The essence crystals of the Elven Spring were key materials for the Apothecary pathway's Sequence 8, the "Beast Tamer," while Berserk Grass was the primary ingredient for the Barbarian in the Lawyer pathway…
If I remember correctly, Ebner thought, Dackwell was seeking the Elven Spring crystals at this point, and Fanny, after getting the Barbarian formula from me, would probably start gathering materials at supernatural gatherings herself… Heh, I haven't attended one of the professor's gatherings in so long that I nearly forgot Fanny's still the Craftswoman's Agent.
These materials were likely things Klein had overheard at one of his mentor's gatherings, Ebner guessed, suspecting that Klein was deliberately diversifying the materials he sought to keep others guessing at his true pathway.
While Ebner tried to discern "The World's" intentions, Derrick took a moment to respond:
"I know where to find Mist Trees and Berserk Grass. I could help get them, but only after my promotion, once I have enough strength to join the appropriate patrol squad."
Mist Trees were extraordinary beings that roamed between the spirit world and the physical world, enveloped in mist whenever they appeared in reality. They were, however, nearly extinct on the Northern Continent…
As for Berserk Grass, it was not a true plant; it was, in fact, the top fur from a berserk baboon-like creature. Once plucked, it took on a grassy appearance and would leave the baboon in a much calmer state, hence the name "Berserk Grass."
Impressive—the dangerous and monster-ridden environment of the Silver City never ceases to amaze me, Klein mused, recalling information on both materials before prompting "The World" to ask:
"What do you expect in return?"
Derrick replied without hesitation, "A weapon that suits me and will improve my combat ability… just not that revolver from before—I don't know how to use it."
His omission of Light Supplicant materials was because he could obtain those in Silver City with enough hard work.
Upon hearing Derrick's request, Klein's thoughts went immediately to the "Fire Raven Shortbow" he'd seen at the Old Mr. Wisdom's supernatural gathering. Its fire-based attacks would prove invaluable in Silver City's dark environment, and its effectiveness surpassed its damage alone. Priced at 500 pounds, it would have been ideal for acquiring the Mist Tree roots.
But unfortunately, that gloved lady already bought it, Klein thought with a tinge of regret.
Audrey glanced at "The Sun," reminding him, "The Mist Tree's true roots are materials of Sequence 7 caliber, valued between 500 and 700 pounds, and Berserk Grass is similarly priced."
Audrey knew how straightforward Derrick was and worried that the solemn "World" might offer a low-value weapon, technically fulfilling the deal but unfairly. Although Mr. Fool encouraged fair exchanges, items desperately needed by some might come at a premium.
Alger also offered guidance, adding, "Sequence 7 formulas are worth around 800 pounds." He knew Derrick had little concept of money and hoped to give him a reference point. While he did intend to profit from Derrick and the forsaken land, he remained committed to Mr. Fool's rules of equal exchange.
Hmm, exchanging both materials would require a mystical weapon valued above 1,000 pounds, Klein pondered, a rarity even at gatherings like the one attended by the Craftswoman's Agent.
If I only ask for the Mist Tree root, however, the ploy to obscure my pathway fails.
In the midst of his quandary, Klein recalled that he'd never collected a fee from Derrick for the Light Supplicant formula given at the last gathering. His plan had been to trade it for the Silver City's mythology and historical records, yet there was no urgency, and he could gather the city's lore freely when the other members became curious…
A plan solidified in his mind. From his position at the head of the table, "The Fool" tapped his fingers against the ancient bronze table's edge, smiling faintly at Derrick.
"I recall you still owe me a form of recompense?"
The Sun promptly replied, "Yes, Mr. Fool."
"That recompense is roughly equivalent to the Berserk Grass," Mr. Fool nodded, his gaze shifting to "The World." "I can transfer this recompense to you, but in return, I have a matter I'd like you to investigate. Will you accept?"
"The World" rasped a reply: "Your will is my command… But may I inquire as to the nature of this task?"
Mr. Fool's intervening directly in the exchange? And that solemn "World" didn't even resist? Who is he, and why does he garner such special attention from Mr. Fool?
Audrey's expression remained calm, but internally she was reassessing her views on The World.
Already suspicious of newcomers, Alger's mind swirled with guesses, concluding that every Tarot member selected by Mr. Fool held an extraordinary background. Could The World be a Shadow Ascetic in the Secret Supplicant's pathway, as Tower hinted? If so, the all-knowing pathways are complete… perhaps shedding light on Mr. Fool's ultimate purpose.
Only Ebner seemed to understand Mr. Fool's real motive. However, he was too absorbed in observing the theatrical exchange to comment, wishing Roselle had invented cameras.
Meanwhile, Xio eyed The World with suspicion, noting an unsettling hint of "corruption" in his mannerisms as he responded to The Fool.
Having observed everyone's reactions, Klein noted no distrust from any member. He relaxed slightly, leaning back in his seat as he coolly elaborated, "The task is not particularly troublesome, but it does involve Intis's Sauron family."
Curiosity, surprise, fear, wariness—these were emotions he anticipated.
But Tower's response? Delight, Klein noted. Interesting… it's as if that's his only consistent emotion at the gatherings, breaking only with strong disruptions. There was one instance, I recall, where he seemed unsettled…
As Klein's thoughts spun, he used his peripheral vision to observe The Sun, who showed no reaction to the name Sauron. Likely indicating the family rose post-Cataclysm.
With this, Klein directed "The World" to request, "I would like a private exchange."
Moments later, Klein fabricated a private exchange space and sat facing his own clone for several quiet seconds.
Seeing this, Alger, Audrey, and Xio all surmised that "The World" must share some history with the Sauron family for Mr. Fool to assign this task so directly.
Meanwhile, Ebner mused, I wonder how the other members will react when "The World" inevitably asks about Red-Haired Elaine in the future, assuming he's some rogue Intis noble.
When the private exchange concluded, Klein instructed "The World" to bow, rasping respectfully, "Mr. Fool, I shall see to this task promptly."
Then, turning to The Sun, he nodded, "I'll also strive to locate a suitable weapon for you, worth approximately 500-600 pounds once the debt is factored in."
"I understand," The Sun nodded, adding in a low voice, "Thank you… I'll secure those materials as soon as I get my weapon."
Maintaining his stoic demeanor, The World gave no response, instead turning to "Justice" and "The Hanged Man," seeking leads for the remaining materials. He diplomatically declined any requests from Tower, as he had no other viable sources.
After Audrey and Alger promised to keep an eye out and shared their own trade terms, The World addressed the group once more:
"Recently, I encountered a strange hall layout during an adventure. I'm interested in learning to which period of the Fourth Epoch such layouts belonged."
With that, he appeared to direct a request toward Mr. Fool, conjuring a vast, empty hall image. It depicted a chamber flanked by inverted candelabras, with a half-meter-high platform at one end, upon which rested two iron-black chairs.
Massive, ancient, imposing chairs towering above the hall below.
(End of Chapter)