"Of course," the Pavilion Head replied with a light chuckle. "Feel free to select anything you wish. I'll be right here if you need assistance."
Nodding in acknowledgment, Liang ventured further into the hall, where shelves brimmed with strange and wondrous artifacts.
"Curious," the Pavilion Head mused, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied Liang's retreating figure. "Does he truly believe that a mere contract can guarantee his safety?"
With a shake of his head, the Pavilion Head settled into a cross-legged position and closed his eyes. He wasn't concerned about Liang pilfering anything; his deep connection to the Artifact would alert him the moment something amiss occurred.
***
Deep within the dimly lit treasury, Liang's keen eyes settled on an intriguing sight.
Before him lay a sizable chunk of black, enigmatic ore.
