Chapter 43: Chapter 43: The Weight of Power
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The Zodiac Armor was more than just a protective shell; it rivaled the defensive capabilities of the Silver and Gold Armors. However, it came with its own complexities. While the Knight could amplify the Zodiac Knight's strength within the universe, the effectiveness of that enhancement depended heavily on the user's inherent power.
If a Bronze Knight donned Silver Armor, their strength might only increase modestly, perhaps to 1.5 times their original capability. Conversely, if a Gold Knight was not strong enough, they might even find their abilities diminished. For instance, while a Bronze Armor could double a saint warrior's strength, Silver Armor could amplify it fivefold, and Gold Armor could escalate it more than twenty times.
James had only recently become accustomed to harnessing the powers of the Zodiac Armor. Once he removed it and returned to his original form, the Holy Grail took its place in the designated box, returning to its compact shape.
Staring at the ornate artifact, James couldn't help but wonder if Tony Stark's "Apex Award" was as impressive as his newly acquired trophy. But the chalice stood nearly sixty to seventy centimeters tall, making it cumbersome to carry. Why did Iron Man and Black Panther have sleek, one-click armor while he was stuck hauling around this bulky Zodiac box?
"If only I could shrink this Zodiac Armor to fit in my pocket," he mused aloud.
Almost as if responding to his thought, the chalice began to shrink rapidly, transforming into a small, delicate cup that fit comfortably in his hand. Its intricate design resembled Renaissance art, and James knew it would be a collector's dream. An idea sparked in his mind: when he finally met Tony Stark, he would sell this chalice at a premium price and summon it back when needed.
Meanwhile, deep in a cave in Afghanistan, Tony Stark sneezed unexpectedly, nearly causing a malfunction with the battery cable connected to his suit.
The Zodiac Armor had incredible restorative properties, and James, still nursing wounds from a recent battle, was keen on utilizing its benefits. He carefully filled the chalice with fresh, pure water, but as he poured, something remarkable happened. The water began to shimmer with a mysterious energy, taking on an alluring appearance.
Intrigued, James leaned closer, only to be met with a sudden burst of starlight emanating from the chalice. The intensity of the light momentarily blinded him, but as he adjusted, the starlight faded, leaving him with nothing but the enticing water.
"What just happened?" he murmured, glancing at the dark window as unease crept into his thoughts.
Shrugging off the feeling, James took a sip from the chalice. Almost immediately, he felt the effects of the water coursing through him—pain receded, fatigue lifted, and he felt rejuvenated.
"I could take on ten Gwen Stacys right now," he chuckled to himself, but quickly added, "Though, with ten Black Widows, I might have my hands full."
With the excitement settling, James was eager to get some much-needed rest. After all, since arriving in this new world, he hadn't had a single peaceful night's sleep, constantly tormented by the responsibilities of the Zodiac Armor.
The next morning, however, he was jolted awake by an urgent need to relieve himself. After taking care of his morning routine, his phone buzzed to life.
"Hello?" he answered, a bit groggy.
A wind whooshed through the other end of the line. "Hey! Morning, summer! How was last night? Feeling better?"
It was Peter Parker, and James could hear the familiar sound of web-slinging in the background.
"Your situation sounds complicated. Do you need help?" James asked, stepping out of his apartment and heading toward the subway station.
"I got this, but I might need you to cover for me at school. I'll be late." Peter's tone was confident, but James could sense the tension in his voice.
"I'll handle it," James replied, hanging up as he boarded the subway.
Upon arriving at school, he made his way to his locker, only to find Peter engaged with a girl near the wall. The scene unfolded before him, and he couldn't shake the feeling that something significant was about to happen.
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