Chapter 40
Behold, The Mighty Phoenix
The alchemist’s gaze lingered on Adom with a mix of curiosity and skepticism, as if trying to unravel the enigma that stood before him in the guise of a young sorcerer. The air in the Royal Apothecary, thick with the scent of potent herbs and the undercurrent of powerful magics, seemed to pause, waiting for Adom's response.
"I'm in need of some specific items," Adom began, his voice steady despite the rising irritation within. "Energy and healing potions, primarily. And, if possible, something akin to a sustenance elixir—a potion that can replace the need for food temporarily."
The alchemist's eyebrows arched slightly, a silent acknowledgment of the request. The room remained suspended in a silent anticipation, the countless vials and ingredients lining the shelves as if they were audience to this exchange.
Adom took a deep breath, steadying himself for the crux of his request. "Additionally," he continued, his gaze unwavering, "I seek a bottle of the Elixir of Life."
The alchemist's demeanor shifted perceptibly at the mention of the Elixir. "Young man," he began, his tone laced with a patience that bordered on condescension, "I understand your enthusiasm, but let's be clear. The potions you've listed, even without considering the Elixir, tally to over a hundred cauris each. While I have no qualms in providing them to you, the Elixir of Life is not a commodity passed over the counter lightly. It's not about whether I can sell it to you; it's about whether you truly understand the gravity and value of what you're asking for."
Adom felt a familiar flare of indignation at the insinuation, a reminder of past encounters where his capabilities and intentions had been underestimated. Yet, he tempered his response, his voice calm but firm. "I assure you, I have the means to procure what I've asked for. My request is made with full understanding of its implications and costs."
There was a moment's pause, a silent battle of wills, before the alchemist spoke again, his tone tinged with a newfound scrutiny. "We do not accept stolen coin," he stated flatly, the implication hanging heavily between them.
The accusation struck a nerve, and Adom felt a surge of anger. The audacity to presume dishonesty on his part was infuriating. His fist clenched at his side, the temptation to lash out at the alchemist's smug assumption was almost overwhelming. Yet, he knew any such action would only serve to undermine his position further.
With a monumental effort, Adom reined in his frustration, his voice icy but composed. "My funds are rightfully earned, and I intend to use them for a cause far greater than you could fathom. If you are unable or unwilling to assist, I will take my business elsewhere."
The alchemist, taken aback by the steely resolve in Adom's voice, regarded him with a new level of seriousness. The air, once thick with tension, seemed to shift, as if the very essence of the apothecary was recalibrating its judgment of the young man who stood so defiantly before it.
"Verify it, if you must," Adom said, extending his card towards the alchemist. "You'll find that not a single cauri within is tainted by dishonesty. The Deeprock Vault does not entertain ill-gotten wealth."
The alchemist, though still wreathed in an aura of superiority, couldn't mask the flicker of curiosity that crossed his features. With a scoff that spoke more of habit than of disdain, he accepted the card, leading Adom through the labyrinth of shelves towards the checkout counter. The device there, a marvel of magical and mechanical engineering, awaited their approach with a silent promise of truth.
As the card was inserted into the device, a soft hum filled the air. The alchemist's eyes, so accustomed to the appraisal of alchemical ingredients and the assessment of potential clients, now fixed on the display with an intensity that betrayed his nonchalance.
When the numbers materialized, revealing the depth of Adom's resources, the alchemist's demeanor underwent a transformation as swift as it was profound. His gaze darted from the screen to Adom and back again, as if seeking confirmation that the figures before him were not the product of some elaborate illusion.
Clearing his throat, an action that seemed to serve as a reset for his earlier comportment, the alchemist turned towards Adom with a semblance of respect now threading through his previously dismissive stance. "My apologies for the...earlier misunderstanding," he said, the word 'bluntness' dying on his lips as Adom's internal correction branded it 'rudeness'. Yet, Adom's exterior remained an epitome of grace, his smile unfaltering, a mask that concealed the turmoil within.
"I'll gather the items you requested immediately," the alchemist continued, his voice now carrying the cadence of service, devoid of its earlier haughtiness. The shift in his attitude was palpable, painting a clear picture of how wealth and proof of its legitimacy could alter perceptions in the blink of an eye.
The alchemist returned with a tray carrying the potions Adom had requested, each meticulously labeled and sealed. He began with the energy potions, their luminescent liquid pulsing gently within sturdy vials made of a special metal known as Altherium. "These are your energy potions," he explained, his tone now more respectful, albeit still tinged with a hint of disbelief at Adom's financial capacity. "Altherium ensures the potion's potency is preserved, unaffected by external magical interference, making it perfect for adventurers, as I understand you might be. Consume one in the morning, and you'll feel revitalized for the entire day. Avoid taking them in the evening unless you plan to skip sleep."
Next, he presented the healing potions, their azure contents casting a serene glow. "For the healing potions, take one immediately after any injury. They're formulated to adapt to your body's healing rate, accelerating it without overwhelming your system. Too many, however, might lead to a temporary imbalance in your natural healing capabilities, so use them sparingly."
