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Chapter 10 & 11 -
Sol opened his eyes slowly and with it a rush of power gleamed inside. His skin looked tender and had a red l.u.s.ter and was a bit more tanned than before. He had solidified his First Order Warrior foundation and could feel how different his body was compared to last night. It felt much tighter, flexible and stronger and he had much more control over it. He stretched himself out and the golden-magma like hair swayed behind him.
Suddenly he was interrupted by a knock
*Knock* *Knock* *Knock*
Sol got up, put on his black under armor and walked towards the door , stretching out his hands he opened it and Maria was standing there holding a tray which was covered. A wonderful aroma wafted from it and quickly filled the room causing Sol's stomach to rumble.
[Good ~ Morning, hehe hungry?] -Maria
[Good morning Maria, seems I'm causing you trouble again] -Sol
Sol smiled shyly as he felt a bit embarra.s.sed and held his stomach with one arm.
[Not at all, The lady told me last night to make sure and take care of you and even if she didn't I still would have!] -Maria
Maria smiled sweetly as her green hair waved behind her back. Sol smiled back and thought to himself that seeing her face first thing in the morning wasn't bad at all.
[Ah, thanks a lot. It smells delicious, I've always wondered who cooked the food here] -Sol
Sol lifted the tray and tasted the porridge with a spoon, at the side were boiled eggs with seasonings cut in half and made into sandwiches with a warm loaf of bread. There were fruits and even a cup of tea to help with digestion. Sol ravenously ate and was more than pleased to have such a filling and delicious meal.
[Me ~ Of course, what surprised?] -Maria
Maria declared proudly as she puffed her chest and fixed her gla.s.ses.
[No, not at all. It suits you to make this kind of food that can make a heart warm] -Sol
Sol took a deep smell of the aroma and his eyes sparkled as he replied.
Maria upon hearing his reply let out a laugh that resounded like crystal bells and teased.
[Praise me more! Praise me more!] -Maria
Sol couldn't help but shake his head and laugh, this girl really was a handful.
The two continued to chat for a bit until Maria had to go and prepare meals for the rest of the staff and so Sol once more locked the door. His previous smiling face returned to one of seriousness and he glanced at the satchel that sat on the floor packed neatly. Inside was all manners of herbs and pills.
(I have to make a trip to the Duke's mansion to pick up weapons and a map, knowing Nightmaster Duke's temperament he should be up already and preparing himself) -Sol
**
Sol got up made sure his black armor garments looked neat, he looked at himself in the mirror once quickly picked up the satchel tossed it around his neck and left the room. He didn't see the other staff of the Medical Ward and figured they were in the lunch room and so made his way towards Nightmaster Duke's Mansion.
As he greeted the guards he no longer smiled to them and pa.s.sed them quietly.
[Oi isn't that the happy guy?] -Guard 1
[Doesn't look too happy right now though] -Guard 2
[Yeah you're right..think someone got him mad?] -Guard 1
[Who knows! His smiling face bothered me anyway!] -Guard 2
[He's..not wearing the Duke Family heirloom..should we stop him?] -Guard 1
[No, the fact that his presence here hasn't been reported and the fact that he once had the ring proves he should be in here anyhow. It's best just to ignore him as usual, who knows who that kid really is, best to pretend like you haven't seen anything] -Guard 2
And so both guards resigned themselves to their status and minded their business, which sit pretty well with them.
**
As Sol approached the courtyard, he could see quite a few soldiers in training. Some were using the dummies, some were fighting bare handed or meditating it was quite a sight to see. Instantly his golden hair flashed and turned to a black l.u.s.trous color.
(There's bound to be commoners in the training field from outside the Mansion, so I should change my hair color here) -Sol
As he entered the training field he drew a few gazes as his face was unfamiliar but most were busy with their training. He then remembered where Nightmaster Duke told him to get the weapons and so hastened to the armory.
The guards of the Mansion were familiar with his face and so there wasn't any need to stop him. When he arrived at the Armory's front door, he was greeted with a surprise.
In front of the door, stood a st.u.r.dy male figure and a slim feminine one. Sol looked at the man calmly there was no longer hatred in his eyes, but one couldn't feel out his emotions at all as his eyes didn't betray him. Naturally also because this old figure hadn't done him any harm at all, this person was Nightmaster Duke and he knew Sol would make his way here to the armory when he was ready to leave and posted himself here.
He looked at the female who was the 3rd Queen, and for a split second they could see an intense hatred flash in his eyes. Who was this woman to Sol? The woman that tried to destroy his mind with magic and who desecrated his parent's memory!
Sol looked around the room with a quick glance and then looked back at the old man, he had been expecting a few of the Royal family to come speak to him. When he realized they weren't here, he exhaled and felt much more relaxed as he was expecting a pity party filled with ulterior motives.
(Good! This makes things much easier!) -Sol
[Sol. So you've come, I'm guessing you're ready?] -Nightmaster Duke
Sol nodded and spoke.
[I've finished my preparations and only require some weapons now and I'll be on my way] -Sol
Sol's voice was plain and held no reverence, rather even though his gestures and the words he used possessed sincerity, his tone and his eyes were not subservient. He choose this method of approach as he didn't want to give them a reason to "detain" him, he understood how these n.o.bles used their powers and didn't want to get caught in any traps. Though he knew this old man probably would not take part in any scheme as it didn't fit his profile.
[Okay, enter the armory and choose whatever weapons you want and I'll go prepare the horses] -Nightmaster Duke
The Duke walked off towards the stables, Sol entered the armory and walked in, and as soon as he did.
*Clink*
The door was locked behind him.
Sol turned and grabbed the handle and realized it was locked and after seeing the door once he knew it couldn't be broken through with his current strength. Before Sol could voice his complaints he was interrupted by another voice.
[Sol...] -Salira
As he turned around he saw a beautiful woman in her mid thirties with long red hair. This was none other than the 3rd Queen. He unintentionally glared which made her flinch and stammer a bit.
[H-h.e.l.lo...I asked Nightmaster Duke to do this] -Salira
[...What is your goal?] -Sol
[I have none..I wanted to formally apologize...You can come out now] -Salira
Salira spoke and looked behind her, another silhouette entered. A short young lad with red hair and red eyes. This young lad was Regius.
