Nanda Parbat, tucked away in the Himalayas, felt like it was bending the rules of nature itself. When Billy arrived, he was struck by the sheer beauty and mystery that surrounded him.
The air was cool and fresh, with the invigorating scent of wildflowers. Every breath felt revitalizing, as if the atmosphere was infused with life itself. In the distance, he could hear a river flowing, adding a soothing background to the scene.
The landscape was like a painter's dream. Snow-capped peaks towered above, seemingly reaching the sky, while green valleys spread out below. The mountains seemed to cradle Nanda Parbat, protecting its sanctity.
The monastery, an architectural marvel, clung to the side of one of the smaller peaks. Its design blended perfectly with the natural surroundings. Ornate carvings decorated its walls, telling stories from ancient legends and myths.
Billy couldn't help but admire the vibrant colors of the monastery. Rich reds, emerald greens, and shimmering golds stood out against the calm white of the snow-capped mountains. The buildings seemed to glow with an energy that felt ancient and wise.
As he wandered deeper into Nanda Parbat, he noticed the prayer flags gently rustling in the breeze. Their colorful streamers carried blessings in the wind, adding a magical touch to the scenery. Each flag reflected the deep spiritual devotion of the people living there.
The locals moved gracefully through the valley, their dark clothing creating a striking contrast against the natural beauty around them. Billy felt the strong sense of community and unity that connected them.
But what truly stole Billy's heart were the gardens. Nanda Parbat was a haven of botanical wonders, with beautifully tended gardens bursting with colors and fragrances. Exotic flowers from all over the world thrived here, their petals sparkling with dewdrops. He was in awe of the gardeners' artistry in creating this paradise.
"That was my first reaction of this place as well," Jason chuckled, when he noticed how affected Billy was by the beauty of Nanda Parbat. "Once my mind was healed and I had realized where I was, it left me wondering how a place that trained so many people to kill could be filled with so much life. It was almost as if life was breathed back into us." Jason hummed with a thoughtful expression. "Maybe that was why so many shadows remained here, even if it meant being under the tyranny of Ra's al Ghul."
Before Billy could even reply, Damian was rushing past through them and throwing himself into the arms of the most beautiful woman Billy had ever laid his eyes upon. "Umi!"
"Oh, my prince, I've missed you so much," the woman, Talia al Ghul, wrapped her arms around Damian and held him close to her chest. "Has your akhi been taking good care of you?"
"The very best!" Damian beamed at her.
Even after a couple of years outside of the control of Ra's, Damian still behaved more maturely than his age. The only times he allowed himself to drop his shields were around the Kents, his brothers, and his mother. And it was such a beautiful sight! Damian's smile could light up a room. Just like his father, his mere presence could command the attention of everyone.
Talia smiled fondly at her son, caressing his cheeks gently. "I am so glad to hear that." She looked up, her gaze soft as she looked at her other two sons. Who would have thought that she, Talia al Ghul, would one day become the mother of three? "Jason, abni, come here."
"Umi," Jason smiled, stepping closer to allow her to embrace him as well, as Damian went to greet his aunt, Nyssa al Ghul. "I've heard from my squad about your success but seeing you safe and sound is a balm to my heart."
"Did you ever doubt our success?" Talia teased her son, holding his face between her hands gently. "Who trained you, my boy?"
"You did," Jason chuckled. "And no, I never doubted you kicking that bastard's ass. But I still worry, I am your son after all."
Talia's heart ached with so much love as she heard him refer to himself as her son. "That you are," she agreed warmly, before turning to the boy who was fidgeting nervously in the back. "But you are not the only one. Why don't you introduce me to my newest son?"
"Billy, stop acting all scared and get here!" Jason scoffed, waving him close. "This is your umi, she won't bite… much."
"Don't tease the poor boy," Talia chastised her oldest son, but chuckled as Billy's eyes widened in panic. She smiled encouragingly when Billy began marching towards her, all tense and robotic. "Hello there, sweet thing. I am Talia al Ghul, your new mother."
Billy gathered all the courage of Achilles he could and held out his hand in greeting. "H-hello, I a-am B-Billy H-Head. Nicetomeetyou!"
"The pleasure is all mine," Talia laughed, bringing Billy into a warm hug.
