4 Chapter 3 & 4: Awakening suns (Part I & II)
Inside the Palace Medical Ward, Medical Saint Renissa sat facing a golden-haired youth with a expression which expressed her displeasure as she misspoke. Renissa paused as she realized she had made a mistake and hadn't explained the situation to him first.
[Okay, take a deep breathe and calm yourself. What I'm about to tell you may be quite a shock but I assure you it's the complete and utter truth] -Renissa.
[Yes Grandmother] -Arin
The lady tried to explain his situation as calmly as possible not leaving out a single detail and mentioning everything she was told. The expression on Arin's face changed many times but none were pleasant and it even contained a hint of disbelief. However, a memory played in his mind about an old man who was dressed completely in black. This person was skilled in deceit and lies, in this memory he infiltrated a weird structured building and began torturing someone for information. In this memory he was able to tell subtle changes in someones eye's, changes in heart rate and pick up uneven breathing.
For some reason he could read the old lady's breath and hear her heartbeat as she talked and knew she was not lying. The memories faded and he could no longer remember them but the skills learned remained. He honestly did not know what to make of this situation but after looking at his hair and looking at the old lady's he simply asked.
[There's no one in this world with this sort of hair is there..?] -Arin
[No, even those golden-colored eyes] -Renissa
Arin went into thought for a moment, Renissa looked at him with concern and then spoke.
[So, What now?] -Renissa
[My parents wanted me to live. So I'll live to the best of my ability. Whatever I do, I'll do to the best of my ability to repay the sacrifice] -Arin
Renissa's eyes sparkled as she heard his declaration and thought to herself.
(Yes! That's how it should be!) -Renissa
[If you're going to do that then you're going to need a name] -Renissa
[Since I owe you the debt of my life for saving me and taking care of me not to mention you're going to be my Grandmother. Why don't you choose?] -Arin
[Hmmm...Okay..to be honest the first time I saw you I thought you looked like a child of the Sun God and it reminded me of an old tale that goes back as far as this mountain. It's said that every sun is the child of the Sun God Apollo and the Star Queen Andromeda. The children of the Sun God that watch over our humble planet is called Hyperion and Helius.
So how about Sol'ixus Hyperius? It means " Son of the Suns"] -Renissa
[Sol'ixus Hyperius...Is it a common name?] -Sol
Sol waved his hand through his hair as he spoke.
[No names like these are reserved for nobles, but I can't give you a commoner's name if you're going to be my grandson. For example my name full name is Renissa L'Nereid Duke, which means "Warm spring maiden". Don't look at me like that! My beauty was incomparable once! I was once the most beautiful girl in all of Mount Earthernvale! Hmph! What does someone who flew here from another galaxy know!
That hair of yours can't be dyed and your eyes are unusual anyway at least from what I've seen people might find the name fitting and not query about your appearance too much. I didn't give you that name just for show either, even though you can't do magic because you don't have a Dantian your affinity for Light magic is much higher than anyone else I've ever heard about not to mention Light magic is a rare magic. It must have something to do with your hair and eyes. ] -Renissa
[I'd really like to dye you're hair though, the eyes can be easily explained...but that hair...I have to go see the Alchemist Lab and see if they can come up with something]- Renissa
[Okay I understand ] -Sol
Sol nodded as he gratefully accept the name.
[So as of today, your full name will be Sol'ixus Hyperius Duke and if anyone asks you were bedridden all of your life. I have to go talk to Dorian and my husband, stay here for a bit I'll return soon. I'm sure you have quite a lot of questions, I'll answer them when I return. I don't know how long I'll be, most likely my husband is accompanying the King on his speech to the people about your arrival which we're covering up by the way] -Renissa.
Before she left, she turned and said a few more words.
[One more thing, take this ring and if anyone asks tell them what I said before that you are my Grandson, Nightmaster Dukes Grandson and Dorian is your cousin. I already talked to the nurses outside and they won't trouble you and they also vaguely know your circumstances. If you feel like you absolutely must go outside then at least don't go past my husband's mansion.
Outside of this medical ward the guards stationed here are different from the Scout Brigade, they directly protect the Royal Family and remain within the Royal Quarter. They do not know your circumstances but if you show them that ring they won't impede you. Oh and...Thank you very much child. These old bones feel much, much better] -Renissa
As she spoke she got up stretched and walked out with a huge smile on her face. It was evident she now enjoyed walking much more again. Though the pill was only meant to help the arthritis, it certainly did a lot more than that as she had a look of renewed vigor.
**
After Renissa left, Sol discovered quite a few Medical books and books about herbs and decided to spend some time studying. Though he thought he might not be able to read it, he was surprised to find out he could roughly make out the words and after a short amount of time he had already adapted to the language.
He spent a few hours in the Medical Ward and finished his comparison of the herbs in the books and the ones in his memory until he was thoroughly satisfied. He learned every herb on this planet was the mana imbued version of the original herb from his world, knowledge that was quite shocking. Next he learned about mana and how it affects the body, he learned about the Dantian and about the different types of pill making that were limited to this world only. Sol thought it was lucky to have time to be able to learn this stuff so quickly, how could he have known his learning rate was amplified much higher than a regular human? If Renissa was present and saw how many books he had read through already she would be completely stupified.
