb and amplify the ambient energy. Intricate carvings adorned its walls, depicting scenes of legendary warriors wielding their weapons in epic battles. The entrance was guarded by two massive statues of ancient weapon masters, their eyes glowing with an eerie light.
As Sanjeev and Aarav stepped inside, they were greeted by a breathtaking sight. The hall was vast, stretching as far as the eye could see, and filled with an incredible array of weapons. Swords of all shapes and sizes lined the walls, their blades gleaming with sharpness. Spears stood in neat rows, their tips radiating auras of piercing power. Axes, hammers, and other heavy weapons were displayed on pedestals, their sheer size and weight testament to their destructive potential.
The weapons were not merely mundane objects; they were artifacts imbued with spiritual energy, each possessing unique properties and powers. Some hummed with latent magic, others pulsed with raw physical strength, and still others resonated with the wills of their former wielders.
Sanjeev felt a surge of excitement mixed with trepidation. He knew that choosing the right weapon was crucial. It had to be a weapon that resonated with his own energy, a weapon that would complement his fighting style and enhance his abilities.
As they walked deeper into the hall, they saw Milli standing in a corner, surrounded by a group of her sycophants. She was examining a particularly ornate sword, her eyes gleaming with avarice.
Milli spotted Sanjeev and Aarav and immediately approached them, a malicious grin spreading across her face. "Look who's here," she sneered, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "The cripple and his little friend. What are you doing here? Looking for a weapon to compensate for your lack of talent?"
Her words, as always, were designed to provoke. Milli took pleasure in belittling Sanjeev, in reminding him of his past weakness. She wanted to assert her dominance, to prove that she was superior to him in every way.
Sanjeev's anger, which had been simmering beneath the surface, finally erupted. He had endured enough of Milli's taunts and insults. He was tired of being treated like a weakling. He was no longer the helpless child she had once known. He had grown stronger, both physically and mentally, and he was not afraid to stand up to her.
"I've had enough of your venom, Milli," he said, his voice dangerously low, each word laced with suppressed fury. "I challenge you to a duel."
The words hung in the air, thick with tension. The surrounding disciples stopped what they were doing and turned to stare at Sanjeev and Milli, their faces filled with shock and disbelief. No one had ever dared to challenge Milli so openly before.
Milli blinked, taken aback by Sanjeev's sudden outburst. She had expected him to cower before her, not to challenge her. She had underestimated his resolve.
"A duel?" she scoffed, her initial surprise quickly replaced by her usual arrogance. "You? Don't be ridiculous. You're not even on my level. You're too weak to even scratch me."
She gestured dismissively at Sanjeev, her eyes filled with disdain. She saw him as a pathetic figure, a shadow of his former self. She couldn't comprehend that he would dare to challenge her, a rising star in the Lotus Blade Sect.
"Then let's make it interesting," Sanjeev countered, his eyes blazing with determination. He was not going to back down. He was going to make Milli pay for her past crimes. "If your precious junior loses, you will kneel before me and beg for my forgiveness. If I lose, I will do the same to you."
His words sent a shockwave through the hall. The stakes were incredibly high. To kneel and beg for forgiveness was the ultimate humiliation, a complete and utter defeat.
Milli hesitated for a moment, her confidence wavering slightly. She was confident in her junior's abilities. He was a skilled fighter, and she doubted that Sanjeev, with his "crippled" meridians, could defeat him. But there was a nagging doubt in the back of her mind. She had seen Sanjeev's resilience, his determination. She had felt the raw power emanating from him during their brief confrontation earlier.
A cruel smile twisted her lips. The thrill of the challenge, the opportunity to crush Sanjeev completely, was too tempting to resist. "Very well," she said, her voice dripping with malicious glee. "I accept your challenge. But this match will be held three months from now. That will give you enough time to train... though I doubt it will make any difference."
She wanted to drag out his suffering, to make him endure the agony of anticipation. She wanted to crush his hopes and dreams, to prove once and for all that he was nothing but a weakling.
Sanjeev nodded, his expression grim. Three months was a long time, but he would use every second of it to prepare. He would train harder than ever before, pushing his body and his mind to their limits. He would master new techniques, refine his skills, and seek out any advantage he could find.
"Three months," he said, his voice firm and unwavering. "I will be ready."
Milli turned and walked away, her entourage trailing behind her like obedient lapdogs. She glanced back at Sanjeev, her eyes filled with a mixture of contempt and amusement. She couldn't wait to see the look on his face when he realized the futility of his efforts.
Sanjeev watched her go, his heart filled with a mixture of anger and determination. He knew that he had just made a dangerous enemy, but he was prepared to face her. He would use the next three months to train harder than ever before, to hone his skills, and to prepare for the upcoming duel. He would prove to Milli, and to everyone else, that he was not a cripple. He was a force to be reckoned with.
Sanjeev and Aarav then turned their attention to the task at hand: selecting their weapons. The Weapon Hall was filled with an array of weapons, each radiating a unique aura of power. Sanjeev knew that he had to choose wisely. His life, and the lives of his loved ones, might depend on it.
Chapter 36: Weapon Selection and Revelations
Sanjeev and Aarav stepped into the Weapon Hall, their eyes widening in awe at the sheer spectacle before them. The hall was a veritable armory of wonders, a testament to the craftsmanship and power of the Lotus Blade Sect. Countless weapons lined the walls and were displayed on pedestals, each radiating its own unique energy signature.
Swords of every imaginable design were present, from sleek, elegant blades that hummed with barely contained power to massive, brutal greatswords that seemed to thirst for battle. Spears stood in disciplined ranks, their tips gleaming with an ominous sharpness, promising swift and decisive strikes. Axes, maces, hammers, and other heavy weapons were displayed with a sense of raw, untamed force, each capable of delivering devastating blows.