One which Billy practically melted into. Talia's hug was all warm, pleasant, and smelt like jasmine flowers. It made Billy feel all safe and… at home. Just like Billly's mom's hugs used to. How long has it been since Billly had been hugged by his mom? The thought of it brought the poor boy close to tears.
"Shh, let it all out," Talia patted his back encouragingly, as Billy sobbed in her chest.
Jason sighed and left the duo; they deserved some privacy after all. He headed towards his aunt Nyssa, who was attentively listening to Damian recount his time in Fawcett City. "Hi, halto. How has it been?"
"Busy like always," Nyssa smirked at her nephew. "With taking over and then been regaled as the General of our Forces, there has not been a moment stop."
"Well, there's no one better at the job than you," Jason praised her honestly. While Talia was a natural born political leader, Nyssa exceeded in leading troops to victory. "Why don't we get going, umi and Billy will take a while. Apparations make travels quick and easy, but it's been a while since I've been in Nanda Parbat, and I have missed my room here."
"Come," Nyssa chuckled, guiding them, not that the boys needed it, to their chambers in the al Ghul family wing of the headquarters of the League of Shadows.
Jason's smirk was wide and happy when he opened the door to his room. His space in Nanda Parbat was a reflection of his vibrant personality. The room was dominated by a deep, rich red that radiated warmth and intensity. Tapestries with intricate Eastern designs covered the walls, showing fierce warriors in battle and majestic birds in flight. Red silk curtains hung at the windows, letting in a soft, filtered light during the day.
The centerpiece of the room was a massive four-poster bed with crimson silk sheets and a beautifully carved headboard. On the nightstand was a photo of Jason with Damian, Nyssa, and Talia—a photo that would soon need updating now that Billy was part of their family.
The room also had a cozy reading nook with plush red armchairs and a small library filled with books, from ancient scrolls to modern novels. A Persian rug covered the polished wooden floor, adding an extra layer of warmth. Weapons from different cultures adorned the walls, showcasing Jason's combat expertise.
Jason set down his bags and ran his fingers over the titles in his library, remembering the many evenings he spent there, either reading in peaceful silence or telling Damian bedtime stories. Those were the only times in his early years with the al Ghuls when his mind was quiet, and the Pit Madness was almost nonexistent.
With a sigh of relief, Jason left his room and headed towards Damian's. Damian's room was all about nature. Different shades of green made it feel like a peaceful forest. The walls had murals of calm bamboo groves and serene landscapes.
The focal point was a traditional Japanese futon on a tatami mat, creating a simple and calm sleeping area. The futon had green silk bedding, and a bonsai tree sat on a small wooden table next to it.
One wall showcased a neat collection of katana swords and shurikens. The room also had a little meditation corner with a cushion and incense burners, where Damian could clear his mind and focus on his training.
"How is it going demon spawn?" Jason teased his little brother, who had clearly gone straight to the meditation corner. Jason took a deep breath, allowing the sandalwood incense to calm his nerves. Jason chuckled when he found no response from Damian, who was in a meditation pose and his breathing was steady. "Take your time, brat."
Jason left the chambers with a fond chuckle and headed towards the newly decorated chamber. Jason stopped outside of it, a sense of nostalgia and sadness filling him. This chamber used to be Mara's, sweet, poor, unfortunate Mara, who had died too soon. However, now it was Billy's.
With a deep breath, Jason finally gathered the courage he needed and opened the door.
Talia and Nyssa decorated Billy's room perfectly. It was all about purity, innocence, and the wonder of youth. Soft whites and delicate golden accents made the room feel enchanting. White marble floors and walls with intricate golden patterns added a touch of grandeur.
The centerpiece was a luxurious canopy bed with white silk draperies that flowed to the floor. Golden pillows and a plush duvet made it incredibly inviting.
Large windows let in natural light, filling the room with a warm, welcoming glow. Billy's room also had a play area with a game station and colorful decorations. A golden chandelier with delicate crystals hung from the ceiling, adding a touch of elegance.
Each room in Nanda Parbat was carefully designed to match the personalities and preferences of Jason, Damian, and Billy, giving them a sense of comfort and belonging in this peaceful and mysterious place.
