Once upon a time, in an age before the gods…there was a young orphan, wiping her brow, as she worked the fields. Under the scorching sun, she was filled with exhaustion, yet pushed herself, for the sake of the community. Still, once the break arrived, she wasn't foolish enough to insist on working, instead going to the shades like all the other workers like her. She let out a wistful sigh, before smiling weakly, waving at the passing by soldiers on their horses.
Ah, if one day she could be just like them…Alas, the people needed their foods, and thus, they needed their fields tilted. Not that she was forbidden from applying to the patrol squads, that kept their lands safe as much as possible. Yet…when she tried in the past…
"You have two left feet, get outta here."
"Not everyone can be a warrior. Just do what you can do, okay?"
"Looking up to the knights of old is fine and all, but be realistic, okay?"
She grit her teeth at the memories. As a Pallum, they didn't have many strengths for their kind. At best, their small statue lent itself for agility and their eyes were perfect as scouts…But she lacked the former. Something about moving swiftly, to avoid and trick as much as one could…something about it just didn't jive with her. And being a scout wasn't what she wanted to be. With a nod to herself, she pulled out the picture book of hers, turning the pages. The illustrations were as beautiful as ever, the horse charge being her favorite part. The others teased her for being obsessed with a child's book for her age, but she didn't care. The images of Fianna were what got her through the day. She respected the soldiers who protected them, no question, but…they weren't like heroes. Those individuals were mostly focused around the gaping Pit at the center of the world. Here, in the 'outskirts', there weren't many people that could be considered 'hero' at all. Especially not ever since the fall of the Liberator Kingdoms years ago.
She knew she was unlikely to ever reach that status herself…but she wished she could do something. Or at the very least find something that can bring someone up to the level of Fianna. Alas, her dreams would remain dreams…until one day she heard a rumor, a legend.
In the nearby mountains, there was supposed to be a spirit sealed in a tombstone. A spirit just like the one from the stories of Argonaut, even! Many dismissed the idea, not even bothering going up there. It was a long distance away from the village, and those who had the skill were too busy doing their duty. Those who had the free time, in theory anyway, didn't have the ability to even try. She, Fenia, was no exception.
And yet, something burned in her heart. She left her duties behind, chasing after that selfish desire, after that miniscule chance of a miracle. While lacking in survival skills, she was experienced enough in foraging to survive on her own. Still, luck was on her side as well. Somehow, she never met any strong monsters. Anything else, she could wait out or avoid, by relying on her sight. She even took this as a sign that the spirit might actually be a thing. So she kept climbing, kept wandering, until she reached the top, seeing the tombstone…broken in half. With nothing in it. She tried praying to it, putting the halves back together, even do a ritualistic dance…but nothing happened.
The days, even weeks, spent to get up here…and there was nothing to it at the end. She couldn't help but fall on her knees, sobbing at her own foolishness. Suited her just right, hoping for something to change her life. She was destined to never live up to Fianna's deeds…At this point, she should've returned to the farm…then again, she might just get imprisoned for abandoning her duties. For being a dream instead of being a realist. She remained on the ground, unwilling to move. Were her dreams…Was it all meaningless after all…? If so…what was the point in carrying on with lif-
"What do we have here? A young girl, all alone, looking down? Well, that won't do at all!"
Fenia scrambled backwards, suppressing a screech. Then she blinked at the hooded person, smirking at her playfully. Naturally, it did nothing to put her at ease, because they were in the middle of nowhere.
No one would know her screams.
"W-Who are you?"
"Just your humble merchant!" She bowed dramatically, before raising her hood ever so slightly, revealing a white eye mask. Fenia just stared at her even more incredulously. "So, what has you so down? In the middle of the boonies, up at the mountains?"
"What are you doing up at the boonies?" Fenia countered with a deep frown, slowly pushing herself up. The Mystery Merchant (actual name pending) giggled before shrugging casually.
"Touche. Well, I was following you. Wondered why a young woman like you was walking around all alone. Dangerous times and what not."
And a merchant walking around alone wasn't dangerous itself? She was about to ask that, when she noticed someone leaning against a nearby tree. Arms crossed, with a weird looking sheathe at their hip, they nodded politely before glancing back at their surroundings. Bodyguard, right. Merchants actually had the money for that, didn't they?
Fenia couldn't help but laugh bitterly. Even merchants had more in life than she did.
"Hm. I just..:" She lowered her head in shame, her blonde messy hair fluttering in the wind."I just heard of a legend. It…it's silly."
"No awesome weapon or relic here, hm?"
She felt her eyebrow twitch. The merchant made it sound so casual, as if she saw this sorry sight plenty of times. At least she didn't sound mocking but…
"No…" She let out a shivering breath. "I just…I just want to be like Lady Fianna, you know? A strong, big knight. Nobody else seems to think there can be another…and maybe they are all right…"
"Eh, who cares what others think."
Fenia blinked. She raised her head, looking at the Mystery Merchant, who had her hands on her hips. Despite the mask and the hood, she could see the raised eyebrow.
"Huh?"
The merchant poked against her forehead as she knelt down, giggling lightly.
"You want to be a knight, right? Who is meant to stop you? It's your choice of career after all."
"But…but…" Fenia shook her head slowly. "I'm just…a peasant…"
"So?"
Something cracked in her mind. Slapping the finger away, Fenia stomped on the ground, tears welling up in her eyes.
"I-I don't know how to ride horses! I'm not fast, I'm not smart, I'm not skilled, I'm nothing!"
All the dark thoughts she managed to push away thanks to the picture book, to the stories she heard, came all out. Her low self esteem from low standing, lack of ability, came flowing out without stop. And yet…the Mystery Merchant was as unflappable as ever, shrugging casually.
"Nothing now perhaps." Her smile fell. For some reason, she radiated a weird wariness, one Fenia only saw in old veterans, retired soldiers. "But you think the heroes of old just fell off trees, being powerful and what not?"
Fenia opened her mouth, only to be unable to object. It was silly to imagine that anyone was born a natural hero. Yet she couldn't help but be incapable of seeing Fianna and her knights to be anything but the shining beacon of Pallum. Still…it was as if this merchant was telling her it was even possible for her, to become a hero…
Her musings were cut short when something was thrown at her. She let out a yelp, barely catching it, feeling its weight. Then she looked down, blinking at the object in her hands.