There wasn't much the books could teach him as his medical knowledge of the human anatomy far surpassed the current age of this world, but still the methods only available to this world as well as the conversion knowledge was no joke. He also got his hands on a few history books and learned much about this world and how strength is everything that matters here. He learned humanity hides in fear of beasts and only strongholds where mana is very scarce is where humanity is safest. When he realized he had no Dantian this made him a bit worried for his future prospects.
Sol finally remembered Renissa mentioned to him about his special physique and it occurred to him that maybe he might have a method to gain power. Apparently his body was capable of condensing mana and she told him that in the future he would be given a mana purification method as well as a meditation method to help his future growth.
Sol lay on the single bed and started thinking about combat methods and how to be able to fight and not be a burden to the old lady that took him in...suddenly his brain snapped--
Memories begun flooding his brain like a tidal wave. He saw himself on a battlefield wielding a sword, he saw himself on horseback holding a bow, hiding in the shadows concealing his presence, wielding a staff on a mountain peak, fighting multiple opponents with his bare hands. He saw rivers of blood, many battlefields of different kinds that seemed to be of a different era in another world.
He hopped up off his bed as the memories faded and he could no longer remember a single one. However, the information all remained and his face flushed with excitement. Sol looked up to the Sky through the window at the moon lifted his hand while forming a fist and raised it to the air. A look of sadness appeared in his eyes.
[You've prepared me with everything haven't you parents of mine?] -Sol
He clenched the pendant around his neck which was the only thing that he came with and then right at that time.
**Knock Knock**
[Yes? Please come in] -Sol
The door opened and a nurse came in, she had green hair that formed a neat ponytail, glasses an possessed a warm sisterly aura, she seemed to be around 20 years of age. She wore a white robe less elegant than Renissa's and was more practical.
[Hel--...] -Nurse
Even though she prepared herself to see this so called "Angel youth" the nurses were talking about she was still surprised by his handsome looks and special traits that no other men had. She waited until the appointed time to bring dinner patiently and couldn't wait to enter. Now upon seeing him herself she couldn't help but blush, partially because he was half naked and his physique was by no means feminine even though he was slim. This was undoubtedly due to the experimental DNA drug.
[Hello and Good Night] -Sol
Sol was a bit happy to meet another person and it was his first time seeing a female that was much closer to his age. He looked at her intently to see what her purpose was.
His voice woke her up from her stupor and she immediately regained her elder sister charm.
[Good Night~, I was supposed to bring you dinner. My name is Maria] -Maria
[Please call me Sol and thank you very much. I was indeed a bit hungry] -Sol
She immediately brought in a tray which carried with it, an amazing smell of roasted meat and serving of vegetables which seemed to be fried. Sol thanked her and received the tray.
(Sol huh...Sun...it's fitting) -Maria
[Well then if you need anything else, I'll be right outside] -Maria
Even though she said so she took her time leaving and stole glances at Sol, more accurately his hair. When she looked at his golden colored eyes it took her a while to realize they were staring back at her, she gave a awkward smile and turned to leave.
[Ahh! Wait please! There's one thing I'd like to ask] -Sol
[S-sure what is it?] -Maria
[Is there somewhere one can train his Martial Arts?] -Sol
[Martial Arts? I'm sorry what is that?] -Maria
[Uhh...I mean train in combat like with a sword and the like] -Sol
[Oh! You mean the arena where warriors train?] -Maria
[Yeah that's right] -Sol
[Yes, it's just down the mountain from here there's only one path you can't miss it, It's where your "Grandfather" lives hehe] -Maria
[Oh so you know about that huh..] -Sol
[Yeah, all the nurses here know but you don't need to worry. Lady Renissa is like a mother to all of us here and we are all loyal to her so your secret is safe with us] -Maria
[That's great, thank you] -Sol
Sol gave her a warm smile which made her heart throb for a second.
(What's with this kid, he seems to be enjoying this simple conversation like I'm the only person he ever spoke to. A pity I wanted to talk with him more but the Lady said for us not to disturb him for too long) -Maria
[Well then I'll take my leave, oh right I almost forgot wait one moment] -Maria
Maria went outside the door and quickly returned while holding some clothes.
[The lady told me to also bring this as the next time you see her she might be with the King and she wanted you to wear something presentable] -Maria
She gave Sol black clothing that the Scout Brigade Knights wear underneath their armor which was presentable along with a pair of matching boots and gloves. Sol gratefully accepted the clothes and bowed as Maria took her leave.
Sol quickly ate his portion of food and changed his clothes, he wore the knight clothing as well as the cloak that the Knight placed on him and began to ponder on what to do. He really wanted to go out to the training field but he still didn't know what to do about his hair as it would draw too much attention. He heard that dye didn't work and wondered why, what made his hair so special.
