I was sweeping up the workshop when Hugh came in, carrying a stack of old books. He placed them on the counter with a thud, and I could see the lines of worry etched deeply into his face.
"Morning, Hugh," I said, trying to sound cheerful. "Anything I can help with today?"
Hugh glanced at me, his eyes tired but still kind. "Just the usual, Leon. Keep the place tidy and make sure everything is in order."
I nodded, but I couldn't ignore the strain in his voice, it felt all too similar, "Are you sure there's nothing specific you need? You seem... a bit off lately."
He paused, his shoulders slumping slightly. "It's this commission, Leon. It's... delicate. Requires my full attention."
"Got it," I replied, deciding not to push further. "I'll take care of things out here."
Hugh nodded and disappeared into the back room, leaving me alone with my thoughts. The days at Hugh's shop had grown increasingly tense. Hugh, usually a beacon of calm and wisdom, now often wore a furrowed brow and a tight expression. The commission he was working on seemed to weigh heavily on him, and it was clear he wasn't fond of it.
"Just focus on your tasks, Leon," Hugh would say whenever I offered to help. "This commission is... not one I can spread around."
I respected Hugh's wish but couldn't shake off the curiosity. What could be so challenging and bothersome that it would affect Hugh this much? Determined to make myself useful in other ways, I decided to split my time between helping around the shop, refining my transforming weapon/tool project, and experimenting with new ideas.
Hugh's shop, usually filled with the comforting hum of magic and the scent of wood and metal, now felt different. There was an underlying tension, a sense of unease that I couldn't ignore. Every clang of metal, every spark of enchantment felt heavier, burdened by whatever was troubling Hugh.
One afternoon, as I organized the shelves of ancient tomes, I glanced over at Hugh. He was hunched over his workbench, his hands moving with precise, almost mechanical motions. The usual spark of enthusiasm in his eyes was absent, replaced by a deep concentration that bordered on frustration.
"Are you sure you don't need any help?" I asked, trying to sound casual.
Hugh looked up, forcing a smile. "I'm sure, Leon. Just focus on your tasks."
His words were meant to be reassuring, but they only fueled my curiosity. I sighed and turned back to the shelves, my mind racing with questions. What kind of commission could be so delicate that it would make Hugh, of all people, so tense?
Determined to make the most of my time, I dived back into my projects. The transforming weapon/tool I was working on had shown promise. I had managed to integrate multiple tools into a single device, but the runes needed to make the transformations seamless and not… let all of the things inside pop out at once, were still a challenge. Hugh's advice on rune carving had been invaluable, but I knew I needed to perfect the technique on my own.
As I carved the runes into a piece of wood, I couldn't help but steal glances at Hugh. His usually steady hands seemed almost hesitant, as if he was dealing with something far more complex and dangerous than any project I had seen him tackle before. The air felt thick with unspoken worries, and the normally soothing rhythm of our work was now punctuated by moments of tense silence.
I decided to stay focused on my own tasks. The best way to help Hugh right now was to ensure the shop ran smoothly and that my own projects progressed without a hitch. Looking back down at my practice piece, I had nicked my thumb with the knife, my blood activating the transform rune causing the stick to transform into a partially made hammer in my hands, gravity immediately took hold as my arms were pulled downwards and took my head down with it right into the table I was working on. "Gah dan it! I bi' my ongue!"
I winced and carefully set the heavy, partially transformed hammer aside. The mishap brought a small chuckle from Hugh, who glanced over despite his obvious preoccupation.
"You alright there, Leon?" he asked, a hint of his usual humor breaking through the tension.
"Yeah, just... bit my tongue," I mumbled, rubbing my sore jaw. "Guess I need to be more careful with these runes."
Hugh nodded, his smile fading back into that concerned frown. "Precision is key. But you'll get there. Just keep practicing."
