Chapter 29
As Reyn finishes tidying up after the return of his crow golems, he places each one in a small, locked case. He thinks about how he based them on the ravens of Norse mythology, Huginn and Muninn, Odin's loyal messengers who watched over the world and reported back. Just as those ravens gathered wisdom and knowledge, his golems do the same, helping him learn and observe while staying in the shadows. Though he looks young, he feels a kinship with these legendary creatures, a blend of the old and new knowledge from his past life and this world.
Reyn stretches, but his mind remains restless. Too much has happened in the capital, and his heart feels heavy from the sights he's seen. Slavery's stark reality in the other dukedoms, the lavish lifestyles and shady dealings he glimpsed, and the thrilling but brutal displays of power in the tournament all weigh on him. They remind him of why he keeps his skills guarded and his true craft hidden—both out of pride in his art and fear of exploitation.
Reyn sighs as he gazes out the window into the starry night, feeling small yet determined. He remembers his promise to help those who deserve it, like Seraphine and the orphans. The world may be harsh, but he clings to the fairy-tale dream of a better place, a world where his crafted weapons are wielded by worthy heroes, not corrupt officials.
Finally, Reyn heads to bed, resolving that tomorrow will be a step toward mastering his craft further. With one final look at his tools, he closes his eyes, eager yet anxious for the auction ahead.
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The Morning Market Hustle
The next morning, Reyn and Garret set out early for the auction house. As they weave through the bustling market streets, Reyn marvels at the lively scene. Merchants from all over the empire line the streets, selling everything from exotic spices to enchanted trinkets. The market is awash with color and sound, with foreign accents mingling with local voices, the scent of roasted meats blending with the sharp tang of herbs and incense.
As they pass a line of weapon vendors, Reyn's eyes are drawn to a well-crafted dagger with runes etched along the blade's edge. Beside it, another merchant shows off a shimmering cape said to repel rain and mud—ideal for adventurers. The sights and sounds around him remind him of why he came here. The capital is a gathering place for skill and artistry, a place where he could leave his mark, even if only through his most powerful weapons.
Just ahead, Reyn notices a booth where a rugged blacksmith is displaying armor fitted with what look like embedded crystals, each one faintly pulsing with energy. He stops for a moment, intrigued. The blacksmith glances at Reyn, offering a nod of acknowledgment. They exchange a silent understanding—two craftsmen appreciating each other's work. Reyn files away the image of the crystal-embedded armor for future reference, considering how he might use similar methods in his own creations.
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Entering the Gilded Chalice
Reyn and Garret finally reach the Gilded Chalice, an impressive structure with tall pillars and intricate carvings, looking more like a grand palace than an auction house. Nobles and wealthy merchants gather near the entrance, dressed in rich fabrics and sparkling with jewelry, making Reyn feel distinctly out of place. He takes a deep breath and follows Garret inside, keeping his hood low to avoid attention.
The interior of the Gilded Chalice is even more opulent, with towering statues, chandeliers crafted from enchanted crystals, and walls adorned with murals depicting famous battles and legendary heroes. The crowd murmurs with excitement as they await the start of the auction, and Reyn can feel the energy in the room—a blend of anticipation and fierce competition. Everyone here is vying for a piece of history or power.
Reyn glances around at the auction tables, where a few of the items are already on display for early viewing. He spots an ancient shield, a mage's staff crackling with faint sparks of magic, and an array of exotic monster parts. The dwarven sword he came for isn't out yet, but just imagining it makes his heart race. This sword could be a masterpiece, a weapon that could elevate his skill if he can uncover its secrets.
He keeps his focus, reminding himself that he has two items of his own to sell. For a moment, he wonders if the auction crowd will appreciate the skill he put into them. The practice sword's weight-adjustment magic and the regenerative broad sword, capable of repairing itself using monster blood, are creations he's proud of. He hopes they'll fetch enough to give him a real chance at bidding on the dwarven weapon.Upon entering the auction house, Reyn approaches an attendant stationed near the entrance. "I'm here on behalf of the Blacksmith of a Thousand Tales," he states in a low, measured voice. "I have two items for sale. The blacksmith also asked me to purchase anything that might interest him."
