While Gorn began sifting through the scrolls, William's attention was drawn to a massive, leather-bound tome tucked away on a lower shelf. Its title, embossed in faded gold leaf, read "Chronicles of Primal Magic." Intrigued, he pulled the heavy book off the shelf and carefully opened it.
The pages were filled with intricate diagrams and archaic script, depicting strange rituals and even stranger creatures. As he flipped through the brittle pages, a particular illustration caught his eye. It showed a mage, surrounded by swirling energy, mimicking the movements of a ferocious beast – a hulking, bear-like creature with glowing runes etched across its fur.
"What's that, lad?" Gorn asked, noticing William's fascination with the ancient tome.
William showed him the illustration. "It looks like some kind of ancient magic," he said, tracing the runes with his finger. "The mage seems to be copying the beast's movements."
Gorn peered at the image, his brow furrowed in thought. "Ah, yes. This book describes the practices of the Primal Mages," he explained. "They believed that true power came from understanding and harnessing the natural world, particularly the strength and abilities of magical beasts."
He pointed to the bear-like creature in the illustration. "This is a Runebear, a creature known for its immense physical strength and resilience. The Primal Mages would study these beasts, learning their movements and channeling their power to enhance their own bodies."
"That's incredible!" William exclaimed, his mind racing with possibilities. He imagined himself learning from these powerful creatures, mastering their techniques, and becoming an unstoppable force.
Gorn chuckled. "It's a fascinating piece of history, lad, but don't get too carried away. This magic is ancient, long forgotten. The techniques described here are likely lost to time."
William nodded, but inwardly, he was buzzing with excitement. Lost to time? Perhaps for others, but not for him. He had Chrono Shift, his SSS-ranked skill, a secret weapon that allowed him to manipulate time itself.
'I can go back to the past, to the era of the Primal Mages,' he thought, a thrill running through him, 'I can learn those lost techniques, master their secrets...'
He carefully closed the book, a determined glint in his eyes. He wouldn't reveal his Chrono Shift ability to Gorn, not yet. But he knew that this discovery had opened up a whole new world of possibilities for him.
"Alright, lad," Gorn said, interrupting William's thoughts. "Let's get back to finding you some suitable scrolls."
After careful consideration, Gorn selected four scrolls for William. Three of them were C-rank Body Enhancing skills: Iron Skin, which increased the user's physical defense; Enhanced Strength, which amplified raw power; and Swiftfoot, which granted increased speed and agility. The fourth scroll contained a B-rank skill called Kinetic Burst, which allowed the user to release a burst of concentrated energy, propelling them forward with incredible force.
"These should keep you busy for a while," Gorn said, handing the scrolls to William. "I chose these specifically because they form a solid foundation for any aspiring body enhancing mage. Master these, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a formidable force."
William carefully tucked the scrolls away, eager to start practicing. He was already imagining the possibilities, the incredible feats of strength and speed he would be capable of.
"Now," Gorn continued, "we need to get you a decent weapon. You know that body enhancing mages often become Battlemages, fighting in close combat. A good sword is essential."
William's eyes lit up. The idea of wielding a sword and channeling his newfound magical abilities in battle thrilled him. He had always admired the strength and skill of warriors, and now he had the opportunity to become one himself.
They left the library and headed towards the weapon district, a maze of narrow alleyways lined with shops displaying an array of gleaming blades, sturdy armor, and other combat gear. Gorn, with his experienced eye, led William to a reputable-looking establishment called "The Steel Serpent."
Inside, the shop was filled with the clang of hammers on metal and the scent of oil and leather. Weapons of all shapes and sizes adorned the walls, from daggers and short swords to massive two-handed greatswords.
A gruff-looking blacksmith with a thick beard and arms like tree trunks emerged from the back of the shop, wiping his brow with a rag. "Looking for something specific, gentlemen?" he asked, his voice booming.
"We need a good sword for this young lad," Gorn replied, gesturing towards William. "He's just starting his training as a Battlemage."
The blacksmith's eyes twinkled. "Ah, a Battlemage, eh? A fine choice. Requires strength, skill, and a touch of magic. Well, you've come to the right place." He led them to a display case filled with an assortment of swords, each one gleaming with a sharp edge.
"Now, for a beginner," the blacksmith explained, "I recommend something balanced and versatile. Not too heavy, not too light. Something that allows for both quick strikes and powerful blows." He pulled out a sword with a sleek, double-edged blade and a simple, leather-wrapped hilt. "This one is forged from high-quality steel, with a good balance and a sharp edge. Perfect for a young warrior learning the ropes."
William took the sword in his hand, feeling its weight and testing its balance. It felt comfortable, an extension of his own arm. He could already envision himself wielding it in battle, channeling his magic through the blade to unleash devastating attacks.
"I'll take it," he said, a confident grin spreading across his face.
Gorn nodded in approval. "A good choice, lad. Now, let's get you back to the inn. You have a lot of training ahead of you."
As they left the shop, William clutched his new sword tightly, his heart filled with anticipation. He was ready to embark on this new path, to hone his skills, and to become powerful.
They had nothing else to do but wait until the adventurers were ready to go with them back to Willow Creek village to take care of the corruption problem. So, William had some time to spend inside the tavern, trying to learn his new skills.