It was the first time Ruger had seen that look in Mahama's eyes, and he seemed a little surprised. But he knew it was not admiration or amazement at his strength-it was wonder at his wealth. Indeed, the day had actually come when Mahama marveled at how rich he was. He had never cared about it before, or even considered the possibility, but now that it had happened, he found it rather amusing.
With everything settled, it was naturally time to get up and take his leave.
More precisely, with those three spellbooks and the notes in his hands, he was already growing impatient. The books felt as though they were gnawing at his fingers.
Although no further spell notes appeared, the first thing Ruger did after standing was still to bow solemnly to the rotund old wizard and thank him.
"I hope I'll see you here again before this old man dies, young wizard. Perhaps even several more times." The old wizard held his teacup and chuckled.
Ruger smiled, understanding what the old wizard meant. It could certainly be taken as an invitation to come back and spend more merit stones, but that deliberate repetition was clearly a wish for him to advance to the third ring, then the fourth ring, and keep progressing.
It had been a pleasant experience.
Big Guy, who had been silent beside him for quite some time, stirred slightly, as though he had finally made up his mind.
"Sir Ruger, could you lend me some merit stones?" Big Guy's eyes were full of longing.
"Of course," Ruger said.
Big Guy was enormous, but he was not thick-skinned. He was not someone who would readily ask others to lend him merit stones.
And he was particular about whom he asked. He was someone who did