"W-What's this?"
"Training spear." The Mystery Merchant dusted her hands off with a small smile. "If you want to be a knight, you should start somewhere, instead of lamenting your own fate." Then without further ado, she walked away from Fenia, waving her hand casually, as her escort moved away from the tree as well. "Might as well make something out of this trip!"
Thus, Fenia was left alone with this stick and its sharp tip, staring at the gift. Wait, weren't weapons actually expensive? She sniffed, before wiping her eyes. This was too much of a present for her…but now that she had it, she should do something with it. The Mystery Merchant was right! So what if she was nothing for now? She just had to practice, practice and practice! She raised her spear up high, letting out a holler…before awkwardly standing there.
Practice what, was the question. She still had two left feet. Practice that? Or maybe try out some moves she saw during her time at the farm…nonono, she shook her head. Trying anything fancy was begging for injuries. Instead…basics, yeah. Basics sounded good. Just had to get skilled there and she could move on. She saw the thrusts during the soldiers' practice often enough. Just had to mimic it.
Grasp the shaft firmly, but not too hard, arms spread apart. Right foot forward, because she was right handed. Aim for something…ah, bark of the tree. Inhale, then stab forward with an exhale! She stumbled forward, hitting her head against the tree. She hissed, rolling around, holding her forehead before rubbing it with a tear in her eye. Okay, that was pathetic..but she still had to keep trying! With that in mind, she took her position again, trying to adjust her shoulders a bit, mentally going through the movements she saw. Just a week of practice, to get the bare minimum, so she could move on from there.
However…even when a week passed…she felt she was still too inadequate. Was she really happy, moving on to some other moves, if her stab still felt so pathetic? Sure, she didn't fall on her face again, and there was decent penetration to it, but…she felt she had to do more. She was Fenia, the orphan, the useless one. If she couldn't jump, sprint and move fast, she had to at least be good at this simple stab, right? So, she continued with this one singular move.
Breathe in. Breathe out. Step and stab. Hit the tree. Return to position. Breathe in, breathe out, step, stab, hit and return. Each time, her body moved just a bit more smoothly, a bit more accurate. Yet each time, she only felt frustration in her heart. Not good enough, she could be better. If Fianna was alive, she'd laugh at how pathetic she was. Naturally, the girl wasn't crazy, she took her breaks, but each time she didn't practice felt like wasting time, so she hurried to get food, water and sleep as fast as she could to return to her practice.
Soon, a week of practice turned into two. Then four. Then eight. Soon, time started to lose meaning, as Fenia entered a trance. Eat, sleep, thrust. Over and over, she practiced the attack, and always found something wanting in it. Just a bit too slow, not enough power, just didn't feel right. The flow of energy, starting from her foot, to the spear, it wasn't efficient enough. It wasn't moving fast enough. Too much strain, which wasted energy. Her aim wasn't good enough either, the tip of her spear not hitting the same spot twice. She had to aim smaller, so she missed smaller, only the miss was gone. With her mind rapidly demanding more and more, pushing her body with its desire for perfection, Fenia was completely unaware, of the shift, the change, she was undergoing.
If there was anyone that passed by, they would have said she passed minimum skill ages ago. That one week was more than enough to get her up to par. And yet, she was alone, with no one, no enemy, but herself. No one to stop her, to talk her down. Thus…with no sanity around, it was only natural that she descended into the world without logic.
Soon, she stopped counting time. Soon, she stopped being aware of it. She stopped counting the trees she put holes into. She stopped caring that her spear was a mere blunt stick at this point. She only stopped if she felt hungry, sleepy, thirsty, any of those conditions. And those times became rarer and rarer, as her thoughts started to cease, her body moving just by the wish of her heart.
To be better. To be more. To leave the pathetic Fenia behind and take just a single step towards Fianna.
The sun rose. Stab. Stab. Stab. Stab. Stab. Stab. Stab. Stab. Stab. The sun went down. Stabstabstabstabstabstabstabstab. The sun went back up.
With a final yell, her breath raspy, she pierced forward. The rock cracked, behind tree, and she pumped her fist in self celebration. Haha, finally, hundred stabs in one row, hitting the same spot perfectly! Her legs wobbled for a moment. Ah, how pathetic. She really needed to work on her stamina. Wiping her sweat, she nodded to herself in mild satisfaction.
"Ah, finally…Hehe, basics complete…"
Now she could actually move on to something else. Just mastering how to thrust, having to spend so much effort that everyone else could do…Fenia blinked before tilting her head.
"How long have I been up here…? Damn, Fenia, you really are an airhead sometimes…"
Was it months? It couldn't have been a year, right? Then again, her clothes were not exactly in their best state…She pressed her lips together. She really needed more training. More everything. But…what if she wasted her life away, mastering the basic skills of a knight, and end up like an old woman who wasn't capable of doing anything? She looked down, down the path she first came up. She exhaled slowly.
"A knight should do good deeds…She wouldn't just stay in the mountains this entire time…" She slapped her cheeks, hyping herself up. "Alright world, here I come!"
Perhaps it was a bit premature, but she decided to get some practical experience! Theory was fine and all, but a true hero would learn by deeds! Even if she only figured out how to thrust properly in combat, that was better than nothing. Dropping her practice weapon, realizing it would do her no good at this point, she was determined to get a new one somewhere. Either that or a sturdy staff would do, those were cheaper. With that in mind, she wandered down, rubbing her growling stomach as she drenched her dry throat.
As she descended, she was ignorant of her monstrous actions. She was not aware how it was physically impossible to have reached the stone wall through the tree, the spear she had not remotely long enough. She was not aware that she had dropped nothing…for her spear was long gone at this point, having been reduced to splinters from the abuse it suffered from. She was not aware that she not only moved her spear the exact same way, perfectly, a hundred times in a row at the end…but that she was thrusting for twenty four hours, without losing her focus.
