Upon hearing Gavriel's voice, Archer turned around with a warm smile. "Tila gave me these," he responded, his tone tinged with pride.
As Lex responded, Lila's eyes widened with curiosity as she asked, "Could I take a look at them?"
He took out the Gearhearts and handed them to her. When his new mother saw them, she got a look of shock on her face.
She looked up at him and informed him about the weapons. ''These are the Dawnstrider Gearhearts. Mother's father owned them before passing them to her.''
Lex got confused, and Lila saw it. She went on to explain. ''They are a pair of powerful revolvers that Grandfather customized to use mana instead.''
Her eyes widened once more as she understood why her mother had given those to him.
Observing the gleam in her eyes, she explained, "Lex, the story of the Dawnstrider family is intricately woven with a lineage of hunters who have stood as guardians, defending our world from unimaginable horrors. Our ancestors confronted creatures that dwelled within the shadows, preying upon the innocent and sowing terror."
She paused, allowing the gravity of her words to settle before resuming, "But at the core of our legacy lies the very tools of our trade—the Gearhearts. These instruments transcend mere weaponry; they stand as a testament to the unwavering courage and strength of our bloodline."
Lila's gaze shifted to the twin revolvers holstered at his sides, the metallic surfaces faintly gleaming in the firelight.
"Several generations ago, my grandfather was a legendary hunter, celebrated for his unmatched prowess and skill. He confronted countless threats that cast shadows over our empire, yet there existed one pivotal battle that would forever shape the trajectory of our family—the Battle of Veridian."
Lex focused his gaze on Lila, absorbing every detail of her storytelling.
"Let me share with you the story of how my grandfather, Aleric Dawnstrider the legendary hunter, wielded the power of the Gearhearts to save Veridian which is nestled within the heart of the Empire."
He leaned in, his red eyes fixed on her, eager to hear the history she would unveil.
"Four Hundred years ago, a horde of monstrous creatures, a vile horde that seemed to pour forth from the very depths of a nightmare, descended upon the Valvehaven Empire. Their numbers were overwhelming, their hunger insatiable. It was as if darkness itself had taken form, seeking to devour all in its path."
Her words held a weight that reflected the gravity of the battle she described. "My grandfather stood at the forefront of the city's defense, leading a band of brave Gear Knights who refused to cower. Armed with his weapons, the Gearhearts which are passed down through our family, he embodied the courage and legacy of our family."
Lex's interest deepened as he listened intently, his imagination painting vivid images of the battle she described.
"In the heart of the battle, amidst the chaos and despair, my grandfather's bravery burned like a beacon. With each shot fired from them, he dispatched the monsters with precision, as if dancing with death itself. The revolvers blazed like stars against the night, cutting through the darkness that threatened to consume us all."
Lila's voice swelled with pride as she continued, "As the horde closed in on Veridian, my grandfather made his final stand within the city's walls. He unleashed the full potential of the weapons, their power resonating with his unyielding will. The monsters fell before him like wheat before a scythe."
Lila's eyes showed a mix of sadness and pride. "But there was a price for victory. Many brave people, including my Grandfather, lost their lives. He fell while defeating the monster that led the rest. Still, the capital was saved, and the Gearhearts were a big part of that success."
He absorbed the weight of her words, his thoughts drifting to the sacrifices and legacy left behind by her grandfather's heroic act.
"To honor that battle, the city of Veridian built a monument, remembering the bravery and sacrifice. It stands his courage and all those who fought against the darkness."
Lila's voice became gentler as she finished, "So, Lex, that's how my grandfather, with the Gearhearts, protected the Valvehaven Empire's capital from the monsters that threatened to destroy it."
Lex focused on the two weapons, nodding resolutely. "I'll show I'm worthy of these."
She smiled, stepping closer and hugging him briefly. "My mother's words make me believe you'll succeed."
With a reassuring embrace, she guided him outside, encouraging him to explore the spell-filled world ahead.
Walking down the street, Lex followed Tila's directions, eager to embark on his journey.
He strolled through the bustling streets of Celestia City, his steps echoing against the cobblestones.
The air was filled with a melange of sounds—the clanking of machinery, the hissing of steam, and the chatter of vendors peddling their wares.
