The morning air was crisp and cool as Subham made his way to the park where he had arranged to meet Ankan. It had been months since the reunion party, and Subham knew he had a lot to explain. Ankan had been one of his closest friends, and he deserved to know the truth about what had happened that fateful night and the incredible journey Subham had embarked on since then.
As Subham approached the park, he spotted Ankan sitting on a bench, reading a book. The sight of his old friend brought a smile to his face, but there was also a sense of urgency and gravity to their meeting. He quickened his pace and called out to him.
"Ankan!"
Ankan looked up, a surprised but pleased expression crossing his face. "Subham! It's been a while. How have you been?"
Subham sat down beside him, taking a deep breath. "I've been... busy. There's a lot I need to tell you."
Ankan raised an eyebrow, sensing the seriousness in Subham's tone. "Alright, go ahead. What's on your mind?"
Subham began recounting everything that had happened since the reunion party. He told Ankan about the bank robbery, his secret training under Master Vidur, and the incredible abilities he had developed. He explained about the souls, the dagger, and the powers he had gained through the Soul Refinement art.
Ankan listened intently, his eyes widening as Subham described the events that had unfolded. "So, you're telling me that our friends who turned into those... things were already dead before you... before you had to..."
Subham nodded, his expression somber. "Yes. Master Vidur explained it to me. Their souls were already taken by the guardian spirit of that forest. What we saw were just their bodies, animated by the spirit's power. I didn't want to believe it at first, but it's the truth."
Ankan sighed, running a hand through his hair. "That's... a lot to take in. So, you're saying there's a threat to humanity from these malevolent souls?"
"Exactly," Subham confirmed. "There are souls out there, powerful and dangerous. Some can even control elements or create their own domains. Master Vidur has been training me to fight them, to protect people from their influence."
Ankan shook his head in disbelief. "And here I thought things couldn't get crazier after that night. So, what now? What are you planning to do?"
Subham took a deep breath, looking at Ankan with determination. "I have a mission. Master Vidur gave me a treasure map that leads to the Ethereal Flame, a powerful source of energy. It's in Africa, in a hidden sanctuary. But I need two people to go with me. Sam and Rose are on another mission, so I have to find others who can help."
Ankan looked thoughtful for a moment, then nodded. "Well, count me in. You saved my life, Subham. The least I can do is help you with this."
Subham smiled, feeling a sense of relief and gratitude. "Thanks, Ankan. I knew I could count on you."
They sat in silence for a while, each lost in their thoughts. Finally, Ankan spoke up again. "You know, it's still hard to believe all of this. But if you say it's true, then I trust you. Just promise me one thing."
"What's that?" Subham asked.
"Promise me you'll be careful. We've already lost too many friends. I don't want to lose you too."
Subham placed a reassuring hand on Ankan's shoulder. "I promise. We'll get through this together."
As they left the park, Subham felt a renewed sense of purpose. With Ankan by his side and the knowledge and skills he had gained from Master Vidur, he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. The Ethereal Flame was just the beginning, and together, they would confront the threats to humanity and protect their world from the darkness.