Soon enough, she arrived in civilization. Not her old village, it would have been a bit awkward to be back there after so long. Instead, she reached one of the bigger cities. Naturally the guards eyed her with distaste, as she looked like an useless bum. Yet the city was open to all, as long as one wasn't a criminal. Bowing in gratitude, she would soon dedicate herself to her old task, so to say. Odd jobs, to scrounge together enough funds. It started with regular cleaning work, delivering packages, the likes. It took a while, until she had enough to buy a simple staff. With that in hand, she could move on for some proper money making.
Taking down monsters. People laughed at her, for her foolishness. Still, she was aware, but did it anyways. So, she walked out, in order to take down the beasts of the depths. She heard plenty of horror stories about them, how one could easily kill an adult human male if not careful. So, she was careful. Facing her first monster made her nervous, sweat profusely. Yet her body moved on its own, honed by her training…and killed the goblin in one shot, her staff splattering its brains all over the ground. She blinked, before tilting her head.
…That was a bit too easy. Maybe the monsters in the area were rather weak? It would explain why the city was so wealthy. Weak monsters meant easier time to gather magic stones. She nodded to herself. Yup, that had to be it. She ignored the weird stares she received when showing off her loot, probably not expecting a Pallum of her status to do this sort of job.
Thus, her days went by. She didn't get much experience from murdering a couple dozen monsters per day, as they all died by one shot. Wolves, goblins, even the occasional scorpion, they all just died with one shot. It was kind of a let down, after all her daydreams of fighting massive beasts that could take her life at any moment. If there was another thing that bothered her, it was the stares. The whispers. She rolled her eyes in exasperation. After all this time, they really had to get used to a Pallum doing the works. Dismissing them, she didn't allow anything to put her mood down. Running towards the market, she picked out a helmet, covering her head, with a solid visor, and a new proper spear. Sadly that was all she could afford, as she spent all of it on quality products. So she was a Pallum, with a shining steel spear, a fresh new helmet…and rags.
Kinda embarrassing, but she still giggled like a fool to herself. She had a helmet! She was like a knight now! Not in skill, but at least half the look! She always dreamed of this, in her life!
"Geez, you sure filled out."
Fenia's ears twitched. That voice sounded familiar. Spinning around, she gasped, covering her mouth at the familiar hood and eyemask. The individual smirked at her, before Fenia bowed deeply at her with respect.
"Mystery Merchant!"
"So that's my name now? Fair enough." Smacking her lips, she pointed at the helmet that Fenia took off at this point, resting underneath her arm pit. "Just a helmet thought?"
"I-I can't afford more. And, hehe…Knights should have helmets, right?" Fenia said, slightly blushing as she scratched her left cheek.
"Fair, fair." The Mystery Merchant snapped her fingers. Immediately, someone came to her side, presenting a small set of armor. Fenia's eyes widened when they were handed over to her, basically thrown into her arms. "Here you go."
Stammering, she frantically shook her head, even as she salivated at the sight of it.
"I-I can't possibly accept this! I didn't pay you back for the practice spear back then either!"
"Yes, you can. You already paid me enough." The merchant smiled softly at her, before squishing her cheeks together. "Look at you. You surpassed my expectations. When I told you to start somewhere, I didn't expect this." She nodded, pride shining as she removed her hands before it got too embarrassing. "And your eyes especially…they have this certain shine to them."
Fenia giggled, unable to help herself. She sure was nice, even if she was exaggerating things a bit. She lowered her head in gratitude once more. If it weren't for her words of encouragement, she would have never found the courage to reach above her station like that.
"Hehe…"
Just as she was about to say more, a loud rapid ringing of a bell sounded in the area. The merchant stiffened up, her hand shaking as her head snapped towards the announcer running through the streets.
"Announcement! Announcement! A Black beast has been sighted! A construct of deadly earth, towering above two men, it is on its way to us! The city asks for support from all able men and women! We may be the outskirts, but we will not lose to those that fight at the center of the world! Announcement, announcement-!"
"They just keep popping up, those monsters…" The merchant growled, eyes narrowed behind her mask. Fenia bit her lip, having never seen the casual and confident woman so…angry. So traumatized even. Looking back down on the armor, Fenia nodded to herself before putting her spear down. As she put on the chest piece, Fenia looked at the Mystery Merchant with a fire in her eyes.
"Do you know where they are gathering volunteers?"
"Outside the east gate, you can't miss it." The merchant smiled weakly before nodding at Fenia. "I wish you good fortune."
"Thanks!" Finished with putting on the armor, she put the helmet on, lowering the visor as she grabbed her spear. But just as she was about to sprint, a hand grasped her shoulder.
"Wait." Fenia turned around, seeing the merchant take a deep breath. "A true hero is not someone who trained the hardest, or saves the most people or is blessed by the gods. A true hero is someone who faces a great trial. Who faces despair…and doesn't break."
Fenia blinked. It almost sounded like she was talking from experience…but that would be silly. Still, something resonated in her heart, hearing those words. Yeah…only because she trained hard, didn't mean she was like Fianna yet.
This…golem, would make or break her dream. Her fire ignited even more, growing bigger and bigger in her chest.
"I'll be back!"
Registering with the local army was a hassle and a half. Only her reputation as a monster killer got her through, the skepsis almost enough to kick her out. Still, shiny armor and weapon were a good way to get through anyway. Soon enough, she was assigned to the fighter groups, guarding the caravans filled with healing aids and food. As she wandered around, trying to calm her nerves, she caught something moving. With a frown, she approached the crates. Turning around a corner, her eyes widened at what she saw.
"Hey, what are you doing here?!"
She may not have been the smartest of the bunch, but even she knew a little kid had no place here! The red head froze up, before scoffing and looking away, cowering in the corner.
"...None of your business."
Fenia rolled her eyes before grabbing the boy by the wrist. He struggled, but he had no chance against her.
"Well, it is. I can't live with myself if a kid like you gets himself killed. We are going into danger. This is no place for you."
"That thing destroyed my village! Killed them all…!" Fenia froze. She looked at the boy, sniffing, but trying to keep up an angry expression. "I…I want to see it die…!"
She bit her lip. She should've ignored his story. Get him out of here. And yet…what kind of knight would she be, if she couldn't fulfill the wish of one boy, one orphan to another? With a heavy sigh…she let go.
"Okay, fine. But you stay behind me, at all times, got it? And once we get into battle, stay as far away as possible."
