A Powerful Martial Artist Reincarnates as a Nun Knight

The scheduled ferry Sophia procured for their travel itinerary from Valencia’s ports within the Catalonian Kingdom traversed through Andalusia’s Cadiz and Lisbon alongside Porto before reaching El Musel under the Asturian Kingdom’s jurisdiction, ultimately terminating at the Frankish harbor of Bordeaux.
Along that maritime route, the vessel inevitably transited through the Strait of Gibraltar – that narrow choke point connecting the Tethian Inner Sea with the vast Atlantic’s unbounded horizons.

Precisely that ferry hosted Sophia’s entourage: the holy griffin knight Hildegard Liter von Wolfstein representing sacred Nazarick, the Alp Mountain ascetic priest Ezioklese Emmanuele, Sophia de Chagelle primarily operating across Frankish territories, alongside her apprenticed disciples Conra Mak Seventan and Maria Francesca – five individuals now entering their third day aboard that aquatic conveyance.

“Passengers, our scheduled ferry Santargo shall soon be transiting the Strait of Gibraltar! At merely twelve miles separating its coastal landmasses, clear atmospheric conditions may even allow glimpsing shorelines from both Eurasian and African continents simultaneously – a rare spectacle we may potentially witness today if fortunate enough!”

The Santargo’s deck officer jovially announced that upcoming maritime milestone prompting all aboard to emerge topside while eagerly anticipating their upcoming pass through those legendary narrows.
Sophia’s group similarly interrupted their immersive regimens – Conra practicing inverse strengthening techniques by repeatedly colliding iron hollow spheres, Ezio honing his corporeal equilibrium through hefting kettlebells and stone maces, Hildegard wielding mountain climber grips alongside reduced-weight club and mace variants, alongside Maria diligently pursuing rudimentary low-impact calisthenics under Sophia’s direct supervision.

Finally approaching those storied straits elicited sporadic proclamations from keen-eyed observers with exceptional visual acuity:

“You can truly glimpse landmasses on both horizons!”
“Over there – the Pillars of Hercules!”

The surreal juxtaposition of proximate continental coastlines flanking either side of that narrow seaway dividing inner Tethian seas from the vast Atlantic’s oceanic expanses immediately enraptured all eyes through natural grandeur alone.

“Dolphins!”

Squeaking whistles heralded leaping cetaceans frolicking alongside their vessel – seeming to purposefully showcase acrobatics and aquatic antics intended purely for entertaining those enraptured human audiences observing their pod’s passage aft.
Maria witnessed those wonders utterly enraptured despite her earlier reservations – growing up consigned within Valencia’s squalid slums, such natural spectacles represented utterly inconceivable revelations beyond her experiential comprehension until that day.

Sophia observed her second disciple’s sense of childlike wonderment with an indulgent smile while internally reflecting:

‘Admittedly her inductions arrived somewhat belated chronologically, but her innate potentials alongside personal character aptitudes remain unimpeachable.’

Not one to shallowly dismiss a committed student’s growth potentials through superficial metrics alone, Sophia thoroughly evaluated Maria’s overall merits throughout their nautical voyage while ascertaining:

‘Ultimately, mere talents alone pale compared to cultivating sagacious discernment alongside the tenacious perseverance required maintaining unwavering trajectories once charted toward identified objectives. Maria unquestionably embodies both those quintessential qualities admirably.’

Within their metaphysical disciplines involving inverse somatic and psychic cultivations rather than exclusively genetic endowments, Sophia long determined innate talents represented secondarily contingent considerations – any personal shortcomings inevitably compensated alongside systematically advancing each successive inner binding mastery through diligent applications.

Yet even prodigious talents inevitably squandered those gifts without exercising judicious discretion charting proper developmental pathways.
Or laziness could forfeit even the grandest innate potentials through mere indolence and complacency.
Discipline and discretion formed those indispensable wheels propelling any extraordinary prospects – lacking either fundamental component inevitably derailed even the most promising virtuosos into languishing mediocrity.