I gave a thumbs-up, trying to look more confident than I felt. As Hugh turned back to his work, I refocused on my own project. The transforming weapon/tool was becoming a bit of a pain (literally), but I was determined to perfect it. Each mistake a lesson, and if my learning speed in my past life was anything to go by, I would overcome them.
As the afternoon wore on, I continued to refine my runes and test the transformations, making sure to not activate the damn things. The tension in the shop remained albeit lessened by my error. I couldn't help but glance at Hugh every now and then, wondering what the hell that commission was.
It was late in the afternoon when I decided to take a break. I wiped the sweat from my brow and looked around the shop. Despite the unease, there was something comforting about the familiar surroundings. The scent of wood and metal, the soft glow of enchantments... it was a place I was starting to call home.
Suddenly, a loud thud came from the back room where Hugh was working. My heart skipped a beat as I rushed towards the sound. Peeking in, I saw Hugh standing over his workbench, his face pale and strained. He was staring at a piece of intricate machinery that had just popped open, his hands shaking slightly from overwork.
"Hugh, are you okay?" I asked, stepping into the room.
He looked up, his eyes tired and haunted. "Just... a setback. Nothing to worry about, Leon."
I nodded, though I didn't believe him. The commission was clearly taking a toll on him. "If you need anything, let me know," I said, trying to sound supportive.
Hugh forced another smile. "Thanks, Leon, I'll be fine… just keep doing what you're doing."
I left him to his work, the unease in my chest growing. Whatever this commission was, it was more than just delicate. It was something dangerous, something that even Hugh, with all his skill and experience, was struggling to handle.
Determined to keep things running smoothly, I returned to my projects. But my mind kept drifting back to Hugh and the mysterious commission. I knew I had to stay focused, but the questions kept nagging at me. What was so important about this commission? And why was Hugh so reluctant to talk about it?
As I carved another rune, I resolved to find out. Not by prying, but by being ready. Whatever was coming, I wanted to be prepared. For now, that meant perfecting my projects and keeping the shop in order. But I couldn't shake the feeling that something big was on the horizon, and it was only a matter of time before it arrived.
I decided to take a break from the shop and head to the market. As always it was bustling with activity, a great place to clear my head and maybe find some inspiration. As I weaved through the crowded streets, I marveled at the array of goods on display — fresh produce, intricate fabrics, and magical trinkets.
Just as I was about to stop at a stall selling some curious-looking crystals, I felt a slight tug on my pocket. Reacting quickly, I turned to see a figure darting through the crowd, clutching my pouch of jewels.
"Hey! Stop!" I shouted, but the thief was already disappearing into the sea of people. I tried to give chase, but it was no use. The pickpocket was long gone, and so was my money.
Frustrated and out of breath, I leaned against a wall, taking a moment to collect myself. The market had always been busy, but I hadn't expected to be robbed in broad daylight. It was a harsh reminder of the need for better security, especially in a place where magic and valuables were so commonplace.
As I slowly made my way back to the shop, the wheels in my mind started turning. There had to be a better way to keep my belongings safe, something more reliable than just a pouch or a pocket. That's when it hit me — a spatial storage device. A secure place to store my valuables, accessible only to me.
Sure, there was Requip magic, which allowed mages to store and summon items from a personal pocket dimension. But I wanted to prove that I could create something similar without relying on a specific type of magic. I liked making things, the process of shaping raw ideas into tangible objects. It wasn't just about the end result; it was about mastering the craft and pushing the boundaries of what I could do with my own abilities.
By the time I reached the shop, the idea had taken root. I headed straight to my workbench, pulling out the book of runes and flipping through the pages for inspiration. The concept was simple enough: a small, hidden storage space that I could access at will. But how to implement it?
Using the Arc of Embodiment was one thing, but creating a device that could harness spatial storage without needing Requip magic was a challenge I was eager to take on. I wanted to craft it, to imbue it with my own skill and understanding. This was about more than just convenience; it was about proving my ability to innovate using my magic as a tool, not a crutch.
