Chapter 67: Foundations and Discoveries
The days at the academy began to fall into a steady rhythm for Reyn. While the classroom lectures remained underwhelming, he found solace and excitement in the academy's vast library. The collection was immense, filled with magical tomes, historical records, and theoretical works. Reyn spent hours pouring over them, taking meticulous notes and crafting new theories about magic that hadn't yet been discovered in this world.
He wasn't content with merely replicating existing knowledge—his mind buzzed with ideas to revolutionize magic itself. His goal wasn't just to create weapons; it was to design divine artifacts that could change the course of history. He scribbled formulas and sketched designs, experimenting with how mana could be infused into weapons to replicate abilities he once read about in his past life.
At the same time, Reyn continued his study of the dwarven sword, carefully analyzing its composition, enchantments, and craftsmanship. Every detail brought new insights, fueling his ambition to surpass even the legendary blacksmiths of this world.
When not absorbed in his studies, Reyn found time to enjoy life with his closest friends. Alistor often joined him in the library, the two brainstorming ideas for golems and magical constructs. Liora, on the other hand, made sure Reyn didn't get too consumed by his work, dragging him into the occasional adventure or forcing him to relax with stories about her missions as a beginner adventurer.
"You'll burn yourself out, Reyn," she said one evening as they sat by the academy fountain. "You're brilliant, but even geniuses need a break."
Reyn chuckled. "Maybe, but there's so much to do. Every idea feels like a step closer to something incredible."
She rolled her eyes, though she couldn't hide her smile. "Just don't forget to have fun along the way."
While Reyn balanced his studies and friendships, Alarcus was on a different path. The mage had thrown himself into researching the materials Reyn had mentioned: a high-rank wind beast core and mithril. After days of combing through books and gathering information, he found his answer.
The southern region of the empire, dominated by towering mountain ranges, was known to be the home of powerful wind-type monsters. This region was governed by a duke whose reputation was second only to Roland Storme. Though not as well-known for military might, this duke was celebrated for his fairness and love for the land.
As for mithril, Alarcus discovered it was primarily mined in the dwarven country to the east. The dwarves were fiercely protective of their resources, and acquiring mithril would likely require either immense wealth or strong connections.
One evening, Alarcus shared his findings with Reyn during one of their secret meetings outside the city walls.
"The southern mountains," Alarcus said, pointing to a map he'd brought. "That's where we'll find high-rank wind beasts. It won't be easy—those creatures are vicious, and the terrain is treacherous. But if I can get there, I'll bring back what we need."
Reyn studied the map, nodding thoughtfully. "Good work. And the mithril?"
"The dwarven country," Alarcus replied. "It won't be as straightforward. They guard their resources carefully. We'd need either a significant amount of gold or some leverage to secure enough mithril."
Reyn leaned back, deep in thought. "We'll figure it out. For now, focus on preparing for the journey south. Gather supplies and make sure Zetsuei is ready."
Alarcus smirked. "You're not worried about me?"
"Not with Zetsuei at your side," Reyn said confidently. "But don't get reckless. This is just the first step. We've got a long road ahead."
Alarcus nodded, determination burning in his eyes. "I'll get what you need. Count on it."
Reyn watched him leave, a small smile tugging at his lips. The pieces were falling into place.
Time went by and as winter melted into spring, Reyn finally achieved a breakthrough with the dwarven sword. After weeks of painstaking analysis and experimentation, he unraveled the secrets behind its enchantments and craftsmanship. The intricate techniques used by the dwarves to bind magic and metal fascinated him, and he felt confident he could replicate and even improve upon their methods. This breakthrough marked a significant milestone in his journey to create divine weapons.
While Reyn's work progressed, Duke Roland Storme convened the annual meeting of his nobles in Greyhold Castle. The grand hall echoed with the conversations of lords and ladies discussing their lands' successes and challenges.
"Bandit activity on the northern roads has been quelled," a baron reported. "Trade should flow more smoothly this season."
"Several villages struggled with the harsh winter," another noble added. "But thanks to shared resources, none were left wanting."
The discussions were mostly routine until Lord Magnus Gale, Alistor's father, took his turn. Known for his sharp mind and innovative ideas, Magnus rose from his seat with a composed yet confident demeanor.
