Chapter — "Road to Nexus"
The morning sun spilled softly through the trees, painting long golden lines across the forest path. The air was warm, the smell of wet soil still hanging from last night's drizzle.
The trio were walking towards there destination
Anay stretched his arms and yawned. "Finally… a day without monsters trying to bite our heads off."
Kael laughed, walking ahead with his hands tucked behind his head. "Enjoy it while it lasts. Once we reach Nexus City, things will move fast — the Yuddha Tournament's about to begin."
Liora walked beside them, the edge of her robe brushing against the grass. "You make it sound like a festival, Kael. It's a tournament — not a picnic."
"Hey, festivals have fights too," Kael said with a grin. "Only difference is, this one decides who's the strongest in the country."
Anay chuckled. "And also who gets free food coupons, apparently."
Kael turned with a mock glare. "You're not wrong. Last time, the top three got lifetime entry to Nexus dining halls. I wouldn't mind that deal."
The three of them laughed. Birds fluttered overhead, and somewhere in the distance, a stream murmured through the rocks. The road ahead curved between the trees — smooth and wide now, signs of civilization peeking in.
"Hard to believe we're actually close," Liora said softly, eyes narrowing toward the faint silver shimmer in the horizon. "Nexus City."
Anay's eyes followed. The skyline was faint but distinct — tall glass-like towers, floating drones, neon lines tracing across buildings like veins of light. "Looks… different than I imagined," he murmured.
"It's the most advanced city in this area" Kael said, pride in his voice. "Technology, artifacts, even spiritual devices — everything blends there. If you want to grow stronger, that's where it starts."
Anay smirked. "So that's where this Yuddha thing happens?"
Kael nodded. "Yeah. It has 2 stages Every academy sends their best. It's not just for pride — it decides who qualifies for the International Combat Trials next year which is the 2nd stage this yuddha tournament take place over all the country and is known by different names but it is not that important main thing is you get selected to represent India, but for now your destination in yuddha tournament"
"Meaning…" Anay grinned, "I get to smash some arrogant students ."
Liora rolled her eyes, though a faint smile crept across her face. "Try not to destroy the arena this time."
"I'll try," Anay said with exaggerated innocence.
They walked for a while longer before coming to a village which was part of nexus ,stopping near a small roadside stall. The man at the counter, wearing a half-unbuttoned shirt and a towel around his neck, smiled as he flipped something on a hot pan.
"Three chai and some pakoras, bhaiya," Kael said, sitting on a wooden bench.
Anay leaned back, eyes half-closed as the aroma of hot tea filled the air. "Man, I missed this. Monsters don't drop chai leaves, sadly."
The stall owner laughed. "You lot heading to Nexus? Big crowd going there today — Yuddha Tournament and all."
"Yeah," Kael said. "We're going to register."
The man nodded knowingly. "Ah, youth and bravery. Just don't get lost in the glamour. Nexus eats the weak, beta."
Anay smiled faintly at that. "Guess I'll just have to bite back harder."
Liora and Kael exchanged a look — part amused, part proud.
After finishing, they resumed their journey. As the trees began to thin, roads turned smoother, paved with glowing white stones. Vehicles powered by ether energy hummed past. Holographic signs pointed the way to Nexus Central District.
Liora looked up at the city's towering gates, her eyes reflecting the glint of energy barriers surrounding it. "It's… breathtaking."
Kael nodded, his tone softer now. "Welcome to Nexus City — the heart of humanity."
Anay stepped forward, the faint wind ruffling his hair. "Alright," he said, grinning. "Let's go sign up for Yuddha."
The gates slid open with a low hum, light washing over them as they stepped into the city that never slept — unaware that fate was already watching from above.