Then came the sustenance elixir, a shimmering, golden liquid contained within a sleek Altherium flask. "This sustenance elixir will keep you nourished for up to three days per dose. It's like a meal in a bottle, complete with all the necessary nutrients. Ideal for long expeditions where carrying food is impractical. Just be sure to drink water regularly, as it doesn't hydrate you."
Lastly, the alchemist carefully presented a box, its craftsmanship hinting at the treasure it held within. He opened it with a reverence reserved for the most sacred of relics, revealing a single glass vial cradling the Elixir of Life. Unlike the other potions, this one demanded the purity of glass to maintain its intricate balance of magic and alchemy. "The Elixir of Life," he said, his voice almost a whisper, "is not to be taken lightly. Its powers are profound, capable of mending wounds that would otherwise be fatal. But remember, it's not a cure-all. Use it in dire circumstances only, as its rarity makes it irreplaceable."
Adom listened intently, nodding at intervals to show his understanding. The alchemist's initial disdain had given way to a professional acknowledgment of Adom's needs and intentions, a shift that, while subtle, did not escape Adom's notice.
At the checkout, the alchemist tallied the total cost, and the sum displayed was a hefty 102 thousand cauris. The majority of the expense, a staggering 100 thousand, was attributed to the Elixir of Life alone, underscoring its rarity and the incredible value placed on such a potent concoction. The remaining 2 thousand covered the energy potions, healing potions, and the sustenance elixir, each encased in durable Altherium vials to ensure their safety and efficacy during Adom's adventures.
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The alchemist, now wearing a polite smile and displaying a demeanor markedly different from their initial encounter, handled the transaction with a newfound respect. The revelation of Adom's financial capability seemed to have transformed the alchemist's perception, smoothing over the earlier friction with the ease of commerce.
After the payment was processed, the alchemist extended a hand, not just in farewell but as a gesture of professional camaraderie. "I'm Thalric," he introduced himself, his voice carrying a hint of hope for future interactions. "It was a pleasure assisting you today, Young Master. I do hope to see you again soon, perhaps under less... contentious circumstances."
Adom, acknowledging the change in Thalric's attitude, couldn't help but internally critique the alchemist's earlier behavior. Yet, outwardly, he maintained a gracious demeanor, understanding the complexities of human nature and the power of first impressions, however misguided they might initially be.
With the potions securely stored and the transaction complete, Adom stepped out of the Royal Apothecary, the weight of his purchase both literal and metaphorical. The Elixir of Life, nestled within its protective box, represented not just a significant financial investment but also a beacon of hope and a vital tool in the challenges that lay ahead on his journey.
Stepping out into the bustling streets of Mandrake, Adom felt a wave of anticipation for the next phase of his plan. He reached out mentally to Bennu, "I'm on my way to pick you up. We're heading to Mr. Biggins' next."
Bennu's response came with a hint of concern, "But how will we get there without anyone noticing me?"
Adom, unable to resist the opportunity for a bit of humor, replied, "Oh, I was thinking of just stuffing you into the dimensional bag. Seems like the easiest option."
Bennu's mental voice came back, shocked and indignant, much like a child who's been told they'll be riding in the trunk of a car. "You wouldn't dare! I refuse to be shoved into that horrible, dark bag!"
Adom, teasingly, prodded further, "What's the matter? Scared? You know, surprisingly enough, dimensional bags are actually white inside, not dark."
The indignation in Bennu's voice grew, "Scared? I'm a phoenix, I fear nothing! But that bag... it's just not right. And I don't care if it's dark or white. Remember what you told me about Jack Tally and his experiments? No thank you!"
Adom couldn't help but laugh at Bennu's dramatics. "Alright, alright. No bags for the mighty phoenix. But you know, we need to figure something out if you're going to accompany me without drawing attention."
Bennu, still a bit sulky but ever the negotiator, tried a different tactic. "Can't we just use a cloak or something? There must be a better way than the bag."
Adom, still amused, conceded, "We'll find a solution, but the bag is still on the table as a last resort."
Bennu, sensing a losing battle but not ready to give in, retorted, "We'll see about that. I'm not going into any bag, mark my words."
*****
As Adom made his way toward Mr. Biggins' place, he couldn't resist teasing Bennu, who was nestled uncomfortably inside the dimensional bag. Bennu's complaints echoed in Adom's mind, "This is so unfair! It's all strange in here, and weirdly warm. I don't like it at all. And it's even stranger that I can run around inside. I can see some of your stuff on the horizon. How do you even manage to find what you need in here?"
Adom, amused by Bennu's description, explained the magic behind the dimensional bag, making it an enlightening conversation for both. "Dimensional bags, especially the older models like this one, are designed with a specific type of enchantment known as 'Intent Recognition.' It's a fascinating application of Runicology and Essentia manipulation. When you reach into the bag, the enchantment senses your intention, your mental image of the item you wish to retrieve. It then adjusts the spatial orientation within the bag to bring that item to your hand."
