Indrajit was still in bed when a bell disturbed his sleep. He was in the mood to give Deflake an earful but paused. Wondering what the complimentary breakfast would taste like, he jumped out. The owner of the inn was already inside the room, carrying a tray of food.

Deflake: Hello sir. Today we have a mushroom curry with rice, peas paneer, and ragi bread. I really hope you enjoy the meal.

The host set the tray down at the bedside table, bowed, and left.

Indrajit took his mask off once the footsteps faded away. He looked in the mirror. Years of torture had left his whole body littered with wounds. It has been said that injuries inflicted by Yama never heal. The demon never experienced a natural rebirth and was directly transported to a new world, thus he was forced to don a helmet that would protect him from alienating those around.

Indrajit: I was really hoping that some delightful seafood would be included, but this is a meat-free town right?

The paneer was cooked to perfection. Although Indrajit wasn’t too keen on mushrooms, the texture of the dish impressed him greatly. After he had his fill, Indrajit decided to pay a visit to the Temple he had entered the previous day. So he started walking towards the entrance of the town. As Indrajit was about to go into the holy abode, he bumped into a short figure.

Indrajit: Ah, you are the dwarf girl I saw yesterday? How come you are wearing these robes? I guess you have decided to stay here for a while.

The girl just nodded without uttering a single word. The demon understood that she was trying her level best to be careful around him.

Indrajit: Don’t worry kid, I’m not going to hurt you. I just wanted to know one thing- are you trained in the art of creating weaponry? I wanted a sword that resembled the one my father once carried. If it is too bothersome, I shall take your leave now.

Fiona: What shape do you want the sword to be in?

Indrajit: Something that resembles the crescent moon.

Fiona: What is your father’s profession?

Indrajit: He was one of the finest warriors of his time. Men from all over the world were scared shitless when they were forced to face him in battle.

Suddenly, the girl cracked a smile.

Fiona: My dad was just like that as well. He is no more. But he protected me till his dying breath.

Indrajit: Then you and I are on the same page. Help a brother out, will you?

Indrajit remembered how Ravana had tried to avenge him by mortally wounding Lakshmana. The latter was revived primarily due to the efforts of Hanuman. Lord Yama had told him about this story when his sentence in hell kicked-off.

Fiona: Alright. But as one of the priests at the temple, I have other responsibilities as well. You have to give me at least 5 days, if you need the sword to be durable. The main problem, however, is that we don’t have enough material. The hilt is not the problem, but if you want the blade to last then we shall need something that is hardy and can resist most opponents and varied attacks.

Indrajit: Would a dragon’s horn suffice?

Fiona: Of course, but how will you handle one of the strongest living beasts in this world without a weapon?

Indrajit: You let me worry about that. By the way, what is your name?

“I am Fiona, daughter of Orion.”

“Indrajit, son of Ravana here. Once I get the horn, let’s have a toast.”

The girl shook her head awkwardly.

Fiona: But I am not authorized to drink. One must turn 15 before one can drink mead.

Indrajit: Fair enough, we’ll have to look for a different way to celebrate then. Let me pay my salutations to the deity inside and then I’ll be off.

Fiona: Are you sure you won’t need others to accompany you? There might be some strong adventurers out there who could help out.

Indrajit giggled loudly.

Indrajit: You are so sweet, worrying about me even though we have just been acquainted. Fret not, I will take your advice and look for assistance.

______

After seeking the blessings of Shiva, the demon made his way toward the Guild. As soon as he entered, a booming voice crackled like thunder in the sky. As his eyes found the source of the deafening speaker, Indrajit was flabbergasted. A woman clad in knight’s armor from head to toe was the one screaming. She had azure blue hair and a serene face. Flanked by two humanoid lions on both sides, she was arguing with Ela at the reception.

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

Young Duchess: What do you mean a man took care of 500 slimes within minutes? That is not possible. You have been deceived, Ela. I told you to take better care of the guild but here you are screwing things up yet again.

The elf seemed visibly shaken. Then she caught a glimpse of a cloaked fellow at the door and let out a sigh of relief.

Ela: Madam I am not lying. I checked all the fangs yesterday. They were all authentic. And if you doubt me, ask the hunter. He is standing right behind you. Sir Indrajit, this is the daughter of Duke Charon.

Indrajit: Ah, the Class 0 adventurer you told me about. I am quite lucky to have run into you, milady.

The knight turned around. She lunged towards him with such speed that Indrajit almost cursed her. The girl took a whiff of his outfit and shook her head in dismay.

Young Duchess: Where do you hide your weapon mate? What kind of an adventurer walks around empty-handed? That is mighty careless of you! I know this is a safe town for boys, broads, and beasts but you must have a death wish pal.

Indrajit: If you wouldn’t mind, I have a small request. May I proceed with the appeal?

Young Duchess: Proceed. At least your manners are intact.

Indrajit whispered in her ears what he needed. The Duchess was astonished.

“Have you gone nuts? You were just promoted to Class 4 yesterday, and now you want to slay a dragon. What business would you have with one?”, she howled.

Indrajit: Actually ma’am I need the horn. Everyone wants a sturdy sword, right? A trustworthy companion that shall never falter even my luck is most rotten.

Young Duchess: Ah I see. Well, my time won’t be cheap. 48 silver coins for a day’s worth of service. That is my rate. If you have an issue with that, you can search for a better escort. But I highly doubt you will find one.

