บท 43: Hidden Reward & The Return Journey
Vikram Era: 8 Shraavana, 1637 (August 2, 1579), Citadel Quarters
Before leaving his quarters, Siddharth decided to check on the reward he had earned for closing the rift. As he held the handle that had appeared before him, he gave it a firm pull. A small, grey ball emerged, resting in his palm. Unlike the vibrant colors of the VIBGYOR spectrum, this dull grey ball seemed underwhelming at first glance.
He examined it curiously, wondering about its purpose. The system's interface provided a brief explanation: "{Physical Vitality Enhancement :-Increases stamina, provides more instantaneous pulsing power, and facilitates easier physical workouts.}"
Siddharth squeezed the ball, it crumbled as soon as he applied a little pressure, feeling a subtle surge of energy course through him. He tried to harness this newfound strength but found it tricky to manage at first. His movements felt more powerful but uncoordinated. Realizing he needed time to master this enhancement, deciding to focus on it later.
Siddharth stood alone in a secluded part of the citadel gardens, the morning sun casting long shadows across the stone pathways. The air was still and crisp, carrying the scent of blooming flowers and fresh earth. He took a deep breath, feeling the invigorating energy coursing through his veins. The gray orb he had received as a reward for closing the rift was now embedded within him, promising enhanced physical vitality and strength. Today, he intended to test this newfound power.
He started with simple exercises, stretching his limbs and feeling the subtle changes in his muscles. His movements felt smoother, more controlled, and there was a noticeable increase in his stamina. With a determined look, he moved on to more rigorous activities.
Siddharth began running laps around the garden, his feet barely touching the ground as he sprinted. The difference was immediate—he could run faster and longer without feeling the usual strain and fatigue. His breathing remained steady, and his heart rate was surprisingly calm, even after several minutes of intense running.
"Alright, let's see what else I can do," he muttered to himself, coming to a halt. He eyed a large stone, roughly the size of a small boulder, and decided to test his strength.
Positioning himself beside the stone, Siddharth bent his knees, wrapped his hands around it, and with a grunt, lifted. The stone rose off the ground with relative ease, surprising him. However, maintaining balance proved to be more challenging than he had anticipated. His muscles, although stronger, struggled to adapt to the new weight distribution. He took a few wobbly steps before carefully lowering the stone back to the ground.
"Not bad for a first try," he said, wiping sweat from his brow. "But I need more practice."
Determined to improve, Siddharth repeated the exercise several times, each attempt becoming progressively smoother. His muscles began to memorize the motions, and he could feel his body adjusting to the increased power. Despite the improvements, he knew there was still a long way to go.
Next, he turned his attention to a series of wooden posts set up for combat training. Picking up a training sword, he began a series of drills, swinging the blade with precision and speed. The enhanced physical strength made each strike more powerful, but controlling that power was another matter. His swings were often too forceful, causing the sword to veer off course or strike the posts with excessive force.
"Focus, Siddharth," he told himself, taking a deep breath. "Control the power, don't let it control you."
He slowed down his movements, concentrating on maintaining balance and precision. Gradually, he found a rhythm, the sword becoming an extension of his arm. Each swing was deliberate, the force measured and controlled. His confidence grew with each successful strike, the training sword slicing through the air with a satisfying whoosh.
As the morning wore on, Siddharth continued to push his limits. He experimented with different exercises, testing various aspects of his physical abilities. Jumping, climbing, lifting, and sparring—all were part of his rigorous regimen. He could feel his body adapting, the enhanced vitality becoming more natural with each passing moment.
Despite the progress, there were still moments of frustration. His newfound strength sometimes felt overwhelming, leading to minor accidents and missteps. A particularly powerful jump sent him crashing into a tree branch, and an overly enthusiastic sword strike splintered a wooden post.
"Patience," he reminded himself, rubbing his bruised shoulder. "It's all part of the process."
Taking a short break, Siddharth sat on a bench, gazing at the vibrant flowers around him. The garden, with its serene beauty and peaceful ambiance, was the perfect place for his training. He could hear the distant sounds of the citadel, a reminder of the bustling life beyond these walls.
As he rested, his mind wandered to the journey ahead. The return to Prayagraj would be long and arduous, and he needed to be prepared for whatever challenges lay in store. This new power, if mastered, could prove invaluable.
"Alright, one more round," he said, standing up and rolling his shoulders. "Let's see if I can get this right."
He resumed his training with renewed determination, focusing on balance and control. The exercises became more fluid, each movement precise and deliberate. The enhanced physical abilities felt less foreign, more like an extension of his natural capabilities.
Now satisfied , He turned his attention to his belongings. He meticulously packed his travel bags, ensuring each item was secure and hidden among his personal effects. The diary of Alberta Koch lay on top of the pile, a testament to the strange history he had uncovered. He meticulously packed everything into his travel bags, ensuring each item was secure and hidden among his personal belongings.
Just as he finished securing the last of his belongings, Vaniika entered the room. "Are you ready to go, Siddharth? The envoy is almost set to depart."
Siddharth nodded, looking up at his sister. "Yes, Didi. I'm just about done here. I've packed everything we might need."
Vaniika glanced at the pile of bags and then back at Siddharth. "You've gathered quite a collection, haven't you? Anything interesting?"
Siddharth smiled faintly. "A few things that might come in handy. I'll explain on the way back."
She raised an eyebrow but didn't press further. "Alright then, let's not keep everyone waiting."
Together, they walked out into the courtyard, where the envoy was assembling. The citadel was bustling with activity as preparations for their departure were underway. Soldiers, courtiers, and servants moved with purpose, ensuring everything was in order for the long journey back to Prayagraj.
As they approached the gathered group, Siddharth was greeted by Captain Vidhyadhara, who had overseen their security during their stay. "Good morning, Your Highness. I trust you're ready for the journey?"
Siddharth nodded, adjusting the strap of his bag on his shoulder. "Yes, Captain. Thank you for all your help during our stay."
The captain smiled and bowed slightly. "It was an honor, Your Highness. Safe travels to you."
As Vaniika and Siddharth moved towards the center of the courtyard, Siddharth couldn't help but notice the new faces among the envoy.
Members of the surrendered force, now integrated as auxiliary security, stood ready to accompany them. Their presence was a reminder of the recent conflicts and the delicate peace that had been negotiated.
Vaniika leaned in and whispered, "Are you sure you're alright with this arrangement?"
Siddharth glanced at the new soldiers and nodded.
She sighed, looking at him with a mix of pride and concern. " Just be careful, alright?"
He smiled reassuringly. "Yes."
They reached the head of the envoy, where a large carriage awaited them. Vaniika turned to Siddharth. "I'll be riding ahead to coordinate our journey. Stay close and don't wander off."
Siddharth chuckled. "I won't, Didi. See you on the road."
With a final nod, Vaniika mounted her horse and took her position at the front of the envoy. Siddharth climbed into the carriage, settling into his seat among the cushions. As the carriage began to move, he looked out the window, watching the citadel fade into the distance.
His mind wandered back to the events of the past few days—the discoveries, the dangers, and the strange sense of nostalgia that had accompanied his exploration of the abandoned city. The items he had packed away felt like pieces of a larger puzzle, one that he was determined to solve.
As the landscape rolled by, Siddharth closed his eyes, letting the rhythm of the carriage lull him into a light sleep. He knew that the journey ahead would be long, but he was ready for whatever lay in store.
The return journey had begun, and with it, a new chapter in his life.
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