[H-Hi Big brother Sol] -Sol
The nervously fidgeting youth came out and his eyes darted around the place which projected his liveliness. Salira then looked towards Sol and began speaking.
[There are things you should hear before you make your judgement's about this place. If you want to think badly about me afterward, then that is indeed my fault. Will you hear me out?] -Salira
As she spoke one could see the guilt in her eyes and hear the nervousness in her voice. Sol thought for a moment and then nodded.
[The spell I used was called Hypnotic Stream, it was supposed to only to hypnotize you so you speak the truth...well that is if you had a Dantian which I didn't know you didn't possess. I heard from Regius that you were training in the Warrior Fields and I thought for sure you were had one.
When someone doesn't have a Dantian this sort of spell makes them hallucinate and shows them the most horrible things one can imagine. Not only that but it tries to corrode ones mind completely, quite frankly it's a miracle you survived...I've never once used this spell on someone who did not possess a Dantian] -Salira
As Salira spoke she demonstrated on Regius the effects of the Hypnotic Stream. Sol watched intently as the stream entered Regius' nostrils, it was made slightly more visible than before by the Queen's will and Sol could see it enter. She asked him a series of questions, all of which he answered truthfully and although he knew he was going to be practiced on he still couldn't feel any side effects.
A few minutes afterward the stream left of it's own volition and dispersed in the air. Sol was certain the Queen wasn't fooling him and that was indeed the effects of the spell, but still, it didn't sit well with Sol that the Queen used these sort of means.
[I only intended to probe around and ask about your habits, I'm sorry and had no idea of your circ.u.mstances. However, you have to understand that I had no idea who you were and our children were becoming incredibly attached to you. My husband likes omitting details about things to me, he thinks sometimes I read too much into a situation but he doesn't understand...] -Salira
The Queen stopped as she seemed like she wanted to say something her mouth opened but closed afterward. She didn't want to use her past to make Sol feel pity for her and forgive her for that reason, so she could only think about what to say next. Sol didn't miss the sorrow in her eyes and seemed to understand that there was probably more to this woman. The Queen then finally understood what she should say next and looked Sol in his eyes.
[I, the 3rd Queen of Earthernvale, Salira Krauss Ironspine apologize for my rudeness and cruel treatment. This Queen is ashamed for att.i.tude, I do not expect forgiveness now but I hope in the future we will be able to rebuild a standard of trust] -Salira
As the Queen spoke she bowed her head and lifted the edges of her skirt. Sol faced with this level of sincerity understood that even though it was a simple gesture, it was by no means something any Queen would do. He thought for a moment and understood he shouldn't be unreasonable, if he continued to hold a grudge he would be handling the situation immaturely. For the sake of creating less problems Sol accepted this apology but in his heart he was still a bit unwilling, however he gained a bit of respect for her.
[I understand your feelings and I will not look down on them, I will hold you to your words. In the future may we come to an understanding. However, I still do not approve of your means] -Sol
Sol nodded and his eyes no longer glared or showed displeasure, throughout their entire conversation Sol monitored her heartbeat, pupils and even her breathing. The Queen seeing this felt relieved in her heart.
[Okay then, I thank you Sol. Follow me for a second, I have a present to give to you. I'm not trying to benefit from giving it to you or trying to buy you off or anything but it would make my heart rest easier as I have wronged your most sacred thing, then I'll give you something I hold most dear. I hope it can bring you good luck.] -Salira
Regius was quiet the entire time and didn't want to interrupt the two. Sol nodded and followed her down the halls, the one thing Sol didn't have in this world was- possessions! Sol owned nothing! He figured she was going to give him a good weapon, if Sol wanted to leave Earthernvale then one of the things he definitely needed was a good weapon!
They pa.s.sed many finely made weapons but none really stood out. The deeper they went, the more intricate the weapons became. Regius' eyes shone brightly as he looked at every weapon. Then finally they reached a group of walls with different runic stones on them, each one had a runic symbol and it appeared to be the symbols of families similar to the one on the ring he got from the Nightmaster. Salira walked up to one particular one, formed a fist and moved it toward the symbol. As the ring touched the symbol it lit up-
*Rumble* *Rumble*
Suddenly the wall flew upwards and opened!
Salira walked in and Regius followed with Sol trailing after curiously looking around this unfamiliar place. As they entered there were 10 crystal-diamond patterned chests in the middle of the room with runic locks. Salira ignored them and went directly to another wall with a runic symbol! She pressed her ring and it opened.
*Rumble* *Rumble*
What stood there was a dusty old wooden chest covered in webs, the weird part about the chest was that it had no signs of deterioration at all. Salira pressed her ring once more on the old chests lock and with a "Click" sound it opened. Regius' eyes shone with excitement and even Sol couldn't help the feeling of excitement himself. How could a weapon kept in such a place be something common?
Cryogenesis aside, Sol was still a 15 year old boy how could weapons of such magnitude not make his blood boil? He looked calmly to see what Salira would take out and what he saw utterly surprised him!
It was a Golden bow and both the upper limb and lower limb of the bow were made of bone and had two sharp blades that gave off a sunlight gleam. The bowstring wasn't made of ordinary material and instead was a golden string that gave off a faint light.
[This child is called Lightbringer, not much is known about it. One of my ancestors found it but none of his descendants could put it to use. It seems to acquire someone with light affinity to use it, we had one descendant in our family that had the light attribute and attempted to use it but the bow rejected him!] -Salira
[....It rejected him?] -Sol
Sol was surprised, the way she spoke was as if the bow was alive. Seeming to understand Sol's confusion Salira continued.
[Yes, this is a Sentient Weapon. Sentient Weapons are special, the requirements for creating a Sentient Weapon are actually really hard and have a lot to do with luck. The beast must be above the S Rank and it must have a proper host weapon of superior quality to attach itself to, however having the strength to kill an S rank aside the hardest part is for the beast to willing choose to go into a weapon.
[Humans who have been strong enough in the past had tried all manners of methods to make a beast submit into a Sentient weapon, torture and even threatening the lives of their young but all they've ever been met with was a terrible death. Even if they managed to create a Sentient weapon under such conditions it would go rogue and attack everything and destroy itself.