(If only I knew how to change your color...) -Sol
He thought as he played and fiddled with a strand of hair, but to his surprise the color of the single strand turned blue.
[What?!] -Sol
He was completely astonished.
(How is this possible? Was this because I focused on it? I merely willed it to happen and it happened...sure I was brooding over it for a while but why would it suddenly change like that..) -Sol
No matter how much he racked his brain he could find no solution, he heard from Renissa that his body had special adapting properties.
(Could this be what she meant?) -Sol
(Let me see if I can change the whole thing) -Sol
He closed his eyes and after a few moments as he willed it, his entire hair turned black and could conceal it's visible differences. Unless one touched it, they wouldn't be able to tell the difference.
(How convenient..) -Sol
Sol got up checked himself once in the mirror and left the room. He met many nurses who were chatting and after giving them all a greeting and a bow he left. They seemed surprised and looked at his hair.
[Hey Sol] -Maria
A green haired beauty grabbed him from behind which caught his surprise. He had never been hugged by a woman before which made him slightly red.
[H-Hi] -Sol
[What happened to your hair?] -Maria
Sol lifted his gazes to the other nurses and showed a bit of worry but then remembered they knew of his circumstances. They may very well have seen him when he was brought in. Not hiding it, with just a thought his hair flashed brightly and went back to it's original lustrous sun-magma like color.
[Kyaaa!] -Nurses
Suddenly the nurses pounced on him
[ It's true! He has such nice hair!] -Nurse 1
[It's even prettier than mine...so thick and lush] -Nurse 2
[I've never seen a color like this before, like the blazing sun and the hair is actually warm] -Nurse 3
One even drew a scissors and inched closer.
[I wouldn't do that if I were you~] -Maria
Maria spoke in a playful tone as she looked at the nurse wielding a scissors.
[That hair belongs to the Princess Salina after all, She even gave me strict orders that no one is supposed to touch it without her permission hehe] -Maria
[H-Hey, uhh Princess Salina?] -Sol
[Oh right you wouldn't know, that's the King's daughter and she's quite fond of your hair] -Maria
[Since you arrived here, she didn't let it go once and has a fondness for cute things] -Maria
[I see. Hopefully later I'll be able to thank them for taking care of me] -Sol
[It's no problem, anyhow it's regretful but we ladies have to return to filing work as lunch is over. I wanted to stay more and chat with you but if Lady Renissa comes back and sees me slacking off, I don't even want to think about what will happen] -Maria
Maria was shaking visibly as she thought about Renissa.
[I see, please enjoy the rest of your night then ladies and thank you for taking care of me] -Sol
[It's okay babe! just make sure to come back! Kyaa!] -Nurse 1
[Bye bye!] -Nurse 2
[See ya!] -Nurse 3
[No problem! However just so you know a nobleman doesn't bow to servants like us it would cause problems in the future so make sure to change it in the future] -Maria
[If I can't bow to the people that took care of me then who should I bow my head too? Isn't that a bit wrong? I'm sure in the future I'll choose the same method to thank my benefactor] -Sol
Sol left them with these words that astonished them and left.
(What an interesting fellow~) -Maria
**
(Hmm..This place is really nice..) -Sol
Sol wandered through the courtyard and made his way down the hill, he could visibly see the mansion from where he stood and didn't have to try to find it. The guards that did not recognize the unfamiliar face paid close attention to him but upon noticing the ring on his fingers they diverted their gazes as if almost stone golems and once more faced forward. Sol greeted the guards as he walked by much to their surprise.
[Who is that kid? Why's he so happy to greet a guard?] -Guard 1
[The kids of today are strange man... to think this guy would greet us who people usually pass by without even so much as looking] -Guard 2
[Yeah I know what you mean, is this guy lonely or something...look he's still smiling...] -Guard 1
[Whatever, he has a ring of the Duke it's best not to pay any attention to him. Brother, those kinds of people that smile all the time scare me to death, I once knew a guy that knew a guy that knew a story about a guy that smiled. Moral of the story is something is usually always wrong with those guys] -Guard 2
[Ain't that the truth! Just look at the King] -Guard 1
[Hehehe..we shouldn't say that so loud] -Guard 2
**
Sol's POV :
I arrived in front of the Mansion and didn't enter as it wasn't my destination, I purposefully showed my ring to the guards and they let me through the gates and pointed me to a different direction. I asked a maid and got directions to the training yard which wasn't really hard to find but because of the design it was tricky getting there. I couldn't help but to marvel at Nightmaster Duke's mansion, rather than a home it gave off the feeling of a armory and lots of weapons hung decorated in cases. It was late at night and no one was around except for the guards and a few maids that were on active night duty so I didn't want to linger and immediately hurried out.
I approached the training field which was a huge grassy area, a sense of excitement weld up in my heart as I stared at the mechanisms I had never seen before. The field was separated into five parts with 5 huge machines, each machine had dummies made of rock standing in a circle with a single dummy in the middle. Judging from the appearance of the dummies, it was clear they were magic dummies as they had specific symbols that looked like seals mentioned in the book I read on it's chest and back.
