Adrian stepped back from his workbench after completing the last of the mana detectors. Five days of relentless labor had brought him here, and now, at last, they were complete.
They could now sell themselves — if he chose the right audience. He'd considered selling them to the Adventurers, but his mind kept returning to a bolder plan.
'Better to offer these to the Association as a whole,' he thought. 'I supply all fifty detectors; they outfit their scouts and wardens. I could build a reputation and a relationship with them if all goes well.'
With that resolve, Adrian wrapped up everything he was doing, packed the detectors in a crate stored them in his inventory, and saw off Eli and Mara before setting off on a journey to Eldergrove.
***
The Adventurer's Association in Eldergrove loomed as familiar as ever: its grey stone façade marked by the twin-swords-and-dragon crest above the oaken doors.
Adrian joined the line of Adventurers at the reception hall, and it didn't take too long before he got to his turn to speak with the receptionist.
"You again? What is it now?"
It wasn't a surprise that she recognized him, but Adrian kept his cool and replied:
"I'd like to speak with the Association Director."
She snorted at his request. "You can't just waltz in here like it's your father's parlor and demand the Director's ear."
Adrian smiled politely, recalling the rules of the association.
"Code neon."
The receptionist hid her surprise and raised an eyebrow at him. "What do you know about code neon?"
"According to Association Protocol Article 3, Section 2: 'Any registered member with new evidence or discoveries of potential benefit shall be granted a direct audience with the Director as long as he is available.' I believe this qualifies."
The receptionist's mouth twitched; she knew she'd lost. Reluctantly she picked up a fresh parchment, scrawled a line of text, and signed it with an ornamental flourish.
"All right. The director's audience approved, but remember that any false claim or unfounded alarm will result in license suspension and your forest entry temporarily revoked. Understood?"
Adrian nodded his head. "Understood. Thank you."
Moments later, a stout aide emerged from the Director's office and beckoned him in. The receptionist returned to her ledger, already dismissing his passing with an exasperated sigh.
Inside the Director's richly appointed chamber, the man stood to greet Adrian. He wore fine robes trimmed in gold, and his black hair was neatly combed back. Despite his official bearing, his smile was warm.
"Welcome back, lad," he said, gesturing to a carved walnut table. "What brings you here today?"
Adrian sat down on the chair and announced:
"I've developed a device capable of detecting mana— crystals, beasts, even ambient magical residue — and I'd like to supply them to the Association. At a fair price, of course."
The Director's grin froze and his eyes widened as the words sank in. For a moment, the room was silent, save for the distant noise of the Association's bustle.
He considered Adrian's claim for a second. If true, this was a paradigm shift. Adventurers could hunt with unprecedented efficiency, and the Association's influence would soar.
He wasn't no fool though; extraordinary claims required extraordinary proof.
"Boy... you'd better not be spinning tales. Show me."
***
Lord Cedric stood silently at the grand balcony overlooking the sprawling gardens of the Borin estate, his piercing eyes gazing far beyond the horizon.
His distinguished white hair, well groomed, shimmered gently in the morning sunlight, matching his neatly trimmed beard.
It had taken several days to arrange his departure, a rare occurrence given his heavy responsibilities. He governed over a multitude of towns, each with its unique issues and complexities, yet it was unusual for him to make personal visits.
His trusted stewards and messengers usually sufficed, managing affairs and reporting back promptly. But Tulia had demanded special attention.
Cedric's thoughtful silence was interrupted by the faint sound of laughter and rhythmic chanting echoing through the marble corridors. Turning slowly, he made his way toward the spacious study chamber where the family's mage tutor, Master Elias, was conducting lessons.
Inside the large, sunlit room, his four children stood in a neat row. The quadruplets had grown swiftly, each showing extraordinary potential.
"Again," Master Elias gently instructed, watching closely. "Balance your breathing; remember, control is everything."
Cedric watched from the doorway, unseen at first. His chest filled with quiet pride as he observed the seamless synchronization of his children's magic.
The Academy's examination loomed only months away, an exam feared and respected by nobles and commoners alike. The Academy held no regard for status or lineage; skill and ability were the only currency there.
He cleared his throat, and Master Elias turned, offering a respectful bow.
"Father!" the children chorused, dispelling their magic and quickly standing straight. Their faces brightened immediately.
"You've all improved significantly," Cedric complimented, stepping forward and affectionately resting a hand on Serena's shoulder. "But there's no room for complacency. The Academy expects excellence, not merely talent."
"We know, Father," said Fabian confidently. "We'll be ready."
"Very good," Cedric replied warmly. He turned to Master Elias. "Please continue."
He stepped out, shutting the door softly behind him, only to find his wife, Mirena, waiting in the corridor, eyes filled with worry.
"Must you truly leave now, Cedric?" she asked softly, touching his arm. "It's so rare for you to visit these towns personally."
"I must," he replied gently, but firmly. "Tulia is… unusual. Reports indicate advancements that are hard to ignore. If true, they could change everything."
She hesitated, looking away briefly. "And… Adrian? Do you think he's well?"
Cedric's expression darkened slightly. "Mirena, we've discussed this. Adrian is not a Borin. My concern is for my bloodline and our people."
Her lips quivered, and she turned away swiftly, unable to meet his gaze. He reached out instinctively but stopped himself, letting his hand fall. He sighed heavily as he watched her retreat down the corridor, her quiet sobs echoing faintly.
With a troubled heart, Cedric straightened himself and proceeded to the courtyard, where a polished carriage awaited, escorted by knights in gleaming armor.
Servants quickly arranged his luggage, and Cedric took his seat, drawing back the velvet curtains as the carriage started forward.