-Boudica POV-
I swung my blade down with a tired gasp; it had been a full lunar cycle since Lord Artor. I missed Lord Artor terribly since the druid Nohki cast his spell, and grief descended upon the tribe. As Nohki had predicted, everyone had forgotten that Lord Artor had survived. No one had seen Lord Antedios and Lady Niamh since Lord Prasutagus's cremation ended.
Ever since Lord Artor Had left, I trained myself in the sword's art. Though Mother hesitated in my choice, she ultimately allowed me to pursue this path. Day after day, my training began with the rising sun and concluded only at its setting. My arms would tremble as I practiced with the sword Lord Artor had gifted me, slowly becoming accustomed to its weight and balance. In the past, I had handled blades under my parents' watchful eyes, but this sword felt unlike any other. Every blade before had possessed a similar feel, but the Sword of Seiros was distinct. Its sinuous design, reminiscent of a serpent, made it surprisingly lighter than I was accustomed to. I had expected its use would be difficult, yet for some inexplicable reason, I felt a connection to the Sword of Seiros, as if we were one.
Through my rigorous practice, I discovered the blade possessed a remarkable quality: it would periodically replenish my energy and mend the wounds sustained during my training. I wondered if the Goddess Lord Artor mentioned was responsible. A change had settled within me since Lord Artor's departure; my heart beat with a newfound vigor, and a surge of fresh energy coursed through my veins. Upon glancing into a nearby stream, I noticed a subtle change in my eyes; they now possessed a slight, almost imperceptible slit.
The most significant transformation, however, manifested on my chest. Mother and I, during a shared bath, discovered an unusual mark emblazoned on my chest, and we were astonished. It appeared entirely unnatural. We consulted the local druids, but none could offer an explanation. The only insight they could glean was a potent energy emanating from the mark. "Divine," they declared, identifying the energy as such. The moment I heard the word "Divine," my thoughts immediately returned to the Goddess Lord Artor had spoken of. Could this be a gift from the Goddess? A surge of pride welled up within me upon this realization. After learning of the Goddess's mark, my dedication to training intensified. I was resolute in my determination to prove myself worthy to Lord Artor and the Goddess, to show that I was indeed deserving of this divine blessing.
It wasn't just the blade; Lord Nohki had informed me I should be capable of magic. When I heard that, I remembered smiling brightly. Every child dreamed of using magic, so I eagerly went to train under Lord Nohki. I can still recall his precise words: "With that mark from the goddess, your potential in magic should surpass mine. It would be a shame for that to be wasted." Lord Nohki's words echoed in my memories.
I could feel myself growing stronger with each passing day, far faster than should have been possible. Lord Nohki had theorized that it was the goddess's mark strengthening me. I knew he was right. I could feel myself becoming strong, much faster than what should be possible. It was as if there was some type of power within my grasp, yet not quite within reach. It felt like this power needed something to achieve its full potential.
I closed my eyes, my thoughts returning to the previous night. It felt like ages ago, yet a short time had passed since the world I knew forever changed. Everything truly shifted when I encountered the Goddess Sothis. Her presence was unlike anything I had ever known, a luminous being of incredible power and profound wisdom. That meeting was both frightening and breathtaking, a moment that dismantled my prior perceptions of reality and set me on a course I could never have foreseen. My mind wandered back to my encounter with Lady Sothis.
//Flashback to the previous night//
The heavy weight behind my eyelids fought against my will as I pried them open. Sleep still clung to me, and I rubbed my tired eyes, taking in my surroundings with a groggy gaze. A temple? The realization struck me with the force of a physical blow, my eyes snapping fully awake as a chilling wave of horror washed over me. "Where am I?" The question escaped my lips, a shaky whisper laced with fear. The air brushed against my skin as I tried to find an exit.
As I ventured deeper into the temple, the intricate drawings adorning the walls immediately captured my attention. Each mural seemed to whisper a story, a narrative etched in time, pulling me closer with curiosity. One wall showcased a majestic dragon descending from the heavens, its form rendered with awe-inspiring detail. The next depicted this dragon interacting with humans. I blinked, rubbing my eyes again, struggling to comprehend the unfolding story before me as the subsequent murals appeared to illustrate a war.
After shaking off the enigma of the murals, my focus returned to the urgent need for escape. Deeper I traveled, the path leading me into a grand chamber. At its center, bathed in an ethereal light, stood a throne, elevated on a series of imposing stairs. My breath hitched as my gaze landed on the figure seated upon it. There, in all her resplendent glory, sat a Divine being. It was impossible to describe her as anything less than a Goddess. She resembled the god-queens spoken of in hushed tones by the elders during the solemn winter feasts.