Naturally their reasons for this was out of self preservation for the human race, If we could have every person equipped with Sentient weapons then humanity would have had a great chance and have more strength. Not that I agree with those methods but.....] -Salira
The Queen trailed off on those words, one could see a hint of viciousness in the depths of her eyes.
[Beasts....don't forgive us either] -Salira
She regained back her wits and continued the explanation.
[After a while, humans came to the understanding that Sentient weapons can only be created by beasts for whatever reason they have and so such experiments were cancelled for the sake of humans as the beasts begun causing quite a ma.s.sacre after they carried out those experiments. It was probably a few thousand years ago that all of this happened] -Salira
Sol hearing this felt like he had opened the book to a new world! Sentient Weapons! Weapons with the souls of beasts! He couldn't help but glance at the bow, a look of awe in his eyes. Sol couldn't help but ask as he looked towards the bow.
[What Soul beast is in there exactly?] -Sol
[Beats me, even one of my ancestors who were Light attributed didn't know! It was recorded when he picked up the bow and tried to draw it's string, a terrible feeling of dread came from it and it was recorded he said he felt like he had offended a G.o.d and quickly dropped it. He never once touched it after that] -Salira
Seeing Sol's eyes gleaming, Salira chuckled.
(He's still a kid after all *giggle*....I hope with this maybe he can forgive me if even just a little bit...After all...If there's anyone who should understand him it should be me, we're not that different. I want to give him a home, like Julius gave me. I will gift him this heirloom of my family as my peace-maker, if he can't use this one then I'll give him another!) -Salira
[Go ahead and try it!] -Salira
Salira smiled as she spoke a hint of excitement in her voice.
[Yeah big bro! Try it!] -Regius
[How do you know if it rejects you?] -Sol
[Ohhh you'll know!] -Salira
Salira laughed as she looked at the hint of nervousness on Sol's brow.
(I have a good feeling about this!) -Salira
Salira watched on, it was obvious she wanted to see if the bow would accept him.
**
Sol didn't want to waste any time either and picked up the bow.
Suddenly-
As if it had been waiting for him for a millennium, the bow lit up a golden color and it's light blinded the entire room!
One of the blades from the bow s.h.i.+fted and gave Sol a light superficial cut, the blood leaked onto the bow and was absorbed!
*ROOOAAARRRR*
The bow gave off a terrifying howl that shook the entire mountain and made low rank beasts a few miles away scared out of their minds and charged off in the opposite direction.
**
The King along with his father, the Former King sat in the dining room having breakfast with the rest of the family when all of a sudden.
*ROOAARRRRR*
*Cling* *Clang*
Almost everyone within the dining room dropped their cutlery and covered their ears, the King furrowed his brows and the Former King had a smile plastered on his face. Sophia blocked her ears, as well as Salina and Liore. Dorian was more concerned about the fact that the roar erupted from the inside the mountain and seemed to not be aware of what was going on, one could see sweat bubbles forming on his forehead.
(It seems he was chosen...but still..just what sort of beast could cause such an uproar? That bow just what is it exactly? It's not unusual for a Sentient Weapon to release a roar when contracted but that power...wasn't it a bit too.. excessive?) -Former King
People within the mountain range, looked up towards the peak of the mountain in the direction of the Royal Palace and their expressions were dumbfounded as the roar echoed. They were all pale with fright as the horrible roar echoed
**
Inside of Sol's conscious.
Sol's POV:
As soon as I picked up the bow, I felt as though I blacked out and then there was nothing. When I awoke the entire place was as dark as night and I couldn't see where I was, I couldn't even see an arm's length away within this darkness.. I had the feeling..that something was here. I could hear s.h.i.+fting on the floor and a breathing so powerful it made the floor rumble and the dust rise. It sounded like something was sleeping and it wasn't something I would want to meet as I felt a sort of ancient presence.
As I walked around for a bit I saw nothing at all and wondered where I was, then I realized something..The shaking had stopped and I could no longer hear the harsh breathing. This sent a bit of fright to my heart as I wondered if the creature was up. Sol couldn't help but mutter-
[It would be bad...if that creature got up, whatever it is] -Sol
[I know right, too bad I'm already up!] -Ancient and archaic voice
I felt as though my heart had been stabbed by cold needles. The words from this creature pressured the air and made me feel as though I were standing in the presence of an ultimate G.o.d!
I slowly turned my head to face the creature to see who the creature was, but before I could the creature spoke once more.
[Human, are you sure you want to look? I'm surely the most dreadful thing you will ever see, of that I am certain. Weak humans upon seeing my face have had their souls instantly leave their bodies] -???
I stopped in his tracks and a could feel cold sweat crawling down my back.
[Hahaha! Indeed human! You are all cowards! Unable to face the great, I!] -???
The creature seemed to have been pleased by this reaction and it's prideful voice echoed throughout the chamber. Hearing this, I became a bit angry. I wanted to do the things I wanted to do, if something like this made me shy away then who would I be? I gritted my teeth and proceeded to turn around.
[ Are you sure you want to do that? My powerful existence is too much for a human like you to look upon! You dare look at my omnipotent figure! N-No! D-Don't turn around!] -???
What I saw in front of me made my jaw drop.
Before me stood something that looked like a kitten yet was not, had wings on it's back like a bird yet not and had a tail that resembled a lions. It was tiny about the size of a football and it's fur was the same color as the bow. Though it looked like a creature that was made of many different types of animals and should look disgusting, this particular creature seemed as if this was it's natural body and looked quite pleasant. In fact, pleasant was putting it mildly, the creature looked like the most adorable thing I had ever seen.
It had a tiny jewel on it's forehead, it's eyes were golden red and had two tiny horns growing from his head. The horns were underdeveloped and only resembled stubs which made it look even cuter. It's tiny paws held it's wings together forming a cone as if using it to speak through. Judging by the amount of mana that was fluctuating from it, it was obvious it was using some sort of technique to project it's voice and I could feel the vibrations from it's wings.
End of POV.
**
(So that's what made those sounds) -Sol
Sol calmly walked up to the tiny kitten, the kitten upon seeing him approaching had a bad premonition and tried to turn around and run away. Sadly, it was caught before it could make a few steps.
[Y-You...How can something be this cute?] -Sol
The tiny kitten ferociously struggled....ferociously struggled..in it's own mind. To Sol, it was as if the kitten was trying to play.