Indrajit: Deal. Shall we leave now or do you want to feast first?

Once again, the masked man had left her disarmed with his words alone. She had to be cautious around this fellow. But at least 48 silver coins would let her drink to her heart’s content. And who is capable of slaying a dragon in a day when the journey alone would take up half the time?

Young Duchess: We can wine and dine later. There is a nest of dragons located roughly 10 kilometers north of this town. You only need one right? Be careful though because they always stay in packs.

Indrajit: That is why I need you, ma’am.

“Call me Cassandra”, said the heiress.

Indrajit: Let us go then. I have a vehicle that will take us to the spot in a short span of time.

Cassandra: You are kidding right? Let’s check it out, lads.

The LEOs followed the head mistress, their heads bowed signifying their loyalty.

____

At the town’s entrance, Indrajit muttered under his breath. This action went unnoticed by the others. All of a sudden, a massive chariot appeared out of thin air. A six-headed horse with scarlet eyes was at the front. The Duchess took two steps back and unsheathed her sword, and her companions followed.

Cassandra: What the hell is that thing? I’ve never laid eyes on such an eerie beast in my whole life.

Indrajit: I thought you would run back in fear for your life. No wonder you’re a Class 0 adventurer. Come on, get in. Remember to hold on tightly.

The 3 stepped into the chariot whilst Indrajit jumped onto the horse's back.

“If you get us to the destination in a jiffy, I will make sure you are blessed with a scrumptious meal in return”, Indrajit murmured as the horse neighed, acknowledging his command.

Indrajit: Heigh Ho, Black!

And away they went.

_______

Once they reached the cave next to the forest of bandits, Cassandra began retching. Even her LEO guards couldn’t maintain their composure anymore.

Indrajit snickered, “I guess it was too much of a ride even for you.”

Cassandra: How are you still ok?

Indrajit lied, “I had a light breakfast.”

The chariot vanished in seconds.

The dragons were aware that they had unwanted guests outside the cave. Pretty soon, 5 of them had surrounded the hunting party.

Indrajit: These guys look like babies. Where’s the boss?

Cassandra: Come on pick one and get it over with. Why are you wasting precious time?

The young duchess sprung into action. Both the LEOs used their staffs to cast a double barrier that would protect them from dragon breath. As she was fending off the 5 beasts, Cassandra noticed that Indrajit’s presence had faded. Where the hell was he?

Well, Indrajit was already inside the cave, courtesy of the Spell- Switch which allowed him to travel vast distances in seconds.

A roar rang through the air. “Who goes there?”

Indrajit: A worthy opponent. Come and see for yourself.

The beast stepped out. It was easily the largest non-humanoid being he had laid eyes on. Even the daityas (giants) in Hell paled in comparison to this majestic individual.

Prime Dragon: We have no business with mortals. Why have you come here? I do not bother humans, we stay satisfied with aquatic life. All my sons are great swimmers so we have never had the need to attack settlements. Why must you disturb my slumber?

Indrajit: I need your horn to forge a decent sword.

Prime Dragon: Ah yes. Killing a helpless, old fart. Will that give you satisfaction my son?

Indrajit: You are not an old fart.

Prime Dragon: An intelligent foe. Let us see if you can hold your own in a fight.

Indrajit: Use Spell- Petrify.

The Prime Dragon froze completely. He struggled to break free, but the magic was too strong.

Indrajit: Use Divine Weapon- Varunastra.

A shining arrow made entirely out of water hurtled forward and severed the horn of the dragon.

Indrajit: Withdraw Spell- Petrify.

Prime Dragon: Why let me go?

Indrajit: As you said, you don’t hurt human cities. I believe you because dragons are too proud to be liars. And that horn will grow back, won’t it?

Prime Dragon: How do you know all this?

Indrajit: I come from another world. You remind me of a friend I had a long time ago. Stay safe brother. I won’t be an obstacle for you ever again.

Prime Dragon: Au revoir, strange demon.

Indrajit smiled, “You recognize the smell eh?”

Prime Dragon: All too well.

______

Outside, Cassandra was getting tired. Her arms had slowed down, but the 5 fire-breathing adversaries refused to give up. She realized it was a grave mistake to take the job. The cloaked fellow had set her up as bait. Just as she was about to faint, she heard a familiar voice.

Indrajit: Enough. I have received the horn. Let us head back.

Cassandra couldn’t believe that she and her soldiers were floating away. Indrajit had returned. The magic was unique, something she had never come across before. Of course elves could make items levitate but never people…

Cassandra: Who are you?

Indrajit: If I tell you, you must pay me a million gold coins.

Cassandra turned grumpy. “Nevermind”, she retorted as the masked man looked away.

Indrajit: The sunset looks beautiful, does it not? I hope to see it every day, now and forever.

Cassandra: Did you get what you needed?

Indrajit: A task shall never be left undone by me, ma’am. Now which bar are we drinking at?

_______

Glossary:

Spell-Switch: Used countless times in fights against Rama and Lakshmana of Ayodhya. Helps him travel at a lightning-fast rate.

Spell-Petrify: Stiffens his opponents entirely, allowing no movement whatsoever.

Varunastra: An ancient weapon whose power can be controlled by Indrajit. Associated with the God who presides over all kinds of water. An effective attack against a fire-breathing beast.