But the Weapon Hall was more than just a collection of armaments. It was a place steeped in history and legend. Many of the weapons were not mere tools of war but artifacts, imbued with the spirits of past warriors or forged with techniques lost to time. They pulsed with latent magic, whispered forgotten secrets, and resonated with the echoes of epic battles.
As Sanjeev and Aarav gazed at the incredible array of weapons, an elder stepped forward, his voice booming across the hall. "Welcome, new disciples," he announced. "Here, you will find the weapons that will accompany you on your journey. But in this hall, the choice is not entirely yours. The weapons themselves will choose their wielders."
He gestured towards a raised platform in the center of the hall. "Stand upon the altar," he instructed, "and allow the weapons to guide you. The weapon that resonates with your spirit will reveal itself."
Aarav, his eyes shining with excitement, stepped forward and stood on the altar. He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and focused his mind, trying to connect with the energies of the weapons around him.
Moments passed, but nothing happened. Aarav frowned, a look of disappointment crossing his face. He had hoped that a weapon would immediately choose him, but it seemed that none of the armaments were calling out to him.
He was about to step off the altar when a sudden movement caught his eye. A magnificent peacock fan, crafted from shimmering, iridescent feathers, floated gracefully towards him. The fan pulsed with a gentle, ethereal light, its energy both calming and mesmerizing.
The elder's eyes widened in astonishment. He recognized the fan immediately. "That weapon..." he murmured, his voice filled with awe. "That is the Azure Wind Fan. It was crafted by the First Elder of the Weapon Peak, a legendary figure in the sect's history. It is said to possess incredible power, capable of controlling wind and manipulating the very air itself."
He paused, his gaze fixed on Aarav. "But... but in all my years, I have never seen it choose a wielder. For over a thousand years, that fan has remained dormant, rejecting all who sought to wield it. You are incredibly fortunate, young man."
Aarav stared at the fan, his heart filled with a mixture of surprise and gratitude. He had not expected to be chosen by such a legendary weapon. He carefully took the fan in his hands, feeling its smooth, cool surface against his skin. A surge of energy flowed through him, a sense of harmony and connection.
Now it was Sanjeev's turn. He stepped onto the altar, his senses heightened, ready to receive the weapon that fate had chosen for him. He closed his eyes, focusing his spiritual energy, reaching out to the weapons that surrounded him.
But like Aarav, he felt nothing at first. The weapons remained silent, their energies indifferent to his presence. Sanjeev remained patient, his mind calm and focused. He knew that some connections took time, that the right weapon would reveal itself eventually.
Minutes passed, and still, nothing happened. Sanjeev began to wonder if, like Aarav initially, no weapon was destined for him. Perhaps his path lay in alchemy alone.
Suddenly, the ground beneath him began to tremble. A low rumble echoed through the hall, growing louder with each passing second. The weapons on the walls and pedestals vibrated, their energies becoming agitated.
The elder's eyes widened in alarm. He had never experienced anything like this before. The Weapon Hall was reacting to Sanjeev's presence, but in a way he had never seen.
The trembling intensified, and cracks began to appear in the floor. Then, with a deafening roar, a section of the floor collapsed, and a weapon emerged from the depths of the earth.
It was a mace, unlike any Sanjeev or the elder had ever seen. The mace was massive, its head a sphere of dark, obsidian-like metal, adorned with intricate, swirling patterns that pulsed with a malevolent energy. The shaft was thick and sturdy, wrapped in chains that seemed to writhe and shift on their own. The entire weapon radiated an aura of raw, untamed power, a sense of ancient, primal force.
The elder was speechless, his face pale with shock. He had no idea that such a weapon existed, let alone that it was hidden beneath the Weapon Hall. He had spent his entire life studying the weapons of the sect, but this mace was completely unknown to him.
Sanjeev, however, felt a strange sense of familiarity when he saw the mace. It was as if he had seen it before, in a dream or a vision. As he reached out and took the mace in his hands, a flood of images and memories surged through his mind.
He saw ancient battlefields, titans clashing with earth-shattering force, and a powerful warrior wielding a mace that looked almost identical to the one he now held. He recognized the weapon. It was a divine weapon from his past world, a weapon wielded by the mighty Lord Hanuman, a symbol of strength, devotion, and unwavering power.
A wave of emotion washed over Sanjeev - awe, reverence, and a sense of destiny. He knew that this weapon was no mere coincidence. It was a sign, a connection to his past life, a tool that would help him fulfill his purpose in this world.
With their chosen weapons in hand, Sanjeev and Aarav left the Weapon Hall, the other disciples staring at them with a mixture of envy and respect. They returned to Alchemy Peak, where they settled into their new rooms.
As Sanjeev entered his room, he couldn't take his eyes off the mace. It rested against the wall, its dark energy filling the space. He approached it cautiously, his mind still reeling from the events in the Weapon Hall.
Suddenly, a voice echoed in his mind. "What a waste of space. How can you even consider wielding such a crude weapon?"
Sanjeev recognized the voice immediately. It was Miang, the soul fragment that had been trapped within his soul realm. Miang had been a constant presence in Sanjeev's mind, a source of both annoyance and occasional wisdom.
Sanjeev rolled his eyes. "You know nothing about this weapon," he retorted mentally. "This is no ordinary mace. It has the power to cleave the earth in two, to shatter mountains. And it can change its size according to my will."
Miang scoffed. "Cleave the earth? Change size? You're delusional. It's just a big, heavy club."
"You'll see," Sanjeev replied confidently. He knew the true potential of the mace, its divine origins, and its connection to a legendary warrior. He was eager to unlock its full power.
Sanjeev decided to begin his cultivation. His current level was Maṇipūra Radiance, a stage that focused on harnessing and controlling the inner fire of spiritual energy. He sat down in a meditative posture, the mace resting beside him, and began to circulate his energy.