Jason's eyes fell on Talia's form, who was cuddling Billy on the canopy bed. The poor boy was clearly exhausted, as he cuddled against his mom, eyes puffy and red. Not wanting to intrude Jason slowly backed away from the chamber and silently closed the door behind him.
If he had been trained any less than he had been, Jason would have jumped by the sudden appearance of Nyssa behind him. His aunt smiled proudly at Jason; it was not easy to catch her presence when she was being sneaky.
"Want to help me prepare dinner?" Nyssa offered.
She was not as close to his nephews as she used to be with her niece. After all, the boys had Talia, while Mara did not have anyone. Dusan having died long ago, leaving Mara as an orphan. Which was when Nyssa had stepped up and raised Mara as her own.
Not that it had saved poor Mara from her fate.
"I would love to," Jason smiled gently.
He knew what his aunt was trying to do. He had never blamed her for not trying hard enough with them. If anything, he was grateful that someone had taken care of Mara while she was still alive. Talia's priority had always been Damian and later Jason joined that rank, leaving her with no space for anyone else. Not when Ra's was still around, and she had to protect her boys.
However, now that Ra's was dead… and so was Mara, Nyssa wanted to try and get to know her nephews more. Especially, with the big hole in her heart that Mara left behind. And Jason was all for it.
"You can always count on me when it comes to cooking. Alfie taught me all he knows, and he is the best chef out there. Never allow anyone to tell you the opposite."
The al Ghul family dinner happened right in the heart of their Nanda Parbat home, in the cozy family room. This space was a perfect blend of rich Arabian aesthetics, decorated in the al Ghul family's signature emerald green and gold.
Low emerald-green sofas with plush cushions formed a circular seating area, each spot adorned with embroidered golden throw pillows. Soft lighting from ornate brass lanterns hanging from the ceiling cast intricate patterns on the walls, making the atmosphere even more intimate.
In the center of the circle was an intricately carved wooden coffee table used as the dining surface. A brass tray on the table held a variety of aromatic Middle Eastern dishes—succulent lamb kebabs, fragrant couscous, crispy falafel, and savory hummus, all presented with care. Delicate glasses of Arak, an anise-flavored spirit, sparkled in the soft light.
The walls were decorated with Arabic calligraphy and Middle Eastern artworks, celebrating the al Ghul family's cultural heritage. An indoor garden of exotic plants added a touch of natural beauty, making the room feel even more authentic.
"I have an upcoming art show in the Fawcett Art Institute!" Damian raved excitedly. "I hope you two can come as well! I am donating all my earnings to the animal shelter I've been volunteering at. Is not like I have any need for the money."
"We would love to," Nyssa responded. She was very happy for her nephew, but also sad because it reminded her that Mara was not there to enjoy it with them. That Mara would never get a chance to be a normal kid. "We will make sure to clear up our schedule for that date. I can't wait to see how much you've advanced in your art training. You were already so good two years ago."
"What about you William?" Talia turned to her newest son. "Have you been enjoying your time in Fawcett City?"
"Well, it has always been my home," Billy shrugged. "Though, now that I have a family again, I am having a better time. Something I am proud about, though, is that I have finally caught up to Dami when it comes to education!" Billy's expression lights up. "While I still lack in the areas of languages and martial arts, I am quite proud of myself. However, I did cheat a little bit." Billy chuckled bashfully. "Solomon and Achilles have been guiding me a lot. Though, now that I have caught up to Dami they promised to stop doing that and allow mee to progress naturally."
"No need to be embarrassed about it," Jason assured him. "We all have our own natural or supernatural advantages." He smiled at Billy, before turning to his mother and aunt. "As for me, I have finished the movie script and have already handed it to the producers dealing with his book in Warner Bros. I also have started with the script for the miniseries, but as I have time with that, as the show was not set to be filmed in a year, I decided to go slow and focus more on my upcoming book. Esperanza has been quite persistent!" Jason huffed, smirking mysteriously when Nyssa asked him about his new book. "I want this to be a surprise for everyone. So, I am keeping a tight lid on it."
"Such a drama queen," Talia teased, making her son blush and everyone laugh.
The family members continued to savor the delectable dishes and shared stories, laughter, and memories. However, it was only when the kids left for their chambers for the night that the serious topics came into the conversation.