The boy blinked, before rubbing his eyes, smiling weakly in gratitude.
"What's your name, miss?"
"Just consider me a foolish spear user, teehee!" Fenia said, winking at him through her visor. She could introduce her properly later. For now, she could roleplay as the mysterious knight for a bit longer.
Soon enough, the army arrived at the battlefield. And Fenia shivered, her spine ice cold, as she looked upon what they were going to face.
Size of two adults her ass, that thing was at least seven meters tall! Maybe more! The golem was thick and jagged, as if coming out of a hellscape with its obsidian like rock hide. If nothing else, it at least appeared slow, content with moving with heavy steps forward, each step feeling like a rumbling earthquake. Fortunately, the leaders of the army got into action.
"Stick to the plan! Cavalry, aim to weaken the legs! Mages, aim for the head, but center mass is fine too if you can't aim! Archers, on your positions! Vanguards, get ready!" He swiped his arm down with a sharp movement. "ATTACK!"
A battle cry echoed, defying their fear, the rumbling of the ground. Horses screeched as they rushed forward, by the knights raising their weapons. The mages began to chant, ready to blast the golem into smithereens. Arrows were sent flying, to at least distract the beast.
And then…everything went wrong.
Its right arm swung. It moved too fast for its size. Many soldiers could barely widen their eyes, before they were sent flying as broken messes. The few that got past…their weapons did absolutely nothing. Even the mighty dwarves bounced away from the stone, before being smashed by a mere footstep. The arrows didn't even deserve mentioning. Yet, their hope arrived, when the chants were finally finished, the elements called forth. Flying like mighty stars shooting through the heavens, they hit the golem head on…and slid off its body. As if it was slick with oil and they threw balls at him.
Deadly silence filled the air. Weapons clattered with shaking…and then were dropped. One screamed, running away. And when one broke…everyone else broke. Especially when the golem began to move faster. Not much faster, but the increased imposing pace was the last straw. The leaders tried, to maintain morale, but it was meaningless.
"EVERYONE FOR THEMSELVES!"
"WE ARE DOOMED, DOOMED!"
"LET ME GO, I WANT TO SEE MY FAMILY!"
"SOMEONE FROM THE CENTER, WE CAN'T DO THIS!"
Everyone ran. Leaving the frontlines behind in fear, with broken morale. Everyone turned their backs on the mighty titan, the king of the lands and desiring to crush them all.
Everyone…except one. For some reason…Fenia just felt her beating heart. Her slow breaths. A muted world around her, as she stared at the beast before her.
"This is no monster…! This is a calamity…! We are all doomed, aaaaah…!" Someone pulled at her arm. "Oi, missy, we have to retreat!"
She casually shook him off, before moving forward, spear in hand.
"You first."
"This is suicidal!"
"So what?" She smiled slightly before cracking her neck, narrowing her eyes at the front. "Somebody has to stop it."
"Big sis, no!"
Fenia giggled, surprised the boy managed to reach this place. How naughty. Ruffling his hair, she nodded at him.
"Stand back and watch, okay?"
Then she kept moving forward, facing the titan. She exhaled, as she grounded her feet, widening her stance. She flexed her fingers on her spear, narrowing her eyes. The titan ignored her. The Black Golem kept moving forward, its steps breaking the ground with each time. The few that stayed behind, that were close enough, looked away, not wanting to see that delusional woman being torn to pieces. Yet the young boy kept looking. Kept staring…and thus didn't miss the weird light that surrounded Fenia. It must have been a trick of the sun, but…
"You shall not pass…"
The monster was right upon her. Its foot right above her head. And with the sun being blocked…Fenia let out a sharp yell, thrusting her spear forward. It should've broken. The foot should have been unstopped, crushing her under its foot.
Instead…the Golem stumbled backwards, falling down on its behind. Fenia on the other hand screamed in pain, from the recoil, as her own arm almost tore itself off from her shoulder as her weapon bounced off as well…unbroken. The boy gaped at the sight. The ones that looked away looked back at the weird noise, before their jaws dropped down at the sight. Fenia hissed, forcing her arm back into place…before noticing that the golem loomed over her. She looked up as well, smirking at the titan.
For the first time, the abnormal monster looked at her. Her, specifically. She thought she saw it narrow its eyes ever so slightly. Good. Instead of a pest…she was considered an opponent now. Suited her just fi-
The fist moved before she even realized it. She barely grit her teeth in time…before it landed straight into her body. Not her face, not her stomach, her entire front was hit by it. The helmet and armor bend, shattered, as if it was mere porcelain…and yet, the body within did not shatter. It was pushed back, her feet drawing lines across the ground…but she still breathed when she came to a stop, much sooner than anyone would've thought. She did not take a single step back, even as her head was bent backwards, eyes rolled up in her skull. The golem raised its fist again, intending to crush her.
"I said…you shall not pass…"
The spear moved again, just before the fist could descend. In a snap second, she was back into her thrust position, and attacked. The boy and the other spectators rubbed their eyes, as the golem was hit by something in the chest. But the Pallum was too small, the spear too short, what did it get hit by?! The golem let out a rumbling sound, as if displeased, and hit the ground with its foot. The ground shattered, destroying Fenia's footing, only for another fist to send her flying. She bounced off the ground, bones cracking, before coming to a stop, face down, covered in blood. She twitched, coughed, as the titan was about to move pass her…only for her to leap to her feet. The golem stopped, as if shocked, as she used the bottom of her spear to send herself up. Swaying, stumbling, she stopped before the golem. Then, she lowered her center of gravity, and reared her spear back once more.
"YOU! SHALL NOT! PAAAAAAASS!"
This time, Fenia was not satisfied with only one attack. This time, she figured out how to chain her attacks properly, pushed by her urge to live, by the agony that wrapped around her entire body. Her spear hammered into the golem, pushing it backwards. Then, it rooted its own feet, and tried to punch back. However, Fenia wisened up at this point, and hit back the punches as much as she could. Even as the recoil hit her body head on, even as she spat out blood with each attempt…she smiled widely as she thrusted her weapon, without a care.
What she did before was just mere clean up. Nothing different from her practice stabs. But this…yes, this…this was an actual fight, to sharpen her skill, to gain experience, for her dream!