[I'm not cute! I'm an S-Rank Crowned Illuminus Sphinx, even my beast-kin are afraid of our species! We are the most dangerous predators that Magnolia has ever witnessed! H-How dare you call me cute! Put me down! Right now at this instant!] -???
The cute kitten struggled even more and demanded but Sol truly couldn't contain himself. He forgot where he was and what he was doing and immediately used a hand and begun scratching the little kitten's tummy. The other hand reached behind the little kitten's ears rendering him defenseless.
[Y-You can't do that! Just because you became my master y-you think I'll just roll over on my back and lay down on my stomach for you! You're dreaming human! Put me down!.... Ahh ~ No~....Right there...A little higher...*Purr* Ahh~... It's been so long] -???
The little kitten soon forgot what it was saying and surrendered itself.
[*]-???
Afterward the kitten fall asleep and Sol couldn't help but chuckle. It would seem the little guy wasn't aware that it was the weapons that chose it's master. Sol could faintly feel the creature's mood, it was probably because of the Sentient weapon connection and knew that in reality even though it had been acting haughty and arrogant, the little guy was actually very lonely. Who knows how long it had been trapped in the bow unable to be heard by anyone?
(Crowned Illuminus Sphinx huh...Strange...I've never heard of such a creature in Renissa's Beastiary. I have to ask about him and find out some information) -Sol
It was then the darkness faded and Sol's eyes opened and he was lying on the floor.
(Was it a dream?) -Sol
He could feel a weight pressed on his chest and when he looked down on his chest, rather than a bow it was the little guy. As if recognizing he was being stared at the little guy opened it's cute little eyes and looked back at Sol, sleepily flapping it's wings.
[W-What are you looking at! You've only won once!] -???
Sol laughed as he looked at the little guy and rubbed his head gently in a circular motion.
[*Yawn*...W-well maybe twice * Purr*] -???
[You have a name little guy?] -Sol
[A p-powerful creature such as me needs no name!] -???
[Ah...So you don't have one] -Sol
The little guy flinched upon hearing this.
[I'll give you one...then how about...Mitra?] -Sol
[W-what does it mean?] -Mitra
[Sun beast G.o.d] -Sol
[I-I like it. It's fitting for a K-King such as me] -Mitra
Sol then stopped and looked around and noticed the wide-eyed gazes of Salira and Regius who seemed to not understand what happened. Sol seeing this felt strange in his heart..
(Wait...wasn't this supposed to happen?) -Sol
[Wait where's the bow?] -Sol
[I am the bow!] -Mitra
Suddenly the little kitty lit up and turned into the Golden bow giving off a trembling strong aura that burst forth, it was much different than before and the aura it emitted was much more powerful! Seeing this Sol was surprised, he didn't think Sentient Weapons could transform.
[Is it normal for Sentient Weapons to be able to transform?] -Sol
Sol asked as he looked at Salira, but looking at her expression of utter surprise he needed no answer.
[I-I've never heard of one doing that before, quickly let's go find Julius] -Salira
The three hastily made their way out of the Armory, Nightmaster Duke opened the door with a embarra.s.sed expression but Sol just laughed at him. It was apparent the old man was feeling shameful and Sol's intuition was right, this old man didn't like doing such things but he was as loyal as they come and that wasn't a bad trait.
**
Soon afterward they approached the dining room where the Royal Family was having breakfast. Dorian stood guard at the door, as he saw them approaching he stood upright and when he noticed Sol his face couldn't help but twitch. Sol walked by as if he didn't notice and let out a m.u.f.fled laugh as he entered the doorway.
(Y-You! This b.a.s.t.a.r.d!) -Dorian
Dorian clenched his fists and grit his teeth as his face grew red but said nothing as he was in the presence of the Queen. The Queen seeing the battle between the two giggled to herself and the three quickly entered the room. The group in the dining room upon noticing the new arrivals had pleasant expressions that were laced with nervousness but upon seeing Sol's calm face and Salira's happy expression relaxed a bit in their hearts.
(It seems...maybe things have been patched up?) -King Ironspine
(Oh ho ho, it seems I was right. This kid only needs to be dealt with in a straight forward manner and things will sort themselves out) -Former King
Liore looked at Sol with a cold beautiful eyes and one could see a bit of gentleness that wasn't there before. Sophia had a pleasant smile as usual as she saw the Queen and Sol who seemed to have worked out their differences. Salina saw Sol and was suppressing the urge to jump at his hair and instead started rubbing Flamey's head who let out a soft purr.
[Your majesty] -Sol
Sol gave a nod to the King as well as the group, they realized he had not bowed but they did not mind as they didn't see him look at them negatively anymore. This was more than a compromise and normal people would be surprised but they allowed it, Salira sensing a tiny bit of tension spoke to break it immediately.
[Julius! It seems Sol became the master of Lightbringer! What's more is it has a strange feature! It can transform!] -Salira
Her excited voice awoke everyone's curiosity and the Former King seemed to have choked on his soup.
[Wha-?! Transform?! You mean an Intelligent Weapon?! Let me see!] -Former King
[Are you being serious? An Intelligent Weapon here....in Earthernvale?] -King Julian
[Quickly Sol please let me see it!] -Former King
The Former King seemed to be going crazy as he had only ever seen one, he knew full well the might that it could produce. The King himself was curious as he had only heard about it in stories from his father, the Former King and the stories he heard were quite frightening.
[Well...Just remember you asked for it..Mitra! Grace them with your presence!] -Sol
Suddenly the bow attached to Sol's back lit up in a bright light! Sol laughed inside of his head as he knew what to expect.
[You impertinent and smelly fools! How dare you filthy barbarians request an audience with this King! You should choke on your supper! Now prostrate yourself before the Great King, I!] -Mitra
The bow had turned into it's cute and tiny Crowned Illuminus Sphinx form, it sat on top of Sol's head with it's little tail wiggling wildly. It had a look of arrogance in it's eyes and stared at the King with indifference. However the expression was different from when it looked at Sol, it's expression actually contained a hint of savagery and seemed this little guy would only be subdued by Sol.
The King and the rest of the Royal Family looked at the dirty-mouthed cute looking kitten with eyes the size of dragon eggs.