"We can finally rest after almost two years of ongoing wars," Nyssa commented, lounging on the sofa, as she took a sip from her Arak. "Father's faction has been dealt with and we finally pushed back Wilson's forces from our territory."
"I still can't believe Deathstroke tried to breach into the League of Shadow's territory," Jason shook his head from his plush cushion. "How you two dealt with it so soon after your war against the Counsil of Spider, I have no idea. I thought I knew how incredible you two were, but you two keep on amazing me every day."
Talia smiled warmly at her son from a plush cushion across him. "We are in a stable position right now, but it was not without our losses." Talia's smile slipped to the memory of all the shadows they'd lost. "My good friend Lady Shiva is now gone."
"I never thought I would see the day that someone would be able to bring down Lady Shiva," Jason sighed in disbelief. "I still remember my sword lessons with her… she was a brutal legend. An invincible brutal legend."
"No one is ever invincible, you better remember that nephew," Nyssa corrected him sternly. "Though, I agree with you. Only three wars and incredibly strong opponents were able to take her down. A truly living legend."
"Shiva was the only reason we were able to take down father, though she ended up extremely injured after our war against his faction," Talia explained to her son, sadness tinting her tone. "Injuries that never got to heal as the Counsil of Spiders attacked, taking advantage of us scrambling to regroup after out takeover." Talia smirked viciously, all teeth and bloodthirst. "Not that those fools of the Counsil of Spiders were able to do much against her. She survived them and slaughtered their main forces."
"One thing I should thank them for, though, was dealing with Cain," Nyssa smirked with satisfaction. "I was already planning on dealing with one of father's favorite pets, but those spiders decided to save me the effort."
"Do not speak like that, akhti. David Cain was on our side during both wars, his death should be respected as much as any other ally of ours that fell that day." Talia scolded her but did not sound that mad. If anything, she sounded as pleased as Nyssa. By the shared smirks, it was clear that neither al Ghul sister liked or respected the assassin. Talia turned back to her son and continued her tale. "It was only when Wilson attacked us that the wars started to show their weight on Shiva. She fought valiantly and felled Wilson, but he took her down with him."
"I'm sorry for your loss, umi, halto," Jason bowed in respect for his fallen teacher and his family's friend.
"Do not be," Nyssa shook her head. "Lady Shiva got a warrior's end, as she had always wished for. Dying at her peak and living on as a martial arts legend. There could be no greater life and death for our friend."
"We've lost important figures, but we have new ones, and we continue to stand strong," Talia straightened up in pride. "Not to mention, two of our biggest rivals are down and we now have total control of the League of Shadows."
"All while you were safe and hidden," Nyssa continued for her sister with a small smile. "No more children will suffer in Nanda Parbat. No more anyone with the al Ghul blood will suffer… at least not by other al Ghuls."
"We've lost a lot," Talia's look was faraway. "But at the end, it was all worth it."
Jason had to look down at his Arak glass, not being able to handle the pressure of their stares. Stares filled with loss, wisdom, and sacrifice. He said nothing in return for their words. What could he even say? After all they've lost and sacrificed, words would only fall short. So, he stayed silent, nursing his drink, until they all parted ways for the night. Once Jason was in the sanctuary of his chamber, he allowed himself to break down. He allowed himself to mourn every loss the shadows suffered, for every sacrifice his mother and aunt had to make.
The main training yard at Nanda Parbat stretched out under the open sky, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Himalayas. The grounds were kept in perfect condition, designed to sharpen the skills of anyone aiming to master combat.
On one side of the yard, Damian was deep into a precise display of swordsmanship. He moved with the grace of a seasoned warrior, his katana slicing through the air with pinpoint accuracy. Every movement showed off his years of rigorous training and natural talent. The rhythmic sound of his blade cutting through the air echoed through the valley, a testament to his skill and determination.
Across the yard, Billy was fully focused, his movements mirroring the swift and powerful swings of the morning star flail he wielded. The spiked steel ball on its chain moved effortlessly under his control, striking with graceful ferocity. The morning sun cast a warm glow on Billy's determined face as he practiced, showing his dedication to mastering this unique weapon.
Jason's ex-squad members watched over the young trainees like silent guardians, their experienced eyes catching every detail of Damian and Billy's training. They offered subtle guidance and corrections when needed, their expertise clear in their every observation.