Assessing Maria unequivocally embodying those integral character qualities elicited Sophia’s profound admiration despite still warranting more comprehensive evaluations over time.
Yet her accumulated observations left minimal doubts regarding Maria’s commitment avoiding complacent stagnations obstructing upward trajectories – their initial impressions instilling Sophia’s utmost confidence alongside profound expectations already embedded within her heart.

Shortly after transiting the Strait of Gibraltar, the Santargo disembarked them within the Andalusian Kingdom’s port city of Cadiz – Sophia immediately disembarking alongside her charges while continuing her spontaneous lecture series:

“The Hiberian region historically distinguished itself through unique cultural identities compared to surrounding territories, with Andalusia especially renowned for fostering diverse ethnic syncretic intermingling between native Celtic Hiberians, Berber majorities, Drouwes, Halflings and others. Naturally, those amalgamated lineages all cultivated their own distinctive esoteric disciplines rarely encountered elsewhere.”

Sophia elaborated how the upcoming destination represented an esteemed repository specifically chartered for preserving and safeguarding those heritage paradigms alongside opportunities for transacting particular rarities under appropriate circumstances.
The Spire of Cadiz epitomized one such prestigious institution collecting, archiving and disseminating sanctioned repositories of esoteric knowledge across generations – even merchandising certain specialized disciplines contingent upon suitable clientele qualifications.

As their vessel docked for that scheduled interlude, Sophia promptly disembarked alongside Conra and Maria while informing them about her intentions visiting that renowned establishment. Her accompanying spiritual entourage reciprocated keen anticipations:

{The Spire, you mentioned? So esoteric disciplines persisted within these modern institutions…}
{I eagerly await witnessing these contemporary invocations flourishing across these continental shores. Even during my own primordial epoch, the incantatory frameworks pioneered beyond Appenine Mountains earned legendary reputations for their uniquely idiosyncratic paradigms…}
{Countless traditions surely dissipated alongside temporal erosions while newer arcane lores simultaneously emerged and proliferated. Directly experiencing those ever-evolving progressions shall undoubtedly prove invaluable supplementary insight for our own continuous cultivation pursuits.}

With Sophia’s mystic companions anticipating firsthand immersions within Cadiz’s metaphysical repositories, the entourage hastened journeying toward that sanctified spire – determined accomplishing their purposes before that ship’s imminent departure the following morning.

Situated northwest of the harbor itself, the Spire of Cadiz thoroughly captivated Conra and Maria’s senses through its exotic spectacles upon their initial arrivals: djinni spirits collectively stirring massive cauldrons while suspended mid-air, ornate sunburst halos emanating from ‘Magec’ deific statues surrounded by refractive luminous distortions resembling coalescing nebulae.
Enormous manifestations resembling obsidian canine avatars known as ‘Tibicena’ – associated with esoteric death symbolisms – incongruously sprouting ornate antlers reminiscent of Cernnunnos while endlessly galloping through distorted hyperspatial corridors artificially manifesting within those inner sanctums.

Approaching the reception counter while brandishing official certifications and an inscribed scroll from within her satchel, Sophia barely concluded presenting them before eliciting the staffer’s reverent groveling:

“Welcome, honored guest! Cadiz Spire welcomes your esteemed presence – how may we assist your requirements?”

“Greetings – I wish exchanging this scroll’s encoded disciplines for equivalent alternatives if possible.”

Retrieving a crystalline prismatic dowsing implement for spectroscopically analyzing that proffered scroll’s metaphysical emanations, the staffer scrutinized its subtle wavelength patterns before nodding appreciatively:

“Ah, this appears inscribed with inverse musculature and neurology psychoronic resonance codifications within the cephalopodan resonant matrices – an exceptionally esoteric and rarified discipline. May I inquire how you acquired these artifacts?”
“Does that matter?”
“Of course not, a thoughtless query on my part prompted by such fascinating subject matter. Cephalopodan matrices invariably appraise at premium values due to their inherent scarcities. Furthermore, this particular scroll’s harmonic resonance patterns register solidly within noble-tier competencies encompassing fully complementary inverse somatic and psychic resonance fidelity integrations. Those attributes alone compound its overall estimations impressively.”

