Chapter 19

We followed the Guru into another hall. A bright light came from a burning brazier at the center. There were more carvings of some important Hindu gods on the wall. I saw several stones altars around the chamber. But all altars were empty, except one. It hosted a long curved golden sword. The weapon froze vertically in midair. Its blade seemed to glow with inner light and looked as if it was alive, vibrating with immense energy.

"This is Chandrahas, the Moonsword," Sambo said. "If you can wield it, you are the rightful owner of this mighty Astra."

"Oh? Is that so?" I said.

"But be mindful of its origin, young one," the Guru said and then stepped aside. "The Moon blade is a legendary weapon created by Lord Shiva, the Ultimate God of Destruction. Shiva warned if it was used for an unjust cause, the sword would return to him, and the wielder's end would be near."

"So it is a cursed blade?" I asked.