The attendant's eyes widen at the mention of the blacksmith's title. "Of course, sir," he responds, nodding respectfully. "If you'll follow me, I'll bring you to see Master Corvin, our proprietor. He handles matters of this nature personally."
Reyn exchanges a quick look with Garret, who appears as intrigued as he is, and they follow the attendant down a series of lavishly decorated corridors. Finally, they're led to a private room filled with fine furnishings, artifacts, and rare items on display—clearly a sanctuary of wealth and refinement.
At the center of the room sits a man with graying hair, dressed in fine clothes embroidered with intricate patterns. His sharp eyes reflect a blend of curiosity and cunning as he rises to greet them.
"Welcome," he says smoothly, gesturing for Reyn and Garret to sit across from him. "I'm Corvin Hallow, the owner of The Gilded Chalice. I hear you're here on behalf of… the Blacksmith of a Thousand Tales?"
"Yes," Reyn replies in a steady voice. "The blacksmith sent me to negotiate the sale of a few unique items and seek any artifacts that might catch his eye."
Corvin raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "Quite the responsibility you carry," he says with a smirk. "Very well, let's see what your master has entrusted you with."
Reyn carefully reaches into his satchel, first producing a sleek, simple sword hilt, then placing a sealed letter beside it. Lastly, he withdraws an elegant practice sword that radiates a subtle magical aura.
Corvin leans forward, curious, as he picks up the sword hilt and unseals the letter. He reads aloud, his tone growing intrigued: "Dip this handle into a bucket of monster blood, and it will absorb the essence, transforming into a broad sword. The sword will regenerate by consuming monster blood, ensuring it remains sharp and battle-ready."
He sets down the letter, clearly impressed, and examines the hilt. "A regenerating weapon that uses monster blood as fuel. That's ingenious." He looks up at Reyn, his gaze a mixture of respect and intrigue. "And this practice sword?"
Reyn nods, picking up the second item. "This sword has an adjustable weight, thanks to a unique gravity enchantment. With a simple adjustment, it can be as light as a feather or as heavy as a mountain. The blacksmith crafted it for warriors seeking to train and strengthen their endurance."
Corvin's eyes widen slightly as he holds the sword, feeling the enchantment's weight-shifting effect. His respect for the items—and by extension, the "blacksmith"—is clearly growing.
"These are both remarkable items," he murmurs, almost to himself. "Completely new concepts. The ingenuity… Your master truly deserves his title."
Reyn remains silent, adopting an air of mystery, while Corvin nods to himself, visibly making calculations.
"These items deserve to be highlighted," Corvin announces, a hint of excitement in his voice. "I'll list each one with a starting bid of 2,500 gold pieces. And, as a sign of respect for your master, I'll place them in the lineup right before the dwarven sword. That way, interested buyers will already be engaged when the sword you seek comes up."
Reyn inclines his head slightly, concealing his satisfaction. "The blacksmith will appreciate your understanding, Master Hallow."
Corvin smiles, clearly pleased with the arrangement. "Good. Now, you have my word that I'll personally oversee the auction of these items. The reputation of The Gilded Chalice demands it. And if your master ever considers selling other such treasures, you know where to find me."
Reyn stands, his hood shadowing his face, and gives a brief nod. "We will keep that in mind. Thank you for your consideration."
As Reyn and Garret leave, Garret can barely contain his excitement. "You handled that perfectly," he whispers. "We might just pull this off."
Reyn smiles to himself, his mind already racing with plans for the auction. If these items sell at a high price, he'll finally have the funds he needs to secure the dwarven sword—and perhaps, even unlock the secrets behind its legendary transformations.