As I sketched out designs and reviewed my notes, something clicked. The spatial aspect I was working on for the storage device was exactly what I had been missing for my transforming tool. The reason the tools and weapons kept popping out during transformations was that I couldn't compact the extra mass enough within the limited space. But if I could integrate a spatial storage component into the transforming tool, it could seamlessly store the mass in a pocket dimension and grab more when needed.
Determined to bring this idea to life, I spent the rest of the day experimenting with smaller spatial storage items. Each test brought me closer to understanding the intricacies of the magic involved. Balancing this project with my ongoing work on the transforming weapon/tool.
I spent the next few hours at my workbench, focused on bringing my ideas to life. First up was the transforming tool. I laid out the blueprint I had drawn up, detailing every component and transformation sequence. Visualizing the entire device in my mind, I began to channel my magic, using the Arc of Embodiment to shape the raw materials.
With each attempt, I refined the design, making adjustments based on the blueprint. My first few tries were rough — parts didn't fit together seamlessly, and some tools wouldn't fully retract. But I kept at it, determined to get it right.
After several iterations, I finally managed to create a version with an acceptable level of error. The handle was sturdy, the mechanisms smooth, and the runes precisely carved to ensure proper transformations. I took a deep breath and tested the transformations. The handle smoothly extended into a hammer, then retracted and morphed into a screwdriver, followed by an axe, wrench, and finally a sword. Each tool popped in and out of existence flawlessly, thanks to the spatial storage aspect I had integrated.
"Not bad," I muttered to myself, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "I'll test the durability later."
Next, I turned my attention to the blueprint for the storage device. The design was inspired by the wrist implant from Ark Survival Evolved, meant to be implanted into my wrist to prevent it from being stolen. The grooves for runes would enable the spatial storage. I laid out the materials and began the process of shaping the device.
As I visualized the storage device, I carefully carved the runes into the grooves of the design. The runes glowed faintly as I imbued them with magic, ensuring that the spatial aspect would function properly. It took several attempts to get the runes just right, but I finally managed to create a device that felt solid and reliable.
Holding the completed storage device in my hand, I marveled at the intricate design. It was a small, sleek implant that could be seamlessly integrated into my wrist. The runes glowed softly, indicating that the magic was active and ready to use.
With a mix of excitement and trepidation, I prepared to integrate the device into my wrist. Using the Arc of Embodiment, I directed the blue glow towards my wrist, embedding the device into my skin. The pain was intense, but I gritted my teeth and pressed on. Moments later, the implant was no longer visible, seamlessly integrated into my wrist.
Breathing heavily, I tested the device. I willed a small tool to disappear, and it did, vanishing into the spatial pocket. With a thought, I retrieved it, grinning at the success.
he next morning, I decided it was time to test the transforming tool properly. I needed to make sure it could handle real-world conditions and perform reliably. After a quick breakfast, I packed a few essentials, secured within my new wrist implant, and set out for a secluded area just outside of town.
The sun was still low in the sky, casting long shadows as I made my way through the outskirts of the town and into the forest. I found a quiet clearing where I could practice without interruption. The air was crisp, and the sounds of nature provided a calming backdrop to my thoughts.
I took a deep breath and pulled out the transforming tool. It felt solid in my hand, the runes etched into its surface glowing faintly in the morning light. I began by testing the basic transformations, moving through each tool one by one.
First, I activated the hammer. The handle extended and thickened, forming a sturdy, weighty hammerhead. I swung it a few times, feeling the balance and heft. Satisfied, I retracted it and moved on to the next tool.
The screwdriver emerged smoothly, the tip sharpening to a precise point. I tested it on a nearby piece of wood, driving screws in and out with ease. Each transformation felt smoother and more controlled than the last, the spatial storage aspect ensuring that each tool was compacted and summoned perfectly.
Next came the axe. The blade unfolded, sharp and ready. I found a fallen tree and swung the axe with all my strength, feeling it bite deeply into the wood. It took a few more swings to get a good feel for the weight and balance, but soon I was chopping through the tree like it was nothing.
