Chapter 11- The Celestial Realm

As Rohan settled by the serene stream, the gentle babble of water provided a soothing melody, washing away the echoes of his recent battle with the fearsome Markati. He lowered himself onto a moss-covered rock, feeling the weariness of his body and the weight of his recent struggles.

With a heavy breath, Rohan unclasped the sheath of the Sword of Light, placing it beside him. He dipped his hands into the cool, clear water, feeling its rejuvenating touch upon his skin.

As he sat there, the rush of the stream seemed to carry away not only his physical exhaustion but also the burden of his worries. Rohan cupped his hands and brought the crystal-clear water to his lips, he was immediately struck by its purity. With each sip, a wave of revitalizing energy surged through him, dispelling the fatigue that had weighed heavily upon his shoulders. It was as if the very essence of the stream carried with it a rejuvenating magic, replenishing not only his body but also his spirit.

Feeling the newfound vigor coursing through his veins, Rohan marveled at the wondrous properties of the water. It was a gift from nature, a source of strength in his time of need. As he drank, he felt the weariness of his recent battles fade into the distance, replaced by a renewed sense of determination. He turned around, his eyes widened in awe at the breathtaking sight that greeted him. Before him stretched a vista of unparalleled beauty, a landscape that seemed to have been plucked from the realms of dreams.

Majestic mountains loomed in the distance, their peaks crowned with glistening snow that sparkled like diamonds in the sunlight. Valleys below were carpeted with lush greenery, dotted with vibrant wildflowers that swayed gently in the breeze. The sky above was painted with hues of pink and gold as the sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the land.

Rivers meandered through the valleys, their waters shimmering like liquid silver as they journeyed towards destinations unknown. Birds sang in melodious harmony, filling the air with their joyful chorus. And in the distance, a cascade of water tumbled down from a towering cliff, its mist catching the light in a mesmerizing display.

For a moment, Rohan stood transfixed, unable to tear his gaze away from the sheer magnificence of the scene before him. It was as if he had stumbled upon a hidden paradise, a place untouched by the strife and turmoil of the world.

As Rohan stood there, his eyes widened in astonishment at the surreal sight that unfolded before him. Stretching across the horizon were not just mountains rooted in the earth, but an array of majestic peaks suspended in the air, their bases connected by ethereal bridges of shimmering light.

Each floating mountain seemed to defy gravity, hanging suspended in the sky as if held aloft by some unseen force. They varied in size and shape, some towering high above the others, while others floated gently closer to the ground. Yet, despite their otherworldly appearance, there was a sense of harmony and unity in their arrangement, as if they were part of a grand, interconnected tapestry.

Rohan's mind raced with questions, trying to comprehend the mystery of these floating mountains and the enchanting bridges that linked them together. Was it magic? A natural phenomenon beyond his understanding? Or perhaps something even more mystical and ancient?

As he gazed upon this breathtaking spectacle, Rohan felt a sense of reverence wash over him. It was as if he had stumbled upon a sacred place, a realm where the laws of physics and reality were bent by some higher power.

As Rohan wandered along the golden roads that wound their way through the celestial realm, he encountered a figure standing at a crossroads. The person, adorned in robes of shimmering light, seemed to emanate an aura of wisdom and serenity.

Approaching with a mixture of curiosity and reverence, Rohan greeted the figure and inquired about the place he found himself in. The person smiled warmly, their eyes sparkling with a depth of knowledge beyond mortal comprehension.

"You have entered the celestial realm, traveler," they said, their voice carrying a melodious timbre that resonated with divine grace. "This is a realm where mortal and divine meet, where the boundaries between worlds blur and the wonders of creation unfold."

Intrigued by this revelation, Rohan listened intently as the figure spoke of the celestial realm's beauty and significance. They spoke of celestial beings who dwelled within its ethereal halls, guardians of cosmic order and bearers of ancient wisdom.

The celestial realm unfolded before Rohan like a canvas painted with the hues of the cosmos, a place where the boundaries between mortal and divine blurred and the wonders of creation danced in harmony.

Above, the sky stretched endlessly, a vast expanse of shimmering light that seemed to pulse with the heartbeat of the universe. Celestial bodies drifted gracefully through the heavens, their radiant glow casting a soft luminescence upon the land below.

Beneath the celestial canopy, sprawling landscapes unfolded in all their celestial splendor. Fields of golden grass swayed gently in the breeze, their blades kissed by the light of distant stars. Crystal-clear rivers meandered through the verdant meadows, their waters reflecting the endless expanse of the sky above.

