Pyro of the Craven

Chapter-26: Ikshvaku

Ramaraju, the Captain of NES, walked through the bustling corridors of the academy. Ryoshis were engaged in their daily routines, practicing their Odic-Force skills, and honing their abilities. As he strolled, familiar faces greeted him with respect. "Hey, Captain!" echoed through the halls, from both students and professors alike. Ramaraju nodded in acknowledgment, a sense of responsibility weighing on his shoulders.

His gaze fell upon Professor Vijaya, who had recently resumed her role at NES. She was engaged in an animated conversation with Professor Isayama, the head of the Military of Defense department. Ramaraju approached them, a respectful smile on his face.

"Good morning, Professors," he greeted them.

Vijaya smiled warmly, "Good morning, Captain. It's good to see you."

As they spoke, Ramaraju's eyes shifted to Teacher Larsa, who had recently joined the NES. He extended a greeting, but her response was hesitant, as if she was hiding something. Ramaraju couldn't help but feel a tinge of suspicion.

"Where are you off to in such a hurry?" he inquired.

Larsa's response was quick, "I have a class to attend."

Ramaraju continued to watch her for a moment, a nagging sense of uncertainty lingering. He then turned to Isayama, "Could you allow me to enter the Military of Defense room, Professor?"

Isayama hesitated briefly, then smiled, "Of course, Captain. You have full access."

With permission granted, Ramaraju entered the room and began inspecting the inventory. But his eyes were drawn to a particular spot, securely hidden from casual view. It was the 'Omega,' a source of immense power and mystery. Unable to resist its magnetic allure, he began to approach it with measured steps. Turning to Isayama, he couldn't contain his curiosity any longer.

"Is there any chance that I might be allowed to see what's inside the Omega?" Ramaraju asked, his voice tinged with hope.

Isayama's eyes remained watchful, a somber expression on his face. "Ramaraju, you're well aware of the rule, even as the Captain. The Omega is strictly off-limits, and that rule applies to everyone, regardless of their position."

Ramaraju's curiosity burned brighter, and he pressed further, "But do you know anything about it, Professor?"

Isayama's gaze never wavered from the Omega as he began to explain, "The Omega is part of the Whispers, ancient books that contain the knowledge of the Odic-Force. It's specifically known as the Whisper of Darkness, holding the most potent and dark magic secrets. Only a select few Ryoshis could read and use it, and for others, it's just an empty book."

Ramaraju's eyes remained locked on the enigmatic tome. "I've seen something written on it before when I touched it," he admitted, his voice a hushed whisper.

Isayama's response was immediate, a tone of caution in his voice, "That's precisely why you, and only you, are strictly forbidden from even laying a finger on it. Captain Ram, the power contained within the Omega is extraordinarily dangerous, and its consequences are uncertain."

Ramaraju nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. The Omega held a tantalizing mystery, but he knew that now was not the time to delve into its secrets. There were other pressing matters that demanded his attention. With one last lingering look at the forbidden relic, he turned and left the room, leaving the enigma of the Omega behind for the moment.

Leaving the room, he proceeded to meet Principal Vasuda. She welcomed him into her office with a warm smile.

"Please, have a seat, Captain Ram," she gestured to a comfortable chair in front of her desk.