The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the abandoned training grounds. Mukul stood in the centre, flanked by Meera, Anaya, Kavya, Saira, and Liyana. The dragon hovered above, golden scales glinting as its eyes fixed on him, patient and commanding.
"This is no ordinary training," the dragon's voice resonated in Mukul's mind. You must face yourself before facing your enemies.
Mukul nodded, heart steady but mind alert. He knew the dragon's tests were legendary—meant to push warriors beyond their limits, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Anaya stepped forward, adjusting her stance. "We've got your back, as always."
Kavya grinned. "But don't expect us to let you take all the glory."
Saira's calm gaze met his. "This is about growth, Mukul. Face it fully."
Liyana smirked. "And maybe show a little charm while you're at it."
Mukul chuckled nervously. "I'll try."
The ground trembled suddenly. Shadows formed around him, twisting into illusions of enemies from his past battles—black-suited men, monstrous creatures, and even faceless figures representing doubt and fear.
Mukul's pulse quickened. He raised his hands, channelling energy through the dragon's guidance. Golden light radiated around him, illuminating the illusions.
"You must fight not just with strength," the dragon's voice echoed. Use your mind, your heart, and the bonds you have forged.
The illusions attacked in waves. Mukul blocked, dodged, and countered, but each strike seemed to test more than his reflexes—it tested his courage, his leadership, and his ability to protect those he cared about.
Meera, Anaya, Kavya, Saira, and Liyana moved around him, fending off illusions that tried to bypass his defences. Each woman's unique skills complemented his own, creating a fluid dance of teamwork.
Kavya laughed as she flipped an illusion onto the ground. "See? You don't need to do it all alone!"
Anaya's sharp strikes dismantled another wave. "Focus, Mukul. Your energy flows through us as well."
Saira's calm voice guided him: "Breathe. The illusions are part of you—they reflect what you fear. Face them, and you'll grow stronger."
Liyana stepped close, smirking. "And maybe learn to rely on us a little more."
Mukul's chest filled with warmth. The test wasn't just about fighting illusions—it was about trust, connection, and understanding that he wasn't alone.
Summoning the golden energy of the dragon, Mukul stepped forward, facing the largest illusion—a dark, twisted version of himself. The figure mirrored every doubt he had ever felt.
"You can't protect them all!" the illusion hissed.
"I don't have to!" Mukul shouted, channelling the power of the dragon, the scrolls, and the bond with the women around him. "We face everything together!"
The golden aura flared, shattering the illusion in a brilliant burst of light. The remaining shadows dissipated instantly.
The dragon hovered closer, eyes glowing with approval. You have passed the first test, Mukul. You understand now—the true power comes from your heart and your allies.
Mukul exhaled, muscles tense but heart light. He looked at Meera, Anaya, Kavya, Saira, and Liyana. Each smiled, teasing, proud, and relieved.
Kavya nudged him. "See? Not so scary, was it?"
Anaya smirked. "You learned something today. Don't forget it."
Saira's calm gaze met his. "Strength isn't just physical. It's in trust, loyalty, and love."
Liyana grinned. "And a little charm helps too."
Mukul laughed, feeling the tension drain away. The test had been gruelling, but it had shown him something vital: the power of connection, friendship, and perhaps even romance, intertwined with destiny.
Above, the dragon roared softly, golden light washing over them. Mukul realized that every challenge, every battle, and every ally was shaping him—not just into a healer-warrior, but into a leader who could face darkness with courage and heart.
For the first time, he felt truly ready for whatever the city, the mafia, or even the mystical forces could throw at him next.