With three fragments of Zenith Virtues—Charity, Patience, and Hope—integrated into his being, Arya's strength surged exponentially. His ability to harmonize virtue and sin granted him unparalleled control over the chaotic energies within him, making him a beacon of power and potential.
Despite his newfound strength, Arya couldn't ignore Garagi's weakened state. Her injuries from her confrontation with the Demon Snake of Greed had lingered, preventing her from fully utilizing her divine abilities. Determined to repay her unwavering guidance, Arya resolved to heal her.
Garagi's injuries weren't just physical—they were tied to her divine essence, damaged during the war against Mallesh, and exacerbated by her confrontation with sin-tainted entities. To heal her, Arya needed to channel his Zenith Virtue powers to purify and rejuvenate her divine core.
Under Garagi's direction, they prepared a ritual site in the heart of Sayyadri, where the natural energy was at its purest. Surrounded by towering trees and glowing flora, Arya began the ritual.
The RitualStep 1: Balancing Energy: Arya summoned the powers of Charity to create a nurturing field of energy. He used Patience to stabilize the flow, ensuring it wouldn't overwhelm Garagi's fragile core. Step 2: Infusion of Hope: Channeling the Zenith of Hope, Arya imbued her with energy that rekindled her divine essence, restored her vitality, and cleared any lingering corruption from the Sin of Greed. Step 3: The Divine Bond: Their connection deepened as Arya's power merged with Garagi's divine core. The process wasn't just healing—it was a fusion of trust and strength, solidifying their bond further.
As the ritual concluded, Garagi's body glowed with radiant energy. Her injuries faded, her divine aura returning stronger than ever. Her once-dimmed Divine Martial Flame flared to life, signifying the restoration of her full strength.
Garagi opened her eyes, her usual sharp gaze now softened by gratitude.
Garagi: "You've done something I thought was impossible, Arya. Not even I could have healed these injuries alone."
Arya, exhausted but smiling, replied, "You've given me so much, Garagi. This is the least I could do."
Garagi's Renewed Powers
With her strength restored, Garagi regained access to her formidable abilities:
Divine Martial Flame: A fire that burns through corruption and evil.Heaven's Ascent Strike: A technique that channels divine energy into a single devastating blow.Ethereal Combat Form: A state of heightened speed and agility, making her nearly untouchable in battle.
Her restoration also triggered a subtle change in her demeanor—she now carried a lighter, more relaxed air, though her fierce determination remained.
After the ritual, Arya and Garagi sat by a stream under the moonlight, reflecting on the journey that had brought them to this point.
Garagi: "You've grown, Arya. More than I ever thought possible. You're not just my disciple anymore—you're my equal."
Arya looked at her, startled. "Equal? I could never compare to you."
Garagi smiled, leaning slightly closer. "Strength isn't about comparison. It's about what you do with it. And you've proven your worth time and time again."
In that quiet moment, their bond transcended the teacher-student dynamic, evolving into something deeper. Arya's heart swelled with gratitude and admiration, and Garagi, for the first time in years, allowed herself to feel vulnerable and connected.
With Garagi's powers restored and Arya's strength bolstered by three virtues, they prepared to face the challenges ahead. The remaining fragments of Zenith Virtues and Original Sins lay scattered across the universe, their paths fraught with danger and mystery.
As they left Sayyadri, their resolve was stronger than ever, their relationship cemented by trust and shared purpose. Together, they were unstoppable.
After months of traveling together, Arya and Garagi faced a pivotal moment in their journey. The trials they had endured and the bonds they had forged had brought them closer than either had anticipated. Yet, the universe's grand design seemed to demand that their paths diverge—for now.
As Arya and Garagi prepared to search for the one immortal, Garagi received a celestial vision during her meditation. In the vision, a divine voice warned her:
"The path ahead is steeped in chaos. Two forces destined for greatness must walk separate paths to fulfill their potential. If they remain together, the imbalance will consume the universe."
Garagi understood the implications immediately. Arya's journey required him to explore the depths of his virtues and sins without her guidance. Her presence might shield him too much, preventing him from truly mastering his destiny.
Garagi and Arya stood at the edge of a cliff overlooking the vast Ksheer Ocean, its shimmering waves reflecting the setting sun. The air was heavy with unspoken tension.
Garagi: "Arya, it's time for us to part ways."
Arya turned to her, disbelief etched on his face. "What are you saying? We've come so far together! Why now?"
Garagi: (calmly but with sorrow in her voice) "The universe has shown me what must be done. Your journey is not just about strength, Arya. It's about understanding yourself and mastering the balance of virtue and sin. If I stay, I'll only hinder that growth."
Arya clenched his fists, his emotions raw. "You've been my guide, my teacher, and my closest companion. I don't want to lose you."
Garagi stepped closer, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You're not losing me. Our bond remains, no matter where we are. But to fulfill your destiny, you must walk this part of the path alone."
Garagi handed Arya a small golden talisman, engraved with intricate symbols.
Garagi: "This is a piece of my divine essence. If you ever face something you cannot overcome, this will protect you once. But use it wisely, for it will not work a second time."
Arya took the talisman, his hands trembling. "Where will you go?"
Garagi: "There are remnants of divine energy I must reclaim to restore my full power. The cosmos is vast, Arya, and there are battles I must fight on my own."
For a moment, they stood in silence, the weight of their parting settling over them. Then, in an uncharacteristic display of vulnerability, Garagi pulled Arya into a warm embrace.
Garagi: (softly) "You've grown so much, Arya. I'm proud of you. But this is not goodbye forever. One day, when the time is right, we will meet again."
Arya fought back tears as he whispered, "I'll make you proud, Garagi. I promise."
With a final glance, Garagi turned and began to walk away, her divine aura shimmering faintly in the distance. Arya watched until she disappeared into the horizon, feeling an ache in his chest but also a new sense of resolve.
Now alone, Arya set his sights on the remaining Zenith Virtues and Original Sins, determined to master the balance within himself. Garagi's absence was a void, but her teachings and faith in him became the foundation of his strength.
As he walked away from the cliff, Arya whispered to himself, "This isn't the end. I'll find you again, Garagi. When I do, I'll be strong enough to stand by your side as an equal."
The separation marked a turning point in Arya's journey, pushing him to rely on his wisdom and courage as he ventured into the unknown.