[Author's note- Please know that Mitra is not his soulbeast]
Chapter 10 & 11 -
Sol opened his eyes slowly and with it a rush of power gleamed inside. His skin looked tender and had a red l.u.s.ter and was a bit more tanned than before. He had solidified his First Order Warrior foundation and could feel how different his body was compared to last night. It felt much tighter, flexible and stronger and he had much more control over it. He stretched himself out and the golden-magma like hair swayed behind him.
Suddenly he was interrupted by a knock
*Knock* *Knock* *Knock*
Sol got up, put on his black under armor and walked towards the door , stretching out his hands he opened it and Maria was standing there holding a tray which was covered. A wonderful aroma wafted from it and quickly filled the room causing Sol's stomach to rumble.
[Good ~ Morning, hehe hungry?] -Maria
[Good morning Maria, seems I'm causing you trouble again] -Sol
Sol smiled shyly as he felt a bit embarra.s.sed and held his stomach with one arm.
[Not at all, The lady told me last night to make sure and take care of you and even if she didn't I still would have!] -Maria
Maria smiled sweetly as her green hair waved behind her back. Sol smiled back and thought to himself that seeing her face first thing in the morning wasn't bad at all.
[Ah, thanks a lot. It smells delicious, I've always wondered who cooked the food here] -Sol
Sol lifted the tray and tasted the porridge with a spoon, at the side were boiled eggs with seasonings cut in half and made into sandwiches with a warm loaf of bread. There were fruits and even a cup of tea to help with digestion. Sol ravenously ate and was more than pleased to have such a filling and delicious meal.
[Me ~ Of course, what surprised?] -Maria
Maria declared proudly as she puffed her chest and fixed her gla.s.ses.
[No, not at all. It suits you to make this kind of food that can make a heart warm] -Sol
Sol took a deep smell of the aroma and his eyes sparkled as he replied.
Maria upon hearing his reply let out a laugh that resounded like crystal bells and teased.
[Praise me more! Praise me more!] -Maria
Sol couldn't help but shake his head and laugh, this girl really was a handful.
The two continued to chat for a bit until Maria had to go and prepare meals for the rest of the staff and so Sol once more locked the door. His previous smiling face returned to one of seriousness and he glanced at the satchel that sat on the floor packed neatly. Inside was all manners of herbs and pills.
(I have to make a trip to the Duke's mansion to pick up weapons and a map, knowing Nightmaster Duke's temperament he should be up already and preparing himself) -Sol
**
Sol got up made sure his black armor garments looked neat, he looked at himself in the mirror once quickly picked up the satchel tossed it around his neck and left the room. He didn't see the other staff of the Medical Ward and figured they were in the lunch room and so made his way towards Nightmaster Duke's Mansion.
As he greeted the guards he no longer smiled to them and pa.s.sed them quietly.
[Oi isn't that the happy guy?] -Guard 1
[Doesn't look too happy right now though] -Guard 2
[Yeah you're right..think someone got him mad?] -Guard 1
[Who knows! His smiling face bothered me anyway!] -Guard 2
[He's..not wearing the Duke Family heirloom..should we stop him?] -Guard 1
[No, the fact that his presence here hasn't been reported and the fact that he once had the ring proves he should be in here anyhow. It's best just to ignore him as usual, who knows who that kid really is, best to pretend like you haven't seen anything] -Guard 2
And so both guards resigned themselves to their status and minded their business, which sit pretty well with them.
**
As Sol approached the courtyard, he could see quite a few soldiers in training. Some were using the dummies, some were fighting bare handed or meditating it was quite a sight to see. Instantly his golden hair flashed and turned to a black l.u.s.trous color.
(There's bound to be commoners in the training field from outside the Mansion, so I should change my hair color here) -Sol
As he entered the training field he drew a few gazes as his face was unfamiliar but most were busy with their training. He then remembered where Nightmaster Duke told him to get the weapons and so hastened to the armory.
The guards of the Mansion were familiar with his face and so there wasn't any need to stop him. When he arrived at the Armory's front door, he was greeted with a surprise.
In front of the door, stood a st.u.r.dy male figure and a slim feminine one. Sol looked at the man calmly there was no longer hatred in his eyes, but one couldn't feel out his emotions at all as his eyes didn't betray him. Naturally also because this old figure hadn't done him any harm at all, this person was Nightmaster Duke and he knew Sol would make his way here to the armory when he was ready to leave and posted himself here.
He looked at the female who was the 3rd Queen, and for a split second they could see an intense hatred flash in his eyes. Who was this woman to Sol? The woman that tried to destroy his mind with magic and who desecrated his parent's memory!
Sol looked around the room with a quick glance and then looked back at the old man, he had been expecting a few of the Royal family to come speak to him. When he realized they weren't here, he exhaled and felt much more relaxed as he was expecting a pity party filled with ulterior motives.
(Good! This makes things much easier!) -Sol
[Sol. So you've come, I'm guessing you're ready?] -Nightmaster Duke
Sol nodded and spoke.
[I've finished my preparations and only require some weapons now and I'll be on my way] -Sol
Sol's voice was plain and held no reverence, rather even though his gestures and the words he used possessed sincerity, his tone and his eyes were not subservient. He choose this method of approach as he didn't want to give them a reason to "detain" him, he understood how these n.o.bles used their powers and didn't want to get caught in any traps. Though he knew this old man probably would not take part in any scheme as it didn't fit his profile.
[Okay, enter the armory and choose whatever weapons you want and I'll go prepare the horses] -Nightmaster Duke
The Duke walked off towards the stables, Sol entered the armory and walked in, and as soon as he did.
*Clink*
The door was locked behind him.
Sol turned and grabbed the handle and realized it was locked and after seeing the door once he knew it couldn't be broken through with his current strength. Before Sol could voice his complaints he was interrupted by another voice.
[Sol...] -Salira
As he turned around he saw a beautiful woman in her mid thirties with long red hair. This was none other than the 3rd Queen. He unintentionally glared which made her flinch and stammer a bit.
[H-h.e.l.lo...I asked Nightmaster Duke to do this] -Salira
[...What is your goal?] -Sol
[I have none..I wanted to formally apologize...You can come out now] -Salira
Salira spoke and looked behind her, another silhouette entered. A short young lad with red hair and red eyes. This young lad was Regius.
