Chapter 10: The Dance of the Cross Wheels
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Orion stood in the training chamber, gripping the Nebula Sword in his hand. The weight of the weapon felt more familiar now, the flow of energy more controlled. Yet, as he looked at Astron's holographic figure, he could sense that something new awaited him today.
"Today, we begin something different," Astron said, his voice carrying a tone of excitement. "The Nebula Sword is only one part of your potential. You must now learn to wield the Cross Wheels."
Orion raised an eyebrow, unsure of what he meant. "Cross Wheels? Like... a new form?"
Astron nodded. "The Nebula Sword is a versatile weapon, able to adapt to various combat situations. One of its most powerful transformations is into the Cross Wheels—bladed discs that channel star energy into a fast and precise combat style. They allow for both close and ranged attacks, a balance between offense and defense."
With a flick of Astron's hand, the Nebula Sword in Orion's hand began to glow, the deep blue light pulsing as if responding to Astron's command. Slowly, the sword's form began to shift, elongating into two circular blades, each glowing with the same star-bound energy.
"These are the Cross Wheels," Astron explained. "They are an extension of your connection to the stars. But unlike the Sword, they require a different kind of mastery—speed, precision, and fluidity."
Orion marveled at the two spinning blades now resting in his hands. They felt lighter, faster, and as he moved them, they hummed with energy.
"How do I control them?" Orion asked, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.
"Like the Sword, the Cross Wheels draw on your emotions and energy," Astron said. "But the key to mastering them is fluidity. You cannot force them into motion; you must flow with them, like the currents of the stars. Their speed will come naturally if you let go of your rigid control."
Orion nodded, taking a deep breath as he let the energy of the Cross Wheels course through him. He swung them experimentally, feeling their balance, the way they cut through the air with precision. But as he moved faster, he began to feel the pull of their energy growing unstable.
"Too rigid, Orion," Astron warned, his voice calm. "You're trying to control them too much. Let the energy guide you."
Orion gritted his teeth, trying to relax, but the speed of the wheels became overwhelming. In a sudden burst of energy, they spun wildly out of his hands, embedding themselves into the metal wall of the training chamber with a loud clang.
He groaned, his frustration building. "How am I supposed to just 'let go'? They're too fast!"
Astron chuckled softly. "Patience. You're not expected to master them in a single day. The Cross Wheels are difficult for a reason—they demand focus and adaptability. The more you fight them, the less control you'll have."
Orion took a deep breath, calming himself. He retrieved the Cross Wheels from the wall, their blue light pulsing softly in his hands. This time, instead of focusing on controlling their every move, he tried to feel the energy flowing through him, connecting with the rhythm of the stars.
He moved again, this time slower, allowing the Cross Wheels to spin and flow with his movements. They cut through the air with grace, their energy humming in harmony with his own.
"Better," Astron said approvingly. "Now, let's see if you can combine speed with precision."
Orion nodded, his confidence growing. He pushed himself faster, feeling the Cross Wheels spin effortlessly in his hands. The faster they moved, the more in tune he became with their energy. He began to experiment, throwing one wheel forward and pulling it back with a flick of his wrist, the blade returning to him as if connected by an invisible tether of energy.
A smile crept onto his face. "I think I'm getting the hang of it."
"Good," Astron said, his eyes gleaming with pride. "But remember, the Cross Wheels are not just weapons of speed. Their real power lies in their ability to channel star energy. Focus your energy into them, and you can unleash devastating attacks."
Orion held the Cross Wheels steady, feeling the energy within them. He concentrated, allowing his connection to the stars to flow through him and into the blades. The blue light around them intensified, growing brighter and more focused.
"Now, release it," Astron commanded.
With a surge of energy, Orion hurled the Cross Wheels forward. They spun through the air, leaving a trail of glowing blue light behind them, before they slammed into the wall with a powerful explosion of energy. The impact sent a shockwave through the chamber, causing the ground to shake beneath his feet.
Orion stared at the crater left behind, his heart pounding with adrenaline. "That was... incredible."
Astron nodded approvingly. "You've taken your first steps in mastering the Cross Wheels. But remember, Orion, power is nothing without control. In time, you will learn to harness that energy without causing unnecessary destruction."
Orion grinned, still catching his breath. "I think I can handle that."
Astron's image flickered, his expression softening. "Your progress is commendable, Orion. But remember, the journey ahead is long. Stay focused, and never lose sight of the stars."
As Astron's hologram faded, Orion stood in the quiet of the chamber, the Cross Wheels still glowing faintly in his hands. He could feel the power of the stars coursing through him, the connection with the Nebula Sword deepening with each passing moment.
But as he looked down at the Cross Wheels, a sense of responsibility weighed on him. This power, this legacy—his father's legacy—was not something to take lightly.
He was no longer just Orion Starlight. He was the heir to a power that c