"Damian has gotten better," Talia hummed with pride, as she, Nyssa, and Jason observed from one of the balconies that faced the training yard. "Also, I was not expecting sweet William to be so compatible with the morning star flail."
"Well, we tried many weapons but that seemed to be the one that suited Billy the most," Jason shrugged. "Also, firearms might be my specialty, but I do need an adequate base in swordsmanship to wield the All-Sword correctly," Jason chuckled. "I did my best to train him, but now that the league is stable and you do not need all your field experts battling, I would like to request a Sword Master to be sent to Nanda Parbat. Damian is a natural when it comes to the sword, and he has already exceeded my level of mastery."
"How do you call yourself a firearm expert? Nowadays you barely use your guns, focusing more on the use of the All-Sword and your magic," Nyssa raised an eyebrow.
Jason turned to his aunt and crossed his arms over his chest in defiance. "It is not my fault that the All Caste is lacking in numbers after the war against The Untitled and has been sending me to many exorcisms mission, both spiritual and for cursed objects. Not to mention, you two have me apparating all over the world eradicating Lazarus Pits."
"That we have," Talia hummed thoughtfully. "Maybe we should send you to a mission where you will need to use your martial arts and guns rather than your magic. I am sure your squad would love to reunite for one more mission."
Jason's smirk was wide and bloodthirsty. A smirk he had only learned when he became an al Ghul. The viciousness he learned on the streets of Gotham City. "You know me. I am always ready for some good old violence."
"My vicious, little lion," Talia smirked at her son, pride shining in her eyes.
"If anything, I am stag," Jason corrected. "You still haven't answered me, can you spare a Sword Master?"
"I can… but I have a better suggestion," Talia replied. "With father and Shive dead, Nyssa and I are the best Sword Masters the League of Shadows possess. Outside of the league, with Wilson dead, Katana now has the best swordsmanship. Other than us, she outshines any other Sword Master in the league."
"We are busy and can't train Damian, but Katana owes us a favor and won't mind teaching him. Especially, after we assure her about the league's new direction and the fact that we have no desire of indoctrinating children to kill." Nyssa explained.
"Good," Jason nodded firmly. "I've been teaching Dami that swords are not meant to kill but to protect those who cannot."
"I'm glad," Talia's smile turned soft and proud. Oh, how proud she had been feeling lately. "Jason, we have something to tell you. Something very important."
Jason tensed under his mother and aunt's serious gazes. He straightened up and frowned at them. "What is wrong? I thought we were out of danger?"
"We are," Nyssa assured him. "However, with the many changes we have been planning for the league, the headquarters position is one of them."
Jason froze, eyes widening in shock at the words he was hearing. He could not believe it. This was not happening. "You are leaving Nanda Parbat?!"
"You must understand, that while we are so happy that Nanda Parbat is filled with more happy memories than sad ones for all of you… for us is mostly filled with blood, tears, and sacrifices," Talia sighed, lowering her eyes in solemnity. "If we want to guide the league into a new direction, a good direction, we need to start from scratch. Leave all these memories behind and start anew."
"Where would you be moving to?" Jason inquired warily, more relaxed now that he understood their reasoning- though, he still did not like it very much. Nanda Parbat was his home, the place he had found himself again and built his new family.
"We will be moving to the headquarters to Infinity Island," Nyssa answered.
Jason eyes widened in disbelief. "Wait! That would mean that you guys are planning on…."
"Yes, we are planning on going against our grandmother, Mother Soul, and the main Lazarus Pit," Talia confirmed with solemnity. She held her son's gaze and never looked away as she continued. "Would you join us? We are planning on leaving most of our forces to protect Damian and William in Nanda Parbat, while taking a select team with us to Infinity Island."
Minutes of silence stretched in, as Talia and Nyssa waited for Jason's answer. Until…
"So, it seems that my squad and I will be getting the mission after all," Jason finally replied, his smirk was all teeth and viciousness.
The fight for Infinity Island was an epic showdown. On one side, you had Talia and Nyssa al Ghul, the fierce sister duo. On the other, their wicked grandmother, the Mother of Soul, who was all about dark magic and sinister power.