"Hahahahahahahahahaha!"
Yet as much as she enjoyed this, as much as she looked like a lunatic, frustration began to bubble up in her chest. Even if she could push that thing back…none of her attacks were piercing it at all. And even if they did, would it have bothered the titan at all? Still, she had nothing but her thrusts. Her heart beat rapidly, showing her how alive she was. And she had no idea why…but she thought back to her training. The familiar feeling in the mountains. She narrowed her eyes. The fists. Aim small, miss small. Hundred each, the exact same spot.
Shockwaves sounded, over and over as she took aim and let her spear loose. Even as her arms cramped, her bones screamed for mercy, she roared in defiance, eventually causing cracks in the golem's fist. Like a nail being hammered over and over, she was starting to weaken its fists. Yet she knew, that she would die if nothing else changed. Just hitting the right spot didn't matter. Accuracy was meaningless.
She needed to finish it in one hit. Not for practice, not to feel better about herself, but to save the people behind her, to slay the monster before her!
"RIGHT SIDE! WHERE A KIDNEY WOULD BE! RIGHT ABOVE THE HIP!"
Fenia didn't even doubt the words, her mind was so tired. She didn't bother to consider how the young man came up with that insight. All she did…was what the idiot always did.
Thrust. Her. Spear.
She wanted to be like Fianna.
She wanted to be a great Pallum.
She wanted to be…someone worthy!
Time crawled down to almost a stop…as something clicked in her mind. The world became so much more clear to her. She could feel everything, of her own body. The smallest twitch of her muscles. The flood of her blood. The energy of momentum. She grabbed a small point..and started to move it, smoothly through her body. Foot, to leg, to hip, to arms…to spear.
In that process, everyone else felt something was off. They couldn't breathe, they could only watch as they got goosebumps. And the golem? Even as it sent forward another straight…its eyes were wide. The small being defying it didn't cause much more than frustration. The pain it felt was miniscule. So why…why…?
Why did it feel this fear, as if facing a fist so much larger than itself?
Fenia on the other hand…just smiled. As she felt no pain in that moment. No recoil whatsoever. Her flow…was uninterrupted. Hundred percent, nothing wasted, went into her spear. Thus, the tip thrusted forward, aiming for the spot she was told to aim.
A calamity? No, this was no calamity. No punishment. No doom.
This…was a [ruby=Falna] blessing [/ruby] of the gods. A stage where the light of the Pallum could shine once more. And shine…it did.
It was as if a light manifested itself. A ray of the sun incarnated, it soared forward, in a blink of an eye. It pierced through, burning all, the golem's side, and the hidden core, utterly obliterated. Its eyes stopped glowing, its entire body ceasing…as the beam kept moving. On and on and on…until it hit the mountain at the back. Even with human eyes…the onlookers could see the scorchmark, far off at the distance. Before they knew it, they fell to their knees, clasping their hands together, as the titan crumbled down…with Fenia remaining standing, her arm still extended forward.
Fenia at last achieved the perfect metamorphosis. Training tempered by combat has resulted in this conclusion. In that moment, as a blinding light had pierced through the air… a monster was born.
Her spear has finally been perfected.
She raised her weapon at the sky, breathing heavily despite her injuries, as if nothing was wrong.
"I'm finally worthy of you, right, Lady Fianna…?"
At last, with the battle done, she dropped down on her knee, her spear shattering at last with its duty fulfilled. The air exploded into cheers, those that ran away returning after hearing and seeing all the commotion, praising the mysterious Pallum knight.
/
Fenia's lips quivered. She hid underneath her blanket, bandages covering her modest body. She let out a strained whine as she heard the chanting once more, from outside. Ah, as if it wasn't bad enough that an orphan like her was in a palace with a fancy room, the people out there wouldn't stop cheering! She covered her face. She knew being a knight like Fianna meant fame, but this was beyond her expectations! She wasn't the most social of them all!
"Well, well, well. I didn't see this coming when I gave those words of encouragement."
"Gah!" Fenia glared at the intruder. "Stop doing that!"
"It's my thing," the Mystery Merchant announced, chuckling playfully. Fenia wasn't even going to bother asking how she got inside and past security. The merchant crossed her arms, nodding. "So, how does it feel? Surpassing mortalkind?"
Fenia bit her lip, smiling ever so slightly. She looked away, closing her eyes. Surpassing mortalkind…the fight with the Black Golem…all of it-
"Feels like a dream, right? You get used to it. Give it a few days. And then…it'll really hit you."
Damn mind reader. Fenia giggled at the ever so reliable advice of her supporter. Then she leaned her head against the bed, blanket still over her head.
"What are your plans now? Well, besides facing the crowd. They want to know who their hero is."
"Haha…hero, huh…?" Fenia trailed off. She looked at the mirror…at her own face. Who she really was, underneath that broken helmet. She pressed her lips together…before making her decision. "...I think…I won't use my name."
"Hm? Why is that?"
How to explain…Fenia weakly moved with her hands.
"Well…It's just…The Knights of Fianna were great heroes…they pushed through to the hole, against all odds…so it's just…sad that there aren't any today. It's like, nobody even bothers, you know?"
"How does that relate to not using your name?" The Mystery Merchant asked, tilting her head. Fenia pointed at herself with a lowered head.
"I might be a hero today. Silly little Fenia. But…what happens once I'm gone? I'll just be another girl in the history books people will sometimes talk about. That's…not what I want. I want people to pick up after me. So…" She took a deep breath, before forming a fist. "So…I'll turn myself…no, the name of Fianna, into a construct of eternity!"
The merchant's eyes widened, as Fenia dropped the blanket, rising to her feet.
"The Fianna of the past. The Fianna of the present. The Fianna of the future. The name of the knights shall continue on, as long as one is willing to take up the mantle. That way, the knights, the bravery of the Pallum, shall be a symbol that will last forever!"
"Are you sure about this?" The merchant asked quietly, putting a damper on her heat. "You can do the same as Fenia."
Fenia in return shook her head, scoffing at the thought of it.