The wrench and the sword followed, each transformation seamless and satisfying. The wrench adjusted easily to different sizes, gripping, and turning with precision. The sword, sleek and sharp, felt particularly good in my hand. I practiced a few basic swings and thrusts, marveling at the craftsmanship.
With each transformation, I made mental notes on areas that might need further refinement. The handle could use a bit more grip, and the transitions could be slightly faster. But overall, I was pleased with the results.
After a couple of hours of testing and adjusting, I decided to take a break. I sat down on a large rock, catching my breath and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The transforming tool was a success, but I knew there was always room for improvement.
As I sat there, the forest around me grew unnervingly quiet. The usual sounds of birds and rustling leaves faded, replaced by an eerie silence. I stood up, scanning the area, my senses on high alert.
Suddenly, a low growl broke the silence. From the shadows of the trees emerged a creature, a large, wolf-like beast with glowing red eyes and sharp, menacing fangs. It looked hungry and ready to attack.
"Just… perfect," I muttered, gripping the handle of my transforming tool. Though I suppose this would be a good opportunity to see how well it worked in real combat.
The creature lunged at me, and I quickly activated the sword form. The handle extended, and the blade appeared just in time to parry the beast's attack. Sparks flew as its claws scraped against the blade. I pushed back, swinging the sword to keep the creature at bay.
The wolf-like beast circled me, looking for an opening. I didn't give it a chance. Switching to the hammer, I felt the handle thicken and the heavy head form. With a powerful swing, I aimed for the creature's side. The impact sent it stumbling, but it quickly regained its footing, snarling angrily.
The beast charged again, faster this time. I shifted to the axe, the blade forming as I swung it in a wide arc. The axe caught the creature's shoulder, drawing blood and causing it to yelp in pain. But it was far from finished.
The fight continued, with me switching between the sword, hammer, and axe, each transformation seamless and precise. I swung the hammer to knock the beast back, then quickly switched to the sword for quick, defensive slashes. When it tried to outmaneuver me, I used the axe to keep it at a distance, delivering powerful, sweeping blows.
The creature's attacks were relentless, but so was my resolve. With each transformation, I felt more in tune with the weapon, my movements becoming more fluid and controlled. The sword allowed for precise, quick strikes; the hammer delivered crushing blows; the axe provided powerful, sweeping attacks.
Finally, with one last swing of the sword, I managed to land a decisive blow. The creature yelped and stumbled back, then turned and fled into the forest, disappearing into the shadows.
I stood there, breathing heavily, adrenaline coursing through my veins. My transforming tool had proven itself in combat, and I felt a surge of pride and relief. There were still refinements to be made, but the core concept worked beautifully.
As the sounds of the forest slowly returned, I took a moment to catch my breath and assess the situation. I had a few scratches and bruises, but nothing serious. More importantly, I had gained invaluable experience and confidence in my new weapon.
I headed back to town, eager to share my success with Hugh and continue refining my projects. Afterall, Progress lies not in enhancing what is, but in advancing towards what will be. It's a quote I like to live by.
The walk back to town was peaceful, the forest alive with its usual sounds again. My encounter with the wolf-like beast had been a success, and I felt a sense of accomplishment as I neared Hugh's shop. But as I approached, I noticed something unusual — a carriage parked outside, its design elegant and imposing.
I slowed my pace, curiosity piqued. Through the window, I could see the same stern-faced butler from before, standing with a haughty posture as he spoke to Hugh. The tension in the air was palpable, even from outside.
I moved closer, positioning myself where I could hear snippets of their conversation without being seen.
"...unacceptable, Mr. Hugh. The client expects nothing less than perfection," the butler's voice was sharp and condescending.
"I'm aware of the client's expectations," Hugh replied, his tone strained but controlled. "But there are limits to what I will do."
The butler sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. "Your personal morals are of no concern. You were hired to complete the commission, not to question its nature."