Her hair, a cascade of vibrant green, flowed over her shoulders like the sacred willow leaves that graced the riverbanks, leaves forbidden to touch, save by the hands of the druids. It moved as if stirred by a perpetual spring breeze, alive with an inner luminescence. Upon her brow rested a crown of pure gold, the same radiant metal I had only ever glimpsed adorning the royal persons of Lord Antedios and Lady Niamh. It gleamed with a gentle light, akin to the sun cresting the distant hills. Her clothes were a tapestry of hues that defied earthly description, woven in colors I had never known existed: a rich purple like crushed elderberries, a vibrant red mirroring the roaring fires in the chieftain's hall, and a shimmering gold that sparkled like the river's surface at the break of dawn.
Even though she didn't speak, I felt something in my chest. I looked at my chest as the mark on it glowed softly. My eyes widened in alarm as I realized who was in front of me. "Goddess!?" I asked in shock. My eyes widened when I saw the Goddess's smile widen at my words. 'What do I do!' I screamed in my thoughts.
I bowed as low as I could, my voice trembling, "Hello, my Lady. It's an honor to meet you." I stammered, the sheer presence of a Goddess overwhelming me. While I had always paid lip service to Lord Lugh, my faith had never been truly tested. But standing before a Goddess, my breath caught in my throat.
"You haven't introduced yourself yet. Are the children of today lacking in manners?" The Goddess's voice, though gentle, carried an edge of amusement, her eyebrow arched in mild reproach. Horror washed over me. How could I, in my awe, forget such a fundamental courtesy?
"My lady, I am Boudica, daughter of Mandubracius and Locrina. It's an honor to meet you, my lady!" I blurted out, terrified of incurring her displeasure.
The Goddess hummed, a sound like distant chimes, as I stood frozen, quivering. "How is my daughter's Crest, Boudica?" she inquired. My eyes widened. I recalled Lord Artor mentioning that the Sword of Seiros belonged to her daughter, and the mark I bore — could it be the same? I instinctively placed a hand on the Crest etched upon my chest, her words echoing in my mind.
"Crest?" I repeated, the unfamiliar term baffling me.
Lady Sothis rose from her chair and descended the stairs, each step bringing her closer, causing my heart to pound erratically and my frame to tremble. As she approached, the Crest on my chest radiated a gentle warmth, a sensation that deepened with her proximity. When she finally stood before me, I remained transfixed as she leaned in, her delicate finger tracing the outline of my Crest. A wave of heat flooded my chest, not of pain, but of an overwhelming, comforting love that brought tears to my eyes. It felt akin to a mother's embrace.
"It has been so long since anyone has worn the Crest of Seiros," the Goddess murmured, a note of sadness tinging her voice. I felt a pang of sympathy for her. "My lady, are you alright?" I asked, hoping to ease her sorrow.
She offered a gentle smile, patting my head. "I am fine, child, merely lost in my memories. My name is Sothis, also known as 'The Beginning'," Lady Sothis revealed. Sothis? The name was utterly unfamiliar to me.
"Lady Sothis, with all due respect, may I ask why you have brought me here?" I inquired, my childhood innocence tempered by a sharp intellect. Only a Goddess could summon me from my sleep. I remembered tales my mother had told of deities calling their chosen from afar.
Lady Sothis offered a small smile and knelt before me. "Boudica, I need someone to be my Champion." Her words struck me with such force that my eyes widened in disbelief. 'No, she can't be asking that,' I thought, stunned. Was such a request even allowed?
In a moment of profound and unexpected revelation, Lady Sothis addressed me, "Boudica, would you like to be my champion?" She inquired, her voice resonating with an otherworldly grace. The weight of her words caused me to step back involuntarily, my mind reeling at the prospect of such an honor. A champion of a Goddess the very notion was staggering.
"My lady," I inquired, my voice laced with disbelief, "isn't Lord Artor your champion?" My curiosity compelled me to seek clarity on this turn of events.
Lady Sothis let out a soft snort. "Artor is my partner, Boudica, not my champion. I need someone who will represent me in the mortal world." She clarified, her gaze steady and unwavering.
The subtle distinction struck a chord within me, and though surprised, a swell of pride rose in my chest. But before I could fully accept this incredible offer, one question burned brighter than any other. "Why me, Lady Sothis?" I asked, eager to grasp her reasoning.
