Ebonheim stared at the glowing prompt before her, her fingers hovering in the air, undecided. The din of excited chatter around her faded into a blurry background murmur. A bead of sweat rolled down the side of her neck.

The weight of the decision pressed down on her more than the sum of its Quintessence cost. It wasn't just a resource; it was a gift from her people, a token of their belief and love. Spending it frivolously felt like betraying that trust. On the other hand...what if she got lucky? One successful bet might net her a legendary artifact, or even multiple items of Epic quality.

How much could she and her people gain from such a fortunate windfall?

She glanced over at Syntris again. Despite having purchased ten sets, he showed no sign of stopping. His luck hadn't yielded him anything better than a few epic-quality relics yet.

The System's prompt shimmered in the space before him:

[No legendary-quality artifacts have been obtained. You will now receive a random bonus artifact of legendary quality as compensation.]

A flash of sparkling gold appeared in Syntris' hands and illuminated the entire platform with its brilliance. Syntris let out an undignified whoop as the blinding light faded. An artifact took its place, gleaming as if newly forged. It looked like a bracelet. Golden filigree and decorative embellishments adorned the burnished metal surface. Upon its top were two rearing griffins.

"Ahhhhaha!! This one! This one shall remain in my collection!" Syntris boasted loudly, clutching the relic to his chest as if afraid to let go.

Several deities leaned closer, studying the glittering treasure. Judging from the subtle groans and sighs, it must have been impressive.

Nephri coiled herself contentedly. "For some, a legendary item means less to them than others." She twined herself lazily in midair, scales shimmering in the multihued luminescence.

Aetheron's sidelong gaze slid across Ebonheim and landed pointedly on Ariastra's data-gathering screen. The intricate pattern on his robes undulated in the smooth motions of his breath. His tone carried a hint of disapproval. "Although Syntris wastes his reserves on mere gambling fancies, the resulting gain has yet to sour his judgement." He placed a palm atop the scroll hovering beside her. It promptly dissolved in a cloud of scintillating fractals.

Ariastra offered an indignant sniff in response. Her musical tone shifted a shade toward chilly. "His choice. While I disagree, I will not denounce his pursuit. We may hold varying opinions but allowances can always be made for his unabashed enthusiasm."

"Is he going for a record now or something?" Ebonheim joked feebly, trying to defuse the building tension. The aura from Aetheron's presence prickled uncomfortably against her skin.

Ariastra's reply came at a barely audible volume, the stringed segments of her limbs trembling lightly. "With Syntris, one can never know for certain."

Syntris continued his fervent accumulation of artifacts—buffeted on all sides by eager gazes, requests to view his winnings, and pontifications on his chances for future victories. All the while, the artifacts he'd discarded dissolved into flecks of starlight.

"What's he doing with the discarded relics? Is there a hidden use to them?"

"Syntris recycles his losses by turning them into shards of raw Plairium. These shards can then be exchanged for enchantments and boons," Ariastra explained. "Although they are considered inferior to genuine artifacts, many would utilize such an asset all the same."

"Many? So can anyone do this?" Ebonheim asked.

Aetheron's aura shifted in pitch, signaling an amused tone. "Of course. It is one of our innate abilities—the conversion of artifacts to Plairium shards. Ah...I forget that you are still a fledgling deity. When you possess greater knowledge, you'll appreciate the benefits."

Ebonheim felt a spike of embarrassment at the gentle reminder.

As Syntris continued his gambling with singular-minded focus, Ebonheim noticed Nephri had disappeared at some point during the hubbub. Most likely tired from the endless circus around her. It made sense; they were not obliged to stand there and wait.

Hmm...should I really partake? And if I do, how many attempts should I go for? Five? Ten? What would a lucky break mean for me? But also—what's the worst-case scenario?

Spending her people's faith-born Quintessence on this seemed a little distasteful. Still...it wasn't a large chunk of Quintessence. Maybe just one expenditure would prove a lucky one and fill the gaps in her divine armory. Wouldn't they reap a big advantage from whatever legendary or epic-quality relic she'd earn from this?

A wave of unease rolled through her, accompanied by the sour taste of uncertainty. Was this the right decision to make? Would her people disapprove? More importantly...was she not content with what she already had?

"Go ahead and try your luck with one set," Aetheron's calm, encouraging words startled Ebonheim out of her inner turmoil.