As he cultivated, Sanjeev felt a profound connection to the world around him. He could sense the subtle energies of nature, the flow of qi in the air, the rhythm of the earth. He felt a newfound confidence, a sense of being in harmony with the universe.
To Miang's astonishment, Sanjeev's cultivation progressed at an incredible pace. He quickly advanced through the initial stages of Maṇipūra Radiance, his energy becoming more potent and refined.
"How... how is this possible?" Miang stammered, his voice filled with disbelief. "You're not even absorbing spiritual energy from the environment. How can you cultivate so quickly? And you're far stronger than anyone at your level."
Sanjeev ignored Miang's questions. He was fully immersed in his cultivation, his mind focused on reaching the next breakthrough. He felt as if he was being guided, as if an unseen force was accelerating his progress.
Soon, Sanjeev reached the 3rd level of Maṇipūra Radiance, his power surging to new heights. Miang was utterly dumbfounded. He had never seen anyone cultivate like this before. It defied all logic and understanding.
Suddenly, Sanjeev felt himself being pulled, drawn into a familiar yet alien space. He recognized it - it was the divine realm within his soul, the place where he had encountered Lord Krishna.
Miang, who was still reeling from Sanjeev's rapid cultivation, was thrown into utter chaos. "What is this place?" he cried, his voice filled with fear and confusion. "I've never seen anything like it. It's like... like another world! How can a realm like this exist inside a person?"
Sanjeev remained calm, his senses heightened, his mind clear. "This is not just a realm," he explained to Miang, his voice serene. "It's a divine realm, a fragment of another world."
"Another world?" Miang exclaimed, his mind spinning. "What are you talking about? This is madness!"
Sanjeev ignored Miang's frantic questions. He could hear the faint, ethereal music of a flute, the same enchanting melody that had drawn him here before. He felt an irresistible pull, a longing to follow the sound.
"Come," Sanjeev said to Miang, his voice filled with a strange sense of peace. "Let's follow the music."
As they followed the music, the divine realm around them intensified. They could feel the presence of the heavens, the purity of a world beyond mortal comprehension. It was as if they were being transported to a higher plane of existence.
Finally, they arrived at their destination. Before them stood Lord Krishna.
Miang was speechless. He had never seen anyone so beautiful, so radiant, so utterly divine. Lord Krishna's presence filled the entire realm, emanating an energy that was both awe-inspiring and profoundly calming. His skin glowed with a celestial light, his eyes sparkled with infinite wisdom, and his smile radiated a love that transcended all understanding.
Lord Krishna turned his gaze towards Sanjeev, his eyes filled with warmth and recognition. "Sanjeev," he said, his voice like the gentle chime of a thousand bells. "You have come."
Then, Lord Krishna gestured towards Sanjeev's spiritual weapon, the Sudarshana Chakra, the divine disk. "Your Chakra," he said. "Bring it forth."
Sanjeev summoned the Chakra, the disk appearing in a flash of golden light. It hovered before Lord Krishna, its edges shimmering with power.
Lord Krishna took the Chakra in his hand, his touch infusing it with divine energy. The disk pulsed with light, its intricate patterns glowing with renewed vigor. Lord Krishna then spun the Chakra on his finger, enhancing its power and sharpness.
"Now," Lord Krishna said, his voice filled with authority, "your weapon is ready. You are now able to strike your enemies with divine force."
Then, Lord Krishna turned his attention to Miang, who was still trembling with awe and disbelief. He reached out and placed his finger on Miang's forehead.
A surge of divine energy flowed into Miang's soul, mending its brokenness, healing its wounds. Miang felt a profound sense of wholeness, of completeness, that he had never experienced before. His fragmented soul was made whole.
Sanjeev watched the scene with tears in his eyes. He felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for Lord Krishna's grace and compassion. He finally found the courage to ask the question that had been weighing on his heart.
"Lord Krishna," he said, his voice choked with emotion, "what is the purpose of my life? Why am I here?"
Lord Krishna smiled, his eyes filled with infinite wisdom. "The purpose of your life, Sanjeev," he replied, "will be revealed to you when the time is right. You will know it in your heart."
With those words, Sanjeev and Miang felt themselves being drawn back, pulled away from the divine realm. They returned to Sanjeev's room in Alchemy Peak, the memory of Lord Krishna's presence forever etched in their minds.
Miang was the first to speak, his voice filled with a mixture of awe and confusion. "What... what just happened?" he stammered. "How can someone heal a soul with a single touch? And who... who was that person?"
Sanjeev shook his head, a smile playing on his lips. "It's a long story, Miang," he said. "But I'll tell you everything."
Sanjeev then recounted his transmigration story to Miang, explaining how he had come from another world, how he had died and been reborn, and how he had come to possess this extraordinary soul realm.
Miang listened in stunned silence, his mind reeling from the revelations. He had never imagined that such things were possible, that other worlds existed, that souls could be fragmented and healed.
"So," Miang said, his voice trembling slightly, "that person... Lord Krishna... he's not from this world?"
Sanjeev nodded. "He is a divine being," he explained, his voice filled with reverence. "He is the one who revealed the Bhagavad Gita, the one who can destroy planets with a single thought, the one who can create entire universes in the blink of an eye. He is the creator, the sustainer, the destroyer. He is everything."
As Sanjeev spoke of Lord Krishna's glory, his cultivation level rose once more. He reached the 5th stage of Maṇipūra Radiance, his power surging to even greater heights.
Miang was awestruck. "You mean to say," he gasped, "that he is a divine existence beyond human comprehension? A true god?"
Sanjeev nodded. "He is the God of my world," he confirmed. "The strongest among the strong."