A gentle, yet undeniably sad smile graced Lady Sothis's lips, a smile that stirred an almost instinctive urge within me to offer comfort. "I saw your fate, child. I did not agree with it," she stated, her words sending an unnerving chill down my spine.
As the encounter drew to a close, a wave of drowsiness washed over me. "Boudica, when you awake, you see that you have my favor," Lady Sothis assured me, her voice growing softer. I swayed, my strength failing, and Lady Sothis gently caught me. The last image imprinted on my fading consciousness was her serene, smiling face.
Just before succumbing fully to sleep, I heard her murmur, a touch of wry amusement in her tone, "I hope Artor doesn't mind me taking this out of his bag," Lady Sothis muttered. Then, darkness enveloped me, and I fell back into slumber, the promise of divine favor and an unforeseen destiny resting upon my sleeping form.
//Back to the Present Day//
I couldn't help but smile thinking about that day. Just as Lady Sothis had promised, I saw proof of her favor. Resting beside my bedstand was a shield, bearing the same mark that was etched upon my chest. The moment my fingers touched its cool surface, its name came to me with immediate clarity: the Shield of Seiros, the counterpart to the Sword of Seiros. From that day forward, my training became a relentless pursuit, each day dedicated to mastering both shield and sword.
Now, in possession of the Shield of Seiros, I felt an exhilarating sense of empowerment, as if I had sprouted wings. The synergy between the sword and shield felt so natural, so instinctive, that I believed myself invincible. Yet, this newfound confidence did not breed complacency; it fueled an insatiable drive. Lord Artor and Lady Sothis had placed their trust in me, a trust that demanded I push myself, training until I bled if necessary. I was determined to become the 'Queen of Victory' they envisioned, a ruler who would never know defeat.
Today, however, was ordinary. As I journeyed back home, I caught snippets of hushed conversations among the tribesfolk, whispers that painted a disquieting picture and caused a frown to settle upon my face. Listening more intently, I could discern a pervasive undercurrent of fear and anxiety rippling through the community.
The growing unease was palpable. Suddenly, the sharp sound of shouting erupted from the home of Lord Antedios and Lady Niamh, pulling my attention sharply in their direction. Drawn by an undeniable urgency, I cautiously approached their residence. Pressing myself against the wall, I strained to make out the words being exchanged within, catching the fierce, enraged tone of Lord Antedios's voice.
"How dare you!" Lord Antedios roared, his voice thick with disbelief and fury. "That Dragon killed my sons, just as Lord Aelius was! How would we possibly be able to control such a creature?"
A distinctly unctuous voice responded, dripping with false sympathy. "Now, now, King Antedios," it soothed, "we are all upset with the death of your sons. The passing of Prasutagus and Artor truly saddens us. They were ideal vassals to Rome." The slimy voice continued, a predatory undertone now clear. "But you understand that Lord Aelius's death cannot be forgotten. Lord Aelius was a close confidant of Lady Agrippina, and she was deeply distraught by his demise."
A weary sigh escaped King Antedios. "What do you want?" he asked, his voice drained of all energy. My heart ached at the profound exhaustion that permeated his words. I recalled my prior admonishment of Lord Artor, a sentiment that now seemed to echo with chilling prescience: 'Lord Artor, I know you wish to protect everyone, but your actions have inadvertently caused pain.' I thought sadly.
"See, I knew you would come to see my way, King Antedios," the slimy voice purred, a mocking edge sharpening its tone. My hands instinctively clenched, a surge of contempt for this Roman official's insolence coursing through me. 'How dare he,' I seethed inwardly.
"Emperor Claudius is demanding a twenty-five percent tax increase for the next twenty-five years," the voice announced, its delivery chillingly final. "Twenty-five years—the exact age Lord Aelius was when he was killed."
The sheer audacity of the demand left me gasping, struggling to suppress the involuntary sound. The outrageousness of the request was staggering.
"Twenty-five years and a twenty-five percent increase! Lord Corvinus, we simply can't afford that. We Iceni already pay Emperor Claudius fifteen percent in taxes. Any more, and we'll struggle to feed ourselves," Lord Antedios pleaded, his voice tight with desperation, as he addressed the imperious Roman.
A visceral rage, potent and unfamiliar, surged through me. I fought to contain it, my breath catching in my throat. I couldn't see, but my eyes betrayed the fury I felt. Unknown to me, my eyes turned green and slitted like a mythical beast. My teeth clenched as I listened to the Roman's condescending tone.