Acknowledging that exhaustive assessment with a succinct nod, Sophia queried regarding their primary objective:

“So exchanging equivalencies should prove feasible?”
“Naturally, although compiling those comprehensive listings shall require some time…”
“Approximately how long?”
“Perhaps an hour at minimum before the sun’s disk fully traverses half its smallest digit’s diameter across these morning horizons.”

Contemplating that projected timeframe momentarily, Sophia acquiesced with a negligent shrug:

“Very well, please compile those offerings meanwhile. My disciples and I shall survey these hallowed halls until your completion.”
“Hahah, indeed – Cadiz Spire contains innumerable wondrous exhibits compared to any counterparts across this storied continent! I shall prepare those evaluations for your anticipated return.”

Instructing the staffer finalizing those itemized reciprocities, Sophia turned toward her charges while announcing her imminent intentions:

“Well then, it appears we’ve secured a temporary interlude for leisurely explorations here. In fact, I have some particular curiosities I’ve been meaning to demonstrate – so follow along.”

Eliciting enthusiastic cheers from Conra and Maria, Sophia allowed a contented smirk stretching across her lips while guiding them deeper into those hallowed annexes brimming with otherworldly marvels and archaic esoterica.

+++++

Upon disembarking, Hildegard immediately sought refreshments within Cadiz’s taverns – partially desiring cleansing her palate from that rotgut ship’s ration rum while simultaneously sampling local Andalusian potables fabled throughout Hiberia.
Renowned fortified wines represented regional specialties – typically involving aging robust vintages while elevating their alcoholic proofs through brandy supplements.
White varietal wines receiving that particular maturation process earned the distinct ‘sherry’ designation compared to unfortified red vintages.

Despite primarily preferring ales over oenological indulgences, Hildegard harbored zero intentions ignoring local indigenous beverages whenever presented opportunities – promptly ordering upon their tavern’s entry:

“One bottle each of Amontillado Cream Sherry and Estrella Andalusia, please!”

Amontillado Cream Sherry represented mildly oxidative sherries utilizing small supplemental fortification with brandy – wine yeast metabolisms prevented through limited oxygen exposures before blending with oxidized ‘Fino’ sherries at that critical juncture when resident yeasts finally expire.
That unique production process birthed deceptively light yet intensely flavorful fortified wines – neither cloyingly sweet nor excessively astringent while deftly balancing boldness and delicate nuances earning certain oenophile’s derogatory ‘characterless’ dismissals.
Yet acclaimed Cadiz vintages historically garnered praiseworthy exceptions regarding that elusive harmonious balance alongside distinctive toasted hazelnut astringencies complemented by zesty brininess accents.

Estrella Andalusia represented that kingdom’s signature rice beer hybrid style – differing considerably from barley or wheat-based continental ales across northern latitudes.
Unlike their lagers and pilsners, Andalusian brewmasters specialized in unique rice ales before imparting additional aging layers through whiskey spirit fortification and controlled carbonation.

Soon a gleaming snifter accompanied the requested bottles arranged alongside a platter presenting classic tapas noshes – spicy seviches, shrimp sauteed with garlic in spicy olive oil (gambas al ahillo), crusty baguettes topped with cured ham and pungent Iberico cheese alongside dried cuttlefish and shrimp.
Hildegard first decanted the sherry into a glass while allowing its aromatics some aeration before imbibing the Estrella Andalusia straight from the bottle with gusto – its luscious head alongside deeply toasted malt characteristics soothing her palate after enduring those brackish vintages until reaching this longshore liberty call.

“Phahh! Yes, now that’s the stuff!”

Audibly exulting while admiring that distinctive rice ale’s merits, Hildegard enthusiastically sampled those piquant tapas bites alongside hearty chugs savoring those robustly satisfying beverages.
Finally regaining some recreational indulgences after enduring that monotonous shipboard fare, Hildegard leaned back while languidly absorbing her tavern surroundings – basking within those unfolding ambient spectacles showcasing regional lifestyles thriving alongside maritime industries.