Mountains rose majestically towards the heavens, their peaks reaching towards the stars like fingers seeking to touch the divine. Yet, unlike the mountains of the mortal realm, these were not bound by earthly constraints, floating serenely in the ether as if suspended by the very will of the cosmos.

At the heart of the celestial realm stood a city of breathtaking beauty, its spires reaching towards the heavens in a testament to the ingenuity of its celestial inhabitants. Towers of glistening crystal rose high above the city streets, their facades adorned with intricate carvings that told the stories of the cosmos.

But perhaps the most awe-inspiring aspect of the celestial realm was its inhabitants. Celestial beings of ethereal beauty drifted through the streets, their forms shimmering with an inner light that spoke of their divine nature. Some had wings of purest white, while others radiated an aura of serene wisdom that seemed to transcend mortal understanding.

Yet amidst the celestial splendor, there was a sense of peace and tranquility that pervaded the realm, a reminder that even in the vastness of the cosmos, there existed a harmony that bound all things together. Rohan strolled through the celestial cities, he found himself immersed in a world of wonder and enchantment. Everywhere he looked, there was beauty to behold, from the shimmering streets lined with intricate mosaics to the bustling marketplaces filled with celestial wonders.

The roads, paved with glistening gold, seemed to glow with an otherworldly radiance, illuminating the path ahead with a warm, inviting light. Celestial beings of all shapes and sizes moved gracefully through the city streets, their laughter and chatter filling the air with a joyous symphony.

Shops adorned with jewels and precious metals sparkled in the sunlight, their windows filled with treasures beyond imagining. Rohan couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship of the celestial artisans, whose creations seemed to capture the very essence of the cosmos.

As he wandered through the marketplaces, Rohan found himself drawn to the colorful array of goods on display. Exotic fruits and delicacies from distant realms tempted his senses, their aromas wafting through the air and tantalizing his taste buds.

But it was not just the sights and sounds of the celestial cities that captivated Rohan; it was the people who inhabited them. Celestial beings of every kind mingled in the streets, their faces aglow with warmth and kindness. They greeted Rohan with smiles and nods of welcome, their eyes sparkling with curiosity and goodwill.

In that moment, Rohan felt a sense of belonging unlike anything he had ever known. Here, amidst the bustling crowds and vibrant streets of the celestial realm, he found a place where he was accepted for who he was, a traveler on a journey of discovery and wonder.

Stepping into the inn, Rohan was greeted by a wave of warmth and comfort that enveloped him like a welcoming embrace. The interior was cozy and inviting, with walls adorned with celestial tapestries depicting scenes of cosmic beauty and tables crafted from polished wood that seemed to glow with an inner light.

The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of celestial cuisine, a blend of exotic spices and fragrances that stirred Rohan's senses and set his stomach to rumbling. Celestial beings sat at tables, chatting animatedly as they enjoyed their meals and shared stories of their adventures.

Approaching the innkeeper, a kindly celestial being with wings of iridescent feathers, Rohan requested a meal and a place to rest for the night. The innkeeper smiled warmly, welcoming Rohan with open arms and guiding him to a table by the hearth. He sat down, he was presented with a feast fit for a celestial king. Plates piled high with celestial delicacies were placed before him, their colors and textures a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. There were dishes of celestial fruits, bursting with flavor and sweetness, and platters of savory meats and cheeses that melted in his mouth.

With each bite, Rohan felt his weariness melt away, replaced by a sense of contentment and satisfaction. It was as if the food itself possessed a magical quality, nourishing not just his body but his spirit as well.

Curiosity piqued, Rohan leaned forward and addressed the innkeeper with a respectful tone.

"Excuse me," he began, "I've heard tales of the Heavenly Court. Could you tell me more about it?"

The innkeeper paused, a thoughtful expression crossing their celestial features before they nodded, a glint of reverence in their eyes.

"The Heavenly Court is a place of great significance in the celestial realm," the innkeeper explained. "It is where the celestial beings gather to discuss matters of cosmic importance, to seek guidance from the divine, and to uphold the balance of the universe."

Rohan listened intently, captivated by the innkeeper's words.

"The Heavenly Court is presided over by the Celestial Council, a group of wise and powerful beings who oversee the affairs of the celestial realm," the innkeeper continued. "They are guardians of cosmic order, entrusted with maintaining harmony and balance in the cosmos."