"Hmm?" Ebonheim turned towards him questioningly.

"If this will be your first time engaging in this year's gambling spectacle," Aetheron pointed his chin in the direction of Syntris, "then the Akashic System will grant you one set free of charge. Who knows, you might just hit the jackpot."

Ebonheim scanned the options shown:

[First-Time Participant Free Offer: Ten Assorted Artifacts. One-time only.]

[Quantity remaining] One.

[Acquire?] Yes/No

F-Free?

Ebonheim's fingers trembled slightly as she hovered them above the glowing 'Yes' option on the Akashic System's prompt. The whispering murmurs and excited exchanges from the other deities around her faded into a background drone, her focus narrowing down to the tiny, luminescent square and the decision.

Roderick always said, 'Grab a risk by the balls, and give them a twist! Because anything could happen, you see! No risk, no reward!'

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

She always thought he was a bit unhinged when it came to taking chances...but the philosophy had proven beneficial for him thus far. With an involuntary gulp, her fingertip stabbed the 'Yes' option with finality.

A vibrant shimmer coursed through the air around her, and an arc of radiant light swept down from the celestial canopy above, encircling her as the artifacts materialized.

[Artifact Acquisition Initiated.]

The first seven artifacts emerged in rapid succession, their essence coalescing into tangible forms before her. Each one, bathed in a green aura, spun slowly as if suspended in the fabric of the Sanctum's mystical atmosphere.

Artifact Draw #1:

Item: Cloak of Whispering Winds (Uncommon)

Description: A delicate, gossamer cloak that grants the wearer enhanced speed and agility, accompanied by a faint, whispering breeze that obscures sound.

Artifact Draw #2:

Item: Boots of the Boundless Step (Uncommon)

Description: Each step taken in these boots feels lighter, increasing the wearer's movement speed, jump height, and distance.

Artifact Draw #3:

Item: Ring of Minor Healing (Uncommon)

Description: This simple silver band heals minor wounds over time when worn.

Artifact Draw #4:

Item: Orb of Minor Clarity (Uncommon)

Description: A simple silver band adorned with a single aquamarine. This simple orb clears minor mental fatigue and enhances concentration for short periods.

Artifact Draw #5:

Item: Bandana of the Albatross (Uncommon)

Description: A frilly seafarer's bandana, fashioned in the image of the mighty albatross. Provides sonic resistance, sight in fog or smoke, and resistance to water-related ailments.

Artifact Draw #6:

Item: Almiraj Belt (Uncommon)

Description: Crafted from the soft, fine fur of the elusive almiraj, this belt provides warmth in winter and comfort during any cold season. Increased vitality while in areas of cold or extreme temperatures.

Artifact Draw #7:

Item: Featherfall Scarf (Uncommon)

Description: A soft, sky-blue scarf that slows the wearer's descent from high places.

Ebonheim perused the litany of relics with delight, a wide grin spreading across her face. Each item sparked a flutter of excitement in Ebonheim, the colors and lights reflecting in her wide, golden eyes.

Despite the free lottery ticket, she'd still drawn the expected outcome—a stack of unremarkable yet useful artifacts. Each one seemed as useful as the ones equipped by the more prominent figures in her town. Not too shabby, if she were to judge.

The atmosphere around her seemed to thicken with anticipation as the next artifact appeared, its blue aura crackling slightly more intensely than the others. A rare-quality item, and it floated before her, slowly turning, for her scrutiny.

Artifact Draw #8:

Item: Tea Weird (Rare)

Description: A tiny, sentient fragment of a water elemental who will accompany the user and serve them tea at any time. Tea Weird's natural disposition towards harmony allows it to create a calming ambiance anywhere.

She couldn't help but giggle as she read the description. Did the item itself have an attitude or a sense of humor? It must have if it was capable of quirky antics. A rogue bubble popped out from the saucer's contents, zipped into the air, and fizzed in front of her eyes. Ebonheim let out a hearty laugh.

Her attention soon switched back to the ninth artifact forming as another radiant luminescence manifested and diffused around her. Unlike the others, its aura bloomed with a purple hue. An Epic-quality artifact!

Ebonheim's mouth fell open a touch at the realization.

Oh. Oh my. Y-Yeah. We got something! An epic-quality artifact! And lucky number nine too! Hah! Sweet! Oh boy! Here we go.