They were also equipped with a shield and sword and the number of dummies on each set of the field varied ranging from 5 - 25. It was obvious at this point that they weren't ordinary dummies, moreover this was no ordinary machine. As I was absorbed in looking at these machines, I began to wonder since these machines are mana imbued is it safe for me to use? After all I don't have mana and I have no idea what the power level of these things actually are.
(A mana purification technique and a meditation technique huh...Do I have anything like that in those memories? Maybe if I had practiced that I could have...meditation...what exactly is meditation?...I only know Martial Arts...Wait...shouldn't Martial Arts have a link to meditation? In most of the Martial Arts from the memories they have a link to meditation...Karate..Jujutsu..Aikido...Hapkido..Muay Thai..Ninjutsu...the list goes on..) -Sol
I racked my brain and then I finally limited the list to three candidates, one was Kung Fu, the other Tai Chi and the last one was Bhuddism which was a none lethal way of combat I found interesting. I immediately started immersing myself in the memories of the three, after some time I came to some conclusions. I could use Bhuddism to meditate and Tai Chi to purify the mana in my body, Kung Fu wasn't suitable for either and was more of a combat method.
I used the method taught in my memories to meditate and familiarized myself with the way of Bhudda. I closed my eyes and visioned myself falling at the bottom of a lake. In that lake time froze and nothing moved. I could hear nothing but the ripples of time and my conscious floated away.
Instantly I felt the difference, my black hair flashed and immediately afterward it's golden blaze shone brightly without my knowledge and fluttered in the wind. I used to slightly feel an absorption of mana around the area but now it was surging like a river, like tiny ants running through my skin and entering all areas of my body. It was strange but wasn't really painful just a bit hot and a tiny bit irritating but I understood it was necessary.
My hair shone brightly as it attracted the mana in the area and allowed my body to absorb it even more greedily, I could feel the mana in the area being slightly diminished as I felt a sense of something being full. After a few minutes the absorbing effect died down and rather than returning to it's normal state, the minor mana absorption effect had stopped completely
Right afterward I started feeling a bit sick but It was expected as I understood why, it's because I don't have a Dantian or mana purification method and I rely on my body to break up the mana. I didn't panic because I had a plan for that, I immediately started practicing the Tai Chi. The movements were slow and brooding, sometimes quick and decisive but always remained in a gentle tone. Little by little I could feel with every thrust of my palm and every breathe I released that the impurities in the mana left my body as I could faintly see it in the air.
After about half an hour I felt as though all of the mana in my body had become purified and I no longer felt sick like before but I still felt full for some reason. Then there it was...
*Crack* *Crack* *Crack*
I could hear cracking coming from all of my bones, from my head to my toes from my skin to my bones everything was making crackling noises. This was the most bizarre thing I've ever felt in my life...though I can only remember about 12 hours of my life. The pain that came with it was no joke, it felt like someone was reinforcing my bones by wrapping them in molted metal plates. I bit down on and grit my teeth because I didn't want to scream out loud and cause a scene, so i endured.
After about quarter of an hour I could feel the purified mana in my body disappearing and my body strengthening so I knew where it was going. I felt a bit of steam coming out my pores and finally it stopped. All the purified mana was gone and my entire body felt renewed and reborn there was no longer a sense of tiredness or fatigue.
The power rankings of this world goes like this, mana condenses in stages of 1-9 which people refer to commonly as Order. An example would be (First Order Warrior, Second Order Mage, etc).
From there it goes onto Saint, God and then Avatar. Those are then broken down into other categories that don't need to be mentioned right now.
Does it work the same way for me too? If so then could I be considered to be a First Order Warrior? Since I have an unprecedented body maybe this information is useless to me? I should write down my findings and take record of it, maybe it will be useful later. Now for the part I've been waiting for..
End of POV:
**
Sol got up took off his shirt and moved toward the first training field with 5 dummies, he stood before the one in the middle took a deep breathe, his eyes phased out for a moment and memories flooded into his mind. His golden eyes became sharp and dazzling like a blade of ice and his body erupted forward!
His feet firmly planted to the floor, his muscles bulged and sent ripples to his torso that tensed and followed through with a harsh punch. This was a Karate punch, with a harsh yell Sol moved forward as if he had done this punch ten thousand times without a single waste of movement.
[Karate: Reverse Punch!]
[Yaa!] -Sol
**BANG**
The magical dummy made of rock instantly had a hole pierced through it's chest as if it had been gnawed on by a rising dragon! The center rock dummy immediately retreated however --
*BANG* * BANG* *BANG* *BANG*
Sol was instantly hit from all 4 sides with blunt sword rock weapons and shields! His body was sent flying and crashed a few meters away. He got up and inspected himself and found 4 harsh wounds on his body, two on his chest and one on each arm. He turned and looked at the 4 dummies on the field with a bewildered expression.