"No, I can't. Because Fenia is just a country bumbpkin. An idiot that only knows how to thrust a spear forward and nothing else. She isn't suited whatsoever to become a symbol. She lacks in history, in weight, in allies." She folded her hands over her chest. "Fianna on the other hand…after everything she and her successor went through, they deserve to live on, don't they?" Chuckling lightly, she pointed at herself once more. "And if I show that I can do it, to pick up the mantle, surely everyone else will follow soon!"
"I'm no Pallum, so I'll leave it up to you." The merchant patted her shoulder with a nod. "As always, this is your path to walk."
"Thanks, Miss Mystery Merchant!"
"I really need a better title than that…"
Soon enough, the merchant disappeared once more. And with that…Fenia would face the crowds, taking in their smiles, their hopes and dreams and cheers.
"Who are you, milady? May we know the name of our hero?"
A dramatic pause. No turning back from here. She raised a spear, a new one, with a bright smile for the future.
"I am Fianna, knight of bravery! And I shall lead fellow knights alongside me, to bring us to victory!"
Thus, the start of the myth was born, of Fianna existing once more. The young boy she picked up would be the first of many, to become a squire, to become an honorary knight of the new band of Fianna. That young boy would eventually become the Hunter, the one hero that came directly after Doera. But that was a story for another time.
No one questioned her name. As she led the war parties across the outskirts of civilization, taking back territory, defeating monsters, nobody had any doubts of her being worthy of the name Fianna. However, there were still questions about her power.
No spirit. No divine weapon. No geass either. Nothing that indicated something abnormal. And yet…there had to be an explanation. A reason for her monstrous strength. Thus, theories were made and discarded, day after day. A new gift of the gods, unseen. Secret martial arts of the heavens. Even being the avatar of a god. Fenia felt sorrow in her heart, that her hard earned skills were being doubted like that…but she decided to leave it be. After all, 'Fianna' needed to have something, something special. A little mystery wouldn't hurt anyone, if it meant the name of Fianna was just a bit more awesome than usual.
However, while she managed to lead her warriors well, ushering a new era, while nobody doubted her mantle of Fianna…it did not mean she was lacking in enemies.
One fateful night, she received an emergency warning, as she wandered alongside the villages, with most of her knights back at the base. A panicking messenger reached her, warning her of a monster horde that was about to leave their nest. With only her alone, she was the only warrior available.
Her choice was made without hesitation.
"At least put on your gear!"
"Someone needs help, they can't wait for me to pretty up!"
Thus, she rushed out in her nightgown and a horse, leaving behind her armor. For every second counted in the face of disaster, as she trusted her subordinates to gather reinforcements in time. However…
When she met up with the group, a private army of a noble, and when they led her to the nest…they aimed their bows at her back. She heard the growling of the beasts at the front, and yet they all clearly aimed at her. When she glanced back, eyes wide, the noble laughed loudly at her before pointing at her.
"We have no need for a relic of the past. This is the age of mortals. Heroes and immortals have no place in this new era!"
Fenia couldn't help herself. She was wondering what this bad feeling was…so she just laughed. It shocked her traitors, enough that they couldn't react in time…when she caused a landslide, blocking them off. Boxing herself in, with numerous beasts salivating for her flesh.
"What the-?!"
"She cut herself off?!"
Unable to comprehend why she would ruin her own chances to escape…they still heard her laughter. So light and free.
"Ah…I'm so glad…!"
"W-What…?"
"Here I thought there would be no threat, but there is! Thank you for leading me to this nest! If I weren't here, who knows how far they would have gotten, in destroying all the villages in the vicinity! Yes, I truly thank you! I feared you were going to do something stupid like sacrificing villagers…but if it's just me…!"
"What is she babbling about…?"
Fenia kept her giddy smile, glad that this was all it amounted to. A simple backstab, just aimed at her. Her knights, her people, would be safe. All she had to do, was clean up. She grabbed a nearby stick, and held it in her hands as the monsters rushed at her.
"Tell me. What constitutes a knight?"
She heard her assailants trying to climb up, to see what was going on.
"Is it the armor they cover themselves in?"
The beasts came ever closer.
"Is it the legendary spear they wield?"
Fenia snarled, as she thrusted her spear forward…and taking out several monsters at the same time, piercing a hole through them, despite lacking an actual spear.
"Wrong! It is the unwavering, unclouded heart and mind, as they stand before evil, before destruction!" She cackled as she stepped forward, the ever solid vanguard that she was. "Tell me, you silly fools! When were you under the impression I needed more than my nightgown and a stick to fight?!"
She killed and killed and killed. She didn't get out of it unscathed, the beasts formidable. Lacking armor, healing potions, anything, they were bleeding her out. It truly was a vast nest. Manmade, or just nature being spiteful as ever? It didn't matter.
All she had to do, and knew, was stab her weapon. No matter how pale her skin was getting, no matter how cold her flesh was becoming. Even as her breath started to still, she still pushed forward. Until, the sun rose…and with it, a loud boom of destruction. The noble and his fellow traitors finally managed to navigate through the canyon maze…only to gape at the sight.
Corpses. Mountains of corpses. And at the horizon… free view at the sun. Which was impossible, because there was supposed to be a cliff blocking the view. And yet…there was a massive large hole. To make matters even worse…
"Where's the body?! We need her body, there is no way she survived all this! Where is the damn body?!"
But there was none. It was as if Fianna disappeared, after delivering divine judgement on the beasts. Disappeared as if…as if…the noble frantically shook his head. She couldn't…there was no way…!
"She ascended…! She must have returned to heaven…!" "Only a goddess could've done all this!"
"Utter nonsense! Complete lunacy!"
And yet, the thought remained in everyone's hearts. Was FIanna truly something beyond mortal comprehension? Something divine? Someone that came down to the mortal realm, to live as a mortal, when the time was at its darkest?
Unbeknownst to them, as faith twisted facts, Fenia's chest moved ever so slightly. Her eyes blinked, barely having the strength to remain open. But she could see it…the all too familiar eyemask, looking at her with tearful pride.
"You have truly been a wonderful customer…The least I can do is deny them your body…"
Fenia laughed lightly, as she felt her heartbeat still. As always, the Mystery Merchant sure was a softie. Thus…she slowly closed her eyes.