[H-Hi Big brother Sol] -Sol
The nervously fidgeting youth came out and his eyes darted around the place which projected his liveliness. Salira then looked towards Sol and began speaking.
[There are things you should hear before you make your judgement's about this place. If you want to think badly about me afterward, then that is indeed my fault. Will you hear me out?] -Salira
As she spoke one could see the guilt in her eyes and hear the nervousness in her voice. Sol thought for a moment and then nodded.
[The spell I used was called Hypnotic Stream, it was supposed to only to hypnotize you so you speak the truth...well that is if you had a Dantian which I didn't know you didn't possess. I heard from Regius that you were training in the Warrior Fields and I thought for sure you were had one.
When someone doesn't have a Dantian this sort of spell makes them hallucinate and shows them the most horrible things one can imagine. Not only that but it tries to corrode ones mind completely, quite frankly it's a miracle you survived...I've never once used this spell on someone who did not possess a Dantian] -Salira
As Salira spoke she demonstrated on Regius the effects of the Hypnotic Stream. Sol watched intently as the stream entered Regius' nostrils, it was made slightly more visible than before by the Queen's will and Sol could see it enter. She asked him a series of questions, all of which he answered truthfully and although he knew he was going to be practiced on he still couldn't feel any side effects.
A few minutes afterward the stream left of it's own volition and dispersed in the air. Sol was certain the Queen wasn't fooling him and that was indeed the effects of the spell, but still, it didn't sit well with Sol that the Queen used these sort of means.
[I only intended to probe around and ask about your habits, I'm sorry and had no idea of your circ.u.mstances. However, you have to understand that I had no idea who you were and our children were becoming incredibly attached to you. My husband likes omitting details about things to me, he thinks sometimes I read too much into a situation but he doesn't understand...] -Salira
The Queen stopped as she seemed like she wanted to say something her mouth opened but closed afterward. She didn't want to use her past to make Sol feel pity for her and forgive her for that reason, so she could only think about what to say next. Sol didn't miss the sorrow in her eyes and seemed to understand that there was probably more to this woman. The Queen then finally understood what she should say next and looked Sol in his eyes.
[I, the 3rd Queen of Earthernvale, Salira Krauss Ironspine apologize for my rudeness and cruel treatment. This Queen is ashamed for att.i.tude, I do not expect forgiveness now but I hope in the future we will be able to rebuild a standard of trust] -Salira
As the Queen spoke she bowed her head and lifted the edges of her skirt. Sol faced with this level of sincerity understood that even though it was a simple gesture, it was by no means something any Queen would do. He thought for a moment and understood he shouldn't be unreasonable, if he continued to hold a grudge he would be handling the situation immaturely. For the sake of creating less problems Sol accepted this apology but in his heart he was still a bit unwilling, however he gained a bit of respect for her.
[I understand your feelings and I will not look down on them, I will hold you to your words. In the future may we come to an understanding. However, I still do not approve of your means] -Sol
Sol nodded and his eyes no longer glared or showed displeasure, throughout their entire conversation Sol monitored her heartbeat, pupils and even her breathing. The Queen seeing this felt relieved in her heart.
[Okay then, I thank you Sol. Follow me for a second, I have a present to give to you. I'm not trying to benefit from giving it to you or trying to buy you off or anything but it would make my heart rest easier as I have wronged your most sacred thing, then I'll give you something I hold most dear. I hope it can bring you good luck.] -Salira
Regius was quiet the entire time and didn't want to interrupt the two. Sol nodded and followed her down the halls, the one thing Sol didn't have in this world was- possessions! Sol owned nothing! He figured she was going to give him a good weapon, if Sol wanted to leave Earthernvale then one of the things he definitely needed was a good weapon!
They pa.s.sed many finely made weapons but none really stood out. The deeper they went, the more intricate the weapons became. Regius' eyes shone brightly as he looked at every weapon. Then finally they reached a group of walls with different runic stones on them, each one had a runic symbol and it appeared to be the symbols of families similar to the one on the ring he got from the Nightmaster. Salira walked up to one particular one, formed a fist and moved it toward the symbol. As the ring touched the symbol it lit up-
*Rumble* *Rumble*
Suddenly the wall flew upwards and opened!
Salira walked in and Regius followed with Sol trailing after curiously looking around this unfamiliar place. As they entered there were 10 crystal-diamond patterned chests in the middle of the room with runic locks. Salira ignored them and went directly to another wall with a runic symbol! She pressed her ring and it opened.
*Rumble* *Rumble*
What stood there was a dusty old wooden chest covered in webs, the weird part about the chest was that it had no signs of deterioration at all. Salira pressed her ring once more on the old chests lock and with a "Click" sound it opened. Regius' eyes shone with excitement and even Sol couldn't help the feeling of excitement himself. How could a weapon kept in such a place be something common?
Cryogenesis aside, Sol was still a 15 year old boy how could weapons of such magnitude not make his blood boil? He looked calmly to see what Salira would take out and what he saw utterly surprised him!
It was a Golden bow and both the upper limb and lower limb of the bow were made of bone and had two sharp blades that gave off a sunlight gleam. The bowstring wasn't made of ordinary material and instead was a golden string that gave off a faint light.
[This child is called Lightbringer, not much is known about it. One of my ancestors found it but none of his descendants could put it to use. It seems to acquire someone with light affinity to use it, we had one descendant in our family that had the light attribute and attempted to use it but the bow rejected him!] -Salira
[....It rejected him?] -Sol
Sol was surprised, the way she spoke was as if the bow was alive. Seeming to understand Sol's confusion Salira continued.
[Yes, this is a Sentient Weapon. Sentient Weapons are special, the requirements for creating a Sentient Weapon are actually really hard and have a lot to do with luck. The beast must be above the S Rank and it must have a proper host weapon of superior quality to attach itself to, however having the strength to kill an S rank aside the hardest part is for the beast to willing choose to go into a weapon.
[Humans who have been strong enough in the past had tried all manners of methods to make a beast submit into a Sentient weapon, torture and even threatening the lives of their young but all they've ever been met with was a terrible death. Even if they managed to create a Sentient weapon under such conditions it would go rogue and attack everything and destroy itself.
