As the group made their way toward the city, Cid found his gaze repeatedly drawn to a distant mountain range that shimmered like obsidian in the perpetual twilight of Barrow. Something was there, calling to him with a silent persistence that tugged at the edges of his consciousness.
The main city of Barrow was a marvel of architecture and technology—a harmonious blend of sleek, modern structures and ancient, cathedral-like buildings that spoke to the planet's long history. The streets bustled with activity as merchants hawked their wares, many displaying exotic weapons and armor crafted from materials unknown on Earth.
"Two hundred credits won't get us much here," Lucy observed as they passed a stall selling a simple dagger for three times that amount. "The really good stuff costs thousands."
Cid nodded absently, his attention still divided between the present moment and the persistent call from the mountains. "We should split up," he suggested, his deep voice drawing curious glances from passersby. "Cover more ground that way. Meet back here in two hours?"
The group agreed, breaking off into smaller clusters. Zeph and Cayden headed toward a section of the market specializing in melee weapons, while Lucy and Aria made for the technology quarter. Cindy stuck close to Vera, the two Wights gravitating naturally toward a shadowy alley where darker, more esoteric items were rumored to be sold.
Sera remained with Cid, her keen eyes missing nothing as they wove through the crowded marketplace. "You're still distracted," she noted after they had walked in silence for several minutes.
"I can't shake it," Cid admitted, frustration evident in his tone. "It's like... like someone's calling my name from a great distance."
Sera's expression grew thoughtful. "There are places of power on many worlds—nexus points where the veil between realities thins. Perhaps you're sensing such a place."
Cid considered this. "Could be. But why now? Why me?"
"You've evolved beyond what most vampires ever achieve," Sera reminded him. "Your perception has expanded along with your power. You might be sensing things that have always been there, just beyond the reach of ordinary awareness."
Their conversation was interrupted as they approached a small, unassuming stall tucked between a small alley way that Cid nticed an oufit that caught his attention he walked upi to the stall with Sera and examined the Item is was a Beast Armor created frrom the Crystal Core od a Beast The armor wasn't mere fabric; it was a dark, futuristic robe woven from shadow and light. Glowing teal accents pulsed with energy, tracing geometric patterns across its surface. A central circular design thrummed with power, like a contained star. Cid used his Inspect Skill on it and Marvelled at what it displayed:
Armor Grade: Mythical Tier
Armor Name: Aegis of the Inner Light
Creator: Luminaryx: Serpent of Shadow and Light
Description: Forged by the Noxian artisan Kaelira, this legendary artifact resonates with the very soul of its wearer. Grants unparalleled protection and amplifies inner strength.
Abilities:
+50 to Shadow or Light Ability Stats. If the user possesses Shadow control, they gain resonance with Light, and vice versa.
Elemental Breath: Exhale a stream of concentrated shadow and light, capable of both searing and freezing.
Impenetrable Defense: Provides near-invulnerability against physical and magical attacks.
Draconic Resonance: If the wearer is of Dragon Origin, Shadow and Light Ability Stats bonus increases to 100%.
Forged by: Kaelira, Noxian Artisan
Cid's fingers traced the intricate patterns on the Aegis of the Inner Light, feeling the subtle pulse of power beneath his touch. The armor seemed to respond to him, the teal accents glowing more intensely as if recognizing his Ascendant nature.
"How much?" he asked the merchant, a wizened old man with eyes that held the wisdom of centuries.
The merchant studied Cid for a long moment, his gaze penetrating as if seeing beyond the physical form to the power that lay beneath. "For most, the price would be beyond reach," he replied, his voice like dry leaves rustling in the wind. "But for you... I sense the armor calls to you as it has called to no other."
Sera shifted uncomfortably beside Cid, her disguised form tensing slightly. There was something about the old merchant that set her on edge—a familiarity she couldn't quite place.
"Name your price," Cid pressed, unwilling to leave without the armor that seemed made for him.
The merchant's lips curved into a knowing smile. "Not all prices are measured in credits, young Ascendant," he said, his voice dropping to a whisper that only Cid and Sera could hear. "This armor was forged for a specific purpose—to help bridge the gap between shadow and light, between what is and what could be."
