As the group deliberated, the door swung open once again, and Principal Sir entered the infirmary with a stern expression. "Vali, I heard about the events in the magical forest. We need to talk."
Principal Sir's presence commanded attention, his demeanor reflecting the gravity of the situation. Sitting up on the infirmary bed, Vali braced himself for the conversation that was about to unfold.
Principal Sir took a seat beside Vali, his gaze unwavering. "Vali, what happened in the forest has far-reaching implications. Your identity as Devraj's son and the power you wield… it changes everything."
Vali nodded, a sense of responsibility weighing heavily on his shoulders. "I understand, Principal Sir. I never wanted my past to endanger the academy or anyone here. I'll do whatever it takes to protect this place and its people."
Principal Sir's expression softened a hint of admiration in his eyes. "Your dedication to the academy and its values is commendable, Vali. But we need to be prepared for what lies ahead. Vritra's knowledge of your lineage poses a significant threat, and we must ensure the safety of the Rakshasa mantra at all costs."
Vali's resolve hardened, his determination unwavering. "I won't let Vritra or anyone else lay their hands on the Rakshasa mantra. We'll strengthen the protective enchantments and closely monitor any potential threats."
Principal Sir nodded, a sense of trust evident in his demeanor. "Good. We'll support you in every way we can. But remember, Vali, you're not alone in this. The academy stands with you, and together, we'll face whatever challenges come our way."
Vali's conversation with the principal was abruptly interrupted as a wave of dizziness washed over him, and he staggered, losing his balance. His hand instinctively reached out to steady himself, but it was too late. With a thud, he collapsed to the floor, his body weakened by the relentless battle with Keshav and the toll of using the Rakshasa mantra.
The principal, startled by Vali's sudden fall, quickly knelt beside him, concern etched on his face. "Vali, are you alright? What's happening?"
Vali, his breathing labored, struggled to speak. "I... I pushed myself too far... in the battle... with Keshav. The blood loss... it's too much..."
The healers, alerted by the commotion, rushed to Vali's side, their hands glowing with healing magic. They quickly assessed his condition, their expressions grave.
"He's lost a significant amount of blood. We need to get him to the infirmary immediately," one of the healers said, her voice urgent.
With the help of the principal and the healers, Vali was gently lifted onto a stretcher and carried to the infirmary. As they moved through the corridors of the academy, Vali's mind was filled with a jumble of thoughts and emotions. He knew he had to stay strong, not just for himself, but for the academy and his friends who were counting on him.
Upon reaching the infirmary, Vali was placed on a bed, and the healers immediately began their work, their hands glowing with healing magic as they worked to stabilize him.
The principal, standing by Vali's bedside, spoke with a reassuring tone. "Vali, you're going to be alright. The healers are here, and they'll take good care of you."
Vali managed a weak smile, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Thank you, Principal Sir. I'll be fine... I just need some rest."
As the healers continued their work, the principal turned to the rest of the group gathered in the infirmary. "We need to ensure that Vali gets the rest he needs to recover. The protective enchantments and investigations can wait. Vali's health comes first."
The doctor looked up from her examination of Vali and turned to the principal and Surya sir. "He needs complete rest. His condition is quite serious; he can't even move his fingers."
Surya sir stepped forward, his expression determined. "Doctor, may I use my sun healing to help Vali?"
The doctor hesitated, considering Surya sir's offer. "It's risky, but given his condition, it might be our best chance. Proceed with caution, Surya sir."
Surya sir nodded, his hands glowing with a warm, golden light. He placed his hands gently on Vali's chest, and a surge of healing energy flowed from him into Vali. The room filled with a soothing warmth as Surya sir's healing magic worked its way through Vali's body.
Vali's eyes fluttered open, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I feel... better," he whispered, his voice barely audible.
The principal smiled, relief evident in his eyes. "You gave us quite a scare, Vali. Rest now, and regain your strength."
The doctor gently placed a hand on Vali's shoulder, her expression softening. "Now you rest to regain all the blood lost," she said, her tone reassuring. "You will stay here for observation."
The principal and Surya sir nodded in agreement, their faces reflecting concern. "We'll leave you to rest," the principal said, his voice filled with reassurance. "You're in good hands."
As the two men left the room, the doctor turned back to Vali, a comforting smile on her face. "You're safe here, Vali. We'll make sure you recover fully."
Vali closed his eyes, allowing himself to relax, knowing that he was surrounded by people who cared for him. The rhythmic beeping of the monitoring equipment soon lulled him into a peaceful sleep, his body finally able to rest after the intense ordeal.
***
(Scene Change)
Later that night, the atmosphere at the academy was tense yet somber. Zara, still reeling from the shocking events of the day, sought solace in the company of her friends. They gathered in the courtyard, the soft glow of magical lanterns casting a gentle light on their faces.
Aria, always the voice of reason, placed a comforting hand on Zara's shoulder. "Zara, are you okay? You've been quiet ever since the fight between Vali and Keshav."
Zara, her eyes reflecting a mixture of fear and disbelief, shook her head. "I can't get the image out of my mind. Vali's face was covered in blood... it was like he was someone else, someone... terrifying."
Jay, his connection to nature amplifying his empathy, nodded in understanding. "It was a shocking sight, indeed. But remember, Vali was fighting to protect us. His powers, his identity... they're a part of him, but they don't define who he is."
Rudra, his analytical mind at work, added, "Keshav's revelation about Vali's lineage, his connection to Devraj... it changes everything. We need to be prepared for whatever comes next."
As the group discussed the implications of Vali's true identity and the looming threat of Vritra, Zara couldn't shake off the fear that gripped her heart. The image of Vali, transformed and covered in blood, haunted her thoughts, refusing to fade.
Later, as Zara lay in bed, the events of the day replayed in her mind like a relentless nightmare. She closed her eyes, trying to banish the images, but Vali's face, distorted by blood and power, continued to haunt her.
In her mind's eye, she saw Vali's transformation once again – the raw power, the overwhelming aura of danger. She remembered the fear that had gripped her heart, the realization that the person she thought she knew was capable of such terrifying strength.
***
(Scene Change)
Jay paced back and forth in his room, the phone pressed to his ear. On the other end, his father's voice was filled with concern.
"Dad, I know you're worried, but Vali is going to be okay," Jay reassured, trying to keep his worry in check.
Avinash's voice came through the phone, firm yet filled with fatherly concern. "I understand, Jay, but I can't help but worry. What happened out there? Are you all okay?"
Jay took a deep breath, trying to find the right words to explain the situation. "It was intense, Dad. Vali used his blood magic in a way I've never seen before. He was fighting Keshav, and things got... out of hand. Vali collapsed afterward, but the healers are taking care of him now."
Avinash's voice was filled with relief. "Thank the gods he's getting the care he needs. But Jay, please be careful. I don't want you getting hurt in all of this."
Jay nodded, even though his father couldn't see him. "I will, Dad. We're all looking out for each other. We'll get through this together."
***
(Next Morning)
In the hushed morning light, Surya sir addressed the gathered students, his voice carrying a solemn weight. "Today, we must journey to Keshav's village in the City-k. We need to speak with his family about his tragic demise at the hands of an Asur and to respectfully hand over Keshav's Asthi."
He paused, scanning the faces before him. "Who among you will accompany me on this somber task? I need two volunteers."
Without hesitation, Jay and Rudra stepped forward, their expressions resolute. They knew the importance of this mission, not just for Keshav's family but also for the closure it might bring to their own grieving hearts.
.
..
...
*To Be Continued*
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Word Count: 1523