The Ruby Magician

The trading hall was full of life as well-equipped Climbers walked and talked chaotically around the large room. Wyn could have sworn it was even busier than last time, but accepted the fact that the exchange of magical items at a place where a magical tower resided naturally created a high rate of trade and turnover.

“Should we look at the book again?” John asked. “It had a good log of items to sort through.”

“Maybe,” Wyn said. “I’m afraid I won’t have a good item to trade one for one for a blue rarity piece of armor. I’d like something I can use for awhile.”

“What about a piece of armor and a cloak?” Tasha asked. “They could carry enchantments that would be extremely beneficial, after all. Or something similar to that.”

Wyn nodded but wasn’t convinced. “I don’t mind the Ruby Magician robe Daniel gifted me, but something else would definitely be better. And this leather isn’t faring that well for me.” Wyn tugged on his leather chest piece, disappointed at the basic item. It served a purpose - and was admittedly better than other Magicians since they couldn't wear armor at all - but with their group climbing higher and more, he needed something more useful.

"I still don't understand why you won't go to The Silver Step," Tasha said. "You know Benedict has plenty of items in store to choose from!"

"He does, but I'm looking for something specific. I want to try here first. If I don't find anything, we can absolutely go to his shop."

"I know what you're doing," John said, smirking. "You're looking for the Sorcerer, aren't you? Cara, I think?"

Tasha let out a groan. "Tell me he's wrong, Wyn. Not her, of all people."

Wyn couldn't hide a sheepish grin. "Come on, Tasha, you held your own when we negotiated for John's sword! She said she made it, as in she crafted it instead of found it in the tower!"

"I know what it means," Tasha said, folding her arms.

"Then you know she's both skilled and smart, and the items she has aren't found anywhere else. I want to see what else she has before we look elsewhere. Just humor me."

Tasha sighed. "Fine, fine. It's your armor, I guess."

Wyn clapped his hands together and excitedly walked over to the desk where a guild attendant was waiting behind the counter. He asked for the book again, and opened the large tome to pieces of armor once the attendant slid it to him.

The Climbers all gathered around the book, able to easily see the words on the pages due to its sheer size. Wyn flipped through the pages of boots first, before finding the chest piece category. He ran a finger down the list of owners, searching for Cara's name rather than the item name or even rarity. A relieved breath escaped him seeing her name several times, for both blue and purple rarity pieces.

"She's definitely a busy crafter," John muttered, peering over Wyn's shoulder. "She has four pieces of chest armor alone!"

"Yea, I wonder what else she has?" Tasha asked. "She could have dozens of items listed for trade."

"See, Tasha?" Wyn asked. "It's interesting, isn't it?"

"Maybe," Tasha said, pursing her lips but not taking her eyes off the book.

Wyn found three items that looked good, and one in particular looked especially useful. One was defined as heavy leather, another chain mail, and the item that stood out on the page was a leather and chain mail combination. Wyn had never heard of such a protective piece, but was definitely curious. The names all didn't reveal much, but he knew a conversation with Cara would help clear it up.

All in all, Wyn hoped he could strike a deal. The items they found in the secret area were all blue rarity, except for a purple rarity pair of boots. They were light cloth, almost like slippers, but offered a major boost to magic power and moderate reduction to the mana cost of spells. Cedric respectfully declined them, and Tasha didn't want to give up her newly acquired boots for them, so they decided to use them to trade for other gear. The other pieces they found were similarly nice but not immediately useful - their first goal today was to obtain a piece of armor for Wyn, and afterwards they'd take stock to see what else they could find that would be useful.

Still, they had a warhammer, bracers, gloves, and quiver for trade. It was incredible luck that they found the room and even more fortunate for the items they found. The items would go a long way to helping round out their gear, all to be traded for something else. None of their effects were useful for the group. But the rarity alone made them useful.

The three Climbers walked to the area where they met Cara before, and sure enough, she was seated at the same table in the same seat alone, just like before. She was reading some book Wyn couldn't make out, and kept reading when they approached her.

"Back for more items?" The Sorceress asked. She didn’t even look up from her book.”Something defensive this time?”

Wyn smirked. "As always, you’re right. The sword has been incredibly useful. Thank you for that trade, by the way.”