"Heh…I can't wait…for the next Fianna…"
Thus, she breathed her last breath…and entered the void. She was not aware how much time passed, or where she was. If this was some sort of afterlife waiting room for the gods, or if this was her final destination. But eventually, light would find her once more. She felt her body shift, dragged out whatever nirvana she was within, and found herself in a dark cave of some sorts.
Before she could even smile…she knew. The information appeared in her mind out of nowhere. And her smile…broke utterly, as her eyes twitched in realization. A weird noise sounded to her dull hearing, a sound she couldn't recognize.
There was never another Fianna. It was just her. Nobody else picked up the mantle, the name, to inspire everyone during dark times. As if that wasn't bad enough…the first and second…they were both combined into 'her' identity. Or rather…there was no difference between first, second or third.
There was just the one goddess.
She could've accepted that. It wasn't her intention, for her little lie to spiral out of control like this, but she would've been fine, to be deified. She'd be ashamed, embarrassed, even begging her predecessors for forgiveness. However…it did not stop there.
People found out the truth, about her not being divine.
And then…they all just…gave up…Discarded her…their legends…and just fell into despair…as if all she did was meaningless…just lies…
Ah. That noise…she faintly realized what it was. Her hands clawing away at her own face. Her knees hitting the ground, as the reality hit, as the knowledge settled that her hopes and dreams at the event of her death were completely misplaced and delusional.
That noise…
It was the sound of her own heartbroken screaming.
After that…the rest was known history.
Her intentions were not a mistake. Her wish was pure, and it was a successful lie. For years to come, the legend of Fianna would spread, just as she intended, renewing the vigor of the following generations, putting a fire of courage, of chivalry and heroism into their hearts. Even as the world twisted her wish, her existence, at the end, her actions had meaning. If there were but one thing to criticize about the girl who dreamed to be a knight…
It would have been the fact that she was lacking in her own self worth. She was too strong, for a mortal. Deification was the natural course of her history. But if she had separated herself from the name of Fianna…perhaps she could've avoided the fate that instead awaited her. She did not believe that the name Fenia was just as capable of creating a torch that lit up the path for the future, and thus, denied the chance for the Pallum race to rise beyond Fianna. And due to that lack of faith in herself…others lacked faith in themselves as well. Only faith in the divine. And when the divine became a lie…
It was only natural how swiftly all would crumble.
/
SERVANT SHEETS UNLOCKED:
Fianna-Fenia, the Fake Goddess
Class: Pretender
Strength: D
Endurance: C++
Agility: A
Mana: D
Luck: E
Magic Resistance B: Ability to resist magic. Cancels spells with less than three verses. Lowers effectiveness of stronger magic.
Divinity C: Level of divinity the user possesses and the grade of "purge defense" they have. At this level, one has been elevated to divinity post mortem, despite having no past ties to the divine whatsoever.
Avenger B: A skill symbolizing the accumulation of hatred and conversion of such into power. While carrying resentment in her heart towards her own race, her hatred is generated by herself onto herself. A self feeding cycle of loathing herself and exerting it on the people that turned her into this existence.
Culmination of Fianna B: Access to all sorts of abilities a knight should have. Due to representing the knight order that would represent the goddess Fianna, this skill allows usage of other skills said knights possessed at the rank of C, even if she herself never knew those skills. Skills related to archery, riding, swordsmanship, guardianship, mental fortitude as well as non combat skills required for knights like persuasion and the like were available to her. Grants minor disguise abilities, mimicking the appearance of other Knights of Fianna. On top of that, those skills do not degrade even when under influence, akin to Eternal Arms Mastership of the same rank. The knights of Fianna had a history across time itself. Fianna even has the capabilities of the 'First' if she so desired…which she never does.
Gae Geal A++: The one skill that can be said to be completely "hers", the skill that brought forth the change of the mortal to the divine. If she were summoned as a Lancer, as "herself", this would be her sole True Noble Phantasm. As a Pretender, this one lacks the weight of a Noble Phantasm, but it is still able to compete with such things.
The Bright Spear. The White Spear.
A style that is completely pure in its desire, form and insanity. A young girl feeling nothing but admiration for her predecessor, the "real" Fianna. A girl that desired to live up to the apex of knighthood…and succeeded. Day after day, enemy after enemy, she stabbed her spear forward. Over and over again, she grew and used a style utterly unsuited for her physique.
Until at last, she broke her limits. Went beyond her small body, the lack of divine help and turned into a [ruby=god] monster[/ruby] herself.
Standing her ground, she was the perfect Vanguard of her age. Going against the common sense and natural talents of her race, she rejected acrobatics, trickery, help like cavalry. Feet grounded, she would not take a single step back or aside. If she moved, she moved forward, to Thrust her spear that would be compared to the divine itself.
She was akin to individuals that achieved Nothingness or Infinity. Like them, she reached "Light". Perfect in form, once the Thrust was made, it would not be stopped. Perfect in body, once the feet were planted on the soil, they would not budge. Perfect in will, her very soul fueled her movements, not letting her fall until the enemy is defeated and those behind her were safe, as well as granting impossible weight to her blows.
Even if her mind is influenced. Even if she were to hold back, intentionally or not. Even if she were to fight not as a knight but as something else. Her skill with the spear would not degrade and maintain a level that is comparable to the rank of A, similar to the Eternal Arms Mastery skill.
Noble Phantasm
Name: Sieg - The Victorious Arms of Knights
Rank: B-
Type: Anti-Unit
Range: 1
Maximum targets: 1
The spear. The symbol of the past hope the Pallum race possessed. A golden spear that shone light in the darkness, the only glory the weak race ever had. A weapon said to be impossible to overcome. In that spear, the knights of Fianna would be concentrated, elevating an otherwise 'mortal' weapon into a fragment of divinity. Not only that, it possessed the ability to change form. As the avatar of the knights, of the Pallum race, the user can shift the weapon to their needs, having the forms of ten weapons available, including the spear.
A bow to dispatch far away enemies.
A set of gauntlets to utilize unarmed martial arts.
A halberd to take down cavalry.
A warhammer to crush any defense.
A set of daggers for super close combat.
A shield to protect the weak.
A longsword to cut down evil.
A whip to subdue opponents.
A staff to cast magic with.
