Verdant Shadows

The sun hangs low on the horizon as Kai finally approaches the nearest train station to Naimisharanya. His journey has been long and tiresome, the time somewhere between afternoon and evening.

Weariness tugs at his muscles as he looks around for a way to reach his elusive destination, but the station appears devoid of transport options.

Perplexed, he makes his way to the train station counter to seek answers.

"Why isn't there any mode of transportation to Naimisharanya?" Kai inquires, struggling to hide his exhaustion.

The station master, a weathered individual, sighs deeply before recounting a chilling tale. "Naimisharanya used to be a thriving village," he begins.

"But then something dreadful occurred. Enormous roots, like something out of a nightmare, begin to sprout. They shatter houses and wreak havoc. The villagers try to withstand this bizarre occurrence, but then come the Verdants."

"Verdants?" Kai questions, his curiosity growing.

The station master nods gravely. "Beasts unlike any other, strengthened by the abundant spiritual energy in Naimisharanya. They become faster, more savage, and relentlessly hunt the remaining villagers.

The casualties are catastrophic, and that's why there is no transport available. It's considered too dangerous."

A shiver runs down Kai's spine. The station master continues, advising, "You'd be better off not going there. The next train back to your destination arrives tomorrow at 2:00 am. It's a safer choice."

Kai thanks the station master for the information but remains undeterred by the dire warning. He is determined to press on despite the apparent dangers.

As he ventures towards the abandoned village, he contemplates the best way to reach his destination swiftly.

Given his physical prowess from extensive training, running seems to be the most logical choice.

Kai hastens his steps as he transitions from a bustling town to an eerie village in ruins.

Buildings lie in near-destruction, vines, and vegetation overtake the structures, and eerie shadows cast an unsettling aura.

Despite the village's derelict state, the lush canopy overhead provides a strangely comforting shade.

While searching for clues regarding Naimisha Forest, Kai notices faint traces of claw marks on some of the ruined buildings—evidence of the Verdants' past attacks.

However, there are no signs of the menacing creatures now.

As he continues his exploration, Kai stumbles upon a house that, though still standing, teeters on the brink of collapse.

Inside, he finds scattered volumes of peculiar books and an ancient map half-buried beneath the rubble.

With time slipping away, he decides to stash the books in his inventory for later examination. Gingerly, he picks up the aged map, marveling at the rarity of such a discovery.

"Who'd have thought someone here would still have a map like this?" Kai muses quietly as he studies the ancient document. It indicates that Naimisha Forest is relatively close, just one or two hours away.

Given his exceptional physical abilities, Kai realizes he could potentially reach it even sooner.

He glances at his phone, noting that it is 3:25 p.m. Realizing he needs to act quickly, Kai prepares to sprint to his destination.

Just as he is about to break into a run, his phone chimes with an incoming call from Leon. Kai knows this call has everything to do with the fabricated story for his parents.

"Hey, Kai," Leon greets as soon as the call connects. "Uncle and Aunty call me because you aren't answering their calls. I've got them on hold, so get ready for the conversation."

Leon goes on to explain the intricate story he's crafted for Kai's parents—a tale involving a trip to Manu-Alaya that takes considerable effort to fabricate.

Finally, Leon connects the calls. Kai's mom speaks up first, her voice laced with annoyance. "Kai, why don't you answer our calls? We've been trying to reach you."

"Mom, I accidentally leave my phone in our room," Kai replies quickly, hoping to quell her anger. "We both go out, and Leon has the phone. Sorry for not answering."

The conversation continues for a few minutes, during which Kai skillfully manages to alleviate his parents' concerns.

As the call concludes, Kai breathes a sigh of relief. Leon remains on the line.

"Man, you really scared me," Leon chides. "Why didn't you answer their calls?"

Kai recounts his situation, sharing how he arrived at the station only to find no available transport. He omits any mention of the Verdants, not wanting to burden Leon with worry.

After reassuring Leon, Kai ends the call and resumes his journey towards Naimisha Forest.