Cid's eyes narrowed. "How do you know what I am?"
The old man chuckled, the sound like stones grinding together. "I have walked between worlds for longer than you can imagine, child. I see the truth of things, the patterns that bind all existence together." He lifted the armor with reverence. "This is yours by right. The price is simply this: when the time comes, and you stand at the crossroads of destiny, remember that true power lies not in domination, but in balance."
Before Cid could respond, the merchant placed the armor in his hands. The moment his fingers closed around it, a surge of energy coursed through him, the armor's patterns flaring with blinding light before settling into a steady, pulsing glow that matched the rhythm of his heartbeat.
"It has accepted you," the old man said, satisfaction evident in his tone. "Wear it well, Ascendant. The path ahead is fraught with peril, but you need not walk it alone."
As Cid and Sera turned to leave, the merchant called out once more. "The mountains call to you, do they not?" When Cid paused, confirming his suspicion, the old man continued. "Heed their call, but be wary. Not all who whisper from the shadows have your best interests at heart."
With those cryptic words, the merchant retreated into the shadows of his stall, leaving Cid with more questions than answers and an armor that hummed with ancient power against his skin.
"That was... unusual," Sera remarked as they made their way back to the meeting point. As they made their way back Cid had many questions he decided to put the armor in his shadow for now and check it out later he also made a point to find out who the forger was if he could meet them made he could make then he personal forger. looking at what the inspect skill said about the forger "Kaelira, Noxian Artisan" Cid was lost. he decided to ask Sera maybe she knew.
"Sera do you know anything about a Noxian Artisian?"
Sera's brow furrowed as she considered Cid's question about a Noxian Artisan. Then, her face brightened with recognition. "The Noxians!' she exclaimed. 'They're an alien race known for their incredible artistry and deep connection to the cosmos.'"
Sera paused, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "Imagine beings with deep charcoal skin, marked by swirling patterns of white and vibrant orange, like living tribal art. Their large, almond-shaped eyes glow with an inner orange light, perfect for navigating the twilight of their jungle homeworld. And their hair! Flowing black and violet, often adorned with feathers and metallic beads that speak to their status."
She gestured, as if painting a picture in the air. "Each Noxian also bears unique, curved horns, like a ram's, each a testament to their lineage. They live in close-knit tribes led by 'Voidkeepers,' matriarchs who guide their people in honoring the balance of the universe through elaborate rituals of dance, music, and body paint."
"But their artistry isn't just ceremonial," Sera added, her voice filled with wonder. "The Noxians are masters of biotechnology, weaving living technology into their lives. They craft bio-engineered plants for food and medicine, and even sail the stars in living spacecraft that adapt to their needs. Their tools and jewelry, made from natural materials, are not just beautiful, but imbued with cultural significance."
Sera leaned in conspiratorially. "And they possess remarkable gifts. They can shift the patterns on their skin to vanish into their surroundings, and their senses are so sharp they can detect the faintest whisper in the wind."
"Their home, the planet Noxara, is a paradise of dense jungles and bioluminescent forests. They build their cities high in the trees, living in harmony with the vibrant ecosystem." Sera finished a wistful look in her eyes. "The Noxians are a true blend of biology, artistry, and spirituality, a race deeply connected to their world and the cosmos beyond."
Cid absorbed Sera's vivid description of the Noxians, fascination evident in his expression. "And this Kaelira, she must be exceptional even among her people to craft such a powerful artifact."
"The greatest of her kind," Sera confirmed. "Legends say her works are alive in their own way, resonating with the essence of their wearers. If this armor truly is her creation, you've been gifted something beyond price."
As they approached the meeting point, they spotted the others already waiting. Zeph and Cayden had purchased matching bracers forged from a metallic substance that shimmered with an inner blue light. Lucy and Aria were excitedly discussing a small device Lucy had acquired—something about enhanced tactical awareness during combat. Cindy and Vera stood slightly apart, each wearing new pendants that seemed to absorb the light around them.