Rohan nodded, his interest piqued. "Is it possible for mortals to visit the Heavenly Court?" he asked.

The innkeeper smiled kindly. "It is rare for mortals to tread the halls of the Heavenly Court," they replied. "But on occasion, those deemed worthy may be granted an audience with the Celestial Council. It is said that such encounters can be life-changing, offering insights and wisdom that transcend mortal understanding."

Rohan nodded, feeling a sense of awe at the thought of such a sacred place. "Thank you for sharing this with me," he said gratefully.

With a nod of acknowledgment, the innkeeper returned to their duties, leaving Rohan to ponder the mysteries of the Heavenly Court and the celestial realm. As he finished his meal and prepared to retire for the night, he couldn't help but wonder what other wonders awaited him in this enchanting realm of celestial beauty and magic. There was knock on his door in the midnight. Heart racing with a mix of caution and curiosity, Rohan grasped the hilt of the Sword of Light, its familiar weight reassuring in his hand. With a steady breath, he approached the door and gently turned the handle, allowing it to swing open.

Before him stood a figure cloaked in shadows, their features obscured by darkness. Rohan's grip tightened on the Sword of Light, ready to defend himself if need be.

"Who goes there?" Rohan demanded, his voice firm but tinged with wariness.

Rohan's surprise turned to joy as he realized that the celestial being standing before him was none other than his old friend Tina, her celestial form radiant with warmth and familiarity.

"Tina!" Rohan exclaimed, his heart swelling with happiness at the unexpected reunion. "I can't believe it's you!"

Tina smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with affection. "It is indeed I," she replied, her voice filled with warmth. Rohan stepped forward, embracing Tina in a heartfelt hug. "I've missed you, my friend," he said, his voice filled with emotion . "As have I," Tina replied, returning the embrace. Rohan and Tina settled into comfortable seats within the inn, a sense of anticipation filled the air. It had been five long years since their last meeting, and the prospect of catching up filled both of them with excitement.

With a warm smile, Rohan turned to Tina, his eyes alight with curiosity and affection. "It's hard to believe it's been so long," he said, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "So much has changed since we last saw each other."

Tina nodded, her own gaze reflecting a mix of emotions. "Indeed," she replied, her voice soft but filled with warmth. "But even though time has passed, our friendship remains as strong as ever."

"Tina," Rohan began gently, sensing the hesitation in her demeanor, "I've often wondered about Avyaan. How is he doing? Haven't heard about him since last 5 years? and Why only Nitesh came back and you guys didn't come back?"

For a moment, a shadow seemed to pass over Tina's features, her gaze distant as she considered her words. When she finally spoke, her voice was tinged with a hint of sadness.

Rohan's brows furrowed in concern as Tina revealed the gravity of the situation in the celestial realm. The news of the king's dire condition and the looming threat of internal conflict cast a shadow over their conversation, the weight of the revelation settling heavily upon them both.

"The king of heaven... in such a state?" Rohan murmured, his voice filled with disbelief and apprehension. "And an internal conflict brewing? This is troubling news indeed."

Tina nodded solemnly, her expression mirroring Rohan's concern. "Yes, the situation was dire," she replied, her voice tinged with worry. "The stability of the celestial realm hangs in the balance, and the consequences of a conflict could be catastrophic."

"Tina," Rohan began gently, "what of Avyaan? Rohan listened intently as Tina explained the urgency of the situation surrounding Avyaan's condition. The gravity of their friend's predicament weighed heavily on him, and he felt a pang of guilt for not being there to offer support during such a critical time.

Rohan breathed a sigh of relief as Tina relayed the news of Avyaan's swift recovery. The weight that had settled on his shoulders since learning of his friend's plight lifted, replaced by a sense of gratitude and hope.

"That's wonderful news," Rohan said, a smile spreading across his face. "I'm glad to hear that senior has made a full recovery so quickly."

Tina nodded, her expression mirroring Rohan's relief. "Yes," she replied, her voice tinged with warmth. "The healers worked tirelessly to restore his strength, and their efforts were not in vain."

Rohan's heart swelled with pride as Tina continued, her words filling him with a sense of pride in his friend's resilience. Rohan's mind spurge with confusion and asked Tina about Avyaan being just a demigod in settling and avoiding internal conflict regarding heavenly throne.

