Luth awoke with the dawn's first light filtering through his curtains. For the first time in what felt like ages, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The events of the previous day played in his mind – the discovery of the magic pen, the faint connection he had felt, and the hope kindled by Orwin's words. Today, he was determined to explore the potential of this mysterious artifact.
He sat up, gripping the pen tightly. Stories of Tiberius, a retired mage who once served the Hxavion family, surfaced in his memory. Tiberius was now a recluse, living in seclusion, but his wisdom and knowledge of ancient magics were legendary.
Luth knew he needed guidance and decided to seek out Tiberius. He found Brynna in the kitchen, preparing breakfast. Her warm smile greeted him as he entered.
"Good morning, Luth. You look different today. More determined," Brynna observed.
"I feel different," Luth admitted. "Brynna, I need your help. I want to find Tiberius."
Brynna paused, her expression thoughtful. "Tiberius, the old mage? He's been living alone for years. But if anyone can help you, it's him. Come, I'll give you directions to his cottage."
She took a piece of parchment and quickly sketched a rough map, explaining the route through the dense woods surrounding the estate. "It's a bit of a journey, but you'll find him here. Tiberius was always kind to me. I'm sure he'll help you if you explain your situation."
Luth thanked her, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. "I'll be back soon. Thank you, Brynna."
"Good luck, Luth. I believe in you," she said, her eyes full of encouragement.
The journey to Tiberius's cottage was not easy. Luth traveled through the dense woods, the path winding and overgrown. As he walked, he couldn't help but reflect on the importance of his quest. The potential impact of discovering forgotten magics filled him with a sense of anticipation and responsibility.
The woods were alive with the sounds of nature, the rustling leaves and chirping birds providing a serene backdrop to his thoughts. He clutched the pen in his hand, feeling its faint hum of magic as a constant reminder of his purpose.
After several hours, he finally arrived at a small, secluded cottage. It was nestled in a clearing, surrounded by tall, ancient trees. Luth hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath and knocked on the door.
The door creaked open, revealing a grizzled old man with a penetrating gaze. Tiberius's eyes narrowed as he scrutinized Luth. "Who are you, and what do you want?" he demanded.
Luth swallowed his nerves. "My name is Luth Hxavion. I... I need your help."
Tiberius's gaze softened slightly at the mention of the Hxavion name. "Hxavion, you say? It's been a long time since I've dealt with your family. Come in, then. Let's hear what you have to say."
Inside the cottage, the air was thick with the scent of herbs and old parchment. Books and scrolls were scattered everywhere, and a fire crackled warmly in the hearth. Luth took a seat, feeling the weight of Tiberius's scrutiny.
He pulled out the magic pen and placed it on the table between them. "I found this in the library. Orwin said it might be an artifact of great potential, but I don't know how to unlock its power."
Tiberius picked up the pen, examining it closely. "This is indeed a rare find," he murmured, his eyes alight with interest. "Artifacts like these are not mere tools. They require a deep, personal connection with their user. It's not about wielding magic forcefully but understanding and harmonizing with it."
Luth listened intently as Tiberius shared his vast knowledge of ancient magics and forgotten artifacts. "Magic is not just about casting spells," Tiberius continued. "It's about patience, perseverance, and a deep understanding of your own unique strengths. Each mage has their own path to follow."
Hours passed as Tiberius imparted lessons, his words a mix of wisdom and challenge. He told tales of mages who had faced insurmountable odds and emerged stronger, of artifacts that only revealed their true power to those who were worthy. Luth felt a surge of hope and determination after their conversation.
"You must not compare yourself to others," Tiberius advised. "Your path is your own, and it is no less significant. The pen chose you for a reason. It's up to you to discover that reason and unlock its potential."
Luth nodded, feeling a deep sense of understanding. "Thank you, Tiberius. Your guidance means more to me than you know."
Tiberius smiled, a rare expression on his weathered face. "I see great potential in you, Luth. If you're willing, I'll mentor you. Together, we can unlock the secrets of this pen and your magic."
Luth returned to the Hxavion estate, his heart brimming with confidence and hope. He sought out Brynna, eager to share his experience.
"Brynna, I found Tiberius," he said, his voice filled with excitement. "He agreed to mentor me. He believes the pen holds great potential, and so do I."
Brynna's eyes sparkled with joy. "That's wonderful news, Luth! I knew you could do it."
Encouraged by Tiberius's words and Brynna's support, Luth began to practice with the pen, determined to understand its unique properties. Each day, he felt a growing connection between his mana and the artifact. The pen's glow became more consistent, the runes he wrote shimmering with latent power.
The first signs of progress were small but significant. Luth found that his spells, written with the pen, were more stable and effective. The connection he felt was unlike anything he had experienced before. It was as if the pen amplified his inner magic, channeling it in ways he had never imagined.
One evening, as he sat by his desk, the pen in hand, he felt a sudden surge of energy. The runes he wrote burst into light, illuminating the room. He watched in awe as the magic flowed seamlessly from the pen, forming intricate patterns in the air.
For the first time, Luth felt the true power of the artifact. It was a moment of revelation, a glimpse of what he could achieve with patience and perseverance.
He was determined to master the pen and prove his worth as a mage, not just to his family, but to himself.