Cara briefly flicked her eyes up at Wyn before settling back on her book. “You’re welcome. So you’re looking for my plate armor? Leather doesn’t quite suit a Fighter, unless you’re wanting to be less helpful.”

“Our Fighter already has armor. I’m looking for something for me.”

Cara lowered her book and looked at Wyn again, this time with more scrutiny. “I was talking about you. But you’re not a Fighter. I see that now. Robes for a combat focused Climber, then?”

Wyn couldn’t hold back a smile. “I guess you aren’t right all the time. I’m a Ruby Magician.”

Cara promptly closed her book shut and motioned for Wyn to sit. “Show me your mark.”

Wyn looked at the others, though they only shrugged. He didn’t know the etiquette about revealing marks, but it felt a little rude. Regardless, her help would be valuable, and he wasn’t exactly looking to hide it. He pulled up his left sleeve and flashed his forearm at her.

She grabbed his wrist and turned it to get a better look. After a few seconds she gently let him go and sat a little straighter. “I’m sorry. I was wrong. So you’re looking for something more robust?”

“We just cleared the third floor this week,” Wyn said. “In order to safely keep going I need some better equipment.”

Cara nodded in agreement. “How long have you been climbing?”

“This is my first full season. All of ours, actually.” He casually waved to the others. “I started at the last rookie climb the Friday before this season started.”

“That’s pretty impressive for a Ruby Magician in their first season, let alone second week, already reaching the third floor. Most Climbers want a couple of seasons under their belt to safely progress to the next tier.”

“I’m not most Climbers. And we’re doing fine, outside of needing more gear.”

Cara waited a few seconds to respond, letting the silence linger. "Interesting. Very interesting. I can honestly say I have not had a piece of equipment I've made fall into the hands of a Ruby Magician, nor have I climbed with one. You have the Armored Spellcasting skill, then? Of course you do, you're wearing some! Fascinating. It doesn't interfere with your spell casting?"

Wyn raised an eyebrow. Cara seemed to partly process information out loud, and he was surprised at her rambling. "Not that I've noticed."

Cara squinted at him. "Are you more focused on your spells or combat ability?"

"Both? I guess? I haven't really taken to one or the other, so far. Though my magic is limited.”

Cara snorted. "Then you won't last long here. You need to focus on magic or direct combat and use the other as a surprise against your enemies. Or be some sort of support class. I'd be very interested to see your class progression as that typically helps Climbers decide."

Wyn blinked at her. "I'll keep that in mind, thanks."

Cara smiled, her lip raising a suspiciously high amount. "But you aren't here for a lesson, you're here for equipment. Fair enough. I have a couple of pieces you might be interested in since you utilize both magic and combat, but one in particular you very well might desire. If you're smart. What weapon do you use? What about a shield?"

"I use a spear, no shield. Dagger for emergencies. Is it the leather and chain mail chest piece I saw in the book?"

Cara snorted again. "Not exactly. That wouldn’t be helpful to you. It’s called the Sage’s Overcoat, and it’s actually quite fitting for you.” She stood and pulled out a large piece of garment from a pocket far too small to hold such an item. The royal blue coat was obviously well made and more regal than Wyn anticipated, with buttons and clasps adorning the coat like the commanders or generals wore in the military. It looked more fitting for a noble's court than inside a deadly tower.

Tasha gasped, holding a hand to cover her mouth. “It’s beautiful.”

"Try it on," Cara said. She held the coat out for Wyn to take, a slight blue sheen of magic coating the entire item. The magically blue aura matched the coat’s color perfectly.

Wyn hesitantly took the piece, though was surprised to find it lighter than he expected. He put it on over his leather armor, moving his arms and twisting his torso as the magical properties of the coat adjusted itself to his figure. Even better than the formal look was its covering - it had a high collar protecting the back of his neck and hung below his waist, covering most of his hips and upper thighs. If the protective properties were good, it would cover just about every vital spot on him.

"It looks incredible," Tasha said.

"Of course it does," Cara said.

“What does it do?” Wyn asked. “I'm looking for armor, after all."