(So...This is the trick, it caught me totally unaware and it was terrifyingly fast...This is bad. If it was a lethal move I would have been dead...This is the price for being careless and not being on guard) -Sol
What he didn't know was that the damage he received was enough to send a regular First Order Warrior in the Medical Ward. These machines were developed for warriors only at Second Order and above, this particular one at the first level with 5 dummies was designed for Second Order Warriors. The fact that he managed to block two of the attacks absent mindedly showed his reaction time was above the normal.
Sol thought to himself, if he were in the forest out there and he was caught unaware he would die in a heartbeat. His opponents weren't humans but beasts of many different variations and he knew he had to be able to expect all sorts of unorthodox methods of battle from them.
Sol was completely unaware that an old man who's face was hidden behind a gardener type hat was currently looking at him while stroking his beard. This man was the magician mechanic who maintained these dummies and he usually worked at night, he also was the man who designed these machines. However, tonight he had caught sight of an unfamiliar figure and he had been here from the entire beginning and even saw his peculiar manner of absorbing mana.
**
The old man chuckled to himself as he thought.
(That's not the way little tiger...you have to open up your senses. The world is unforgiving and every blindspot is where the enemy attacks) -???
The old man looked as though he had no intention of disturbing him and was quite interested in watching him. He placed his magic tools beside him, gripped his strange looking cane and continued watching off from a distance. This boy had astonished him quite a few times already with his weird methods, it seemed as if he would show this old man more things that would surprise him. However, this old man was by no means easy to surprise.
**
Sol got up looked at the dummy and smiled
(It would be boring if it wasn't any other way) -Sol
This time rather than focusing on a target, he focused on his surroundings and his eyes grew fierce.
He once more approached the dummy in the middle, taking the same movements he released the same amount of power he did before and punched the dummy according to the way he was taught. Issuing a rippling force throughout his body, Sol leaned forward-
*BANG*
[Karate: Reverse Punch] -Sol
The dummy flew back spinning in a straight line, according to the grooves on the floor. As if expecting it, Sol released his tensed body and could feel the incoming enemies. Using Another martial art he took complete control of his bodyweight and stepped back almost as if gliding, dodging gracefully and swiftly the two swords swinging towards him from the front, going towards the two dummies behind him.
[White Crane Kung Fu: Reverse flight of the white bird..] -Sol
He glanced at the incoming shield and sword attack from the dummies behind him. One used a shield to block off his escape and the other came slashing toward him. Sol's brain instantly fired up as if searching for a solution out of this predicament, a flash happened inside his mind.
His body twisted and bent and his right leg shot out like a viper and slammed into the dummy carrying the shield, using the force from the collision he transferred power to his left leg propelling himself higher in the air and with a swift spin kick landed on the sword wielding dummy's neck decapitating it. The dummies which attacked from the back both returned spinning backwards along the grooves. One decapitated, the other had a cracked rock shield.
[Taekwondo : Jump Turning Kick Reverse..] -Sol
Though it takes a bit of time to describe it all happened in a moment. The old man watching couldn't help but inhale a deep breathe. He expected Sol to be hit at least a few more times before coming up with counter-measures but had easily solved the problem.
(Little Tiger...it seems you were born with sharp teeth and claws) -Old man
Sol stared astonished at the dummies that begun regenerating their weapons, shields and bodies. He showed a smile of excitement and thought that the quick regeneration happened while he was battling, this meant he did not need to stop attacking the dummy. Sol gazed resolutely at the dummies and kicked off the earth and approached the middle dummy once more. This time he had a much better grasp on what to do.
His body twisted in the air and released a vicious spin kick that landed on it's torso and instantly sent it spinning backwards into the groove. The four other dummies wasted no time and immediately closed in only to be dodged and countered by fierce strikes that varied in form, style and intricacy. The dummies never had a chance to rest as soon as the middle dummy returned to it's position, it was always attacked and the machine was thrown in a frenzy once more.
The old man was at a complete loss for words as he stared at the foreign combat style and had a sort of reverence in his eyes. Power was respected in this world and those capable younglings very much like this one were jewels in the eyes of old men like him.
Sol didn't stop, he continued an onslaught until he had to wait for the dummies to regenerate because of his constant explosive combat techniques. Finally he decided to move onto the one that had 10 dummies because 5 obviously posed no threat to him. The regeneration wasn't fast enough and Sol's firepower was too massive. What Sol didn't know was that his body had only now came into contact with combat and begun rapidly adapting to the dangerous conditions. His eyesight became much clearer and focused, his reaction time kept becoming shorter and shorter and he had only just begun to touch something similar to combat.
Off into the distance the old man's hand begun trembling as he held onto the strange cane and looked addictedly at the boy, he wanted to see how he would tackle this task. This machine was built for Third Order Warriors.
Sol took a deep breathe as he stared at this new machine. The dummies weren't as rough as the first level machine dummies, they seemed more updated and the weapons weren't as blunt as the first machine rather the swords carried a faint layer of earthern sharpness and the shields were spiked. Sol inhaled a breathe of cold air but he was much more resolute than before.
He stepped up to the middle dummy and prepared himself, his feet implanted firmly, his body relaxed and building power like a coiled snake. Suddenly his fist shot out and impacted the center dummy's core!