The battle kicked off with a mix of spell-slinging and martial arts moves, like a magical dance-off. The fate of Infinity Island hung in the balance. Wrapped in an eerie aura, the Mother of Soul fired off some seriously dark magic at the al Ghuls. But Talia and Nyssa were ready. They moved like graceful ninjas, combining martial arts skills with mystical protection on their gear, courtesy of Jason. Runes on their outfits wove protective and enhancing spells over them.
The island itself was a stunning backdrop for the clash. Ancient trees with roots that seemed timeless surrounded the battleground. The tension in the air was palpable. Exotic flowers added to the otherworldly vibe, along with the faint scent of fire and blood.
Talia and Nyssa were unstoppable, attacking in perfect sync. But the Mother of Soul wasn't giving up. She hurled wicked spells that twisted reality itself. Shields shattered, and the ground felt like it was having a seismic fit under all that magical pressure.
The clash of weapons echoed through the island. Talia's sword and Nyssa's sais met the Mother of Soul's ethereal scythe, creating sparks that could blind you. It was like a showdown from an ancient legend, with moves that defied the laws of physics. The island itself seemed to be on their side.
As the battle raged on, you could practically taste the malevolence coming from the Mother of Soul. She conjured shadows that turned into creepy shapes trying to freak out her opponents. But Talia and Nyssa stood firm. Their sisterly bond and duty to the League of Shadows kept them strong.
The climax was like something out of a fantasy movie. Talia and Nyssa finally broke through the Mother of Soul's shields and stabbed her with their weapons. The wicked lady writhed in pain as Nyssa's sais pierced her gut. The ground shook as she cried out, giving Talia the perfect chance to finish her with a clean swing of her sword.
A moment of silence followed as the Mother of Soul's head rolled to the ground. The sisters stood there, taking in the loss of another family member by their own hands.
"It is done," Talia murmured, her eyes never leaving the decapitated head of her grandmother.
"Almost," Nyssa corrected her with a frown. "Lord Death Man and the Lazarus Pit remain."
"No need to worry about that, Jason and his squad will deal with it," Talia waved her worries away. "If anything, we need to figure out what we will do with Lord Death Man's young ward. Flatline is but a child… she has the same age of my prince."
"About that, I have an idea," Nyssa smiled at her sister.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the island, Jason's old squad—some seriously skilled warriors—were out to take down Lord Death Man. The island wasn't exactly a walk in the park either. It was dense jungle filled with tricky traps set by Lord Death Man himself. Wires strung between trees, hidden pits waiting to swallow you whole, and plants that could poison you just by a glance.
But Jason's squad? They were top-notch. They moved like a well-oiled machine, trained and led by Jason himself. They handled Lord Death Man's fanatical followers, who were decked out in seriously creepy costumes, with ease. Crossbows and throwing knives flew, but it was all in a day's work for the squad.
And then there was the man himself, Lord Death Man. He showed up with his eerie laughter, gliding through the jungle like he owned the place. Lord Death Man, decked out in all sorts of sinister skull-themed gear, he even had this fancy staff with a skull on top—real classy touch. He was a real pain to deal with. He had a knack for surviving the worst situations, all thanks to his close ties with those Lazarus Pits.
The battle raged on relentlessly as each squad member took their turn facing off against Lord Death Man. His freaky ability to heal quickly made him a tough opponent, shrugging off wounds that would take down anyone else. But the squad didn't back down; they quickly found his weak spots and launched a coordinated attack.
It played out like scenes from an action-packed movie. These seasoned warriors faced an enemy seemingly immune to pain and fatigue. Fueled by their determination, they kept up a relentless assault.
Blades sliced through the air, shurikens zoomed toward their mark, bullets pierced the silence, and spears flew with precision. Each strike aimed at a different vulnerability they discovered in the chaos of battle. Lord Death Man twisted and dodged, but the non-stop attacks eventually wore him down.
In the midst of the fight, Jason focused on neutralizing the influence of the Lazarus Pit. He felt deeply connected to the unfolding struggle, knowing that defeating Lord Death Man was crucial to their mission. Their unity, resilience, and well-honed combat skills were their strongest assets.
Finally, with the Lazarus Pit cut off and its dark magic fading, Lord Death Man stumbled. The cumulative effect of their strategic strikes proved too much. He collapsed, his once-unstoppable form now defeated and still.