Cara sighed. "Do you think I'm an idiot? I know you are. You can still wear armor under it, obviously, though anything thicker than leather won't be very functional. Chain mail might, but it'd be a stretch. But it functions in several ways. One, it will keep you comfortable in different weather environments except for extremes as any good coat should. Two, it has resistances to all attacks, including magic - physical damage like piercing and blunt forces, and magic spells will be reduced by a mild amount. Strong attacks could still get through, though. And for practicality, it will slightly increase the duration of your skills and lower the cost of your spells a bit. A win-win-win.”

Wyn stared at the Sorcerer with disbelief. "It has all of those properties? That's quite strong for a blue rarity item. I don't know if I'll be able to meet your price for it.”

The rookies brought several items to trade, but Wyn didn’t feel right using them all or most of them for himself. This felt like a powerful item, though, and didn’t want the chance to slip past.

“Try me,” Cara said. “It is a custom item, after all, but I’m a reasonable person.”

Wyn doubted that, but wasn’t about to voice his opinion. “Of course. I have a pair of purple boots fitting for a Mage we found on our last climb. And a few other items of blue quality.”

Cara smiled. “ Good. I prefer components but would take items, too. Easier to craft while still getting paid for my work. Do you have any components?”

Wyn reached into his backpack and pulled out a few of the monster drops from the hidden room. They were the claws, teeth, and scales. “These are blue rarity. We have about a dozen of them total.”

“Those aren’t bad,” Cara said, turning the items over in her hands one by one. “But I’m looking more specifically for the hidden item on the third through sixth floors. I guess you haven’t found it yet?”

Wyn shook his head.

“I see. It’s a small vine flower that grows throughout the temple, a blue rarity component that I’m needing for a project. It’s appropriately called a Vine Bud. If you can bring me a dozen of them, and trade the purple boots, then the coat is yours.”

Wyn reluctantly took the jacket off and handed it back to her. “I haven’t noticed any flower like that, but I’ll be looking for them, now. How about six of the monster components, six flowers, two blue items and I can wear the jacket now?”

Wyn didn’t have Tasha’s negotiating ability, but he figured two blue items were better than one purple rarity. Cara was asking for a lot for the coat, but Wyn didn’t care. It was a fantastic item, and they had the items to spare. Plus they would still have some leftover for future trades.

Cara smiled, her lip curling at the corner of her mouth. “Fine. I’m in a generous mood. But make it six of the monster items, eight 0f the Vine Bud, and two blue items if you’re going to wear it now. I don’t care which ones. I’ll give you four days for the flowers - I won’t wait forever.”

Cara was getting far more items than him, but Wyn couldn’t help but feel as though he was getting the better deal. He had no use for the monster drops except to sell or store them, and this jacket could last him months. He happily handed over the components and the gloves and quiver and Cara handed the coat back to him.

“I hope it serves you well,” Cara said. “But do yourself a favor and also get some armor under it. And before long you’ll want at least a blue rarity spear. That one won’t last you into the second tier.”

Wyn nodded, gladly taking the item back. “Thank you for the advice. I think that’s our next stop, actually.”

“You mean we’re finally going to see Benedict?” Tasha asked. “It’s about time!”

“I think so,” Wyn said, putting the jacket back on. “We could definitely use a few more items.” He flexed his arms and walked with his group out of the trading hall, feeling a bit more like the captain of his past.

*****

Wyn closed his apartment door behind him, exhaling a deep breath. The day was finally over, even though it was one of the most productive days he’s had while being in Alestead. He set his new Sage’s Overcoat on the chair in his room, followed by the leather armor he obtained from The Silver Step. It already felt odd having the overcoat off of him, as he was getting used to the comfort it brought no matter the temperature of the cool air or warmer shop interior. He was anxious to try both pieces out inside Alistair, and satisfied at the decision to get them.

The three rookies decided to trade the purple rarity boots for new items, though kept the war hammer and bracer to potentially trade at a later date. They obtained several health and mana potions to help stock up their inventory, a green potion and item belt for both Wyn and John, and Wyn's leather armor. Their next item was a chest piece for John. He graciously offered for Wyn to have better armor since he had his blue rarity shield from home, and his own skills helped boost his defense. For now, he was satisfied.

Wyn lumbered straight to his bedroom and sat down at his desk right away, sitting with a thud. He didn't realize how tired he was until the thought of resting creeped into his mind, but he wanted to review his parchments and progress so far before writing another letter to his sister. Pulling out his parchment, he sifted through the pages for his newly updated status and items.