Naturally their reasons for this was out of self preservation for the human race, If we could have every person equipped with Sentient weapons then humanity would have had a great chance and have more strength. Not that I agree with those methods but.....] -Salira
The Queen trailed off on those words, one could see a hint of viciousness in the depths of her eyes.
[Beasts....don't forgive us either] -Salira
She regained back her wits and continued the explanation.
[After a while, humans came to the understanding that Sentient weapons can only be created by beasts for whatever reason they have and so such experiments were cancelled for the sake of humans as the beasts begun causing quite a ma.s.sacre after they carried out those experiments. It was probably a few thousand years ago that all of this happened] -Salira
Sol hearing this felt like he had opened the book to a new world! Sentient Weapons! Weapons with the souls of beasts! He couldn't help but glance at the bow, a look of awe in his eyes. Sol couldn't help but ask as he looked towards the bow.
[What Soul beast is in there exactly?] -Sol
[Beats me, even one of my ancestors who were Light attributed didn't know! It was recorded when he picked up the bow and tried to draw it's string, a terrible feeling of dread came from it and it was recorded he said he felt like he had offended a G.o.d and quickly dropped it. He never once touched it after that] -Salira
Seeing Sol's eyes gleaming, Salira chuckled.
(He's still a kid after all *giggle*....I hope with this maybe he can forgive me if even just a little bit...After all...If there's anyone who should understand him it should be me, we're not that different. I want to give him a home, like Julius gave me. I will gift him this heirloom of my family as my peace-maker, if he can't use this one then I'll give him another!) -Salira
[Go ahead and try it!] -Salira
Salira smiled as she spoke a hint of excitement in her voice.
[Yeah big bro! Try it!] -Regius
[How do you know if it rejects you?] -Sol
[Ohhh you'll know!] -Salira
Salira laughed as she looked at the hint of nervousness on Sol's brow.
(I have a good feeling about this!) -Salira
Salira watched on, it was obvious she wanted to see if the bow would accept him.
**
Sol didn't want to waste any time either and picked up the bow.
Suddenly-
As if it had been waiting for him for a millennium, the bow lit up a golden color and it's light blinded the entire room!
One of the blades from the bow s.h.i.+fted and gave Sol a light superficial cut, the blood leaked onto the bow and was absorbed!
*ROOOAAARRRR*
The bow gave off a terrifying howl that shook the entire mountain and made low rank beasts a few miles away scared out of their minds and charged off in the opposite direction.
**
The King along with his father, the Former King sat in the dining room having breakfast with the rest of the family when all of a sudden.
*ROOAARRRRR*
*Cling* *Clang*
Almost everyone within the dining room dropped their cutlery and covered their ears, the King furrowed his brows and the Former King had a smile plastered on his face. Sophia blocked her ears, as well as Salina and Liore. Dorian was more concerned about the fact that the roar erupted from the inside the mountain and seemed to not be aware of what was going on, one could see sweat bubbles forming on his forehead.
(It seems he was chosen...but still..just what sort of beast could cause such an uproar? That bow just what is it exactly? It's not unusual for a Sentient Weapon to release a roar when contracted but that power...wasn't it a bit too.. excessive?) -Former King
People within the mountain range, looked up towards the peak of the mountain in the direction of the Royal Palace and their expressions were dumbfounded as the roar echoed. They were all pale with fright as the horrible roar echoed
**
Inside of Sol's conscious.
Sol's POV:
As soon as I picked up the bow, I felt as though I blacked out and then there was nothing. When I awoke the entire place was as dark as night and I couldn't see where I was, I couldn't even see an arm's length away within this darkness.. I had the feeling..that something was here. I could hear s.h.i.+fting on the floor and a breathing so powerful it made the floor rumble and the dust rise. It sounded like something was sleeping and it wasn't something I would want to meet as I felt a sort of ancient presence.
As I walked around for a bit I saw nothing at all and wondered where I was, then I realized something..The shaking had stopped and I could no longer hear the harsh breathing. This sent a bit of fright to my heart as I wondered if the creature was up. Sol couldn't help but mutter-
[It would be bad...if that creature got up, whatever it is] -Sol
[I know right, too bad I'm already up!] -Ancient and archaic voice
I felt as though my heart had been stabbed by cold needles. The words from this creature pressured the air and made me feel as though I were standing in the presence of an ultimate G.o.d!
I slowly turned my head to face the creature to see who the creature was, but before I could the creature spoke once more.
[Human, are you sure you want to look? I'm surely the most dreadful thing you will ever see, of that I am certain. Weak humans upon seeing my face have had their souls instantly leave their bodies] -???
I stopped in his tracks and a could feel cold sweat crawling down my back.
[Hahaha! Indeed human! You are all cowards! Unable to face the great, I!] -???
The creature seemed to have been pleased by this reaction and it's prideful voice echoed throughout the chamber. Hearing this, I became a bit angry. I wanted to do the things I wanted to do, if something like this made me shy away then who would I be? I gritted my teeth and proceeded to turn around.
[ Are you sure you want to do that? My powerful existence is too much for a human like you to look upon! You dare look at my omnipotent figure! N-No! D-Don't turn around!] -???
What I saw in front of me made my jaw drop.
Before me stood something that looked like a kitten yet was not, had wings on it's back like a bird yet not and had a tail that resembled a lions. It was tiny about the size of a football and it's fur was the same color as the bow. Though it looked like a creature that was made of many different types of animals and should look disgusting, this particular creature seemed as if this was it's natural body and looked quite pleasant. In fact, pleasant was putting it mildly, the creature looked like the most adorable thing I had ever seen.
It had a tiny jewel on it's forehead, it's eyes were golden red and had two tiny horns growing from his head. The horns were underdeveloped and only resembled stubs which made it look even cuter. It's tiny paws held it's wings together forming a cone as if using it to speak through. Judging by the amount of mana that was fluctuating from it, it was obvious it was using some sort of technique to project it's voice and I could feel the vibrations from it's wings.
End of POV.
**
(So that's what made those sounds) -Sol
Sol calmly walked up to the tiny kitten, the kitten upon seeing him approaching had a bad premonition and tried to turn around and run away. Sadly, it was caught before it could make a few steps.
[Y-You...How can something be this cute?] -Sol
The tiny kitten ferociously struggled....ferociously struggled..in it's own mind. To Sol, it was as if the kitten was trying to play.
