Magic Items (Part 1)

"So you're an honored guest of our trading company. Please come inside." The saleswoman's manner turned respectful at once, and she gestured for Romon to follow.

On the second floor, tea was served first. Dappled sunlight streamed through the window.

In this world, tea was a luxury reserved for nobles and important guests.

Romon took a sip and found it unremarkable. Tekaxiu was waiting outside the door. Reaching into his bag, Romon drew out ten tea bricks and a collection of jewels.

He also had banknotes issued by the Merchant Goddess, the equivalent of checks on Earth.

While he waited, Romon looked out the window. A plain stretched before him, with a forest a hundred miles away. Several trade routes passed through the area, making it a haven for thieves.

The lazy afternoon sun fell on the quietly flowing river, gilding its surface.

A squad of soldiers patrolled the riverbank. The knight leading them wore a breastplate and looked imposing.

Just then, a middle-aged man entered with a warm smile. He extended a hand. "It's an honor to receive a guest like you. I'm Shak William, chairman of the local branch. A pleasure to meet you!"

Romon shook his hand. "I'm Romon, a Druid. The pleasure is mine."

After a pause, Romon got straight to the point. "Mr. Shak, I'd like to buy some magic items from your trading company."

To Romon, training without relying on outside aids made sense. He could even get by without them in a minor fight. But in a real battle?

What kind of idiotic theory was that?

Magic items could save lives. Rings, potions, weapons, armor, and countless other small objects often made the difference when the unexpected struck.

And magic items were generally reliable. If Romon had been wearing a ring that resisted