"King Antedios," Corvinus began, his voice dripping with false sympathy, "I understand your rage. That is why Lady Agrippina has come up with an alternative solution." He paused, savoring the anticipation. "Lady Agrippina suggests that if someone from your tribe can bring the head of the Fomorian Thrumbolg, your debt shall be paid."
The name Thrumbolg struck me like a physical blow, freezing me in place. Every Iceni knew of the giant Thrumbolg, a monstrous Fomorian who had fled the Tuatha Dé Danann in free, now terrorizing the nearby villages from his lair in the Hæþfeld woods. The audacity of the Roman proposition was staggering. How could anyone possibly slay such a creature? Lord Antedios, burdened by age, was certainly not the one.
My mind raced, landing on a single, daunting possibility: Lord Prasutagus. He was the greatest warrior our tribe had ever produced; his strength was legendary. The Romans knew this, but Lord Prasutagus was now gone. Why else would he propose such a task? A chilling realization dawned—Corvinus wasn't just offering a solution; he was orchestrating a death sentence, veiled in a pretense of mercy.
My promise to Lord Artor, to protect our home, echoed in my mind. My hand, seeking an anchor, tightened around a wooden pillar outside Lord Antedios's dwelling. The wood groaned and cracked under my grip, the sound sharp and sudden in the charged silence.
"Who is that?" Lord Antedios's voice, laced with alarm, shattered the moment. I knew I had been discovered, but instead of fleeing, I entered the roundhouse, my head held high.
Lord Antedios and Lady Niamh's eyes widened in disbelief. "Boudica, what are you doing here? And why were you lurking outside?" Lady Niamh asked, her confusion palpable.
With a respectful bow to Lord Antedios and Lady Niamh, I turned my gaze, burning with defiance, towards the Roman. "I will do it," I declared, my voice ringing with a resolve that surprised even myself. "I will kill Thrumbolg."
A silence descended upon the roundhouse. Every eye was upon me, the weight of their shock palpable. My words hung in the air, a bold challenge against the Roman's decree. Then, a coarse snort from one of Corvinus's guards broke the spell. The Romans, as if a single entity, laughed, their derision a fresh insult to my already simmering fury. They saw a woman's boast, a futile gesture. They had yet to understand the true strength of Iceni when her home, her people, and her honor were at stake.
Corvinus scoffed, his guards echoing his derision, "You? A child thinks they can kill a giant, a girl especially?" I met his gaze, my disgust for the Romans palpable. Their laughter died as my voice, clear and unwavering, silenced them. "Little girl, do you know what you are asking?" Corvinus continued, his tone condescending. "Little girls should stay at home and not fight." His eyes fell upon the Sword of Serios sheathed at my side. "Speaking of which, that is quite the weapon you have. Let me see?"
As Corvinus reached for my sword, he recoiled with a cry of pain. "Ugh!" he yelled, clutching his hand, which burned from proximity to the Sword of Serios. "What is that damn sword!?" he demanded, his voice strained. "Answer me!"
"This is the Sword of Serios, granted to me by the Goddess Sothis!" I declared, drawing the blade from its scabbard. From my side, I grasped the Shield of Serios. The crest of Serios blazed on my chest as I pointed my sword at the Roman pigs. "On the name of the Goddess, I will bring the head of Thrumbolg before the next season!" My declaration caused the sword, shield, and crest on my chest to glow with an intense light.
A hush fell over the entire roundhouse. The assembled Romans and my people alike stared at my radiant weapons and crest with silent awe. I noticed a flicker of confusion in some eyes at the mention of Sothis; a sentiment I understood, as I had never heard of her until I met the Goddess. Yet, the power that now filled the air, growing heavy with the presence of Sothis.
Corvinus, regaining his composure, glared at me. "If you wish to die so much, then fine. You have until the next season to bring Thrumbolg's head. If you cannot, Rome will come for your tribe. We will take payment." His gaze swept over Lady Niamh and me.
Lord Antedios's eyes widened in fury, and he gritted his teeth, his body beginning to stir. A faint aura enveloped him as he grew. Lady Niamh's eyes widened in alarm, and she quickly moved to restrain King Antedios, whispering words of calm. The Romans trembled, and Corvinus, sensing the shift in power, hastily fled King Antedios's home. "Remember my words, girl," he spat as the Romans retreated.
"Boudica, what were you thinking?" Lady Niamh asked, her hands still on her now-calmer husband. I closed my eyes, feeling my rage subside. Though I considered my earlier words, I felt no regret for my actions. Lord Artor was doing his part to protect our home; it was time for me to do mine.
