Chapter 3: The Tour of Brahmastra Society

Now, he was to explore the Brahman Society, a place that would be his home for years to come. Guru Vishran had promised to give him a full tour, and Anuj was eager to learn more about the mysterious order that had already begun to reshape his life.

As he waited in the courtyard, Anuj noticed how quiet the place was at this hour. The Society seemed to hold its breath, as if the very ground beneath him was alive with the whispers of countless warriors who had walked these paths before.

Soon, Guru Vishran appeared, his long robes flowing gracefully as he approached.

" Anuj," the Guru greeted him with a nod, his voice calm and steady. " I will show you the true expanse of the Brahmastra Society. There is much for you to see and understand."

Anuj bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Guru Vishran."

Guru Vishran began to walk, leading Anuj down a stone-paved path that wound through the heart of the Society. "The Brahman Society is more than just a place for training warriors. It is a sanctuary, and a stronghold for those chosen by the Astras."

As they walked, the path gradually began to ascend a hill, giving Anuj a better view of the sprawling grounds. The Society was vast, with its boundaries stretching far beyond what he had initially imagined. Nestled among the hills and valleys were various structures and areas, each dedicated to a specific purpose.

"To your right," Guru Vishran said, gesturing to a large, calm body of water, "is Lake Varuna, where those chosen by the Varunastra practice. Here, one can learn to command the element of water in all its forms."

Anuj observed the lake, its surface smooth and still, reflecting the sky like a mirror. He could see a few students by the shore, their arms raised as they practiced manipulating the water, creating waves and whirlpools with precise movements. The sight filled him with awe; the power of the Astras was truly extraordinary.

They continued walking, the path now leading them towards a distant peak. "And there," Guru Vishran pointed to the peak, where smoke and flickering lights could be seen, "is the volcanic area, where those chosen by Agniastra train. The heat of the volcano is perfect for honing their control over fire. It is said that the flames there burn hotter than anywhere else on Earth."

Anuj could feel the warmth even from where he stood. The volcano was an imposing sight, its lava flows not visible yet felt. He imagined Dev training there, surrounded by fire, mastering the Agniastra's power. It was a dangerous place, but one that perfectly suited the fiery nature of the Astra.

The Guru led him further along the path, which now opened up into a wide, open field. "This is the flight area, where you will train with Garudastra," Guru Vishran said. "Here, the skies are your training ground. You will learn to master the wind, to fly as the Garuda does, and to see the world from above."

Anuj looked up at the sky, clear and expansive, and felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The idea of flying thrilled him, He knew that mastering Garudastra would require patience and dedication.

As they walked on, the path brought them to a large, flat area lined with targets and straw dummies. "This is the archery range," Guru Vishran explained. "Here, those chosen by Dhanush Astra practice. The bow is an elegant weapon You will see many students here, honing their skills, aiming for the perfect shot."

Anuj watched as several students loosed arrows, each one finding its mark with impressive accuracy. The archery range was a place of quiet concentration, the only sounds being the twang of bowstrings and the thud of arrows hitting their targets. He admired the focus of the archers, bow required more than just physical strength—it demanded inner calm and discipline.

The tour continued as they walked past various training areas. On a particular area guru Vishran stopped. As he viewed the area, Anuj noticed weapon racks filled with swords, spears, and shields, as well as sections of the grounds dedicated to different styles of combat.

 "Here, we train not just with our Astras but also with traditional weapons," Guru Vishran said. "A warrior must be versatile, able to adapt to any situation."

Next they approached a large, circular arena, its stone walls towering over the surrounding area.

"This is the main fighting arena," Guru Vishran said, pausing to let Anuj take in the sight.

"Here, competitions are held, and students test their skills against one another. It is a place where you will learn the value of fighting skills and quick thinking."

Anuj could imagine the battles fought here, the cheers of the crowd, and the victory. The arena was a proving ground, a place where warriors earned their skills and fight to learn from each other and learned the hard lessons of failure.

As they walked away from the arena, Guru Vishran led Anuj towards a large, modern building that seemed somewhat out of place amid the architecture.

"This is the training center," the Guru explained. "While we respect the old ways, we also use modern equipments for tranning. Inside, you'll find equipment to enhance your physical abilities."

