COMPLETION OF QUEST
The night air was heavy with silence, broken only by the faint rustle of leaves and the distant howl of a wolf. Standing in his chambers, Ashoka gazed at the empty spot where Mahavira had stood moments ago. The man's words lingered in his mind like the embers of a dying fire.
" I accept your offer " Ashoka had said, his voice steady but filled with unspoken apprehension.
Mahavira's enigmatic smile had deepened, his eyes glinting with approval. "A wise decision, young prince. You have embarked on a path that will test your very essence, but the rewards will be beyond your imagination."
He had then handed Ashoka a scroll, the texture of its ancient parchment rough against his fingertips. Opening it revealed an intricately drawn map, detailing the location where he was to meet the members of the Assassin Hall.
"Tomorrow at dusk " Mahavira had instructed. "Come alone. Once you enter, there is no turning back."
With those words, Mahavira had taken a step back, his form dissolving into the shadows as if he were a phantom of the night.
---
A Prince's Doubts
Now, as Ashoka traced the lines of the map with his fingers, doubt gnawed at the edges of his resolve. He turned to Vidya, the voice of wisdom that had guided him through many trials.
"Vidya " he began, his tone uncertain, "Did I make the right decision? This could very well be a trap. Mahavira seemed genuine, but appearances can be deceiving."
Vidya's voice, calm and measured, resonated in his mind. "Your choice was bold, Ashoka, but not without reason. Mahavira's demeanor suggested sincerity, yet caution is always wise. Trust is a rare commodity, and betrayal often wears the mask of friendship. However, if his words hold even a fraction of truth, the rewards could be monumental."
Ashoka sighed, running a hand through his hair. "The Assassin Hall could be a powerful ally, but aligning with them also paints a target on my back. I need to be prepared for anything."
"Preparation is key " Vidya agreed. "And knowledge is your greatest weapon."
---
The Quest for Knowledge
Ashoka's thoughts turned to the quest he had been working on: mastering the essence of the four Vedas. His progress was tantalizingly close to completion, with only 0.5% remaining.
"Vidya" he said, determination hardening his voice, " I must complete the Vedas quest before I meet the Assassin Hall. Their respect and trust could hinge on my knowledge and abilities."
Vidya's approval was evident. "Then let us begin. The final step lies in applying the teachings of the Atharva Veda. Its essence lies in harnessing the latent energy within the body for protection and healing."
Closing his eyes, Ashoka immersed himself in the sacred verses he had studied. The Atharva Veda spoke of channeling one's inner vitality to create a protective aura—a skill both defensive and restorative. He began to meditate, visualizing streams of energy flowing through his body like rivers of light.
Hours passed in silent concentration. Sweat dripped from his brow, his breathing steady but strained. Slowly, a faint glow began to envelop him, the manifestation of his inner energy taking form.
The process was grueling. To accelerate his progress, Ashoka employed techniques taught by Vidya, pushing his mind and body to their limits. After five arduous hours, the aura stabilized, its glow soft but unmistakably present. A chime echoed in his mind:
"Ding! Quest progress: 100%."
Relief washed over him, but his body, drained of energy, could no longer sustain his consciousness. He collapsed onto the floor, succumbing to a deep, dreamless sleep.
---
A New Dawn
When Ashoka awoke, sunlight streamed through the window, casting warm patterns on the floor. His body ached from the previous night's exertions, but a sense of accomplishment filled his heart.
Sitting up, he rubbed his eyes and noticed a notification hovering before him:
"QUEST COMPLETED SUCCESSFULLY. Would you like to accept the reward? [Yes] [No] "
Without hesitation, Ashoka selected "Yes."
The moment he did, a torrent of information surged into his mind. His senses heightened exponentially—the faint chirp of birds, the distant murmur of servants, and even the subtle creak of wood underfoot became vivid.
For a brief moment, his eyes turned golden as a new ability integrated into his being. A second notification appeared:
"Lie Detection (Level 1) acquired."
But the most anticipated reward was yet to come. A glowing interface materialized before him, its elegant design mesmerizing:
-----------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------
STATUS SCREEN
[Name] - Ashoka Maurya
[Age] - 16
[Bloodline] - Divine Royal Blood
[Passive Abilities] -
Enhanced Senses (Level 1)
Analyze (Level 1)
[Active Abilities] -
Lie Detection (Level 1)
-----------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------
Ashoka's heart raced with excitement. The status screen was more than a mere tool; it was a testament to his growth and potential.
"This... this changes everything " he murmured, unable to suppress a grin.
Vidya's voice, filled with pride, interrupted his thoughts. "Congratulations, Ashoka. The status screen is a reflection of your hard work and dedication. Use it wisely, for it will guide you as you ascend to greatness."
Ashoka nodded, his mind racing with possibilities. "The ability to detect lies and analyze situations gives me an unparalleled advantage. But this screen… Can I use it to see others' statuses as well? "
Vidya paused before replying. "Indeed. This feature will grant you insight into the strengths and weaknesses of those around you. Use it judiciously."
---
A Knock at the Door
Ashoka's thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door. The sound was firm but not urgent.
"Who is it? " he called, quickly dismissing the status screen.
"It's Devi " came the soft voice of a palace servant. "The council meeting will begin shortly. Your presence is requested."
Ashoka rose, stretching his sore muscles. The events of the previous night felt like a distant memory, yet their impact was undeniable.
As he prepared to leave, his gaze lingered on the map left by Mahavira. The meeting with the Assassin Hall loomed on the horizon, a shadowy enigma that promised either triumph or peril.
"Vidya " he said softly, his voice resolute, "I will face whatever comes with courage and wisdom. The path ahead is uncertain, but I am ready. "
Vidya's response was equally determined. "Then let us move forward, Ashoka. Your destiny awaits."
With those words, Ashoka stepped out of his chambers, his heart filled with anticipation for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.
Image reference :-
https://discord.gg/ 8m3YM9MyKD
*PLEASE DONATE POWER STONES , IF YOU LIKE THE STORY TILL HERE *