"Lady Niamh, I am doing what I must. I heard what those Roman pigs were asking. That cannot be allowed! Not in a time like this, that's why I will fight my way to honor our home," I declared, my voice echoing the sentiment of my people.
King Antedios stared at me, his eyes filled with sadness. He knelt down, his gaze meeting mine. "Boudica, this is not your burden to bear, but I can tell that no matter what I say, you will not change your mind. I can see that you have the same fire in your eyes that Prasutagus had," King Antedios said.
Lady Niamh, silenced by the King's words, looked at me with newfound understanding. Her own eyes softened as she knelt and embraced me. I felt my own eyes well up, touched by the unwavering support I was receiving.
"Boudica, I will train you," King Antedios announced, his words catching me by surprise. My eyes widened at his serious declaration. "If you are truly serious about this, you will need help. Everything that I taught Prasutagus, I will teach you," he added with a reassuring smile.
I clenched my weapons tighter, a surge of determination coursing through me. Then, I smiled brightly at King Antedios. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I look forward to your teachings," I replied with a deep bow, my resolve hardening with each passing moment.
King Antedios smiled before leaving the room. He returned shortly, carrying a magnificent spear that immediately captivated my attention. Its shaft, bound with dark bands reminiscent of the elders' protective charms, was both strong and elegantly crafted. Little bronze studs, like miniature suns or perhaps blessings from Lugh himself, were embedded along its length, gleaming even under the cloudy sky. My fingers tingled with an irresistible urge to touch them. And the blade… gods. It was unlike any spearhead I had ever witnessed. It curved like a sacred oak leaf, yet possessed a sharpness so keen it seemed capable of cleaving a whisper in two.
"Come, Boudica, follow me," King Antedios commanded. I chased him, my heart pounding with anticipation. As we traversed the tribal grounds, I could hear the murmurs of the villagers. The whispers, once laced with nervousness and fear, had transformed into a palpable excitement. The tribe's gaze was fixed upon our King, who now seemed to radiate the aura of a God of War.
I could hear the entire tribe's footsteps following us. "Boudica?" Mother called out to me, confused. I smiled reassuringly at her. She looked at me, then at King Antedios, before giving me a proud look as she joined us. We soon reached the fields outside the village. King Antedios and I stood apart as he readied his spear.
"Boudica, today and onwards I will train you," King Antendios declared, his stance shifting into a wild posture. "Now come, show me the power this Goddess Sothis gave you."
I took my stance, the Sword of Serios at my side, my shield ready. For a moment, the world fell silent before King Antendios appeared directly in front of me. My eyes widened as I instinctively blocked his sudden assault with my shield. I held back a cry as my arms trembled under the impact, yet the pain was less than I had expected. The Serios shield glowed from the force of Lord Antendios's attack.
Lord Antendios let out a hum of interest as he eyed my shield. "It seems your shield possesses the ability to weaken attacks," he observed, and I responded with a slight grin.
With a cry, I swung my sword, its blade slicing through the air. Power surged through my arms, fueled by my crest. I could feel my limbs strain under the force of my attack, and King Antendios's eyes widened at the speed. Lord Antendios blocked my offensive with practiced ease, but my own eyes widened with elation as I saw his feet dig into the dirt. Knowing a single swipe wouldn't be enough, I swung the Sword of Serios again and again. King Antendios parried each of my relentless attacks.
Gritting my teeth, I felt the Sword of Serios glow, and a small blade of light shot forth. King Antendios grinned and swiftly swiped his spear, causing my attack to dissipate. "Impressive, Boudica," he stated, and I could see the tension in his muscles.
King Antendios then dashed across the field, twirling his spear and attacking from my flank. I attempted to leap away, but he was already behind me. A sharp pain shot through my head as the handle of King Antendios's spear struck me. Stumbling back, I touched my head, feeling blood trickle down.
"Boudica!" my mother cried out, but I offered her a reassuring smile. She hesitated, but I shook my head. My mother gave me a look of concern, but restrained herself from intervening.
The Serios shield pulsed, and I felt the throbbing pain in my head fade. As my head healed, my sword glowed, and I sensed the healing speed up. King Antendios narrowed his eyes, witnessing my wounds vanish. "How interesting," he commented, his gaze sharp. "A shield that heals its wielder, and a sword that hastens that healing. Your Goddess has granted you quite the gift, Boudica."