Sanjeev then revealed an even more astonishing truth. "Lord Krishna," he said, "is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe."
Miang's mind was blown. "What? What are you saying? That divine existence is the incarnation of someone even stronger than him?"
Sanjeev smiled. "Yes," he replied. "And there are many other incarnations of Lord Vishnu, each with their own unique purpose and power."
Miang's head swam with the implications. "This is... this is too much," he muttered. "You're telling me that the creator of the universe is also... a person? A being that can interact with mortals?"
Sanjeev nodded. "That is the nature of divine incarnations," he explained. "They descend to the mortal realm to guide, to protect, and to restore balance to the universe."
Sanjeev then told Miang about another incarnation of Lord Vishnu, a figure known in this world as well. "Do you know of Gautama Buddha?" he asked.
Miang nodded. "Yes," he said. "In my world, there are many Buddhist sects that follow his teachings."
"Gautama Buddha," Sanjeev revealed, "is also an incarnation of Lord Vishnu."
Miang was speechless. His understanding of the universe, of reality itself, had been shattered and rebuilt in the span of a few hours. He had learned of other worlds, of divine beings, of incarnations and cosmic truths that defied all logic.
"Are you alright, Miang?" Sanjeev asked, concerned by the soul fragment's stunned silence.
Miang finally found his voice, his tone filled with a mixture of awe and wonder. "How... how can we meet them?" he asked. "How can we meet these divine beings?"
Sanjeev smiled knowingly. "We can only meet them," he replied, "when they choose to meet us. When the time is right, and when they have a purpose for us, they will reveal themselves."
Chapter 37: Confrontation with the Shen Family
The day after the weapon selection, Miang approached Sanjeev with a proposition. The initial shock of the divine realm and Lord Krishna's revelations had subsided, replaced by a burning curiosity and a thirst for knowledge.
"Sanjeev," Miang began, his voice surprisingly earnest, "I must know more about your world. The cultivation methods you use, the very fabric of your reality... it's all so different, so... potent. You mentioned that your cultivation methods could allow mortals to become gods, and even allow beings to fight toe-to-toe with them. I am incredibly impressed."
Miang paused, his eyes gleaming with a newfound respect. "In exchange for your knowledge," he continued, "I will teach you the art of weapon refinement. I was, after all, a deity of weapon refinement in the divine realm. You can trust me on this; my skills are unparalleled."
Sanjeev considered the offer. He knew the value of his world's knowledge, the profound spiritual truths contained within its ancient texts and practices. But he also recognized the potential benefit of learning weapon refinement from a god. The mace he had acquired in the Weapon Hall was clearly extraordinary, and mastering its full potential would be crucial for his survival and his quest for revenge.
"Very well, Miang," Sanjeev agreed. "I accept your offer. I will share the knowledge of my world with you, and in return, you will teach me the secrets of weapon refinement."
The next day, Sanjeev and Aarav were summoned to the main hall by Elder Ye Tan. The elder's expression was serious, his usual jovial demeanor replaced by a grim determination.
"I have a mission for you two," Elder Ye Tan announced, his voice heavy with urgency. "A village in Dragon Town is under attack by demonic beasts. You are to go there and eliminate the threat."
Aarav groaned. "A beast hunting mission? Again?" he complained, though there was a hint of excitement in his voice. He enjoyed the thrill of combat, the challenge of facing powerful creatures.
"What rank of beasts are we dealing with, Master?" Aarav asked.
"Third and fourth rank," Elder Ye Tan replied. "We believe there are no high-rank monsters in the area, but remain vigilant."
Sanjeev and Aarav nodded, acknowledging the mission. They knew the importance of protecting the innocent from the ravages of demonic beasts. They began their preparations, gathering their weapons, supplies, and spiritual energy.
As Sanjeev prepared to depart, Blackie, his enormous beast companion, nudged him insistently. Blackie, whose size had grown to an astonishing twenty-five feet, clearly wanted to accompany Sanjeev on the mission.
Sanjeev initially refused. "Blackie, you're too big," he said. "You'll terrify the villagers. It's too dangerous."
But Blackie, with his surprisingly expressive eyes, made a series of imploring faces, his huge form shrinking slightly as if to emphasize his desire to be small and harmless. Sanjeev, who had a soft spot for the giant beast, eventually relented.
"Alright, alright," Sanjeev sighed. "But you have to stay hidden. And you absolutely cannot harm any humans unless I give the order."
Blackie chirped in delight and, in a matter of seconds, shrunk down to a mere foot in height. He then scampered up Sanjeev's leg and nestled comfortably inside his shirt, becoming a hidden, furry stowaway.
With Blackie safely concealed, Sanjeev and Aarav set off for Dragon Town. Their journey took them through winding roads and lush landscapes, the scenery a stark contrast to the grim task that awaited them.
As they traveled, they came across a disturbance on the side of the road. A small crowd had gathered, their faces filled with fear and anger. Sanjeev and Aarav approached to investigate.
They saw a young man, dressed in ostentatious robes and surrounded by a group of menacing-looking thugs, bullying an elderly shopkeeper. The young man was shouting and gesturing angrily, while the shopkeeper cowered in fear.
"Let's help him," Sanjeev said to Aarav. "We can't just stand by and watch this happen."
Aarav hesitated. "We're on a mission, Sanjeev," he reminded him. "We don't have time for this."
"We have time to do the right thing," Sanjeev insisted. "Besides, we can't ignore someone in need."
Aarav sighed, but he knew Sanjeev was right. He couldn't bring himself to abandon the shopkeeper to his fate.
Just as the young man raised his hand to strike the shopkeeper, Sanjeev stepped forward, placing himself between the attacker and his victim. The young man's attack harmlessly dissipated against Sanjeev's energy barrier.
