Alaric decided to explore the city, hoping to make valuable contacts. The Veil Dukedom's main city was a bustling hub of activity, with narrow cobblestone streets winding through markets, shops, and grand buildings. He drifted around aimlessly, taking in the sights and sounds while keeping an eye out for anything or anyone of interest.
"Let's see what this city has to offer," Alaric thought, as he strolled through a lively marketplace. The air was thick with the scents of spices, baked goods, and the occasional waft of smoke from street food vendors. Merchants shouted out their wares, trying to entice passersby.
As he meandered through the market, Alaric's eyes were drawn to a stall selling various trinkets and oddities. Among the items was a small, intricately carved wooden box that seemed to pulse with a faint magical energy. He couldn't resist taking a closer look.
"Good day," Alaric greeted the merchant. "What's the story behind this box?"
The merchant, a wizened old man with a knowing smile, replied, "Ah, a keen eye you have there, young sir. This box is said to have belonged to a famous mage, though its true origins are shrouded in mystery. It's known to react to magical energy."
"Interesting," Alaric mused, though he decided against purchasing it for now. "Thank you for the information."
Continuing his exploration, Alaric wandered into the more upscale parts of the city, where the architecture became more grandiose, and the people more refined. He passed by an elegant tea house and couldn't help but notice a gathering of well-dressed individuals inside. Nobles, perhaps discussing matters of importance.
"Could be worth investigating," he thought, making a mental note of the location.
His wanderings eventually led him to the city's grand library, a towering structure filled with knowledge from across the realm. Alaric entered, feeling a sense of awe as he looked at the rows upon rows of books and scrolls. He spent some time browsing through sections on magical theory and history, hoping to find something that could aid him in his quest.
Lost in a particularly interesting tome about ancient enchantments, Alaric was startled by a voice behind him. "You seem quite engrossed, young man."
Turning, he saw an elderly librarian with a gentle smile. "Just doing some research," Alaric replied. "There's always something new to learn."
The librarian nodded. "Indeed. If you need any assistance, don't hesitate to ask."
"Thank you, I appreciate that," Alaric said, returning to his book.
After a while, Alaric decided it was time to leave the library. As he stepped outside, he noticed a group of mages gathered in a nearby courtyard, engaged in a heated discussion. Curiosity piqued, he edged closer to listen.
"—must be cautious with such powerful artifacts," one mage was saying. "We can't afford any mistakes."
Another mage, younger and more impetuous, argued, "But think of the possibilities! We could revolutionize magical theory!"
"Sounds like they're discussing something significant," Alaric thought, filing away the information for later. "I might need to find a way to learn more."
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the city, Alaric made his way back to the inn. His day had been filled with intriguing sights and potential leads. Though he hadn't made any concrete contacts, he felt a sense of accomplishment.
"Tomorrow, I'll focus on finding a blacksmith or enchanter," he decided. "Someone who can help me with the steel and Flare shard."
Back at the inn, Alaric settled in for the night, his mind buzzing with possibilities. The Veil Dukedom held many secrets, and he was determined to uncover them, one step at a time.
The next day, Alaric made his way to a reputable blacksmith known for handling rare metals. The blacksmith, a burly man with a thick beard and soot-streaked apron, greeted him with a nod.
"Morning, lad. What can I do for you?" the blacksmith asked, wiping his hands on a rag.
"I need you to work with this steel," Alaric said, producing the grayish-silver metal from his bag.
The blacksmith's eyes widened. "Steel? That's not something you see every day. What do you want me to make?"
Alaric laid out his plans. "I want you to turn it into an assortment of different parts. Specifically, I'll need some parts coated with brass."
The blacksmith's shock was evident. "You want to break down a rare metal like steel into parts? It seems like a waste, lad."
"I know it sounds strange," Alaric said with a reassuring smile. "But trust me, there's a purpose behind it."
The blacksmith shook his head in disbelief but agreed. "Alright then. Leave it with me, and I'll get to work. It'll take a few days."
"Thank you," Alaric said, turning to leave. "I'll be back."
After his visit to the blacksmith, Alaric wandered through the market, eventually purchasing a small piece of wood. He examined it carefully, making sure it was the right size and quality for his needs.
Over the next few days, Alaric kept himself busy, waiting for the blacksmith to finish his work and for news from the Veil household regarding the sale of the rare items. He knew the wheels were in motion, but the waiting was always the hardest part.
One afternoon, as he was having lunch at a quiet café, a representative from the Veil household arrived at the inn where he was staying. The man, dressed in fine robes and exuding an air of authority, asked to see Alaric immediately.
Alaric met the representative in a private room at the inn. "You wished to see me?"
"Yes," the representative replied. "We've come to verify the authenticity of the items you wish to sell to the Veil household."
"Of course," Alaric said, presenting the Tears of Earth and the Poison of the Nemer Serpent. The representative examined the items meticulously, taking his time to ensure their legitimacy.
After what felt like an eternity, the representative nodded. "These are indeed genuine. You will receive your payment shortly."
The following day, Alaric received another hefty sum of gold in exchange for the rare items. The transaction was smooth, and Alaric felt a sense of relief.
"That went well," he thought, pocketing the gold. "Now, onto the next step."
Deciding to hold onto the bolt of Igram silk for a future auction, Alaric returned to the blacksmith. The parts were ready, meticulously crafted and coated with brass as instructed.
"Here you go, lad," the blacksmith said, handing over the parts. "It was a challenge, but I think you'll be pleased with the result."
Alaric inspected the parts, satisfied with the craftsmanship. "Thank you. You've done excellent work."
With the parts and the piece of wood he had purchased earlier, Alaric now had everything he needed to start his next project. Back at his rented room, he began assembling the parts, his mind focused on creating something unique and powerful.
As he worked, he couldn't help but reflect on the journey that had brought him here. From the halls of his family's estate to the bustling streets of the Veil Dukedom, every step had been a calculated move in his quest.
"This is only the beginning," he thought, fitting the last piece into place. "There's so much more to uncover, and I won't stop until I have all the answers."
With his latest creation in hand, Alaric felt a renewed sense of purpose. The Veil Dukedom had given him new opportunities and insights, and he was determined to make the most of them.