Chapter 39 – Toward the Abyss
They both arrived at the mansion in silence. William quickly gathered his belongings and packed everything into a small leather bag. Despite having some money, he had never felt the need to buy anything valuable—he didn't know what fate held in store, and preferred to always be ready to run.
Before leaving, he knelt beside his bed and pulled out his only valuable possession: a two-handed sword, carefully wrapped in cloth. At the base of the hilt, embedded in the metal, a red gem shimmered faintly. This was no ordinary blade.
As he stepped out of the room, Jayce caught sight of the sword and froze for a moment, eyes narrowing.
—"Nice sword... Come with me," he said, tone unreadable.
Without a word, William followed, though a tight feeling sat in his chest. He couldn't help but wonder if Jayce would want the sword badly enough to take it by force. He trusted him—mostly—but the thought still crept in.
They walked a few minutes until they reached the waiting carriage. Jayce headed straight to the back and pulled out a large reinforced chest.
—"Put your sword in here, along with your things." He nodded toward the chest. "Just looking at the markings, anyone with half a brain for magical tools would know what you're carrying. Your necklace stays hidden under your clothes, but that sword? Way too flashy. Don't let anyone see it unless you're ready for serious trouble. Around here, magical blacksmiths and alchemists are rare as hell. Any enchanted weapon or potion can sell for a hundred times the price you'd find back in the magical continent."
Hearing that, William felt a pang of guilt. He'd been worried about being robbed, and now he felt foolish. He lowered his head slightly.
—"Sorry for doubting you..." he muttered.