"Avyaan... the son of Nakh, the king of heaven," Rohan repeated, his voice filled with astonishment. "I had no idea."

Tina nodded solemnly, her expression reflecting the weight of the revelation. "Yes," she confirmed. "Avyaan's lineage is a testament to the diversity and interconnectedness of our world. His dual heritage gives him a unique perspective and a deep understanding of both mortal and celestial realms."

Rohan listened intently, his mind buzzing with questions and implications. The revelation explained much about Avyaan's enigmatic nature and his innate ability to navigate the complexities of their world.

"And his mother was a mortal," Rohan mused, a note of curiosity in his voice. "No wonder he possesses such empathy and compassion for all beings."

Tina nodded in agreement. "Indeed," she replied. "Avyaan's upbringing among mortals has instilled in him a sense of humility and empathy that is rare among celestial beings. It is what makes him such a compelling and influential figure in our realm."

As Rohan absorbed this newfound knowledge, he felt a newfound respect and admiration for his senior. Avyaan's heritage may have been unconventional, but it was precisely what made him such a vital and indispensable presence in their world.

Tina's revelation shed light on the complexities of the celestial realm's internal dynamics, painting a picture of familial intrigue and political maneuvering.

"So, King Nakh has four other sons," Rohan echoed, his brow furrowing in concern. "And they were the source of the internal conflict?"

Tina nodded gravely. "Yes," she confirmed. "These sons, though born of royal blood, possess a cunning nature and ambitious desires that have fueled discord within the realm. Their thirst for power and influence has led to tensions and rivalries that threatened to tear the celestial realm apart."

"But with Avyaan's return," Tina continued, her voice tinged with hope, "his status as the eldest son and his reputation for wisdom and fairness served to quell the conflict. His leadership and guidance have helped to restore stability for time being in the realm. but the other brothers are planning to disband Avyaan from the celestial realm.

Tina's question caught Rohan off guard, momentarily shifting the focus of their conversation. He paused, considering her words carefully before responding.

"To the celestial realm?" Rohan repeated, a note of surprise in his voice. "I... I hadn't considered it."

Rohan's revelation drew a mixture of astonishment and admiration from Tina, her eyes widening with surprise at the mention of Markati's defeat.

"You... you defeated Markati?" Tina exclaimed, her voice tinged with awe. "But how could that be possible, Markati being the most ferocious beasts and is said to be that she is the most dearest to demon king. We combined force with the senior were unable to contain her last time when we met her in the woods, tell me how did you defeat her?"

As Rohan shared the tale of his victory over Markati, Tina listened intently, her eyes shining with admiration at his bravery and skill.

"So, it was the Sword of Light that allowed you to defeat Markati," Tina mused, her voice tinged with fascination. "Truly, it is a powerful weapon."

Rohan nodded, a sense of pride swelling within him as he recounted the events of the battle. "Yes," he confirmed, "the Sword of Light granted me strength and clarity in the heat of battle, allowing me to overcome Markati's dark forces."

Tina smiled warmly, her admiration for Rohan evident in her gaze. "You've faced challenges that would have daunted even the bravest warriors," Rohan continued, sharing with her his experiences of learning sorcery under the guidance of Nitesh. He spoke of the trials and tribulations he had faced, and the knowledge and wisdom he had gained along the way.

"And with Nitesh's guidance, I honed my skills in sorcery," Rohan explained.

Rohan's question prompted Tina to consider the unique properties of the Sword of Light. After a moment of reflection, she offered her perspective.

"The Sword of Light is a vessel of pure energy," Tina began, her voice carrying the weight of her knowledge. "During the solar eclipse atop the mountain, its power was amplified to an extent that none of us could fully comprehend. .Its energy was so intense that even celestial beings could not touch it without being repelled. No one in this world can wield it until the sword wants to choose its wielder or wielder is at god level "

Rohan nodded, his brow furrowing in thought as he absorbed Tina's explanation. "But how was I able to wield it with one hand? am I a God" he asked, a note of curiosity in his voice. "And without getting hurt?"

Tina smiled gently, her eyes sparkling with understanding. "It is said that the Sword of Light chooses its wielder," she replied. "In your case, Rohan, the sword recognized your strength of spirit and purity of heart. It allowed you to wield its power without harm because it sensed that you were worthy of its trust."

Rohan shows the Sword of light to Tina which was carrying with him and had used spells to hide its true identity which couldn't be recognized by any normal celestial being.