After the battle, relief mixed with exhaustion. The squad, though victorious, bore the scars of a grueling fight against an opponent who pushed them to their limits. As they gathered in the shadows of the jungle, the truth sank in—they had won not just through strength, but through relentless determination and tactical skill.
The squad emerged from the jungle, battered but victorious. Along their path, corpses off Lord Death Man's followers laid on the ground, with bullet holes decorating their bodies. It made Arianne smirk underneath her mask. "Well, it seems that Red Ghoul had his fun. He was furious when he was given the job of dealing with the Lazarus Pits, again. Magic knows he has missed using his guns. At least, he got to vent against them."
"Less chit-chat and more moving!" Jason, in his Red Ghoul regalia, appeared before them. "We need to regroup with our Lady Head of the Shadows and the General. Let's get going!"
Damian found himself surprisingly at ease on Infinity Island. The lush, mystical environment seemed to resonate with him. One of the unexpected highlights of Damian's stay on the island was his newfound friendship with Nika, also known as Flatline. Nyssa, his formidable aunt, had taken Nika under her wing following the demise of her former boss/guardian, Lord Death Man. Damian had observed the profound impact Mara's passing had on Nyssa, as she had played a significant role in raising his cousin. Nika's presence offered a glimmer of hope and a chance for Nyssa to heal from the loss.
Damian admired Nika's resilience and independent spirit. She carried herself with a sense of confidence and a hint of mystery, characteristics that piqued Damian's curiosity. Despite the somber circumstances that had brought them together, Damian was glad to have a cousin once more. Damian had not only come to view Nika as not only a friend but also a kindred spirit, someone who understood the complexities of their shared world.
Meanwhile, Billy was utterly astounded by the ancient magic that permeated every corner of Infinity Island. From the moment he set foot on the mystical land, he could sense the profound power that lingered in the air, like a whisper from a forgotten era.
The island itself seemed to be a living testament to centuries of enchantment. Towering trees with gnarled roots reached towards the sky, their branches forming intricate patterns that resembled the mystic symbols of old. These ancient arboreal sentinels exuded an aura of wisdom and ancient knowledge, as if they held the secrets within their age-old rings.
As Billy explored the island's depths, he couldn't help but notice the vibrant array of exotic flora that thrived in this mystical realm. Each flower and plant seemed to possess a unique, ethereal quality, their colors more vivid and their fragrances more intoxicating than any he had encountered before. The very ground beneath his feet pulsed with life, as if the island itself were a living, breathing entity.
The air was filled with a sense of serenity and tranquility. It was as if the island existed in a realm outside of time, untouched by the modern world's turmoil. The gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze and the distant sound of flowing water created a symphony of nature that seemed to soothe the soul.
The island's magical ambiance was not limited to its natural surroundings. Billy soon discovered that even the architecture and structures on Infinity Island held a sense of ancient wonder. Intricately carved stone pillars adorned with mystic symbols stood as guardians at the entrances of sacred temples and chambers. The walls of these structures were adorned with vivid frescoes that depicted mythical creatures and heroic tales from ages past.
Perhaps most intriguing to Billy was the island's underground labyrinth. These winding tunnels, illuminated by the soft glow of mystical crystals, seemed to lead to hidden chambers and forgotten relics.
As Billy delved deeper into the heart of the island, he couldn't help but be humbled by the magnitude of the ancient magic that surrounded him. It felt so similar, yet so unlike, the Rock of Eternity. While the Rock of Eternity's magical presence felt pure and raw, here on Infinity Island it felt black and heavily influenced by both nature and people. So different yet so alike at the same time.
"I'm glad that those two are having fun at least," Jason chuckled, as he observed his little brothers having fun. "They get to be carefree, while the adults have to do all the work."
"It's good that they feel at home here," Talia replied. She had her own smile as she observed her sister's happiness, as Nyssa tended to her new daughter Nika. "It will be their new home."
"Talking about homes…" Jason turned to her hesitantly, before finding the courage to say what he wanted. "As you well know, after the war against the Hunters the magical community dealt with heavy losses, but none of them heavier than the witches and warlocks. Even though we have recovered some of our numbers with time, we no longer have the numbers to create magical ministries all over the world, as we used to. If anything, we live now forming part of Magical Councils, where each magical being species get their own representation in every given country."