*BANG*
[Ninjutsu: Area Perception!] -Sol
Suddenly something unexpected happened! This particular move was meant to drown out all useless thoughts and gain an increase in perception of the area and was a technique used by practitioners from Earth. However, it's power was very limited as it was a simple mind technique. Now, in the presence of mana this technique from earth evolved!
Rather than faintly seeing the approaching dummies, their positions were solidly clear! He could even see the trajectory of the incoming attacks! His golden eyes lit up under this sensation and saw all nine dummies approaching him at a rapid speed much faster than the first machine! Not only that but the speed of the weapons created ripples of air in the wind which meant the attacks were certainly much stronger than before. He was sure he couldn't get hit otherwise he would suffer damage.
Sol's eyes lit up and a stream of counter-measure already flashed inside his mind.
[Shaolin Kung Fu : Balance of Good and Evil!] -Sol
Sol's weight became perfectly balanced as he exhaled.
[Boxing : Fade & Sway] -Sol
His body relaxed as the 9 approaching silhouettes closed in reaching attacking range.
Instantly his body dodged and swayed from 4 attacks in such a manner the attacks collided with one another destroying themselves rendering 4 dummies partially destroyed. Using the momentum from the Fade Sol lowered his body and controlled his weight initiating another technique!
[Taekwondo: Tornado Kick!] -Sol
*BANG* *BANG*
Two dummies were instantly retired and went spinning backward in it's grooves. Three dummies came in for the attack with one being nearer than the other two, It had already long launched it's blade at Sol and it was only a breathe away from Sol's head. Sensing the incoming danger his eye's lit up and he stretched his hand out toward the dummy's hand which was wielding the blade.
[Law enforcement: Wristlock Disarmament] -Sol
In a swift motion, Sol gripped the dummy's wrist twisted his body and used his elbow to break apart the weapon from the dummy's hand and in an experienced manner decapitated the dummy.
Seeing the incoming two dummies, Sol knew he didn't have enough time to initiate an attack and quickly raised the earth sword in his hand to withstand the force of the two attacks. The blades cut the air creating minor air ripples showing it's power as it came crashing towards the earth blade in Sol's hand. Right before the two swords clashed into Sol's, his eyes shone with enlightenment and he suddenly felt as if he had been in this position before.
Instead of keeping the blade in his hand firm and horizontal, he slanted the way he held it at a 45 Degree angle and loosened his grip while placing the power into the hilt of the sword rather than the blade itself!
[Fencing: Parry!] -Sol
*CLANG*
*CRUSH*
He managed to parry one of the attacks! However, the remaining attack broke through the earthern sword in his hand and came crashing at his head! A last minute attempt to shift the blow he moved his head to the left allowing the blade to hit his shoulder.
*BANG*
Sol's figure flew backward through the air releasing a trail mouthful of blood as his body skid once across the ground before he managed to steady himself. The dummy stood there towering, a slight crack on it's stomach. It was evident Sol traded a minor blow with it during it's attack. The old man's excitement had finally reached it's peak as he stood there with reverence in his eyes.
(Litte tiger! You! You really are something!) -Old man
(What was that feeling just now? Ninjutsu's Area Perception wasn't supposed to be so finely tuned and so advanced...Could it be because of mana?) -Sol
Sol used the move a couple of times and could feel mana draining from his body, he didn't know when but the absorption effect had started back when he used it. It was obvious that Area Perception did indeed consume mana.
(So that's how it is...There must be other moves that carry the same traits. I need to find out what they are) -Sol
**
Sol looked at the wound on his shoulder that was quite deep, he retrieved a leaf from his pocket, chewed and then stuffed it in the wound. He had carried a few herbs with him from the Medical Ward in case any problems happened with his training. Blood oozed down his chest and trickled from his lips but his eyes ignited with a fire, this sort of training was exactly what he thought would make him capable of surviving in this world.
Sol almost immediately attacked again, this time he made it a habit to start disarming them and using their weapons against them. Before he could only attack their vulnerable places and that limited his actions but as he started using the earthern weapons, he could deflect attacks head on! This greatly eased the pressure, however it did not stop Sol from getting hit. The difference in physical differences was starting to show, the dummies had infinite endurance as well as being able to unleash strength of the Third Order Warrior constantly.
For the Sol who had just achieved his First Order, this was too great a distance. It did not stop him though, Sol learned under the immense pressure he was beginning to react more and more efficiently and his selection of moves became much better. The more he practiced these unfamiliar arts the more he grasped them and the more he was able to use them at will.
**
A group of people were making their way towards the Palace Medical Ward, this group consisted of the King, his children, Nightmaster Duke, Medical Saint Renissa and Knight Captain Dorian.
[My lord, I guess finally the citizens have been quelled. They seemed to be happy about the fact that our city gained it's own artifact from the story. Now we elders have an extra story to share with our kids] -Nightmaster Duke.