"Your Grace," Magnus began, addressing Duke Roland, "I bring news of a promising development. My son, Alistor, has recently formed an association with an extraordinary individual—a genius inventor and craftsman, whom I strongly suspect to be the elusive Blacksmith of a Thousand Tales."
The hall grew quiet, the mention of the enigmatic blacksmith capturing everyone's attention. Many had heard rumors but dismissed them as fanciful stories.
Magnus continued, "This blacksmith has provided me with several innovative designs for artifacts. Many of these have already been sold, proving both their practical value and immense potential. However, I recently received proposals for three large-scale projects that I believe demand your attention, Your Grace."
Duke Roland leaned forward, intrigued. "Speak, Magnus. What projects do you refer to?"
Magnus nodded. "The first is a communication golem system. These golems, shaped like birds, can deliver voice messages to anyone, anywhere. Imagine the implications for trade, diplomacy, and military coordination."
Soft murmurs rippled through the hall as the nobles exchanged glances.
"The second project is a teleportation gate network," Magnus continued. "These gates would connect key cities, enabling instantaneous transportation of goods and people. This would revolutionize commerce and logistics while significantly enhancing security and efficiency."
The murmurs grew louder, this time with a mix of excitement and skepticism.
"And the third," Magnus said, pausing for effect, "is a large-scale magical barrier system. These barriers would shield entire cities, protecting them from attacks from any direction. In these uncertain times, such a defense could prove invaluable."
The room fell silent again, the weight of Magnus's words settling over the gathered nobles.
Duke Roland leaned back in his chair, his expression contemplative. "These are bold ideas, Magnus. If executed properly, they could elevate Greyhold to a position of great influence within the Empire. However," his tone turned firm, "we cannot keep such advancements to ourselves. This level of craftsmanship must be shared with the royal family to strengthen the Empire as a whole."
Magnus inclined his head. "I expected no less, Your Grace."
The Duke's gaze sharpened. "Tell me, Magnus—does your son know the blacksmith personally?"
Magnus hesitated for a moment. "He does, Your Grace, though I must confess I do not know much about this individual beyond their brilliance. My son has not disclosed many details."
Roland nodded thoughtfully. "Perhaps that is for the best. Still, I see an opportunity here. My son and daughter, both attending the knight academy, could benefit from becoming acquainted with Alistor. If your son is close to the blacksmith, their friendship may help establish a connection with this remarkable individual. Such talent must not be allowed to fade into obscurity."
Magnus smiled. "I shall encourage Alistor to nurture their friendship, Your Grace."
Roland's lips curved into a satisfied smirk. "Good. As for the proposed projects, have the blacksmith prepare detailed plans. If the designs are as promising as you claim, I will authorize the resources and manpower needed to bring them to life."
He paused, glancing out the window toward the knight academy's training fields. "If this blacksmith is as skilled as you claim, perhaps they could craft swords for my son and daughter. Both are dedicated knights-in-training and deserve weapons befitting their status. Such an arrangement would also serve as an introduction to the blacksmith's work for the royal family."
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As the meeting adjourned, Roland's thoughts lingered on his children, Elric and Selene.
Elric, his eldest, was a young man of unyielding discipline and poise. His cool demeanor and stoic nature often intimidated others, but his loyalty to the Empire and dedication to his knightly duties were unquestionable. Elric was not one to mince words, often delivering cutting remarks when others fell short of his expectations.
Selene, on the other hand, was as spirited as she was clever. Despite her smaller stature, she held her own among the academy's knights-in-training, her sharp wit and tenacity earning her respect. Selene had a penchant for art and often expressed herself through sketches and designs, a stark contrast to her brother's rigid focus on perfection.
The Duke smiled to himself. "It would be a fine thing if the blacksmith could create weapons for my children—tools that match their skills and personalities. A blade worthy of Elric's precision and another to complement Selene's fiery spirit. Yes, that would do nicely."
Back at the academy, Reyn remained unaware of the Duke's growing interest in his work. He continued his routine of attending classes and spending hours in the library, where he poured over magical theories and envisioned spells that had yet to exist in this world. His studies fueled his experiments, laying the groundwork for future divine weapons.
During his free time, Reyn enjoyed moments of camaraderie with Liora and Alistor, cherishing their growing friendship. While he remained focused on his goals, the wheels of intrigue and ambition were already turning in the halls of power, setting the stage for Reyn's work to shape the future of Greyhold—and beyond.