Armour of the Sun
Surya, the sun god, contemplated his fate as he faced the gathering of divine beings around him. I will endure, he thought, steeling himself for whatever consequences awaited.
Back to Lott's Side
Lott stood before the brilliant golden armour and earrings that had just emerged from his fishing net. The sight triggered memories of their origin. Oh Sun, turned into armor! He realized. This was the powerful defensive treasure bestowed by Surya upon his son, Karna. The armour, along with its earrings, was crafted to radiate the sun's brilliance—a gift meant to protect Karna and his mother, Quinti, from the burdens of being an unmarried mother. Formed from pure light, it was notoriously difficult to destroy, even for the gods.
This is excellent armour, Lott thought, recalling how he had previously given Morgan the scabbard for Excalibur, which she had declined. They had made a promise to acquire a superior defensive weapon in the future. Now, with this "Kavach-Kundal (set of armour and earrings)" in his possession, he could return to Morgan and share the good news. This armour would significantly enhance his safety.
Feeling satisfied with his catch, Lott lifted the armour and, according to the rules of the 'fisher's never air force' system, claimed it as his own. A flash of golden light enveloped him as the armour and earrings adorned his body. He felt transformed—golden hair cascading down his back, and the earrings sparkling on his handsome face. Although this armour originally belonged to Karna, it suited Lott remarkably well, making him look even more striking.
"Not bad," he said to himself, admiring his reflection. But soon he considered that perhaps it was wiser not to flaunt such an impressive weapon all the time. Though magnificent, the armour would surely attract attention if worn constantly. After all, even hidden weapons should remain discreet.
Content with his haul, Lott decided to leave the area, feeling a deep sense of fulfilment from this venture.
Later That Night
As night descended, Gawain sat in her seat, gazing at the captive fairies with boredom. "Ah, it's so dull! I just want to find someone to spar with! After dinner, I was hoping for an escapee to challenge, but this fairy seems unwilling to budge."
Since Lott had departed, Morgan had also become preoccupied with various responsibilities, leaving Gawain to manage the fairy captives. She knew the fairies wouldn't attempt a rescue; they were bound too tightly. Yet, Gawain felt overwhelmed by the responsibility placed on her—guarding prisoners at barely a year old felt utterly unfair.
"What? You say I'm the first one assigned this task?" she mused, recalling how her father had left without giving her anything to do. It felt especially unfair that she had to watch over the captives while her parents entrusted such an important duty to her.
"This job is mind-numbingly boring. I'd rather be fighting!" she lamented, slumping in her seat.
Meanwhile, the fairies shared her discontent. The earth clan members were not particularly clever, while the wind clan fairies were cunning but chose not to escape. They understood their predicament and decided it was best to wait and see; attempting an escape was futile.
Just then, Lott returned, spear in hand. He noticed Gawain's glum expression and approached her with a warm smile. "My dear daughter, what's troubling you?" he asked gently.
"I…" Gawain glanced at him, noticing he wasn't carrying anything. A wave of disappointment washed over her. "You didn't bring anything back?" she wondered aloud. If her father returned empty-handed, what did that mean for her endeavours?
Quickly, she turned her gaze to Morgan, hoping for reassurance. "Mom—" Gawain gestured with her eyes, but Morgan was preoccupied with Lott's presence.
Lott had returned empty-handed. Morgan thought, It's okay. This isn't the first time. Sometimes, he comes back without anything, and that's alright. Yet, she felt a tug at her heart—she wanted to comfort Lott. He must feel uneasy not bringing back something worthwhile.
As Morgan prepared to speak, she caught a stray thought from Lott. The stealth effect of this Kavach-Kundal is impressive. No one can tell when I wear it! It's quite remarkable.
Morgan's curiosity piqued. What is he talking about? Is he wearing the Kavach-Kundal? She had never seen nor heard of respective armour but sensed its significance. It seemed Lott had indeed found something valuable.
Her thoughts shifted to the scabbard of Excalibur - Avalon, Lott had previously gifted her. She had always thought he wore it as a ruse, pretending it was something greater. But now, she reconsidered; perhaps this armour was indeed as special as it sounded.
With a brightened expression, Morgan's desire to comfort Lott was replaced by a celebratory mood. She was excited to learn about his new treasure and what it meant for their future together.