Hugh's response was firmer this time. "I won't compromise my principles, no matter who the client is."
There was a pause, and I could feel the weight of the butler's stare, even from my hidden vantage point. "Have you forgotten your past with the Crimson Guild? The authorities might find it interesting if certain details were to come to light."
Hugh's face paled, his eyes narrowing. "You wouldn't dare."
The butler's smile was cold and calculating. "Try me, Mr. Hugh. Finish the commission as requested, or face the consequences. The choice is yours."
I clenched my fists, feeling a surge of anger on Hugh's behalf. The butler's tone was beyond rude; it was demeaning and manipulative. I couldn't make out every word, but the gist was clear — Hugh was being blackmailed, forced to do something against his morals by threats from his past.
The butler turned on his heel and left the shop, brushing past me without a second glance as he climbed into the carriage. The horses stirred, and the carriage rolled away, leaving a cloud of dust in its wake.
I waited a moment before stepping inside, finding Hugh leaning heavily on the counter, a look of frustration and worry etched across his face. He straightened up as soon as he saw me, attempting a reassuring smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
"Leon," he greeted, his voice more tired than usual. "How did the test go?"
"It went well," I replied, keeping my tone neutral. "The tool performed better than I expected."
Hugh nodded, but I could see the worry still lingering in his expression. "That's good to hear. Keep refining it, and it will only get better."
I hesitated, then decided to broach the subject gently. "Is everything okay with the commission? That butler seemed... intense."
Hugh sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's nothing for you to worry about, Leon. Just some disagreements on how things should be done."
I wanted to press further, but the look in Hugh's eyes told me it was a conversation for another time. Despite the butler's harsh words and the threat from Hugh's past, I believed in Hugh. He was a man of integrity, and I trusted that he would handle the situation with the same principles he always upheld.
"Alright," I said, offering a supportive smile. "If you need anything, just let me know."
Hugh's smile was grateful, if still a bit weary. "I appreciate that, Leon. Now, let's see what you've accomplished with that tool of yours."
As we turned our attention to my project, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease from the encounter. What was the Crimson Guild, and what had happened between them and Hugh? The questions nagged at me, but I decided to respect Hugh's privacy for now. I knew that if it was important, he would tell me in his own time.
The next day, however, my curiosity got the better of me. After finishing my morning tasks at the shop, I headed to the library. If I could learn more about the Crimson Guild, maybe I could understand what Hugh was dealing with.
The library was quiet, a stark contrast to the bustling market. I approached the librarian, a kindly old man with spectacles perched on his nose. "Excuse me, do you have any records or books about the Crimson Guild?"
The librarian raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "The Crimson Guild, you say? That's a name I haven't heard in a while. What brings you to inquire about them?"
I hesitated, not wanting to reveal too much. "Just... personal interest. I'm researching some local history."
He nodded slowly and led me to a section filled with old, dusty tomes. "You'll find what you're looking for here. The Crimson Guild was quite notorious in its time."
I thanked him and began to sift through the books. As I read, pieces of a troubling story started to come together. The Crimson Guild had been a powerful organization that bordered on being a dark guild, involved in illegal activities and dark magic. They were known for their brutality and their tendency to exploit talented individuals for their own gain.
I closed the book, my mind racing. Hugh's past was somehow tied with the Crimson Guild and was far more complicated and dangerous than I had imagined. And now, someone was using that past to manipulate him. I needed to find a way to help him, but first, I had to understand the full extent of what we were dealing with.
Determined to get to the bottom of this, I gathered more books and continued my research, hoping to uncover anything that could give us an edge against the butler and his mysterious client.
That's chapter 5 folks! How did yall like it? Hugh has a mysterious past with a dangerous guild, and Leon has managed to make his first good creations.
Now for the chapter question, what is a good name for his weapon? I have no clue what to call it so I'm leaving that up to yall, or else yall are getting saddled with me having to call it transforming tool/weapon every time its brought up :'( so please give me some decent names.
Anyways have a good day!