[Haha sure enough Nightmaster Duke, what would they think if we told them we had a kid that fell from the stars?] -King Ironspine
[...Father stop wasting words on useless things...Let's go...] -Salina
[Jeez Salina, you shouldn't talk to father like that!] -Sophia
[Let's go, Let's go I want to see my friend!!!] -Regius
[Since when did he become your friend? He doesn't even know who you are and even if he did he probably won't be your friend when he gets to know how much of a positive freak you are, ha ha ha] -Liore
[Liore that's not funny! I have many friends!] -Regius
[Like who?] -Liore
[Like uhh....Uncle Duke and Dorian] -Regius
[They aren't your friends, ha ha ha] -Liore
As Liore poked fun at Regius he grew red like a tomato.
[Thats enough the two of you!] -Sophia
The King looked behind at his children and couldn't help but shake his head. These children were much too carefree. He turned his gaze to Renissa and ask
[Renissa, did the kid wake up?] -King Ironspine
[Yes your majesty, he regained consciousness a few hours ago. He should be resting in the room right now] -Renissa
The group quickly arrived at the Medical Ward and entered Renissa's private treatment room and were greeted by a well organized herb rack and an empty room.
[Wife? Where is he?] -Nightmaster Duke
[I don't know, I forbade him from going outside!.....Oh right come to think of it, I did tell him he wasn't allowed to cross our mansion] -Renissa
At that time someone knocked
*Knock Knock*
[Come in] -Renissa
A green haired nurse about 20 years old entered and bowed before the King.
[Maria? what is it?] -Renissa
[Madam, were you by chance looking for Sol?] -Maria
[Ah yes!] -Renissa
[He went to your home my lady, he was asking about the arena and where warriors train. My lady he changed his hair color and so I thought it was appropriate to let him outside.] -Maria
[Ah so it really was that...What?? He changed his hair color? How exactly..?] -Renissa
[I'm not sure my lady, but he did it at will] -Maria
[Well I guess that takes care of my worries] -Renissa
[Your majesty should we go pay a visit?] -Nightmaster Duke
[Yes, I want to see him with my own two eyes. You only know a man when you look him in his eyes] -King Ironspine
[I will lead the way your majesty!] -Nightmaster Duke
It wasn't a far distance from the Medical Ward, so only in a few minutes they managed to reach the mansion. They entered and made their way to the training field.
The King couldn't help but to ask
[Renissa...What is that kid like?] -King
Upon hearing the question asked the surroundings got quiet as they themselves were quite curious. Liore's eyes sparkled and Sophia showed signs of interest which obviously made Dorian grit his teeth.
(What do I care? He's a cripple anyway..it's not like I need to worry about him) -Dorian
[Hmm...what's he like huh?] -Renissa
The old woman gave a warm smile that shocked others and made her seem younger, the scowl that usually resided on her face was nowhere to be found.
[Like a child born from Hyperion himself, the light and sun favors him. He's warm, gentle and caring like an angel. His outward appearance matches his insides your majesty. I named him Sol'ixus Hyperius] -Renissa
Hearing the evaluation of Renissa, the King nodded.
[I see...Son of the Sun huh. That's a good name]- King Ironspine
The King said nothing more as he approached the training field and secretly thought to himself.
(But this isn't a world for angels, if he doesn't learn how to protect himself then he'll just be a decoration. That kid, he probably would hate being a decoration knowing his parents died for him and wouldn't have the strength to live under his own power. Now I have to dedicate time and resources into finding a way to make him become stronger.) -King Ironspine
As he thought these thoughts, his eyes landed on a figure in the training field a great distance away. The rest of the group seemed to have noticed this figure and lifted their heads to look at it. It was late at night and the Scout Brigade shouldn't be training.
This figure was none other than Sol'ixus Hyperius. His golden, magma colored hair fluttered in the wind behind him as blood trickled from his lips, several wounds present on his body drenching his chest with blood. His body swiftly dodging and countering the rock dummies, not taking a breathe to relax he continued his onslaught of foreign techniques that raised the eyebrows of the observers.
[If- If I remember correctly that machine was developed with Third Order Warriors in mind right father?] -Regius
Regius asked as his eyes shone with an intense light of admiration towards Sol.
[Yes...What earth shattering battle prowess!]- King Ironspine
The King looked at Sol's cold expression, his fierce golden eyes and the bloody chest which spoke volumes of his determination. Then he looked at Sol's ruthless methods of attacking and his resolute demeanor and couldn't help
but think to himself and chuckle.
(This is the Angel you spoke of? It seems you really bias him as a Grandson already) -King Ironspine
Though it didn't show on his face the King was absolutely bewildered. Suddenly an old and archaic voice rung out-
[Oh ho ho, it seems you've arrived Julius] -Old man
This was none other than the old man who had been watching Sol.
[F-Father what are you doing here?] -King Ironspine
[Nightmaster Duke pays his respects to Former King Julian] -Nightmaster Duke
[Medical Saint Renissa pays her respects to Former King Julian] -Renissa
[Grandpa!] -Regius
[Grandpa! Did you bring Flamey?] -Salina
[Grandfather, how is your health?] -Sophia
The Former King Julian quickly brought his grandchildren in for a hug at the same time a tiny ball of fire tackled Salina. This was Former King Julian's Soulbeast, Flamespark. It had the appearance of a tiny kitten and was quite happy to see Salina, it snuggled itself in her arms and closed it's eyes contentedly.
