Visions Return

The leaders of the various nations had their eyes on the sacred artifact. They crowded around it, but none dared to be the first to touch it. Each seemed wary of the others.

While everyone gathered around the artifact, Bai Xiaowen quietly scooped up the Dark Gold Chest and slipped away.

"Dio, you don't seem interested in the sacred artifact?" Ahan asked.

Bai Xiaowen waved a hand. "I can't use it anyway..."

"But we need your opinion on who should use it," Ahan said.

Heads turned. One gaze after another landed on Bai Xiaowen.

A bead of cold sweat ran down the back of Bai Xiaowen's neck. Ahan, you look so honest. How could you do this to me?

Put on the spot before everyone, Bai Xiaowen had no choice but to speak. "A sacred artifact chooses its wielder. Without that affinity... no one can bring out its true power. I think everyone here should draw lots and try it in turn."

It was a solution, and there was little else they could do.

When the leaders nodded, Bai Xiaowen breathed a sigh of relief. At least he had not offended anyone.

Ahan already had a sacred artifact, and ranged fighters had no use for this one. The remaining melee leaders drew lots.

Basaka the barbarian drew first. He lumbered up to the hovering Bone-Piercing Hammer and reached out. Just before touching it, he snatched his hand back, scratched the back of his head, thumped his muscular chest, and belted out a Yorni barbarian war song.

With Basaka circling the artifact as he sang, it looked rather like a shamanic ritual...

Harold the knight, who was second in line, showed a faint trace of disdain.

"If an uncivilized barbarian like that earns the artifact's approval, I'll be damned," muttered Felix