Evander, Elara, and I stood at attention in front of three Holy nuns. Sisters Rachael, Diane, and Faye were preparing our medallions of the veil. Each Medallion had to be prepared separately, and the nuns were carefully handcrafting them. We were required to watch the entire process, as only ordained nuns could perform this task.
The nuns worked in silence, their hands moving deftly as they wove the delicate metal threads into the intricate patterns of the medallions. The air was thick with the smell of incense; the only sound was the soft murmur of the nuns' prayers. As we watched, I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. I knew that I was in the presence of something sacred, and I felt honored to be a part of this tradition. Finally, the nuns finished their work and presented us with our medallions. We each took ours with reverence and placed it around our necks.
"Wear these medallions with pride," Sister Rachael said. "They are a symbol of your commitment to our faith."
We nodded in agreement, and I felt a surge of determination. I was ready to take on the responsibilities of being a State Exorcist. I knew that I would always cherish this Medallion as a reminder of my commitment to my faith.
"Now, we will explain the nature of these medallions of the veil," Sister Faye stated.
The three of us stood at attention while the Sisters began their explanation. Sister Faye started the lecture first, stepping forward. I couldn't help but focus on her as she talked. "The Medallion of the Veil is a blessed artifact of the Holy State, mass-produced for the Imperial Order. As the threads of light and shadow are woven together, it is shrouded in a veil of mystery that can only be understood by the divine. A single caress brings forth a vision of its power. This aura imbues the wearer with unmatched prowess and invulnerability. With its holy light guiding your path, you become an unstoppable force, serving the state and bringing forth peace and prosperity for all," Sister Faye stated, stepping back to stand beside her fellow sisters.
Sister Diane began the next segment of the explanation, stepping forward to take Sister Faye's place. I concentrated intensely on the Sister's words. "The Medallion of the Veil will be invaluable to your work, allowing me to conceal your identity for up to twelve hours a day. In a world where secrets play a crucial role, this power can be the difference between success and failure. Whether infiltrating a stronghold or searching for a hidden artifact, the Medallion will grant you the security to carry out tasks effectively and protect your identity from any would-be enemies. Don the Medallion and disappear into the night, becoming a ghost that cannot be seen or heard. With this tool of deception, you can easily slip past the most vigilant of guards and complete your mission," Sister Diane explained, stepping back to stand beside her fellow sisters.
Sister Rachael steps forward after Sister Diane finishes her statement. My ears hang on the red-haired Sisters' every word. "The illusion artifact requires careful management to ensure efficient use. In order to replenish the Artifact's power in full, it will require three hours after each hour of use, so the user must be mindful and use the Artifact with caution and discretion during its use. Once a user has used the Artifact for a maximum of twelve hours, its battery in a sense is fully depleted; it will require a recharge before it can be utilized once more. Therefore, it will take thirty-six hours for the Artifact to recharge completely. However, using the Artifact wisely and efficiently brings forth a world of possibilities, allowing users to conceal their identities and manipulate their surroundings. With thoughtful planning, the illusion artifact can turn the tide in one's favor," Sister Rachael revealed, stepping back to stand beside her fellow sisters.
To our surprise, Mother Superior Euphemia appeared out of nowhere and began explaining the last aspects of the discussion. "The Medallion of the Veil is an Illusion Artifact that has been carefully crafted with a safety mechanism that, in the event it is drained, requires a thirty-six-hour wait before it can be used again. It is essential to cease use before the twelfth hour is emptied, as failure to comply will result in a lengthy delay before the Artifact can be used once more. This safety precaution may seem restrictive, but it is necessary to ensure that the Artifact is used carefully and cautiously, as irresponsible or improper usage could result in unforeseen consequences. With this in mind, I will always cease use at the appropriate time and ensure the safety of the Artifact. So, always terminate use before the twelfth hour is depleted," Mother Superior Euphemia explained.
Once the Sisters and Mother Superior Euphemia were done taking turns informing us of the nature of the Medallions, Mother Superior Euphemia looked over all three of us carefully. Smiling as she made slight adjustments to our uniforms, she seemed to take great pride and pleasure in her role as Mother Superior. Euphemia was indeed a Mother to all who were under her care. For a woman so young, she radiated so much wisdom and veneration. It was clear that Euphemia was genuinely fit to be Mother Superior. She had a kind and gentle face, and her voice was soft and soothing. She always seemed to know just what to say to make us feel better, and she always had a smile on her face. We were all very lucky to have her as our Mother Superior. She was a true inspiration to us all, and we knew that we could always count on her.
Euphemia was a kind and compassionate woman who always put the needs of others before her own. She was a strong leader who was always willing to stand up for what she believed in. Mother Superior was a true inspiration to all who knew her. She was also a very organized and efficient woman who always made sure that everything was in its place. She was the type of person who could always find a solution to any problem. My brother Allen always spoke highly of her. In fact, she was all he could talk about. They were around the same age too. My brother was only five years my senior. Once she was done with her adjustments, she cleared her throat and began to speak.
"Now, you may not know this, but Exorcists are able to fight alongside monsters. Those like you have an ordain connection with these beasts. This is why we endeavor to save as many monsters as we are able too. You will now follow me as we choose your companion monster. This is a vital part of your duties and training. Once chosen, you will each craft a The Medallion of the Veil specifically for them. Of the Sisters will aid you in this process," Mother Superior Euphemia revealed.
"Yes, Mother Superior Euphemia!" we said in unison before saluting.
It felt good to salute the beautiful Mother. I felt like I was a part of something more noble than I ever could be. We waited as Mother Superior and the three Sisters left the spacious workshop. All three of us followed in a single file line with me at the front. I already knew where she was taking us. That monster I had seen earlier was waiting for me to become her partner.
I was nervous but also excited. I had always wanted to be a part of something special, and this was my chance. I knew that the monster would be dangerous, but I was determined to face her again. I took a deep breath and followed Mother Superior down the hall.
We soon arrived at three oversized doors. Elara and Evander stood in front of a door like I did. I remember seeing these doors when I first entered the sub-basement. After Sister Diane opened my door and beckoned me inside, I took a deep breath. In the center of the room was the monster. She was even more significant than I had remembered. Her sharp teeth and claws were terrifying. Her eyes were glowing gold in the dim light of the large room. I felt a chill run down my spine.
Mother Superior turned to me. "This is your new partner," she said. "You will work together to protect the Order."
I nodded. "I will do my best," I said.
"Her name is Constance Archambeau, a recently transformed monster. If you may recall, Constance has already imprinted on you. That is what we call the bond that forms between a human and monster. In this respect, you are rare. Your Mother has also imprinted on you. A unique occurrence. That means you have two monster companions. It will be up to you to manage the relationship between your Mother and Constance Archambeau," Mother Superior Euphemia revealed.
The monster growled, but I stood my ground. The words of Mother Superior stayed with me. I was a part of something special now, and I had to be brave.
I took a deep breath and stepped forward. "I am ready," I said.
The monster growled again, but this time she didn't attack. Instead, she walks closer to me. I watched her come to within feet of me, and then I turned to Mother Superior.
"What now?" I asked.
Mother Superior smiled. "Now, you get to know your new partner," she said.