Jason sighed, turning to look at his little brother with a frown. "I don't think our numbers will grow to what we used to be any time soon, not until centuries pass for sure. However, what we do have is enough young witches and warlocks to open schools for."
"If I am not wrong, three magical schools survived the purges," Talia frowned thoughtfully. "The Durmstrang Institute, Uagadou School of Magic, and Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."
"You are right, one magical school for Europe, one for Africa, and another one for the Americas." Jason nodded. "Asia needs one," Talia's eyes widened in realization, she knew where her son was going to with this. "Nanda Parbat has old magic we could use to raise very potent wards to keep anyone but magical beings from finding the place."
"A school in Nanda Parbat," Talia hummed, tilting her head. "A place that teaches and protects children… that will be a good use for our old headquarters. It will sure make father roll in his grave."
"I thought you cremated him?" Jason chuckled, amused and relieved at the same time.
"It's the sentiment that counts," Talia replied cheekily. "Now there will be a school for every continent but Australia."
"That is because Australia has the only magical university in the world, for that reason they do not have formative magical education. It's to balance things out," Jason explained. "The Wollongong University, it's located in a coastal city in the state of New South Wales in Australia."
"Why Australia? And why have we not been made aware of this? I would have believed that father would have information on a magical university," Talia turned to her son in shock.
"That is because the continent is made from magical beings, like warlocks, witches, sorcerers, werewolves, faes, vampires, etc. Even squibs live there, but there are no normal humans." Jason shrugged, oblivious to his mother's disbelief. It was old news for Jason, something that anyone in the magical community has been made aware of. "Anyone magical, especially those who are long-lived, go to Australia to get muggle identities. They do not have a Ministry of Magic, but they have a Magical Council where each species has a representative. Why do you think that people are always saying that Australia is out to kill you? That is because it is, they have the first and largest magical beasts preserve in the world, which is why it is so dangerous for humans to live in."
"You always keep on surprising me, abni," Talia chuckled, shelving this information for another day to panic. "Now let's discuss your plans about this school of your."
The old League of Shadows headquarters turned into the Nanda Parbat Academy was transformed through a blend of ancient mysticism and modern magic, thanks to Jason and the All-Caste. It became a safe haven where AsiAN's children could learn all about magic.
Once a secretive fortress, the building now looked completely different. Enchanted stones and mystical symbols covered its walls, giving off a protective and mysterious vibe.
Powerful wards surrounded the academy, just like the ones at Hogwarts before its fall. These magical shields pulsed with energy, keeping the academy's secrets safe from harm and prying eyes.
Inside, the classrooms were equipped with the latest magical tools and teaching materials. Each room reflected the wisdom of the All-Caste, with ancient tapestries and scrolls decorating the walls to remind students of their magical heritage.
The heart of the academy was its peaceful courtyard—a place for meditation and reflection. Ancient trees provided shade, surrounded by colorful exotic plants. In the center stood a magnificent Bodhi tree, symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment. Jason hoped this serene spot would inspire students on their magical journey.
When the academy needed a new Dean, Jason declined, saying he was already swamped with teaching, raising Damian and Billy, and his writing gigs. So, he reached out to Madame Xanadu, an old friend of Ducra's, and with some help from Essence, his ex, they convinced her to become Headmistress of Nanda Parbat Academy.
Madame Xanadu, known for her mystical skills and foresight, took on the role gracefully. Her cozy chambers in a quiet corner overlooked the stunning Himalayan peaks. With her came a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to guide students on their magical and spiritual paths.
The academy's library turned into a treasure trove for seekers of arcane wisdom. Using a handy copying spell, they duplicated rare books from the All-Caste and Rock of Eternity collections, ensuring students had a vast array of mystical texts at their fingertips. Each book brimmed with ancient magic and profound insights, waiting to be explored by curious minds.
The academy's lessons covered everything from elemental powers to seeing the future, and from finding inner peace to combat training. It wasn't just about learning spells; it was a place for students to discover themselves and grow spiritually.
Jason could not wait for its opening, as it would be the perfect academy for Damian and Billy to go to and learn about their magical powers.