Deep in the middle of night, in the forest of Darleen, a young orphan boy can be seen leading a group of soldiers through a clearing into to the abused and rundown orphanage.
As the soldiers entered the building they couldn't help but marvel at the sheer level of destruction they saw. For most of them, this level of destruction is near unimaginable.
After the great apocalypse centuries ago, humans began to fall in line and accept the new rules of nature but for most people with little talent the new wonders of the world became power. As powerful races descended from the skies and strange and strong beast began to mutate, humans found their lot in life to be quite poor. Especially for those who grew up outside of major strongholds and cities.
For many soldiers they would never be strong enough to hold their own. As even the weakest of beasts have the potential to be a 3-star threat. The only humans for hundreds of miles with that level of power could be counted on one hand. The baron being one of them and the deceased hermit being the other.
Deeper into the orphanage they entered in to the mess hall where the children would eat. Upon their entrance beautifully crafted weapons could be seen along the tables. As well as beasts going back and forth bringing in various ores.
"Take a seat dinner comes soon." Spoke the little orphan boy.
"Kid, if you don't mind me asking where did all this stuff come from would there happen to be a blacksmith here?" the baron couldn't help but be curious as the story of the massacre spoken from the lips of the boy seemed to fantastical. His survival even more so. Though if a blacksmith with great ability happened to come it might not seem so far fetched.
"Baron, these are 1-star weapons." Carter stated in amazement as he held one of the swords. Seeing this, two Firestarter spirits appeared around him, seemingly poised to attack.
"Carter put that down."
"Bro, what are you doing?"
"You're gonna get us killed, dude." the other soldiers hastily urged in panic. Yet, the baron didn't speak seemingly waiting for the boy to answer.
"Put the big knife down." The kid said. "Those are mine." With a look from Wayne, Carter reluctantly placed down the blade. Having lived in the Simpson Barony all his life Carter had only ever seen normal weapons. The barony used to have a blacksmith but he left the barony for their rival territory, the lands of Viscount Elise.
In fact, it is due to the recent rise in tension between the two territories that the army wasn't able to keep an eye on the forest. Especially, since not only did the barony lose its prodigious young blacksmith who was on the cusp of creating ranked weapons but they also lost access to their three largest mines in the past months.
"There is no one else here. The old man told us use job abilities to get stronger. I need to get stronger." the kid spoke with a fire in his eyes and an intent for bloodlust that even shook the baron for only a moment.
"Kid, are you saying you can make these?" The baron asked in disbelief. The world of artisans has held a strong grip over humanity for many years. It has been well known that the strongest professions in society are ranked: Teachers, Scholars, Alchemists, Smiths, Builders, soldiers. Ranked in order for their versatility and impact on the safety of modern human society.
The boy doesn't even look 10 yet. Could it be possible? The baron didn't dare believe it so.
These occupations required years of study and even a teacher, master, or mentor to get started. As practicing with the inclusion of modern abilities could lead to many mishaps.
"I read books, I can make. Not many books left." Said the kid matter-of-factly as if it were the most normal thing in the world.
"Kid, these weapons could help us and our people out a lot would you mind letting us take these?" the baron asked.
"No, the old man said. People must foot the d*** bill if they want to eat. No free lunch." The kid said reminiscing on the words of the old man who made him turn in his weapons to buy food. Even though the food was supposed to be free. So many days he would be upset with the old man for taking advantage of them, but teaching them to not be taken advantage of. Even taking some of his nicest knives. Only to die wielding them on the battlefield with a gratified smile on his face. 'old stupid head'
"Ahahaha, that does sound like the old man." The baron laughed as he dug into a fried birds leg.
"Baron, why don't we just take these?" Carter asked whispering. Still to this second he couldn't take his eyes of the swords.
"Sure, why don't you try and live, then come tell me about it." The baron jested. "Son, why don't you just come into town with us?"
The kid looked around in consideration. "Can, they come too?"
"uhh, I don't think that's a good idea. Hmm, Wayne any suggestions." The baron asked looking to Wayne for advice. Wayne has been by his side all his life and pretty much runs the business side of the territory.
"Hmm, kid how many weapons can you make a month?" Wayne probed.
"I can make... this many, this many times." The kid struggled to display his meaning as he did not seem to be very schooled. Though after taking a second to understand the kid Wayne was amazed. Even veteran ranked smiths would struggle to make 10 ranked weapons in a month. If he understood correctly the kid could make 50?
"Ok, how about this, every month, we'll pay the average price for 35 ranked weapons. We will send 35 men to come and pick out a weapon. we will also pay market price for any ores you might have as well. Do you know what market price means?" Wayne asked.
"Yes, the mean uncle salesman taught me." hearing this the soldiers became spooked as they knew exactly who the kid referred to. The Minkan caravan. The only power in the region who could move expensive goods completely unhindered throughout the land. A group even the baron has to be fearful of.
"Uhh, well...thats good. Well, we'll even throw in some books, too" Wayne said trying to sweeten the deal. If the kids goods are good enough for the Minkan caravan then they must be the real deal.
"Sure, I'll even send my children out here every week to help you in your education. If you are willing to help them get here." The baron said much to the awe of the soldiers. Though it is definitely a risky move sending soldiers into the forest, it is even more crazy to send children even if the barons children are ridiculously strong for their age.
Though before speaking, the baron noticed the wink Wayne did in his direction and understood the assignment. Firstly, making a strong relationship with a baby who happens to be a ranked blacksmith possibly the youngest in the country? Must do. Secondly, allowing his kids to build a relationship with possibly the youngest ranked blacksmith who wields hundreds of spirits? Must do. Lastly, getting his kids in the eyes of the Minkan caravan who interacts with all of the Guilds, Sects and various powers across the land? No question.
"Sure, the mean uncle agreed with the old man. I need more book know ledges." The kid said. The men couldn't help but laugh.