Chapter 85 extra

Merlin stood within the ancient halls of the castle gifted to him by Torrhen Stark, Merlin stood before a large oak table. On it lay a mesmerizing collection of artifacts, each shimmering with an otherworldly aura. The castle itself, a gift from Torrhen Stark, loomed above them, its ancient towers whispering tales of old. But tonight, it was not the history of Westeros that drew attention, but the magic Merlin had brought to its heart.

The flickering torchlight cast long shadows as Merlin waved his hand, conjuring swirling portals from thin air. From these shimmering gateways stepped Cassandra, Dastan, and N'Jadaka.

Merlin smiled and welcomed them to Westeros, he discussed everything that was happening in Essos and Westeros. Then gestured towards the table and said."Before you go back, I have some gifts for you."

Their eyes widening as they beheld the Merlin's lair.

Laid out before them on a weathered table was a breathtaking array of artifacts, each humming with ancient power. Merlin, with a knowing smile, gestured towards the treasures.

The first artifact was an anklet, its design breathtakingly intricate. Two raised sections resembled stylized horns or wings, flanking a central carving of a fierce, mythical monkey—Vanara. The monkey's face was expressive, its sharp eyes and snarling mouth capturing the essence of a primal force. The anklet gleamed with a metallic sheen, likely bronze, and bore the scars of time, its surface etched with ancient patterns that hinted at forgotten ceremonies and ancient battles.

Next was the Nandi Astra, an ornately designed bracelet shaped like the curved horns of a mighty bull. The horns were thick and robust, curling outward with the power to shatter mountains. At the center, a stylized carving of a bull's face, eyes fierce and unyielding, radiated strength. The bracelet appeared to be crafted from an ancient, stone-like material, its rugged texture telling tales of countless battles. Intricate carvings ran along the horns and bull's face, marking it as both sacred and formidable.

Then there was the Gajastra, a massive, triangular shield that seemed to pulse with power. At its center was an intricate carving of an elephant's head, the eyes glowing with a haunting blue hue. The elephant's tusks were sharp and imposing, and its long trunk coiled with purpose. Swirling patterns, reminiscent of ancient Indian art, adorned the surface, enhancing its mystical aura. The shield's edges were carved with additional symbols, adding to its ceremonial presence.

The Prabhastra lay nearby, a sword of dark, metallic glory. The blade was slightly curved, its surface etched with runes and symbols that spoke of deadly purpose. The hilt was carved to resemble a fierce animal's head—perhaps a lion or dragon—its eyes glowing faintly in the dim light. The handle was textured with a pattern of scales, providing both grip and aesthetic appeal. The sword had the appearance of a relic from an age when gods walked the earth, its presence commanding respect and fear.

Beside it was the Nag Dhanush, a bow that seemed almost alive. The bow's limbs were wrapped by two serpents, their bodies coiled and their scales detailed with unnerving precision. The snakes' heads faced each other, their eyes locked in an eternal stare, their mouths open as if ready to strike. The bow was both slender and powerful, a weapon that could strike down foes with the speed of a viper.

The next artifact was a pendant shaped like a droplet of water, its design fluid and dynamic. It shimmered with a glowing blue hue, the color of a mountain spring, and its surface was adorned with swirling patterns that seemed to flow like currents. The pendant radiated an aura of calm and adaptability, embodying the essence of water itself.

The artifact that followed was another pendant, this one carved with the majestic image of an eagle, its wings spread wide as if ready to soar. The craftsmanship was exquisite, each feather detailed to perfection, capturing the spirit of the skies.

Lastly, there was the Tenduastra—a metallic ring that bore the carving of a panther. The panther's eyes seemed to glow with an inner fire, its gaze both predatory and protective. The ring was sleek and deadly, much like the beast it represented.

Merlin watched as Dastan and N'Jadaka approached the table, their expressions a mix of awe and curiosity. N'Jadaka's gaze was immediately drawn to the Tenduastra, the panther's fierce eyes mirroring his own intensity. Dastan, on the other hand, found his attention captured by the Vanara anklet, the spirit of the warrior monkey resonating deeply within him.

Cassandra, ever curious, finally broke the silence. "Are these the Astras you spoke of?"

Merlin nodded, a proud smile playing on his lips. "Yes, each one unique, forged with ancient magic. They will grant you power, far beyond what you have known. Choose wisely, for they will become part of you."

Without hesitation, N'Jadaka reached for the panther ring. The moment his fingers brushed against it, he felt a surge of energy course through his veins. "This," Merlin said, pointing at the ring, "is the Tenduastra. It will enhance your strength, durability, speed, agility, and senses beyond that of any mortal. Your reflexes will be razor-sharp, and your healing unmatched. With this, you will see in the dark, hear whispers from miles away, and track enemies by their scent. It is more than just a weapon; it is a part of you now."

Dastan, entranced by the anklet, picked it up. "And that," Merlin continued, "is the Vanarastra. It grants not just strength and speed, but the agility and endurance of the Vanara. You'll leap across mountains and scale walls with ease. In your hands, it will bring legends to life."

Both men stood, holding their chosen Astras, feeling the immense power within them. The room seemed to vibrate with their energy, the air thick with anticipation.

"We must test them," Dastan said, his voice filled with excitement.

Merlin nodded, watching as they both stepped back toward the portal that would take them to Essos. As they disappeared, the castle grew silent once more, the artifacts on the table waiting for their next owner.

Cassandra moved closer to Merlin, her curiosity replaced by warmth as she nestled into his embrace. "I missed you," she whispered, her voice soft against his chest.

Merlin chuckled, kissing her forehead. "I was only gone for two days."

"But it felt like an eternity," she replied, a playful smirk on her lips. Merlin responded by peppering her face and neck with tender kisses, the weight of the world momentarily forgotten.

"You should take one of the Astras for protection," Merlin suggested, his voice low and sincere.

Cassandra snorted softly, leaning into him. "You've already given me more than enough protection, Merlin," she murmured, her words laced with affection.

But upon Merlin's insistence she took the Pendant with eagle carving. It was the Pawanastra.

Cassandra then questioned."Did you meet with Targaryen's?"

Merlin answered."I will, after their meeting with The Alliance."