[I'm not cute! I'm an S-Rank Crowned Illuminus Sphinx, even my beast-kin are afraid of our species! We are the most dangerous predators that Magnolia has ever witnessed! H-How dare you call me cute! Put me down! Right now at this instant!] -???
The cute kitten struggled even more and demanded but Sol truly couldn't contain himself. He forgot where he was and what he was doing and immediately used a hand and begun scratching the little kitten's tummy. The other hand reached behind the little kitten's ears rendering him defenseless.
[Y-You can't do that! Just because you became my master y-you think I'll just roll over on my back and lay down on my stomach for you! You're dreaming human! Put me down!.... Ahh ~ No~....Right there...A little higher...*Purr* Ahh~... It's been so long] -???
The little kitten soon forgot what it was saying and surrendered itself.
[*]-???
Afterward the kitten fall asleep and Sol couldn't help but chuckle. It would seem the little guy wasn't aware that it was the weapons that chose it's master. Sol could faintly feel the creature's mood, it was probably because of the Sentient weapon connection and knew that in reality even though it had been acting haughty and arrogant, the little guy was actually very lonely. Who knows how long it had been trapped in the bow unable to be heard by anyone?
(Crowned Illuminus Sphinx huh...Strange...I've never heard of such a creature in Renissa's Beastiary. I have to ask about him and find out some information) -Sol
It was then the darkness faded and Sol's eyes opened and he was lying on the floor.
(Was it a dream?) -Sol
He could feel a weight pressed on his chest and when he looked down on his chest, rather than a bow it was the little guy. As if recognizing he was being stared at the little guy opened it's cute little eyes and looked back at Sol, sleepily flapping it's wings.
[W-What are you looking at! You've only won once!] -???
Sol laughed as he looked at the little guy and rubbed his head gently in a circular motion.
[*Yawn*...W-well maybe twice * Purr*] -???
[You have a name little guy?] -Sol
[A p-powerful creature such as me needs no name!] -???
[Ah...So you don't have one] -Sol
The little guy flinched upon hearing this.
[I'll give you one...then how about...Mitra?] -Sol
[W-what does it mean?] -Mitra
[Sun beast G.o.d] -Sol
[I-I like it. It's fitting for a K-King such as me] -Mitra
Sol then stopped and looked around and noticed the wide-eyed gazes of Salira and Regius who seemed to not understand what happened. Sol seeing this felt strange in his heart..
(Wait...wasn't this supposed to happen?) -Sol
[Wait where's the bow?] -Sol
[I am the bow!] -Mitra
Suddenly the little kitty lit up and turned into the Golden bow giving off a trembling strong aura that burst forth, it was much different than before and the aura it emitted was much more powerful! Seeing this Sol was surprised, he didn't think Sentient Weapons could transform.
[Is it normal for Sentient Weapons to be able to transform?] -Sol
Sol asked as he looked at Salira, but looking at her expression of utter surprise he needed no answer.
[I-I've never heard of one doing that before, quickly let's go find Julius] -Salira
The three hastily made their way out of the Armory, Nightmaster Duke opened the door with a embarra.s.sed expression but Sol just laughed at him. It was apparent the old man was feeling shameful and Sol's intuition was right, this old man didn't like doing such things but he was as loyal as they come and that wasn't a bad trait.
**
Soon afterward they approached the dining room where the Royal Family was having breakfast. Dorian stood guard at the door, as he saw them approaching he stood upright and when he noticed Sol his face couldn't help but twitch. Sol walked by as if he didn't notice and let out a m.u.f.fled laugh as he entered the doorway.
(Y-You! This b.a.s.t.a.r.d!) -Dorian
Dorian clenched his fists and grit his teeth as his face grew red but said nothing as he was in the presence of the Queen. The Queen seeing the battle between the two giggled to herself and the three quickly entered the room. The group in the dining room upon noticing the new arrivals had pleasant expressions that were laced with nervousness but upon seeing Sol's calm face and Salira's happy expression relaxed a bit in their hearts.
(It seems...maybe things have been patched up?) -King Ironspine
(Oh ho ho, it seems I was right. This kid only needs to be dealt with in a straight forward manner and things will sort themselves out) -Former King
Liore looked at Sol with a cold beautiful eyes and one could see a bit of gentleness that wasn't there before. Sophia had a pleasant smile as usual as she saw the Queen and Sol who seemed to have worked out their differences. Salina saw Sol and was suppressing the urge to jump at his hair and instead started rubbing Flamey's head who let out a soft purr.
[Your majesty] -Sol
Sol gave a nod to the King as well as the group, they realized he had not bowed but they did not mind as they didn't see him look at them negatively anymore. This was more than a compromise and normal people would be surprised but they allowed it, Salira sensing a tiny bit of tension spoke to break it immediately.
[Julius! It seems Sol became the master of Lightbringer! What's more is it has a strange feature! It can transform!] -Salira
Her excited voice awoke everyone's curiosity and the Former King seemed to have choked on his soup.
[Wha-?! Transform?! You mean an Intelligent Weapon?! Let me see!] -Former King
[Are you being serious? An Intelligent Weapon here....in Earthernvale?] -King Julian
[Quickly Sol please let me see it!] -Former King
The Former King seemed to be going crazy as he had only ever seen one, he knew full well the might that it could produce. The King himself was curious as he had only heard about it in stories from his father, the Former King and the stories he heard were quite frightening.
[Well...Just remember you asked for it..Mitra! Grace them with your presence!] -Sol
Suddenly the bow attached to Sol's back lit up in a bright light! Sol laughed inside of his head as he knew what to expect.
[You impertinent and smelly fools! How dare you filthy barbarians request an audience with this King! You should choke on your supper! Now prostrate yourself before the Great King, I!] -Mitra
The bow had turned into it's cute and tiny Crowned Illuminus Sphinx form, it sat on top of Sol's head with it's little tail wiggling wildly. It had a look of arrogance in it's eyes and stared at the King with indifference. However the expression was different from when it looked at Sol, it's expression actually contained a hint of savagery and seemed this little guy would only be subdued by Sol.
The King and the rest of the Royal Family looked at the dirty-mouthed cute looking kitten with eyes the size of dragon eggs.
[Author's note- Please know that Mitra is not his soulbeast]
