Chapter 11

In the depths of Pathal-Lok, Nakul's transformation was more than just physical; it was a metamorphosis of his very soul. The realization that there was no escape from this clandestine fortress had initially filled him with despair. However, as time passed, a new resolve took root within him. He had nothing to lose, and the organization did not seek anything in return except his allegiance to their cause: to eliminate those who harm society.

Nakul's training was grueling, designed to strip away his former self and rebuild him into an instrument of vengeance. He learned to escape law enforcement, to blend into shadows, and to leave no trace. His days were filled with rigorous physical training, his body honed to endure and adapt.

One of the most crucial skills imparted to him was technological manipulation. Nakul became adept at hacking CCTV cameras, using sophisticated software pre-installed on a phone provided by Pathal-Lok. This tool allowed him to move undetected, to be a ghost in the machine.

His mental conditioning was equally intense. Nakul was shown detective movies, not for entertainment but as educational material. He analyzed them, learning to think like a culprit, to anticipate moves, and to plan several steps ahead.

But it was the emotional conditioning that was the most transformative. Every day, Nakul was shown videos and articles about Ayesha and her family's rising popularity, as if the past had been erased. The sight of his own parents moving on, forgetting him, fueled his anger. No one held Ayesha accountable, further igniting Nakul's desire for revenge.

With each passing day, Nakul's heart, once pure and kind, hardened. Hatred and vengeance seeped into his veins, replacing the compassion that once defined him. He trained relentlessly, his fists pummeling an Ayesha-themed punching bag until his knuckles bled. His every thought was consumed by revenge.

Three months into his training, Nakul's routine was unyielding. He woke before dawn, meditating to focus his mind, sharpening his resolve. He revisited his training courses, perfecting his skills and strategies. His confidence grew, a stark contrast to the uncertain young man who had first arrived at Pathal-Lok.

Finally, Nakul felt ready. Donning an Asur mask, like the one in Pathal-Lok's emblem, he approached a member of the organization. "I am ready to implement my revenge," he declared, his voice steady and determined.

The member, cloaked in shadows, regarded him for a long moment. "Not yet," he finally said. "You must first pass an exam, proctored by our chairman, codenamed RAVAN. Your performance will determine your readiness."

Nakul's eyes narrowed behind the mask. "An exam?"

"Yes," the member continued. "It will test everything you have learned, your physical skills, mental acuity, and emotional control. If you score higher than our usual standards, you will be given a code name, a mark of the highest achievement in Pathal-Lok."

The chapter closes with Nakul standing in the dimly lit chamber, his resolve unshaken. The prospect of an exam, another hurdle to overcome, did not deter him. Instead, it fueled his determination. He was no longer the Nakul of the past; he was something else entirely, something forged in the fires of Pathal-Lok's ruthless training. The path ahead was clear, and Nakul was ready to walk it, whatever the cost.