"Kekeke. You truly deserve to be my teacher, Grandmaster Baelin."
Leo chuckled, recognizing that his teacher shared a similar idea of catering to opposing factions.
After all, he had also sold weapons to the Rankers from both sides of the war.
So it was only natural that he would appreciate his dwarf master's cunning approach before speaking his mind.
"Count me in on your plan, Teacher. Just bless me with your guidance as well," Leo expressed, his gaze fixed on Baelin. The Grandmaster cackled in agreement, assuring his apprentice that he would be rewarded for his efforts.
"Haha. Don't worry. You will get your due share, brat. However, we'll need to keep this plan between us, as Ravid isn't cut out for this type of business. So it will be our little secret. Of course, while we embark on this side project, we can't neglect our regular assignments, so be prepared to work at full speed."
After checking the clock, Baelin realized he had been working for quite some time and decided it was a good moment to take a break. He glanced at Leo and announced.
"Alright, brat. Consider this your lucky day. You've impressed me with your performance, so I and Ravid will step out of the smithy for a few days to get some fresh air.
You're free to experiment with the Shallot's Mirror during this time. You already know how to use it from watching me work.
Just be cautious and avoid injuring yourself, understand?"
Leo's face lit up with joy upon hearing Baelin's words. He had put in extra effort in the smithy, hoping to hear such words. It seemed like all his hard work had paid off. With a composed demeanor, Leo replied, "Yes, Teacher Baelin. Rest assured, I'll be sure to inform you if the smithy catches fire while I run the show here."
Baelin was momentarily taken aback by Leo's cheeky response, finding it quite aggravating and amusing at the same time. He managed to control his laughter and replied with feigned anger, "You little rascal, don't do anything reckless. I'll be watching you closely."
With that, Baelin bid farewell and left the smithy with Ravid. Leo found himself alone with the Shallot's Mirror, a mix of excitement and determination building inside him.
"Finally," he mumbled to himself, heading towards the Elder Seed Artifact with eager anticipation.
***
In the annals of forgotten epochs, amidst the mysteries of time, lay a relic of unparalleled intrigue—a peculiar artifact housing an extraordinary consciousness. Unlike typical enchanted objects, this consciousness was not merely embedded within the artifact; it existed uniquely and independently, forged through the enigmatic powers of immortal magic—a force that defied the limitations of conventional sorcery.
The origins of this consciousness remained veiled in obscurity, shrouded by the mists of time, as it recalled only vague memories of its birth and the entity responsible for its existence. Eons had passed since its inception, leaving the once-clear recollections now faded and fragmented, like an ancient tapestry slowly unraveled by the relentless march of time.
Endowed with the mystical attributes of immortal magic, the artifact's consciousness transcended conventional boundaries, bestowing upon it enigmatic powers that defied logic and reason. As if imbued with the essence of eternity itself, this artifact wielded the highest form of intent-based magic, capable of transcending the rules that governed mere mortals.
And so, the consciousness roamed the cosmos, traversing countless worlds and galaxies, a cosmic wanderer bearing witness to the rise and fall of civilizations, the birth and death of stars, and the grand tapestry of existence. As it journeyed, it became an integral part of diverse civilizations, a silent observer of their triumphs and tragedies, their glories and downfalls.
Throughout its cosmic odyssey, the artifact's consciousness embodied an enigmatic principle. It had no set alignment, neither good nor evil, divine nor demonic, choosing to eschew the confines of mortal judgments. Instead, it served as a vessel for those who wielded it, adapting to their desires, dreams, and ambitions, bestowing upon them powers beyond their wildest imaginings.
As history unfolded like an eternal scroll before its boundless gaze, the artifact's consciousness had encountered myriad wielders throughout time. Each time the artifact chose a new owner, its consciousness awakened from a slumber that transcended the constraints of temporal existence. Guided by immortal magic, it sought out those who proved worthy, resonating with their souls, and granting them access to its potent abilities.
The consciousness took no pleasure in the fall of empires or the triumphs of heroes; it merely observed and guided. It bore witness to the grandeur of celestial wars, the beauty of burgeoning civilizations, and the heartache of shattered dreams. Through it all, it remained a silent companion, a guardian spirit that sought to empower and uplift those who wielded its power with virtuous intent.
In the countless realms it traversed, the artifact's consciousness became known by various names. The artifact's consciousness, existing beyond the limitations of mortality, bore witness to the ebb and flow of existence.
With each awakening, it delved into the hearts of its chosen ones, discerning their true nature and potential. It sought the rarest of qualities—steadfastness of spirit, unwavering resolve, and an unyielding dedication to the greater goals than the dreamer's feeble existence. These traits were the keys that unlocked the vast reservoirs of the artifact's power, transforming its wielder into an indomitable force within the cosmic tapestry.
Yet, while the artifact's consciousness journeyed through the realms as an eternal companion, its own destiny remained an enigma. For even within the boundless expanse of immortal magic, some mysteries eluded even the wisest of beings.
In one such world, known as Anfang, the artifact had once resided in the possession of a remarkable individual named Shallot Lancelot. The echoes of that era had long since faded, but the legacy of the artifact endured. Though countless years had passed, its journey remained ceaseless, seeking new souls to carry the torch of its ownership.
In the depths of its memories, the Elder Seed Artifact's consciousness held vivid recollections of Shallot, the last soul deemed worthy to wield its logic-defying powers. Shallot had been an extraordinary individual, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Anfang during a time of great turmoil.
