Back at the inn, Ethan attempted to ignore Oldrik's incessant gossiping, but the man had a talent for talking someone to death. Finally, Ethan reached his limit and tapped the table, "Oldrik, I don't know who Margrit is, I don't care about her neck growth, and I have no interest in learning about it. I'm going to my room for a bit. Could you please send the food up?"

Oldrik blinked but nodded. He seemed a bit taken aback by Ethan's sudden outburst but remained professional enough not to bother his customer further. Oldrik was a good man, but Ethan wasn't exactly a people person and preferred his own company.

A few hours later, as Ethan was finishing his meal, there came a knock at the door. Without waiting for a response, Elaniod walked in. Ethan scowled at the elf, "You know, walking in without waiting for an answer makes the knocking itself redundant."

Elaniod smiled, a little abashed. "Sorry, I..."

Ethan cut him off, continuing his tirade, "I quite like the act of knocking and the door itself. It gives me the opportunity to not let people in, especially when I wish to be alone."

Elaniod tried to interject, but Ethan wasn't finished. "There's a social contract between the one who knocks and the one behind the door. If we ignore that social contract, it's the first step into anarchy. Do you want anarchy, Elaniod!?"

The overwhelmed elf shook his head, speechless. Ethan sighed, finally asking, "So, why are you here?"

Elaniod nodded, regaining his composure. "Oh, right. You might find yourself in a bit of trouble."

Ethan frowned, "Okay?"

Elaniod shrugged, "Gamling couldn't resist showing off his sword, which raised questions. At first, he didn't answer, but then he got drunk, and I mean really drunk. Now your name is circulating among the adventurers."

Ethan regarded Elaniod with a passive expression. "And why should I care about that?"

Elaniod shrugged again, "Just thought you should know. It means people will come looking for you, and once the guild catches wind..."

Ethan nodded, giving Elaniod a small smile. "That should be fine. I don't really care, so don't worry about it. I haven't done anything wrong, and I haven't sold anything."

The elf scoffed, "Think that will stop them? Giving enchantments for free is worse, because it will make people wonder at their high prices."

Ethan didn't concern himself with it. Having his name out there was a good thing in his book. If people wanted something he had to offer, it meant potential customers, and he needed the coin. He hoped Calandra would arrive soon to sort out some kind of business license..

Elaniod appeared put off by Ethan's dismissive attitude, but eventually seemed to accept it. An awkward silence settled in the room, with Ethan reclining on his bed and Elaniod standing uncertainly in the doorway.

Ethan glanced over at the elf. "So, did you have something else, Elaniod? I was about to get some sleep."

The elf hesitated but nodded. "Okay, no, there was nothing else. Um... I'll just excuse myself then."

Ethan waved politely. "Thanks for the warning, Elaniod. I appreciate it. Be careful on your way back." A little courtesy didn't hurt anyone, and Elaniod seemed to appreciate it judging from his smile.

"You're welcome, Ethan. Good night." Elaniod left the room, closing the door behind him, leaving Ethan to his solitude. People..

The next morning, Ethan inquired with Oldrik about the library in Bilgrad and was delighted to learn that there was a small academy in the city. Though not grand in scale, it housed a few hundred students.

Located in a secluded corner of Bilgrad, the academy was guarded by a pair of imposing iron gates. As Ethan arrived, a mix of excitement and anticipation coursed through him. The gate had an ntricate design, and it was adorned with ornate patterns and symbols.

The towering iron bars of the gate provided a glimpse of the sprawling campus beyond, with tall buildings peeking over the walls.

Suddenly, a voice called out from the other side, "Hey, you there! No loitering around the gates. State your business!"

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

Ethan noticed a man clad in sturdy chainmail, he wore a tabard bearing an emblem, probably the academy’s,which was draped over his armor, quite clearly stating his affiliation and role as a defender of the institution.

The man's weathered face reflected experience and discipline, and his keen eyes surveyed the surroundings. A mace, a heavy looking weapon, hung comfortably at his hip, serving as a visible reminder of his duty.

Politely bowing, Ethan responded, "Apologies, sir. I am here to visit the academy and gain access to the library."

The guard scowled, "Do you think it's that easy? Do you believe just anyone is allowed into the library? Piss off!"

Surprised, Ethan blinked and replied, "Um, I wouldn't know, but isn't there someone I could ask for permission?"