The air crackled with unspoken tension as I narrowed my eyes, King Antendios a stark reminder of the insurmountable odds before me. I knew, with chilling certainty, that victory in this immediate confrontation was a distant dream. Yet, a fierce resolve burned within me. "Goddess Sothis, please grant me strength," I whispered a prayer, my voice barely audible above the thrumming of my heart.
A jolt of raw power surged through my veins, a celestial current that coursed into my very being. My crest, and the weapons I wielded, throbbed with an incandescent glow, mirroring the nascent power that ignited within me. Unbeknownst to me, my eyes, once pools of mortal determination, transformed, their irises shifting to a vibrant green, my pupils elongating into the predatory slits of a dragon.
With a primal roar, a sound I would later learn bore an uncanny resemblance to the ancient beasts themselves, I launched myself into the air. The force of my ascent was breathtaking, a testament to the divine energy now coursing through me. I descended with blinding speed, my blade aimed true at King Antendios. The impact was deafening, a percussive thunderclap that echoed across the vast expanse of the grass plains. King Antendios, however, met my onslaught with unnerving calm, a subtle smile playing on his lips as he effortlessly blocked my furious strike. I gritted my teeth, channeling every ounce of my amplified strength, pushing my blade downwards with all my might. Yet, the only discernible effect was the deepening of his feet into the scarred earth beneath us.
"Well done, Boudica," King Antendios's voice, laced with a surprising gentleness, reached me. In that fleeting moment of acknowledgment, a searing pain erupted in my stomach. I gasped, a mixture of blood and spit escaping my lips as I crumpled to the ground, my weapons clattering from my loosened grip. With every fiber of my being, I pushed myself up, ignoring the throbbing agony in my abdomen, and locked my gaze onto King Antendios. "Never forget that pain, Boudica," he stated, his words resonating with the weight of prophecy. "We have five Roman cycles before the new season. You must be ready by the third cycle."
His pronouncement, though delivered with a harsh truth, somehow ignited a renewed sense of purpose. With a surge of defiance, I pushed myself back to my feet, retrieved my fallen weapons, and once again assumed a defensive stance. A wave of sound washed over me, a cacophony of cheers from the assembled onlookers.
"Boudica! Boudica!" The fervent cries of my name filled the air, and I felt a warmth spread through me, my eyes stinging with unshed tears. 'Lord Artor, Lady Sothis, can you see this?' I thought, a sense of happiness bubbling within me as I prepared myself to face King Antendios again, for as long as it would take. Our duel continued, a relentless dance of steel and spirit, until the velvet cloak of nightfall descended upon the plains.
As darkness enveloped us, my borrowed strength waned. The radiant power gifted by Lady Sothis ebbed away, leaving me utterly depleted. I collapsed to the ground, my limbs heavy and unresponsive, the ethereal glow that had surrounded my weapons extinguished. Just as consciousness threatened to abandon me, muscular hands caught me. King Antendios, his expression one of profound respect, looked down at me.
"Locrian, you and Mandubracius have raised a fierce child," I heard him say, his words a comforting balm as my eyelids fluttered shut. The last image seared into my mind was King Antendios's proud, benevolent smile before I succumbed to an exhausted slumber.
I awoke to the gentle light of a new day, my mother and King Antendios waiting beside me. A warm smile graced King Antendios's lips as he began my tutelage. Day after day, he meticulously instructed me, refining my swordsmanship, perfecting my shield work, and instilling in me a discipline that transcended mere physical prowess.
With each passing cycle, I felt my own innate power growing, a steady, discernible increase. It wasn't until the final Roman cycle that my rigorous training with King Antendios came to its intended conclusion. After a final, grueling day of practice, I retreated to sleep, only to find myself once more within the sacred confines of the temple, standing before the radiant presence of Lady Sothis.
"Oh my, look how you've grown, Boudica," Lady Sothis's voice resonated through the grand hall as she resumed her rightful place upon her throne. I immediately bowed deeply to the Goddess, a respectful gesture met with her amused chuckle.
"I can see that you are ready, Boudica," Lady Sothis declared, descending from her ornate throne with elegant grace. My head tilted in confusion at her cryptic words.
"Lady Sothis, where are we going?" I inquired, my voice laced with curiosity as she gently guided me through the hallowed corridors of her magnificent temple.
A soft, contented hum emanated from the Goddess as we traversed the sacred grounds. "From our connection, I could hear your desperate deal with that Roman pig," Lady Sothis revealed, her tone hardening slightly at the mention of my enemy. I instinctively frowned, the reminder of the "Roman pig" a bitter taste on my tongue. "That is precisely why you will need to be stronger," she concluded, her gaze steady and unwavering.
