Chapter 38: Secrets and Partners
The academy's second semester had just begun, and Reyn was already finding himself unimpressed by the day's lessons. While the teachers undoubtedly possessed knowledge, the slow pace of their instruction felt like a hindrance to his insatiable curiosity. He had learned far more on his own, spending countless hours in the library, formulating theories, and conducting experiments.
By the time the day's classes ended, Reyn's notebook was filled—not with notes on the lectures, but with his own diagrams and ideas for new magical constructs. He eagerly sought out his friend, Alistor, who had become a trusted companion since Reyn had started attending the academy. Alistor shared Reyn's passion for innovation, and their collaboration had already yielded impressive results.
"Alistor," Reyn said as they met in the academy courtyard, "I've got some new designs for you."
Alistor perked up, intrigued. "Oh? What is it this time?"
Reyn handed him a set of schematics. "It's a design for a communication golem in the shape of a seagull. It's simple to make, efficient, and can deliver messages verbally or carry written scrolls across long distances. I've also outlined a concept for teleportation gates. They're small-scale for now, but with some adjustments, they could become a game-changer."
Alistor studied the schematics with wide eyes. "This is incredible, Reyn. Do you ever stop creating?"
Reyn grinned. "Not when there's so much to improve. Let me know if you run into any issues."
With that, Reyn set off for his evening appointment. Outside the city walls, in the rolling green fields, Alarcus was waiting. The powerful mage had spent the past days pondering Reyn's reputation and was eager to meet the so-called Blacksmith of a Thousand Tales.
When Reyn approached, Alarcus's expression shifted to confusion, then disbelief. "You're joking," he said, his voice laced with incredulity. "You? The Blacksmith of a Thousand Tales? You're just a kid."
Reyn crossed his arms, unfazed. "Appearances can be deceiving. But if you're not convinced, we can end this here and now."
Alarcus hesitated, his curiosity warring with his skepticism. "You're serious about this?"
"Dead serious. If you want to know the truth, you'll have to sign a magic contract. It'll ensure that you can't reveal my secrets to anyone else. No contract, no deal."
After a moment's pause, Alarcus nodded. "Fine. Show me the contract."
Reyn summoned a scroll imbued with magic. Its runes shimmered as it hovered in the air. Alarcus read the terms carefully before signing. The scroll disintegrated into glowing particles, signaling the contract's activation.
"Good," Reyn said. "Now, let me introduce you to your new partner. His name is Zetsuei."
Placing his hand on the ground, Reyn activated a glowing magic circle. It pulsed with energy, and a metallic figure began to materialize.
Zetsuei's first form was nothing short of remarkable. The golem stood nearly six feet tall, its humanoid frame sleek and elegant, yet undeniably intimidating. Its body was composed of dark, polished metal, with a faint iridescent sheen that seemed to shift colors under the moonlight.
The limbs were long and segmented, giving Zetsuei an almost insect-like fluidity in its movements. Its head was a featureless oval, save for a single glowing blue eye in the center that pulsed rhythmically. Along its back were sharp, blade-like protrusions folded neatly, which resembled wings. These blades were both defensive and offensive tools, capable of shielding or slicing with precision.
Its hands were clawed, with three articulated digits that gleamed with razor-sharp edges. Despite its mechanical appearance, Zetsuei's movements were disturbingly lifelike, as though it were more than just a construct.
"What... is this?" Alarcus asked, unable to hide his awe.
"This is Zetsuei," Reyn replied. "He's a combat golem, but he's more than just a weapon. Zetsuei is intelligent, adaptive, and loyal. Treat him well, and he'll be an invaluable partner in battle."
Zetsuei stepped forward, tilting its head slightly as it regarded Alarcus. Its single eye glowed brighter for a moment before it extended a clawed hand, as though greeting its new master.
Alarcus hesitated before clasping the golem's hand. The metal was cool to the touch, but there was an almost imperceptible hum of energy running through it. "I don't know what to say..."
"Then don't," Reyn said, his voice firm but not unkind. "Actions speak louder than words. Prove yourself, Alarcus, and Zetsuei will show you what true power looks like."
As Alarcus admired the golem, Reyn continued, "Keep in mind, this is only Zetsuei's first form. For me to complete his second and final form—the one that will help you get your revenge—I'll need two things: a high-rank wind beast core and the rare mineral mithril."
Alarcus nodded. "I'll get you what you need. No matter what it takes."
"Good," Reyn said with a faint smile. "One more thing: should Zetsuei ever get damaged, you won't need me to repair him. Just have him absorb some minerals. Common ores like iron will work for minor repairs, but if he's badly damaged, you'll need something higher quality—like silver or gold. Zetsuei will know what he needs."
Alarcus stared at the golem with renewed admiration. "It can heal itself? That's... incredible."
Reyn nodded. "He's more than a weapon. Zetsuei is a partner. Treat him like one, and you'll both become stronger."
Seeing the awe on Alarcus's face, Reyn decided it was time to reveal the truth. "Now that you've signed the contract, there's something you deserve to know. You're probably wondering why someone like me, a kid, has this kind of power and knowledge."
Alarcus frowned, his curiosity piqued. "It crossed my mind."
Reyn took a deep breath. "I wasn't born in this world, not originally. I'm... reincarnated. The gods brought me here from another world."
The mage's eyes widened. "You're from... another world? Why would the gods do that?"
"They told me I had potential," Reyn explained. "I was a blacksmith in my previous life, but I was just an ordinary man. This world? It's full of magic and wonder, things I could only dream of. The gods gave me a second chance to make something extraordinary—and so I am."
Alarcus was silent for a moment, processing the revelation. "That's... a lot to take in."
"I understand," Reyn said. "But now you see why I'm different. Why I can create things like Zetsuei. This isn't just about revenge or making weapons—it's about changing the world. If you're with me, we'll achieve more than either of us could alone."
Alarcus looked at Reyn, then at Zetsuei. Slowly, he nodded. "If this is what the gods intended, then I'll follow you. Let's change the world, Reyn."
Reyn smiled. "Good. Let's get started."