Excited voices broke out among the onlookers gathered around her. As if in sympathy for her drawing, a cacophony of jeers and raucous moans echoed from Syntris' location. Apparently, his luck had taken a downturn.

Artifact Draw #9:

Item: Hour and Minute (Epic)

Description: A short sword and dagger set crafted in the likeness of the hands of a clock, fashioned with pristine blue steel and mounted upon ornate pommels. These blades produce a miniature temporal zone, distorting the perception of time and lending grace and fortitude to the wielder's movements.

An eager crowd pressed in around her, curious eyes drinking in the display as the Epic-quality blades glowed and pulsated. Appreciative comments and approving nods passed among the throng of onlookers. Some jeered the blades' design, calling it fussy or ungainly, while a few argued in their defense, remarking upon their detailed workmanship and sleek artistry.

One more artifact remained to emerge from the celestial conjuration. Everyone hushed in expectation as the space between them began to shimmer and glow.

It was probably going to be an uncommon or rare artifact, but that was alright. Ebonheim could never complain. She already had a wonderful collection, and she wasn't one to lust after more—

With a crescendo of orchestral music that seemed to emanate from the very essence of the Sanctum itself, a beam of radiant golden light pierced the dimness, striking down like a sunbeam through storm clouds. It touched the floor before her feet and spread outward in a rush, creating a wind that tugged at her clothes and whipped her hair.

Above her, the floating, tumbling motes of light turned golden in the ensuing illumination, creating a field of shifting, glimmering hues that filled the cavernous hall with a dazzling glow.

Slowly, the light gathered and congealed, solidifying into the distinct silhouette of an object.

Artifact Draw #10:

Item: Occasus (Legendary)

Description: The Floating Book. A massive grimoire crafted of crimson vellum. It opens its pages to whomever asks with secrets that only the knowledgeable can understand. Within the depths of the grimoire lay ancient wisdom and eldritch secrets, and hides a wish granter, one that can fulfill a wish—once and once alone—depending on the specifications. The nature of this artifact is still largely unknown.

OohhohhhoHHOooohoh!! A legendary artifact!! Stay calm. Stay calm. Don't scream out loud and disturb everyone.

Ebonheim clenched her jaw so hard that she couldn't suppress the loud snort as the massive tome floated before her. She leaned forward on tiptoes to peruse the extraordinary find. Its soft red leather cover showed no binding or obvious clasps—as if held together by invisible stitches—and upon the surface lay intricate mandala patterns embroidered in black ink.

Aetheron and Ariastra glanced at each other in silence and then back at her.

Syntris dropped whatever he'd been holding and shouted over in her direction. "WHAT? HOW? SUCH LUCK!?"

Ebonheim didn't fully absorb what she'd just gotten, so stunned by the pandemonium her epic win had caused. Cheers and hisses exploded throughout the chamber in a cavalcade of commotion. Aetheron leaned forward to peer at the item.

"Though I said it in jest, you indeed have a fantastic fortune about you. Remarkable...an artifact of this caliber rarely manifests from the void. Either a true rarity...or the luckiest of luck." Aetheron's aura had turned a soft purple hue. Pride or something? Ebonheim couldn't tell.

Ariastra peered over from his other side, eyes narrowed to gleaming slits. "For Ebonheim's first endeavor and fortune...that will surely benefit the development of your domain. How remarkable," she cooed. "Hmm, a part of me yearns for what you've just obtained."

Nephri unfurled herself into the space behind Aetheron, the aqua hues around her rippling as her elongated body brushed past Ebonheim.

"Verily, a bountiful harvest for someone so young," she whispered into her ear, the silky sibilance sending a ticklish shiver through Ebonheim. "Perhaps this wouldst entice thee into partaking in more of these endeavors and chances. Quaint."

At Nephri's remark, Ebonheim cleared her throat. She certainly wouldn't throw away any other chance to participate. Nor could she bring herself to leave any resources unused. Yet...was that the best course to take? Would her people approve of how she spent their faith-derived Quintessence?

Thinking back, she did spend three thousand Quintessence on the Gauntlets of the Storm Giant during the last auction—and she also spent fifteen hundred to acquire the Chalice of the Eternal Nectar.

If she used up all her luck with the free set, the worst outcome would be acquiring the guaranteed random legendary at the end of purchasing the tenth set. So what should she do? Take the gamble or—