He continued, "The magic involves a complex interplay of spatial runes and Essentia flow. The runes create a multi-dimensional space within the bag, far larger than its physical dimensions. Meanwhile, the Essentia flow is modulated by your mental focus, effectively 'tagging' the item you're thinking of with a unique Essentia signature that the bag's enchantment can recognize."
Adom further elaborated on the advancements in recent models, "Newer bags have even more refined systems, incorporating elements of Cognitive Resonance. This means they not only detect what you're thinking of but can also adapt to your personal Essentia signature over time, making the retrieval process even more intuitive."
Bennu, fascinated but still grumbling about his confinement, conceded, "That does sound clever, but I still don't like being in here."
Adom, trying to lighten the mood, joked, "Well, think of it as a vast, magical playground. You've got all my stuff to explore. Just don't break anything, alright?"
Bennu's response was a mix of resignation and curiosity, "Fine, but we're going to have a serious talk about better travel arrangements next time."
Standing before the eclectic facade of the "Weird Stuff Store," Adom hesitated, his hand hovering over the door handle. The shop, known for its assortment of oddities and magical knick-knacks, was more than its name suggested, especially with Mr. Biggins at the helm.
Bennu's voice, tinged with curiosity, echoed in Adom's mind, "What's the hold-up?"
Adom chuckled softly, "Biggins is... one of a kind. I can't even begin to guess how he'll react to seeing you're not just an egg anymore."
A sense of excitement bubbled within Bennu. "I'm actually looking forward to meeting him! I remember him from your memories. He's quite the character, and well, he looked after me when I was just an egg. I owe him a thank you."
Adom nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "You're right. We both do." He paused for a moment before pushing the door open, the familiar tinkle of the entrance bell ringing through the air.
After a brief silence, filled with the peculiar ambiance of the store, Bennu's voice piped up again, "By the way, have you ever noticed how there's never anyone else here?"
Adom shrugged, even though Bennu couldn't see. "I've always wondered about that. Biggins doesn't seem too bothered by it, though. Selling stuff might not be his main concern."
Bennu, ever the playful spirit, ventured a theory, "What if this store is just a cover for something else? You know, Biggins isn't your average sorcerer. Maybe he's the godfather of a magical underground network, or even a potion mastermind, brewing up concoctions that are... less than legal."
Adom laughed, the sound echoing amidst the myriad of mysterious artifacts lining the shelves. "You might be onto something. For all we know, he could be the mastermind behind a secret society of enchanted item collectors."
Their banter continued, the light-hearted conspiracy theories growing more outlandish by the moment. From Biggins being an interdimensional spy to running a covert operation for magical creatures seeking asylum, the possibilities seemed endless.
As Adom and Bennu exchanged their whimsical theories about the true nature of Mr. Biggins' store, the door suddenly swung open, interrupting their mirth. Adom's ears perked up at the sound of a familiar voice—Leon's enthusiastic greeting, "Senior!" filled the space, warmth and excitement lacing his tone.
Adom turned to see Leon, his junior, beaming with a mix of admiration and joy. "Leon! It's good to see you," Adom greeted, the unexpected encounter bringing a genuine smile to his face.
They quickly caught up, with Leon sharing his latest achievements and aspirations. "I think I'm ready for the exam now. I was actually planning to visit Xerkes in the coming days," Leon said, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.
Adom, always supportive, nodded in agreement. "That sounds like a great plan. I'd be happy to show you around."
Leon then motioned for Adom to come inside, and as they stepped into the familiar clutter of the store, Adom's curiosity piqued. "Where's Mr. Biggins?" he asked, scanning the room for the store's eccentric proprietor.
Leon shrugged, a casual gesture that seemed out of place in the store's magical atmosphere. "He stepped out for a bit, said he had to pick something up. Told me to hold down the fort. He shouldn't be too long."
Then, leaning in closer as if to share a secret, Leon's voice dropped to a whisper, "So, how's the egg doing?"
Adom couldn't help but chuckle at the question, knowing full well the surprise he was about to unveil. "Yeah, about that," he started, his voice laced with amusement. "You can come out now."
At Adom's cue, Bennu made his grand entrance. With a flair that could only be described as theatrical, he emerged from the shadows, performing an acrobatic flip that ended with him landing gracefully on his legs. Puffing out his chest and spreading his wings slightly for effect, he declared, "Behold, the mighty Phoenix!"
The store, filled with artifacts and oddities, seemed to pause for a moment, as if acknowledging the presence of a creature as rare and vibrant as Bennu. Leon's eyes widened in disbelief, his mouth agape at the sight of the once-egg-now-magnificent-phoenix standing before him.
Bennu, relishing the spotlight, added with a wink, "Not exactly what you'd expect from an egg, right? But hey, we phoenixes are full of surprises!"