"What do you think you're doing, interfering with my business?" the young man snarled, his face contorted with fury.
"I'm asking you to stop bullying this innocent person," Sanjeev replied, his voice calm but firm. "He has done nothing to deserve this."
"Mind your own business, you meddling fool!" the young man shouted. "I am the Young Master of the Shen Family. I can do whatever I please!"
The arrogance in the young man's voice, the blatant display of power and entitlement, ignited Sanjeev's anger. He had seen this kind of behavior before, the abuse of power by those who believed themselves to be above the law.
"Your family name means nothing to me," Sanjeev said coldly. "No one has the right to mistreat others simply because they have power."
The young man lunged at Sanjeev, unleashing a flurry of attacks. But Sanjeev, whose cultivation level was a full stage higher than his opponent, easily dodged and deflected every blow. With a swift counter-strike, Sanjeev subdued the young man, leaving him defeated and humiliated.
The thugs, seeing their leader defeated, quickly scattered, leaving the young master to lick his wounds. The shopkeeper, trembling with gratitude, bowed deeply to Sanjeev and Aarav.
"Thank you, thank you so much," the shopkeeper stammered. "I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't arrived."
"You're welcome," Sanjeev replied. "Are you alright?"
"Yes, I'm fine, thanks to you," the shopkeeper said. "But... but who was that young man? He mentioned the Shen Family. Are they... are they dangerous?"
"The Shen Family is one of the most powerful families in Dragon City," the shopkeeper explained. "They have a genius strategist and formation expert serving as their butler. His knowledge is the foundation of the Shen Family's power and influence. They are not a family you want to cross."
Sanjeev nodded, absorbing the information. He had a feeling that this encounter with the Shen Family was not a mere coincidence.
"Thank you for the warning," Sanjeev said. "We must be going now."
Sanjeev and Aarav continued their journey to Dragon Town, their minds filled with thoughts of the Shen Family and the challenges that lay ahead. They knew that protecting the city from the monster waves would not be their only task.
Upon arriving in Dragon Town, Sanjeev and Aarav headed straight for the city lord's residence. The mansion of the city lord was a sprawling complex, a testament to his wealth and status. It was a grand structure, adorned with intricate carvings, shimmering jewels, and towering pillars that seemed to reach for the sky. The gardens surrounding the mansion were meticulously manicured, filled with exotic plants and fragrant flowers.
Sanjeev and Aarav presented their Lotus Blade Sect tokens to the guards at the entrance, informing them of their arrival and their mission. The guards, recognizing the authority of the sect, immediately dispatched a messenger to inform the city lord.
To their surprise, the city lord himself, accompanied by a retinue of officials, came out to greet them personally. He was a dignified man, dressed in opulent robes, but his face was etched with worry and exhaustion.
"Welcome, esteemed cultivators," the city lord said, his voice filled with a mixture of relief and gratitude. "I am City Lord Wei. I have been informed of your arrival. We are in dire need of your assistance."
Sanjeev and Aarav followed the city lord into his mansion. The interior was even more lavish than the exterior, filled with priceless artifacts, exquisite tapestries, and ornate furniture. But despite the opulence, there was an air of despair hanging over the place.
As they sat down to discuss the situation, Sanjeev couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between the city lord's wealth and the suffering of his people. He had seen signs of poverty and hunger on the streets, a stark contrast to the city lord's luxurious lifestyle.
"Your Excellency," Sanjeev began, "we have seen the state of your city. Your people are suffering from hunger and monster attacks. Why is this happening?"
City Lord Wei sighed, his face filled with sorrow. "I have tried my best to protect my city," he explained, "but I lack the manpower and resources to effectively combat the monster waves. The powerful families in this city recruit all the talented and strong individuals, leaving me with little to defend my people. And the waves... they have taken so much from us."
His voice cracked with emotion as he spoke of his daughter. "In the last wave, my daughter... she tried to fight the monsters, to protect the city. But she was too young, too inexperienced. She died... in the claws of those beasts."
Aarav and Sanjeev exchanged sympathetic glances. They could feel the city lord's pain, his desperation.
"We will protect your city, Your Excellency," Sanjeev said with conviction. "You have my word. We will do everything in our power to stop the monster waves."
"When will the next wave arrive?" Sanjeev asked.
"In two weeks," City Lord Wei replied. "We have very little time to prepare."
"And what about the other families in the city?" Sanjeev asked. "Can't they help defend their own people?"
City Lord Wei shook his head sadly. "They send their troops," he said, "but their forces are weak, poorly trained. Some of them are not even cultivators. They offer little real assistance."
Sanjeev frowned. He had a feeling that the city lord was not telling the whole story. He sensed a deeper, more insidious reason behind the families' lack of cooperation. He thought to himself, "These big families are incredibly cruel. They aren't even putting in a token effort to protect the city."
"Your Excellency," Sanjeev said, "may we see the city walls, where the monsters attack?"
"Of course," City Lord Wei replied. He led Sanjeev and Aarav to the city walls, a massive structure that had been battered and scarred by countless monster attacks.
As Sanjeev surveyed the walls, an idea began to form in his mind. He saw the weaknesses in the city's defenses, the areas where the monsters were most likely to breach. He also saw the potential for a more effective defensive strategy.
Meanwhile, in a hidden chamber beneath the city, the heads of the five most powerful families in Dragon City were gathered. The atmosphere was thick with greed and ambition. Among them was the head of the Shen Family.
"The city is on the verge of collapse," the Shen Family head said, his voice filled with satisfaction. "In two weeks, the next wave will hit. And when it does, the city will be devastated."
"And that's when we make our move," another family head added, his eyes gleaming with avarice. "We will offer to rebuild the city, but we will charge exorbitant fees. We will bleed the city lord dry, and slowly, we will take control of the city's resources and its governance."