Ardwyn Thatcher

Citizen of town Rywood

Resident of Jahnin

Tower Alistair: Climber

Class: Ruby Magician

Growth: Any

Passive Skills: Lucidity, Armored Spellcasting, Spellcasting (Ruby), Tower’s Blessing

Active Skills: Dyadcast, Speed Up

ITEMS

Windcutter - This magical spear possesses a hooked claw at the base and curved blade at the tip. Wind elemental magic runs throughout the weapon. Able to cast Wingbeat three times per day.

Sage's Overcoat - A magical overcoat of both fine material and quality construction. Weather enchantment - able to maintain comfort despite the weather and temperature, except for extremes. Mildly resistant to all forms of physical damage and most forms of magical attacks. Provides the wearer's skills additional time when applicable, and reduced mana consumption of spells. Crafted by Cara.

Cloud Lupus Chestpiece - Formed from the dense but soft hide of the Cloud Lupus, this leather chest piece provides moderate resistance to slashing and blunt damage. Increases the wearer’s speed and is lightweight compared to its durability.

Mana Bracelet - A standard mana regeneration accessory. Allows the wearer to slowly recuperate mana over time at all times.

Supply Belt - A utility belt of fine leathers. Holds various potions for easy access and pouches for items or storage. Items held on the Supply Belt are heavily resistant to damage, though this piece does not protect the wearer.

Lesser Spatial Marcaroo Bag - Made from the leather of the Marcaroo, this bag is magically enhanced to hold far more than it seems. Items up to six feet in length may be safely stored in the main compartment with a weight limit of 50 pounds. The items inside will not move, but be temporarily frozen in time and space. The weight of the bag doesn’t change no matter the contents. The outer pockets serve as normal pouches.

Mushroom Lantern - A handful of rare, luminescent mushrooms reside within this magical jar. When shaken, the mushrooms activate, shining bright in their own colors. Provides dim light up to 60 feet. Will stay active for one hour, may be shaken again immediately. Colors can change with each activation.

Coins - 582 gold crowns, 241 silver cloaks, 437 copper boots.

Wyn placed the papers neatly back together, smiling. He had accrued so much in only a short amount of time, and for the first time, his prospects at paying off his family's debt seemed realistic. He had a long way to go, but he’d only completed the first few floors in two weeks of climbing. There were items to sell, more floors to clear, and quests to complete.

He glanced over at his bed and frowned. A letter rested on top of his pillow, a thick red wax seal in the middle of the paper. It wasn’t there when he left that morning. His heart felt like it was going to beat right out of his chest. How did he miss that coming into his room? Fatigue must be hitting him harder than he thought. How did it get there? Did someone else have a key to his room, or was it a guild official?

With shaky fingers, he gingerly grabbed the letter. His heart sped even faster when he saw the seal. Two swords and a dagger forming the letter A. He cursed. How did they find him here?

A sudden sense of unease and exposure washed over Wyn. He already was risking his life here climbing the tower, but now they knew both where he was, and his residence.

He ripped open the letter, his jaw tightening and his eyes watering as he read each line.

Ardwyn Thatcher,

We hope this letter finds you in good health. You will need it.

We have attempted to contact your father once again regarding his debt to us. Despite numerous warnings and fruitless outcomes, we have decided to additionally pursue a more promising path - you.

We have received word that you recently left the war efforts and are now taking up the life of a tower Climber in order to gather the necessary funds that are owed. We have to admit, this certainly pleases us. At least someone in your family recognizes the importance of your predicament. However, that doesn't change the fact that your father has snubbed and ignored us time and time again.

We will not tolerate such behavior.

You may know the details regarding the owed funds, but we will repeat them here so you may have them on file as both a reminder to not be like your father, and a warning about what will come next.

75,000 crowns are owed from the Thatcher family before the year's end. As our gentle notices have gone without word, interest has been added, and the debt is now 80,000 crowns. Payment in the form of coins or flesh will be sought, one way or another. A deposit of 10,000 crowns is required by the end of the current month. We have select members in Alestead and will arrange a pickup at a later time.

If you do not provide us with the deposit in good faith at the specified time, we will take more drastic measures. The next reminder will not be a letter, but a package. And you will not appreciate the contents.

Good luck. And say hello to your sister for us.