[It's nice to see all of you, I hope you haven't been giving your father trouble.
Regius stole glances at Salina while glaring and was about to open his mouth and complain, however the latter noticed and with a swift kick to his shin Regius' eye color matched his hair and dared not say another word.
[Oh ho, well it was time for me to do repairs on the machine and I noticed something interesting so I decided to look a bit. When you told me about him, I was a bit skeptical but I can see now for sure this kid isn't ordinary] -Former King Julian
The Former King realized one of his grandchildren hadn't not greeted him and shifted his gaze to her, Liore wore a mysterious expression on her face as she looked off into the distance. The Former King traced her gaze and found it landed on none other than Sol.
(So that's how it is...It seems I'm not the only one interested in him, Oh ho ho) -Former King Julian
Dorian had a strange expression as he looked at Sol, at first he seemed to completely disregard him. Now he had no choice but to recognize Sol and he began feeling threatened especially when he saw the ring on Sol's finger. Dorian was aware of the circumstances, however it did not sit well with him and looked at Sol with a strange light.
**
Sol noticed the arrival of the group and had a dumbfounded expression, it was only then had he remembered he was supposed to meet the King. He quickly threw on the black underarmor he was given and approached them. He was unable to button the armor because of the wounds and still had part of his chest exposed. The group seeing Sol approach stop their pleasantries and turned to greet him.
[Didn't I tell you that you were meeting the King Sol! Why did you go and get so dirty! Quickly bow and greet the King and the Former King] -Renissa
[Grandmother I'm sorry, I have no excuses. Sol pays his respects to the King and Former King] -Sol
Sol bowed like he was taught, blood dropped on the floor as he leaned.
[Sol right? Why was going to the arena the first thing you did after waking up?] -King Ironspine
This was something the King wanted to know, usually one would try to grasp his circumstances. Sol looked at the King a bit hesitatingly as the reason was a bit personal but then remembered the King was his benefactor as well as the one who even allowed him to know of his circumstances and relaxed.
Sol's face became resolute and his golden eyes lit up brightly, he raised his head stared at the stars and the two pale beautiful moons. Even though he looked at the stars, one could see his gaze was beyond it and could see a sense of longing in his eyes which they did not miss. His hand subconsciously grip the pendant around his neck as he spoke-
[Your majesty, I read the books that were in the Medical Ward and learned that only strength prevails here in this world. That beasts have pushed humanity into a corner and that they are the true rulers of this world. That....does not sit well with my circumstances and with what I want to do. My parents wanted me to be able to live well and live as I please, I will not be able to do that if I am weakling.
In order to honor my parents wishes and their sacrifice that saved me at the cost of their own lives, I will live in accordance with what they've wished. Your majesty, I have no friends, family or any kinsmen. I have nothing to lose and nowhere to return to, all I have is a single dream that I want to realize. I want to climb to the peak of power. I want to climb to the stars with these arms of mine and live as I please and do the things that I want to do. I want power so that no man nor beast can threaten this life of mine which was saved at the ultimate cost] -Sol
The King brooded over the words for a while, and a huge smile crept upon his face.
[Good! Good! Very Good! Hahaha!] -King Ironspine
The King's loud voice rung out as he slapped Sol's shoulder and a spurt of blood came out from his wound. Sol tried his hardest not to cringe as to make sure and not offend the King.
[Dorian, take him to have a shower and a change of clothes!] -King Ironspine
[As you wish your majesty!] -Dorian
Sophia seeing this flinched, she had heard Sol's words and wanted to comfort him. She wanted to tell him that he does have a place to return to.
[Father, I'll take him] -Sophia
[Princess you can't! You're a princess, entering a man's changing room is something you shouldn't do!] -Dorian
[It should be alright, I'll just have a maid bring him the clothes and show him where the bathroom is] -Sophia
[But Princess-] -Dorian
[Calm your horses Dorian, I'll be going as well! Besides big brother Sol isn't the kind of person you have to worry about!] -Regius
Hearing this from a brat like Regius infuriated Dorian however it did not show on his face.
[There's no need for a shower... just bring the clothes] -Salina
No one knew when but Salina had already slipped behind Sol, used water magic and cleaned his entire body. There was no way she had any intention of letting the hair get away again. Sol was a bit disturbed by the actions but said nothing as he was informed about the weird personality of the princess from Maria. Still it was quite shocking.
In the end, Sol, Sophia, Liore, Regius, Salina and Dorian were heading towards the changing room.
**
[To have the strength to do what you want to do...huh] -King Ironspine
[Your majesty?] -Nightmaster Duke
[Nothing, it's just that Sol's true words hit a sore spot. His words were honest, beasts really do look down on us] -King Ironspine.
As the King spoke a strange light flashed in his eyes.