"And once we have control," a third family head chimed in, "we will divide the city amongst ourselves, ensuring our families' prosperity for generations to come."
The family heads chuckled, their hearts filled with cold calculation. They were willing to sacrifice the lives of countless innocent people for their own selfish gain.
Unbeknownst to them, Sanjeev and Aarav were secretly listening to their conversation. They had used their spiritual senses to eavesdrop, their anger growing with each word.
"These bastards!" Aarav growled, his fists clenched. "They're willing to let the city be destroyed just to line their own pockets!"
Sanjeev's expression was grim. He had suspected that the families were not as benevolent as they seemed, but he had not imagined the extent of their depravity.
"We can't let them get away with this," Sanjeev said. "We have to do something."
After the meeting, Sanjeev devised a plan, a way to force the families to become involved in the city's defense, whether they wanted to or not. It was a risky plan, but Sanjeev knew it was the only way to save Dragon City.
The next day, Sanjeev and Aarav, along with City Lord Wei, began to implement Sanjeev's plan. They worked tirelessly, preparing the city for the coming wave, reinforcing the defenses, and training the city's militia.
As the day of the wave approached, tension hung heavy in the air. The citizens of Dragon City braced themselves for the inevitable onslaught, their hopes resting on the shoulders of Sanjeev and Aarav.
Then, on the day of the wave, chaos erupted. A servant rushed into the Shen Family head's mansion, his face pale with terror.
"Master! Master!" he cried. "The beasts... they're attacking! They're heading straight for our estate!"
The Shen Family head was stunned. He had expected the beasts to attack the city walls, not his own home. And the same scene was playing out at the other four family estates as well. The beasts, as if guided by an unseen hand, were targeting the very heart of the families' power.
Chapter 38: A Web of Formation and Deception
The Shen Family Head, a man named Shen Long, a powerful cultivator in his own right, soared into the sky. He was a tall, imposing figure, his face usually a mask of cold arrogance, now twisted with a mixture of fear and disbelief. He wore ornate robes of deep blue, embroidered with golden dragons, and his long, black hair streamed behind him in the wind.
He had felt the tremors in his estate, the panicked cries of his servants, and the terrifying roars of the demonic beasts. Now, as he ascended, the full scope of the disaster unfolded before his eyes.
His estate, a sprawling complex of magnificent buildings and fortified walls, was under siege. Demonic beasts, their eyes glowing with malevolent energy, swarmed through the once-pristine gardens, tearing through the carefully manicured lawns and smashing the decorative fountains. His family's cultivators, normally so proud and powerful, were fighting desperately, their faces contorted with fear as they struggled to hold back the tide.
The scene was mirrored at the other four great family estates. The once-impregnable fortresses of the Dragon City elite were now battlegrounds, the sounds of carnage echoing across the landscape.
But what truly shocked Shen Long was the sight of the city itself. The massive gates, usually sealed tight against any threat, were wide open. A torrent of demonic beasts poured into the city, their dark forms silhouetted against the flickering flames of burning buildings. Yet, there were no defenders. The city walls, normally manned by hundreds of soldiers, were deserted. The streets, usually bustling with activity, were eerily empty.
Shen Long's mind reeled. This was not how a monster wave was supposed to happen. The beasts were supposed to attack the city walls, giving the defenders a chance to fight them off before they could reach the civilian population. But this... this was a nightmare. It was a slaughter.
He saw small pockets of resistance - desperate city guards, a few brave cultivators - but they were hopelessly outnumbered, overwhelmed by the sheer number of beasts. The city was falling, and there was nothing he could do to stop it.
His heart filled with a cold dread. He realized that this was not a natural disaster. This was a carefully orchestrated attack, a deliberate strategy designed to cripple the city and its defenders. But who could have done this? Who had the power and the audacity to manipulate a monster wave in such a way?
His gaze fell upon the city lord's mansion, a beacon of light amidst the chaos. He saw figures moving on the walls, directing the defense. Among them, he recognized the two young cultivators who had arrived from the Lotus Blade Sect. Sanjeev and Aarav.
A wave of suspicion washed over Shen Long. Could they be responsible for this? It seemed impossible. They were just two young men, barely out of their teens. But something about their presence, their calm demeanor in the face of such chaos, made him uneasy.
The scene shifted, flashing back to two weeks prior. Sanjeev and Aarav stood before City Lord Wei and a council of his advisors, outlining their plan.
"The traditional defense strategy is flawed," Sanjeev explained, his voice calm and confident. "By concentrating all our forces at the city walls, we leave the rest of the city vulnerable. The monsters are intelligent; they will adapt and find a way around our defenses."
"But what do you propose?" City Lord Wei asked, his face etched with worry. "If we don't defend the walls, the city will be overrun! My people will be slaughtered!"
"Not if we control the battlefield," Sanjeev replied. "We will open the city gates, but we will also evacuate the civilian population. We will create a series of fortified zones within the city, protected by powerful formations. We will lure the monsters into these zones, where we can engage them on our terms."
A council member, a stout man with a skeptical expression, objected. "That's insane! You're suggesting we sacrifice the city to save it? Many innocent people will die if we open the gates!"
"We will not sacrifice anyone," Sanjeev said firmly. "We will evacuate them. We will create safe havens, impenetrable barriers that the monsters cannot breach. We will use the city itself as a weapon, turning its streets and buildings into a maze of death for the beasts."
He gestured to a detailed map of the city, outlining his plan. "We will create chokepoints, kill zones, and diversionary routes. We will use formations to amplify our power, to control the flow of battle. And most importantly, we will target the families."
"The families?" City Lord Wei asked, his brow furrowed. "What do you mean?"