While the spear form was its strongest form, with the other forms being greatly weaker in comparison, there was strength to be found in versatility.
Name: Fenian Cycle - Song of our Bravery
Rank: A
Type: Anti-Unit/Army
Range: 1-100
Maximum targets: 1-100
The stories of the first and final glory the Pallum race ever possessed. Over time they would become warped, forgotten, misunderstood. But at its core, the stories would remain. Knights, in the service of the goddess, or perhaps the goddess herself, would fight for the weak, protect the sick. The Noble Phantasm was the manifestation of hope, descending from the heavens. The belief that the knights of Fianna were a goddess that brought salvation to the Pallum Race.
When activated, the user would begin to sing, in a language long forgotten. Telling about the deeds of her knights, the courage of her people. During that time, she would increase her Divinity to A, becoming the full manifestation of the goddess Fianna.
Nine strikes, empowered by the divine. Nine verses of song, a story for each knight. A set up to mark the enemy, to make sure the final act would not miss its mark.
Fianna would then leap into the sky, before violently crashing down, spear first, like the vengeful Arcanum of a god, promising pure destruction fueled by the dreams of the Pallum race. The tenth and final verse, her very own.
A Noble Phantasm Fianna disliked to use, as it would reinforce the "lie" of being a goddess. Yet if she managed to push past her hatred, if her love for her knights was strong enough at that moment…perhaps she would use it. Either that or if she had cold rationality guiding her hand.
Name: Aimhleas - Despair Revealed By The Heavens
Rank: EX
Type: Anti-Unit (Self)
Range: 1-100
Maximum targets: 1-100
As the goddess gave hope to her race, so did she bring despair to them. The revelation of the real gods, that Fianna was a figment of imagination, that the glory of the Pallum were a complete and utter lie, broke the race. Thus, the divinity was cast down, as was their pride.
So it is only natural, that Fianna would hold the authority to cause it once more, this despair, for that was yet another 'gift' by her people. She would never willingly use this Noble Phantasm, for it would go against everything she ever stood for. But if she were to be completely controlled or if her spirit ever broke, this Noble Phantasm would cause her to lose all of the skills and Noble Phantasms she gained as a Pretender. In exchange, her class would be forcibly changed into an Avenger, a hate filled spirit fueled only by the desire to eradicate the people that turned her into that.
However, the main use of this Noble Phantasm was to 'bring one down', or rather 'destroy' their hope. The loss of the Pretender Class becomes fuel for energy, manifested as pure despair aimed at the target. Naturally, it would have the greatest effect against her own people or even the gods, but either way, it would utterly crush them mentally, while also diminishing them. Their pride, their goals, their dreams, all of them would crumble at the revelation of the 'truth'.
Fenia Lily, The Knight Before Ascension
Class: Lancer
Strength: B+
Endurance: A+
Agility: C
Mana: D
Luck: C
Magic Resistance B: Ability to resist magic. Cancels spells with less than three verses. Lowers effectiveness of stronger magic.
Divinity E: Level of divinity the user possesses and the grade of "purge defense" they have. At this level, one has been elevated to divinity post mortem, despite having no past ties to the divine whatsoever. Level reduced from C, as Lancer is summoned "before" her deification, leaving a bare minimum of godly aura.
Vanguard A+: A skill denoting once ability to be the first at the front and the last to leave. As long as one would stand their ground, protecting those behind them, the capabilities as a knight would increase, in strength and in endurance. Negates mental interference as well, while also increasing performance around her. One who leads by example, letting her actions replace the need for any real charisma. Increased effect when fighting completely alone, for the sake of others.
Lancer was the anathema to the regular Pallum mindset. No agility. No dexterity. Instead, she would keep her feet planted, grit her teeth, and take on all threats head on as she would annihilate them, to save those she entrusted her back to.
Eye of the Mind (False) C+: Ability to calmy analyze the situation and take the appropriate action to escape a predicament. Increased effect when figuring out how to protect others at the expense of the self.
Lancer was not a talented or intelligent person. Thus, she had to compensate with trying, with attempts, failing over and over, until knowledge forcibly inserted itself into her, to turn her into someone worthy of the name "Fianna" on the battlefield.
Noble Phantasm
Name: Gae Geal - Bright Spear of Victory
Rank: EX
Type: Anti-Unit (Self)/Anti-Army
Range: 1-100
Maximum targets: 1-100
The Bright Spear. The White Spear.
A style that is completely pure in its desire, form and insanity. A young girl feeling nothing but admiration for her predecessor, the "real" Fianna. A girl that desired to live up to the apex of knighthood…and succeeded. Day after day, enemy after enemy, she stabbed her spear forward. Over and over again, she grew and used a style utterly unsuited for her physique.
Until at last, she broke her limits. Went beyond her small body, the lack of divine help and turned into a [ruby=god] monster[/ruby] herself.
Standing her ground, she was the perfect Vanguard of her age. Going against the common sense and natural talents of her race, she rejected acrobatics, trickery, help like cavalry. Feet grounded, she would not take a single step back or aside. If she moved, she moved forward, to Thrust her spear that would be compared to the divine itself.
She was akin to individuals that achieved Nothingness or Infinity. Like them, she reached "Light". Perfect in form, once the Thrust was made, it would not be stopped. Perfect in body, once the feet were planted on the soil, they would not budge. Perfect in will, her very soul fueled her movements, not letting her fall until the enemy is defeated and those behind her were safe, as well as granting impossible weight to her blows.
Even if her mind is influenced. Even if she were to hold back, intentionally or not. Even if she were to fight not as a knight but as something else. Her skill with the spear would not degrade and maintain a level that is comparable to the rank of A, similar to the Eternal Arms Mastery skill. Not only that, it would elevate any weapon that qualifies a "spear" into an artifact that can match up even other Noble Phantasms and not be found wanting. Lancer could pick up a stick on the route and use it to fight a fellow hero if she so desired.
When "activated", this Noble Phantasm turns her thrust, with any spear she holds, into a beam of light that reaches divinity, replicating the feat of burning through a valley and a Black Beast, to the Hole of the World just from pure martial insanity. A true anti-monster attack that fills the heart of the people, of the Pallum, with unending light and power as they chase after the fading light, just like Lancer chased after her idols of the past.