The guard condescendingly smiled, "You apply like everyone else, by letter. Until you can present an invitation, go find someone else to annoy."

Sighing, Ethan chose not to engage further with the rude guard. He turned on his heel and left. "I need to find a way to get in there, which means getting an invitation. Perhaps Calandra could assist me," he muttered as he walked away.

Dependence on Calandra was starting to frustrate him, but he acknowledged that it was the best option at hand. Having someone introduce him to important figures would increase his chances. He would have to wait for her, but in the meantime, he could start working on some items for himself. He felt a growing restlessness and eagerness to experiment and make the most of his time.

As he continued walking, Ethan contemplated what would be a useful project to undertake. Enchanting items held immense potential, but what would be worth his efforts at the moment?

He recalled the books he had found in the old workshop, containing languages he couldn't understand. The thought of gaining access to the library only to be unable to read anything was a frustrating one. While he could study languages, he also considered the convenience of modern technology, which offered instant translation. What if he could create a device that would translate for him?

Ethan's grin grew wider. That would be a worthwhile endeavor, and with a renewed spring in his step, he had a clear destination in mind.

Ethan reached "Artisan's Corner" an hour later, taking in the vibrant atmosphere with a smile. His gaze was fixed on a shop he had noticed the day before, a place called "Optical Wonders."

Pushing open the creaking wooden door, Ethan stepped into the shop. The air was filled with the nostalgic scent of aged parchment and polished wood, an aroma that whispered of skilled craftsmanship. Soft, golden light streamed through the large windows, casting warm hues on the displays and shelves that adorned the walls.

The interior of the shop was a treasure trove of carefully arranged objects, each exuding a sense of pride. Shelves showcased books of varying sizes and bindings, their spines displaying titles on subjects of arcane lore and lenscrafting techniques. Glass cases held an assortment of intricate lenses, some gleaming with a flawless polish, while others bore the marks of experimentation and use.

As Ethan ventured further into the shop, his attention was caught by a large wooden counter at its center. Behind the counter stood an elderly woman, slightly stooped with age, but smiling slightly as she worked. Her silver hair was elegantly tied back, and her eyes sparkled with knowledge and experience. She wore a flowing gown adorned with intricate patterns, with a light-colored leather apron completing her ensemble.

A warm smile played on her lips as she looked up from her work, extending a welcoming gesture to Ethan. Her voice, soft and comforting, "Welcome, welcome. How may I assist you today?"

Returning the smile, Ethan politely bowed and replied, "Hello, I have a specific item in mind, but I have a couple of questions before I proceed."

The woman nodded and continued to smile, "Of course, I'll do my best to answer them."

Ethan's gaze shifted to a display case showcasing an assortment of monocles. He pointed to them and asked, "I'm interested in something similar to these. My question is, are they made of glass or some kind of crystal?"

The woman's eyes twinkled with delight, "Ah, you have an interest in lenses! There are two types, dear boy. Crystal lenses are more expensive but are favored by enchanters for their unique properties. Glass lenses, on the other hand, must be tailored to the individual wearer. Each person's vision is different, requiring expertise and time to find the perfect fit."

Ethan nodded in understanding and curiosity. "I see, so crystal lenses are better for enchantments. That's interesting. And how much would a monocle like this cost?"

The woman raised an eyebrow, considering Ethan's query. "For the most affordable option, it would be 8 gold coins."

Ethan's eyes widened momentarily, but he quickly composed himself. "What if I provide the crystal? How much would it cost to have it cut and fitted?"

A mischievous grin appeared on the woman's face as she replied, "That would be 2 gold coins."

Ethan pondered for a moment before lowering his voice, "And what if I were able to enchant an item for you?"

The woman's gaze narrowed with caution. "I am a member of the guild, lad. I cannot simply..."

Ethan raised his hands to calm her. "I'm not attempting to sell you an enchantment. I find myself short on coin, so I'm proposing a trade."

The woman observed Ethan carefully before cautiously responding, "That might be acceptable. It's a bit of a gray area.. But I don't want any trouble!"

Ethan's grin widened. "Your name will never pass my lips, and truth be told, I don't even know your name."

The woman's mischievous smile matched Ethan's. "I am Adelaide, and perhaps there is something you could make for me..."