I nodded in agreement, acknowledging the truth in her words. My rigorous training under King Antendios had indeed forged me into a stronger warrior. My arms bore the faint, sculpted lines of muscle, and my form had blossomed. Yet, I knew deep within my heart that I was still not strong enough to face Thrumbolg.
"Lady Sothis, is this why you have called upon me again?" I ventured, seeking clarification.
Lady Sothis smiled warmly and nodded in approval. "That is correct, Boudica. It is why I am taking you to my altar," she said.
We arrived at a vast chamber dominated by a majestic statue of Lady Sothis herself. The very air within the room seemed to shift, coalescing into a strange, palpable pressure that pressed down upon me. "Boudica, approach my altar. New power will fill you," Lady Sothis commanded, gently setting me down.
Without a moment's hesitation, I obeyed the Goddess's directive, drawing closer to her imposing statue. With each step, the air grew thicker, denser. Each movement became an arduous effort, and I found my breath growing shallow and ragged. When I was a mere three steps away, an invisible force compelled me to my knees, stealing the very air from my lungs.
Gritting my teeth against the searing agony, I crawled towards the altar. Every inch of movement was a trial; my body was wracked with excruciating pain. As I stretched out my trembling fingers to touch the sacred surface of Lady Sothis's altar, the oppressive air became an unbearable torment. The pain was unlike anything I had ever endured, exceeding even the harsh lessons learned during King Antendios's demanding training.
The instant my fingertips contacted the altar, the pain vanished as if it had never existed. I forced myself to stand, feeling inexplicably fine, my body light and unburdened.
"You have passed, Boudica. That pain was a test to gauge your strength. Had you not been strong enough, I would have sent you back. But you have passed, and now you shall claim your reward." Lady Sothis's voice was soft yet triumphant as she suddenly materialized beside me. A radiant beam of light descended from Lady Sothis's statue, bathing my form in its divine glow, and I felt a surge of raw power coursing through my very being.
My eyes widened as I looked down at my arms, which now pulsed with an undeniable power. The feeling intensified as I noticed my clothes transforming before me, solidifying into armor. This was no ordinary attire; it was magnificent protection fit for heroes or kings. As I flexed my limbs, I could discern faint, newly defined muscles in my arms and legs.
Raising a hand, I felt a distinct weight settle upon my head; a new headpiece had manifested. My gaze then fell upon my familiar purple cloak, but it was a new symbol emblazoned in the center of my skirt that truly captured my attention.
"Do you like it?" Lady Sothis inquired, gesturing towards the symbol. "That is my symbol, the crest of your lineage. It is the crest that Artor bears, and it is what binds you together. That very symbol now binds your two souls, even though Artor and you may be separated."
Lady Sothis's words warmed my heart. "Thank you, Lady Sothis!" I exclaimed gratefully, embracing her for all she had done. As I held her, however, I noticed something peculiar.
"Lady Sothis, why has my bust grown?" I asked, curious about this subtle yet noticeable change.
Lady Sothis shrugged, her brow furrowed in thought. "All the blessings do is to bring an ascension; to bring forth new strength, Boudica. You look slightly older; it seems your ascension has compelled your body to mature, to better accommodate the power you now wield." She scrutinized me. "Boudica, when you awaken, you will find your body has changed to what it is now."
A flood of new information filled my mind as I nodded. I already understood the true nature of the blessing I had received. I was no longer a mere commoner; I was now a Priestess of Sothis. Despite the simple change in title, it felt as though my entire being had been transformed.
"Good night, Boudica," Lady Sothis said, her voice soft. "Until you grow stronger, we will not meet again. But when we do, it will be here, once more." She hugged me tighter, and my vision blurred as I succumbed to sleep, Lady Sothis's quiet song a gentle lullaby.
Upon awakening, I found Lady Sothis's words to be true. My body had indeed changed, and I looked older. Thirteen winters was now the closest reflection of my appearance. A smile bloomed on my face as I realized, with newfound certainty, that I could now face Thrumbolg. The battle would undoubtedly be hard, but it no longer seemed an impossible feat.
A gentle light hit my eyes, causing me to wince. Following the source of the light, I saw my new clothes laid out beside me; the headpiece gleaming brilliantly. With an equally bright smile, I donned my new attire, retrieved my weapons, and prepared myself for training with King Antendios.