Anuj peered through the windows and saw various machines and weights, as well as students engaging in different exercises. The training center was bustling with activity, a testament to the Society's dedication to holistic warrior training.

Next, they arrived at a complex of smaller buildings, each one meticulously maintained. "These are the quarters where students, teachers, and other members of the Society live," Guru Vishran said.

"This area also includes schools, playground dinning area and everything you would need for your stay here. You will live with other students here." Guru Vishran further added.

Anuj was pleased to hear this. The idea of having a personal space, as well as the opportunity to interact with others outside of training, was comforting. He knew that these quarters would become a second home, a place where he could recharge and prepare for the challenges ahead.

Guru Vishran then led him to a stately building at the center of the Society. "This is the library," he said, pride in his voice. "It holds the Society's heritage and the knowledge of various Astras and their histories. Here, you can learn about the warriors who came before you, the battles they fought, and the legacies they left behind."

Anuj marveled at the library's vastness. Shelves upon shelves of ancient texts, scrolls, and manuscripts filled the space, the air thick with the scent of paper and ink. The library was a treasure trove of wisdom, offering insight into the world of Astras.

 Anuj felt a deep respect for the the books contained within these walls and knew that he would spend time here, absorbing all the knowledge he could.

As they walked through the library, Guru Vishran continued to explain the structure and hierarchy of the Society. "The Brahmastra Society total population doesen't exceed 10 000 and is governed by strength," he said.

 "Those who awaken their Astras and reach the first tier are considered soldiers, They are mainly 10% of total population and often living outside the Society and called upon when needed. They are the backbone of our defence, though they live their lives much like ordinary people."

Anuj listened intently, understanding that the path of a Astra wielder was not always comforting. They need to always be present for it and be ready for any danger ahead.

"The second tier," Guru Vishran continued, "is reserved for those who have progressed further, gaining deeper control over their Astras. They are genrally 1% of total astra awakeners. These warriors are often chosen as Gurus, responsible for training the next generation. Their connection to their Astra is strong, and they dedicate their lives to the Society, rarely leaving its grounds."

Anuj could sense the weight of responsibility that came with being a second-tier warrior. To be a Guru was to be a guide, a mentor, someone who shaped the future of the Society. It was a role that required not just strength but also wisdom and patience.

"And then there are the third-tier warriors," Guru Vishran said, his voice lowering slightly as if discussing something sacred. "They are the Masters of the Society, the ones who have fully integrated with their Astras. Their power is immense, and their word is law. It is rare for a third-tier warrior to be born—perhaps once in a century. When they do appear, they are revered, for they carry the burden of protecting the Brahmastra itself."

Anuj felt a shiver run down his spine. The idea of becoming a third-tier warrior seemed almost unfathomable, a goal so distant that it was hard to imagine reaching it. Yet, the presence of such weilders ensured the Society's survival, and they were held in such high esteem.

As they exited the library, Guru Vishran led Anuj to a small, quiet area on the edge of the Society's grounds. Here, the landscape was peaceful, with gentle hills and trees providing shade. A few students were meditating, their faces serene as they sat cross-legged in the grass.

"This is where you will train your mind," Guru Vishran said. "Meditation is as important as physical training. It sharpens your focus, calms your thoughts, and deepens your connection to your Astra. A warrior must be balanced in body and mind."

Anuj nodded, understanding the importance of this aspect of his training. The peace and quiet of the meditation area contrasted with the intensity of the other training grounds.

The tour was nearly over, and as they made their way back to the central area, Guru Vishran paused, turning to face Anuj. "You have seen much today, but there is still more to learn. The Brahman Society is a living entity, constantly evolving as new warriors and Astras emerge. Your journey here will be long and challenging, but it will shape you into the person you are meant to be."

Anuj bowed deeply, grateful for the knowledge and wisdom Guru Vishran had shared with him. "Thank you, Guru. I will do my best to learn and grow."

Guru Vishran placed a hand on Anuj's shoulder, a gesture of support. "Remember, Anuj, strength is not just about power. It is about understanding your limits, knowing when to push forward, and when to step back. You and your Astra are one always remember that."

With those final words, Guru Vishran led Anuj to his quarters. The small room was simple but comfortable, with a bed, a desk, and a window that looked out over the hills. It would be his home for the foreseeable future, a place where he could rest and reflect on all that he would learn.