“Everywhere, humanity’s universal rhythms remain fundamentally similar despite superficial distinctions…”

While outward complexions, physiques, fashions, architectures and dialects differed across each distinct cultural kaleidoscope, that ubiquitous commonality persisted transcending all racial or ethnic demographics – mundane daily struggles, social indulgences and convivial gatherings proliferating universally throughout every society worldwide.

‘Even among ecclesiasts sworn before sacred obediences, we share more fundamental similarities than superficial differences would imply…’

Clerics laughed, cried, raged and rejoiced just like secular citizenry.
They experienced lust, greed, prideful arrogance and grasping ambitions at certain junctures just like everyone else despite averred codes.
Occasionally envy and jealousy could even taint supposedly enlightened souls striving toward transcendental illumination.

Whenever indulging vintages and spirits, Hildegard always felt profoundly reminded about sharing those same innate human susceptibilities alongside mundane attachments despite consecrated vocations and immaculate disciplines.
Savoring exquisite bouquets, palate nuances and alcoholic intoxications represented experiential reaffirmations validating her intrinsic vitality alongside that primal life force pulsating throughout all mortal existences.
While perpetually maintaining mental clarity throughout ecclesiastic duties warranted austere abstentions, Hildegard always enthusiastically indulged recreationally as partial therapeutic catharses processing life’s rigorous demands.

‘Come to think of it, many high-ranking ecclesiasts cultivate such distinctly eccentric predilections…’

The reasons proved innumerable: centuries-spanning conflicts against demonic adversaries, eternal vexation dealing with obstinate secular ignorances, intensive austerities shedding internal blemishes staining their spiritual interiors – any combination could foster peculiar psychological insulations against compounding personal pressures and tribulations over time.

‘Perhaps those eccentricities represented unconscious defense mechanisms preserving their fundamental humanity despite immersing within such inhuman circumstances?’

Contemplating those introspections prompted Ezio’s visage spontaneously manifesting within her mind’s eye – that irreverent mountain ascetic epitomizing undeniable character extremes exceeding even alpine hermits famed for spectacular outrages against conventional decorum.
His penchant for near-nudity revealing tantalizing aesthetics bespoke profoundly intensive training regimens worthy of admiration…if one could overlook his atrocious lack of propriety beside unrequested exhibitionistic displays.

‘I shudder wondering what once inspired such depravities – surely he enjoyed loftier reputations among respectable monastic circles beforehand?’

Alpine asceticism notoriously cultivated the ecclesiastical world’s most incorrigibly unorthodox mystics – practically personifying abject spiritual hedonism quite literally representing everything sacred institutions staunchly repudiated on principle.
If individuals like Ezio existed within their rarefied sanctuaries, Hildegard internally cringed imagining whatever ungodly indecencies might simultaneously proliferate further beyond her own willful ignorance.

‘Like that divine spirit permanently attached alongside him…’

The image spontaneously manifesting involved Sarasvati’s divine spirit perpetually accompanying Ezio – she of the outrageously curvaceous athletic physique exaggerating certain corporal attributes disproportionately despite her comparatively skimpy draperies.
Visualizing her libidinously undulating bodily contours prompted Hildegard’s involuntary shudder of abject revulsion:

‘So utterly salacious…!’

Despite personally admitting her own alcoholic penchants without shame, Hildegard still subscribed toward relatively traditional decorum standards – utterly mystified how divinely consecrated avatars incarnated through such outrageous licentiousness without promoting grievous scandals and outrage.
Even her own divine spirit Ariel reacted with equal disgust upon psychically gleaning her partner’s intrusive recollections:

[…!]

Clenching ethereal fists while resonating Hildegard’s repulsed sentiments further affirmed their aligned perspectives regarding unpalatable ecclesiastic depravities.
Yet both equally acknowledged their mutual revulsions represented utterly impotent protestations – Ariel previously admonishing Ezio and Sarasvati directly achieved absolutely zero concessions whatsoever from their irreverent irreverences.