404: It's the Dragon King? Legendary!

A Dragon King? Legendary!

Wizards in Africa truly used magic in a way unlike anywhere else.

They placed greater emphasis on the study of magical runes.

That was where their focus in Alchemy lay.

This approach might be slightly inferior to European wands in terms of immediacy and versatility, but it possessed unique advantages in magical stability, endurance, and specialization in certain fields.

Ian stood outside the shop, watching with great interest. This entirely different magical system was an eye-opener for him and gave him a deeper understanding of magic's essence.

Magic did not have only one path. Different cultures and traditions had developed their own brilliant interpretations. He was even considering whether he should commission one of these "rune short rods" for himself. Perhaps it might prove unexpectedly useful at certain times? Or at the very least, he could buy a few books on the African magical rune system to study.

Of course.

That all depended on speaking with the owner of this rune-engraving shop first.

"As expected, there's real value in traveling far and wide. The world is vast; it has everything," Ian thought. He had become deeply interested in this unique African system of spellcasting centered on rune engraving. He watched the old craftsman work for a long while, seeing an ordinary-looking ebony short rod gradually become a powerful magical item beneath precise rune carvings, and could not help marveling inwardly.

Finally, when the old craftsman finished his work, set down his engraving needle, and took a brief rest, Ian stepped forward and greeted him politely in English. "Master, your craftsmanship is astounding."

The old craftsman raised his head, revealing a pair of deep, sharp eyes. He carefully sized Ian up—clearly a foreigner, dressed in ordinary but fine-quality traveling robes, with a calm demeanor.

His gaze lingered