Tall buildings adorned with intricate metalwork soared overhead, their windows reflecting the warm glow of gas lamps that lined the thoroughfare.
As Lex strolled along, his eyes shifted between captivating scenes.
Clockwork automatons amazed the crowd with their tricks, airships landed at skyports in the sky, and merchants sold various enchanted items.
The atmosphere was electric, a blend of magic and innovation that defined the essence of the city.
His attention was eventually drawn to a sign swinging gently in the breeze—an ornate piece of wrought iron that bore the words "Arcane Enchantments" in an elegant, swirling script.
Stepping closer, he could see through the shop's large glass windows, revealing shelves lined with crystal vials containing glowing potions and intricate spell components.
Colorful scrolls were neatly stacked on tables, and magical artifacts adorned the walls, emitting faint, mesmerizing auras.
With a sense of anticipation, Lex pushed open the heavy wooden door, a small bell chiming above him.
He was met with the scent of aged parchment, herbs, and arcane energies that seemed to permeate the air.
Inside the shop, a wealth of mystical wonders awaited. Positioned in the center was a counter draped in velvet.
Behind it, a green-haired woman dressed in robes covered in intricate symbols and patterns glanced up from a book they were engrossed in.
As her eyes met Lex's, she broke into a gentle smile. "Hello, traveler," she greeted with a soothing voice. "How may I be of service to you today?"
Lex approached the woman with a sense of curiosity. "Could you please show me the spells you have for sale?" he inquired.
With a nod, the woman rose from her seat and led him over to a bookshelf nestled in the corner.
As they came to a stop, the shopkeeper gestured to the array of spell books. "This is our entire collection. Feel free to take your time selecting."
A smile of appreciation formed on Lex's lips as he retrieved a pouch of gold coins and carefully counted out twenty of them. Turning to the woman, he inquired, "How much is each book?"
The shopkeeper responded promptly as she moved away. "Each book on this shelf is six gold coins at most. However, there are rarer and more valuable ones as well."
Expressing his gratitude, Lex began his search. After a brief period, he settled on five spells that piqued his interest. He read aloud the names and their basic descriptions.
[Stealth Shroud: Envelops the user in an illusion that renders them nearly invisible and inaudible for a brief duration]
[Clockwork Shield: Conjures a shield composed of mechanical components capable of absorbing and deflecting attacks]
[Quickstep: A spell that momentarily heightens the user's reflexes and agility]
[Elemental Strike: Enhances weapons with elemental damage, such as fire or lightning]
[Analyze: Allows user to scan things and get information]
Satisfied with his choices, he gathered the four spell books and made his way to the counter.
Upon seeing his selections, the shopkeeper couldn't help but comment, "Planning to become a Runner, are you? Just remember, you'll need to tread carefully in the Wildlands, young one."
Lex nodded in acknowledgment as she examined his chosen spells. The shopkeeper swiftly calculated the total cost. "Eighteen gold coins, please."
Handing over the coins, Lex thanked her for the transaction. As he was about to leave, the woman's voice caught his attention once more.
"Young man, I have something that might pique your interest. Would you like to see it?"
Lex's curiosity peaked at the shopkeeper's mention of something intriguing. He turned his attention to her, clearly showing his interest through his expression.
The woman's eyes gleamed with a mix of mystery and excitement as she reached below the counter and retrieved an exquisite cloak.
It was woven from a dark fabric that seemed to absorb the surrounding light, and intricate thorn-like patterns adorned its edges.
Holding the cloak up, feeling its weight in her hands, the woman turned to Lex. "Allow me to introduce you to the Shadow Cloak." she began, her voice filled with both reverence and caution.
Leaning in, Lex's intrigue deepened. "Shadow Cloak?" he repeated, his interest clearly growing.
The shopkeeper nodded, focusing on the cloak. She explained, "This isn't your typical garment. It was made by the renowned vampire inventors, the Bloodmoon family. They're known for creating intricate and powerful artifacts. The Cloak stands as one of their finest creations."
[A/N - Leave some comments, power stones, and gifts. It all helps support the book. Artwork in the comments or discord]