The chambers of my was thick with a familiar anticipation, and as always, I found King Antendios and mother waiting for me. Their eyes widened in unison at my appearance. "Boudica!" Mother exclaimed, her voice laced with concern, as she immediately inspected me. "What has happened to you? You look older, and these clothes?" she questioned, her gaze sweeping over my new attire.
"Mother, it is fine," I reassured her, my voice steady despite the lingering hum of newfound power. "Lady Sothis has given me strength for my quest to slay Thrumbolg. The goddess explained that my new power required my body to mature, to age, to better contain its immense energy." I watched as my explanation slowly eased the worry from my mother's face.
King Antendios remained silent for a moment, his eyes appraising me from head to toe. Then, with a sudden roar, he threw a powerful punch in my direction. My own eyes widened, not in fear, but in a surge of exhilaration. Instinctively, I moved Mother to the side, her safety paramount, and caught the King's fist. The memory of past encounters flashed through my mind–the usual bone-jarring pain that accompanied such a grip. But this time, there was nothing. Only the solid, unyielding impact of his blow, absorbed with effortless ease.
A wide grin stretched across King Antendios's face. "Well done, Boudica," he boomed, his voice brimming with approval. "You truly have your Goddess's favor. It seems we'll need to increase your training." He released me with a hearty laugh, his muscular grip replaced by a friendly clap on my shoulder. "Locrian," he called to my mother, his laughter still echoing, "I'll bring Boudica home later."
And just like that, my training with the King intensified, becoming even more grueling than before for this last cycle. Each day brought a new level of exertion, a relentless pushing of my limits. The training grew harder, the demands greater, with each passing sunrise, as the day of my departure from the tribe loomed ever closer.
//Day of Departure//
Today marked a significant turning point. My mother and I departed from our home at the crack of dawn. Her grip on my hand was firm; her eyes glistened with unshed tears. "Boudica, your father would be immensely proud, and I know I am," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "Promise me you will return home," she pleaded, pulling me into a tight embrace.
"Of course, Mother. Nothing will deter me from returning. I carry the strength of you, Father, King Antendios, and the Goddess within me; I will come home," I vowed, her hug tightening in response.
We finally reached the tribal gates, where a crowd had gathered to see me off. King Antendios and Lady Niamh stood at the forefront, Lady Niamh's expression etched with discernible nervousness. King Antendios, however, met my approach with his mother and me, his gaze radiating pride. "Boudica, I see you off with immense pride. It is a heavy burden to rely on a child, yet I know that youth often harbors an extraordinary strength," he declared. "My great ancestor, Cú Chulainn, began his legendary path at a tender age. I see that same inner fire within you, and it is why I am confident you will slay Thrumbolg." With these words, he presented me with a small leather sack.
"Inside, you will find provisions and coin for your journey, Boudica. Travel safely," Lady Niamh added, her voice softer than the King's. I accepted the bag with a grateful smile and offered both rulers a hug.
After one last, lingering look and embrace with my mother, I passed through the gates, the cheers of the assembled tribe echoing behind me. As I waved goodbye, my thoughts drifted to Lord Artor, who was embarking on his own perilous journey.
"Lord Artor, I hope you are safe. As I promised, I will keep our home secure," I murmured to myself, turning southwest towards the dark embrace of the forest, the known lair of Thrumbolg. While the uncertainties of the path ahead remained veiled, one certainty burned within me: my blade would find Thrumbolg's head. Unbeknownst to me, a subtle symbol, placed upon my clothing by Lady Sothis, pulsed with a faint luminescence as my solitary journey began.
Boudica IV: Another's Journey End
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Author's Note: This long-awaited chapter is finally here! For future chapters, the story will alternate between Artor and Boudica's points of view, much like how Alm and Celica are the twin protagonists in Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia. I'll also be posting the CYOA today.
I've incorporated D&D class sheets, but reimagined them as Fire Emblem classes. Boudica is currently a Priestess, though this will change later. Artor has the Awakener perk, allowing him to share his abilities. Sothis, being linked to Artor, can also use Awakener.
Sothis used Awakener to change Boudica's class, but that's not all. She also made Boudica a Hero Descendant, just like Artor, for a simple reason. Sothis is a progenitor god who controls time, technically a type according to Nasuverse standards. Sothis, with her dominion over time, made a minor alteration to history, and the Hero Descendant perk played a role.
Boudica is now a Hero Descendant of Hippolyta through Hippolytus, who is Hippolyta's actual child. I hope you enjoy this concept. As you can see, Sothis playfully rewrote history.