"The great families of this city," Sanjeev explained, his voice hardening, "they are the key to its defense. They have the resources, the manpower, and the power to protect this city. But they choose to hoard their strength, to prioritize their own safety over the lives of their people. We will force them to fight."
"How?" a councilwoman asked, her voice filled with doubt. "They will never agree to fight in the city. They will hide behind their walls and let the city burn."
"We won't give them a choice," Sanjeev said, a hint of steel in his voice. "By opening the city gates, we will draw the monsters directly to their estates. They will have no choice but to defend themselves, their families, and their wealth. We will use the monster wave to weaken them, to expose their true nature."
The council members were shocked by the audacity of Sanjeev's plan. It was risky, unconventional, and utterly ruthless. But as they listened to him speak, they could not deny the logic behind his strategy. It was a gamble, but it was a gamble they had to take.
"It's insane," one of the council members muttered, "but it just might work."
"We have no other choice," City Lord Wei said, his voice filled with grim determination. "We have to trust these young cultivators. They are our only hope."
The scene shifted back to the present, to the chaotic reality of the monster wave. Shen Long watched in horror as his city burned, his family fought for their lives, and the plan of the two Lotus Blade Sect disciples unfolded before his very eyes.
Sanjeev's gamble had paid off. The first wave of the monster attack had been directed at the great families, forcing them to expend their resources and reveal their true strength. The city had been spared the worst of the initial onslaught, but the battle was far from over.
Sanjeev stood on the city wall, his gaze sweeping across the battlefield. He could sense the ebb and flow of the battle, the shifting tides of energy. He knew that the second wave would be even more dangerous, more cunning.
He turned to City Lord Wei, who stood beside him, his face etched with a mixture of relief and trepidation. "What kind of monsters will we face in the third wave?" Sanjeev asked.
"The third wave..." City Lord Wei hesitated, his voice filled with unease. "They are the Demi-Humans. They are intelligent, cunning, and powerful. They can think and cultivate like humans. Their strongest warriors are on par with cultivators at the Maṇipūra Radiance stage."
Sanjeev's eyes narrowed. Demi-Humans. He had heard of them before, creatures of immense power and potential. If they were allowed to run rampant in the city, they could cause untold devastation.
But then, an idea sparked in his mind. The Demi-Humans were intelligent, capable of cultivation. They were not mindless beasts. Perhaps... perhaps they could be reasoned with. Perhaps they could be... recruited.
His divine disk, after its enhancement by Lord Krishna, could now hold a vast number of beings. Sanjeev estimated its current capacity to be around 40,000 individuals. He could use the disk to contain the Demi-Humans, to offer them a sanctuary, a place where they could live and thrive.
He turned to Aarav, who was standing nearby, his face grim with determination. "Aarav," Sanjeev said, his voice low but urgent, "I have a plan for the second wave. But it's risky, and I need your help."
Aarav, ever trusting of his friend, nodded without hesitation. "What is it?"
Sanjeev led Aarav to a secluded corner of the city wall, away from the prying ears of the city lord and his officials. He explained his plan, his voice filled with a mixture of hope and trepidation.
"I will use my disk," Sanjeev said, "to capture the Demi-Humans. I will offer them a place within my divine space, a place where they can cultivate and live in peace. We can use their strength to bolster our defenses, to protect this city. But it will be dangerous. The Demi-Humans are powerful, and they will not surrender easily."
Aarav listened intently, his expression thoughtful. He knew the risks involved, the potential for disaster. But he also knew Sanjeev's determination, his unwavering belief in the potential for good.
"It's a long shot," Aarav admitted, "but it's worth a try. If we can capture the Demi-Humans, it could change everything."
They approached City Lord Wei, who was watching the battle with a weary expression. "Your Excellency," Sanjeev said, "we have a solution for the second wave. But it requires your trust."
City Lord Wei, desperate for any hope, nodded eagerly. "Anything," he said. "Just tell me what you need."
Sanjeev explained his plan, his voice filled with conviction. City Lord Wei listened in stunned silence, his eyes widening with disbelief.
"You want to... capture the Demi-Humans?" he stammered. "But they are our enemies! They are the ones attacking our city!"
"They are attacking because they have nowhere else to go," Sanjeev replied. "They are being driven from their homes, hunted and persecuted. We can offer them a sanctuary, a chance to live in peace. And in return, they can help us defend this city."
City Lord Wei hesitated, torn between his fear of the Demi-Humans and his desperation to save his city. But Sanjeev's words resonated with him, his vision of a world where humans and Demi-Humans could coexist.
"I... I will trust you," City Lord Wei said finally, his voice trembling slightly. "But if this goes wrong..."
"It won't," Sanjeev said firmly. "I will not let you down."
With the city lord's reluctant blessing, Sanjeev left the city walls, venturing into the ravaged landscape where the Demi-Humans were waging their desperate battle.
He summoned his divine disk, the Sudarshana Chakra, and activated its capture function. The disk expanded, its golden surface shimmering with power. Soul chains, glowing with divine energy, shot out from the disk, snaking across the battlefield, targeting the Demi-Humans.
The Demi-Humans, caught off guard by the sudden attack, fought back fiercely. They were powerful warriors, their bodies honed by years of struggle and survival. They resisted the soul chains with all their might, their eyes blazing with defiance.
But Sanjeev's cultivation level was far higher than theirs. The soul chains, imbued with his divine energy, were too strong to break. One by one, the Demi-Humans were subdued, their struggles growing weaker as they were drawn towards the disk.
The capture operation took hours, a grueling test of Sanjeev's stamina and control. He had to maintain his focus, to control the disk and the soul chains, to ensure that no Demi-Human escaped.
Just as Sanjeev was about to capture the last of the Demi-Humans, a figure emerged from the shadows, launching a surprise attack. It was the strongest of the Demi-Human warriors, his eyes burning with hatred.