"Find anything interesting?" Cayden called out as Cid and Sera approached.
Cid nodded, debating whether to reveal his mysterious acquisition. Before he could decide, a commotion near the center of the marketplace drew their attention. A crowd had gathered around what appeared to be a small arena where two combatants faced off against each other.
"Looks like an impromptu duel," Zeph observed, his enhanced senses picking up the excited murmurs of the crowd. "Some local champion challenging all comers."
The group moved closer, curiosity piqued. The local champion was a hulking figure, easily seven feet tall with skin like burnished bronze and eyes that glowed with an inner fire. He wielded a massive warhammer with effortless grace, twirling it as if it weighed nothing at all.
"That's Kraxis the Undefeated," a nearby spectator informed them, awe evident in his voice. "Fifty-seven straight victories in the pit. No one's even come close to besting him."
As they watched, Kraxis dispatched his latest challenger with a single, devastating blow that sent the unfortunate competitor flying out of the arena. The crowd roared its approval as Kraxis raised his hammer in triumph.
"Who's next?" Kraxis bellowed, his voice carrying over the clamor of the crowd. "Who dares to face Kraxis the Undefeated?"
There was a moment of silence as the crowd looked around, waiting for someone brave—or foolish—enough to step forward. Then, to everyone's surprise, Cayden pushed his way to the front.
"I'll take that challenge," he called out, his voice steady despite the murmurs of disbelief that rippled through the crowd.
Kraxis turned to face him, a look of amused disdain crossing his features. "A human? And a small one at that," he scoffed. "Run along, little one. Kraxis fights warriors, not children."
The crowd laughed, but Cayden stood his ground, his eyes locked with Kraxis, Cayden was Itching to test out his new comabt skills and his improved water powers.
Cayden, despite Kraxis's taunts, remains calm. He's honed his focus during his virtual training. He takes a stance, his movements fluid and relaxed, like water itself. He channels his Qi, feeling the energy flow through his body, enhancing his speed and strength.
Kraxis roars, charging forward with surprising speed for his size. He swings his warhammer in a wide arc, intending to crush Cayden with a single blow.
Cayden, augmented by his Qi, moves with incredible agility. He sidesteps the hammer's blow, the wind from its passage ruffling his hair. He's already analyzing Kraxis's movements, looking for weaknesses.
As Kraxis recovers from his swing, Cayden strikes. He uses his water ability to create a concentrated jet of water, aiming for Kraxis's eyes. The water hits with surprising force, momentarily blinding the alien.
Kraxis roars in pain and fury, swinging his hammer wildly. Cayden uses this opportunity to get closer, using his enhanced speed to dart around the larger alien. He focuses his Qi into his fist and strikes Kraxis's chest with a precise blow.
The force of the blow is amplified by Cayden's Qi, sending a shockwave through Kraxis's body. The alien stumbles backward, momentarily stunned.
Cayden doesn't let up. He manipulates the moisture in the air, forming several small, razor-sharp water blades. He sends them flying towards Kraxis, aiming for his joints and other vulnerable spots.
Kraxis, recovering from the initial shock, manages to deflect some of the water blades with his hammer. However, a few manage to find their mark, slicing through his armor and drawing blood.
The alien roars again, this time with a hint of desperation. He realizes that this "small human" is far more dangerous than he initially thought. He changes his tactics, focusing on defense and trying to anticipate Cayden's movements.
Cayden continues his assault, using his water abilities and Qi-enhanced speed to keep Kraxis on the defensive. He's constantly moving, probing for weaknesses, waiting for the opportune moment to strike the final blow.
Finally, he sees his chance. Kraxis, exhausted and wounded, leaves an opening in his defense. Cayden channels all of his remaining Qi into his fist and strikes Kraxis's chest again, this time with even greater force.
The blow shatters Kraxis's armor and sends him flying backward, crashing into the arena wall. The alien lies there, unmoving, defeated.
Cayden stands over his fallen opponent, breathing heavily but victorious. The crowd is silent for a moment, then erupts into a cacophony of cheers and roars. The "small human" has done the impossible – he has defeated Kraxis the Undefeated.