Sanjeev, his senses heightened by his cultivation, reacted instantly. He dodged the attack, narrowly avoiding a fatal blow. The Demi-Human warrior, a hulking figure with the strength of a bull, roared in frustration.
"Why are you capturing our people?" the Demi-Human demanded, his voice filled with rage. "Why are you taking them away?"
"They are attacking the city," Sanjeev replied, his voice calm but firm. "They are killing innocent people."
"Innocent?" the Demi-Human scoffed. "Humans are not innocent. They are devils! They hunt us, they enslave us, they slaughter us without mercy!"
The Demi-Human lunged at Sanjeev, his fists crackling with energy. He was a formidable opponent, a master of his fighting style. Sanjeev, despite his higher cultivation level, was forced to fight seriously.
The Demi-Human warrior roared, his body transforming, his muscles bulging, his strength increasing tenfold. He had activated his animal spirit, drawing upon the power of a bull, his movements becoming a blur of raw power.
Sanjeev was pushed to his limits, forced to use all his skill and power to defend himself. He drew his sword, its blade gleaming with divine light, and engaged the Demi-Human in a fierce duel.
Finally, Sanjeev unleashed his ultimate attack, the Roaring of Nine Dragons. Nine spectral dragons materialized in the air, their roars shaking the very foundations of the earth. The Demi-Human warrior, terrified by the overwhelming power of the dragons, faltered. Sanjeev seized the opportunity and struck, capturing the warrior with a final surge of energy.
With the last of the Demi-Humans subdued, Sanjeev returned to his divine disk, bringing his captives with him. The Demi-Humans, disoriented and frightened, tried to attack him, but their souls were bound to the disk, rendering them powerless.
"You are now under my protection," Sanjeev announced, his voice echoing through the vast space within the disk. "You will not be harmed. You will be safe here."
The Demi-Humans looked at Sanjeev with suspicion and fear. "We would rather die," one of them snarled, "than become your slaves."
"You are not my slaves," Sanjeev replied. "You attacked the city, and I stopped you. But I am not your enemy. I am offering you a chance to live, a chance to rebuild your lives."
The Demi-Humans remained silent, their eyes filled with distrust. They had suffered too much at the hands of humans to trust anyone.
"The humans of that city," one of the Demi-Humans said, his voice filled with bitterness, "they capture us, they sell us into slavery. They use our women as... as playthings, and then they kill them. They are monsters."
Sanjeev was shocked by the brutality of their treatment. He had known that there was prejudice against Demi-Humans, but he had not realized the extent of their suffering.
"Why didn't you leave?" Sanjeev asked. "Why didn't you flee from this city?"
"Where would we go?" another Demi-Human replied, his voice filled with despair. "Everywhere is the same. Humans hunt us, kill us. We are weak, and we cannot fight them. We have nowhere to run."
Sanjeev felt a surge of compassion for the Demi-Humans. They were not the monsters they had been made out to be. They were victims, forced to fight for their survival.
"You can stay here," Sanjeev said, his voice filled with sincerity. "My disk can hold 40,000 people. There are five hundred million square meters of land within. You can cultivate, you can build a community, you can live in peace."
The Demi-Humans exchanged hesitant glances. They had never been offered such a chance before, such a glimmer of hope in their bleak existence.
"Why... why would you help us?" one of them asked, his voice trembling slightly.
"Because it is the right thing to do," Sanjeev replied. "Because you deserve to live. Because I believe in a world where humans and Demi-Humans can coexist."
The Demi-Humans were moved by Sanjeev's words, his sincerity, his compassion. They had never met a human like him before, a human who saw them as people, not as monsters.
Finally, their leader, the Demi-Human warrior who had fought Sanjeev, stepped forward. He bowed his head in gratitude. "We... we will accept your offer," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "We will stay in your... your disk."
In total, Sanjeev captured 22,435 Demi-Humans, offering them a new home within his divine space.
"You can cultivate here," Sanjeev told them, "and increase your power. You can build whatever you want, live however you want. This is your sanctuary now."
The Demi-Humans bowed down before Sanjeev, their hearts filled with gratitude and hope.
"There is no need for that," Sanjeev said gently. "I am not your master. I am your ally."
He then addressed the women among the Demi-Humans. "You do not have to fight," he said. "The men can be warriors, if necessary. You can focus on other skills, on building a community, on raising families. You will be rewarded for your contributions, just as the warriors will be rewarded for theirs."
The Demi-Humans were overjoyed by Sanjeev's words. They had never been treated with such respect, such consideration. They had found a true leader, a true savior.
With the Demi-Humans settled in his divine space, Sanjeev returned to the city, his heart filled with a sense of accomplishment. He arrived at the city gate, where Aarav was waiting for him, his face filled with concern.
"Are you alright?" Aarav asked. "Were you successful?"
"Yes," Sanjeev replied, a smile spreading across his face. "I captured them all. The second wave is over."
Aarav relayed the news to City Lord Wei and the soldiers, who erupted in cheers. The city was safe, for now.
"But the third wave is coming," Sanjeev reminded them. "And we must be prepared."
Sanjeev began to plan the city's defenses, drawing upon his knowledge of formations from his past life. He worked tirelessly, creating intricate arrays of energy that would amplify the power of the city's defenders, turning the city into an impregnable fortress.
He laid out twenty formations at once, a feat that would normally require the skill of a fourth-level formation master. City Lord Wei, watching Sanjeev work, was astonished by his talent.
"Are you... are you a fourth-level formation master?" City Lord Wei asked, his voice filled with awe. "At your age?"
Sanjeev simply smiled, offering no explanation. His skills were a mystery, a power that transcended the understanding of this world.
The scene shifted, moving away from the city walls and towards the hidden chambers beneath the city, where the heads of the five great families were gathered once more.