Chapter 12: Chapter 12: The Appraiser’s Gamble

Ethan carefully placed the Sealed Relic Box on the counter, watching as the woman ran her fingers along its surface.

Her touch was delicate but purposeful, as if she were feeling more than just the wood.

After a moment, her brow furrowed. “This isn’t just locked.”

Ethan crossed his arms. “Meaning?”

She didn’t answer immediately. Instead, she reached into the folds of her robe and pulled out a thin, silver tool resembling a stylus. With careful precision, she tapped the rune on the box’s surface.

A faint pulse of energy rippled outward.

She watched it carefully before speaking. “It’s bound by an ancient contract. Whatever is inside wasn’t just hidden—it was sealed with intent.”

Ethan frowned. “So someone didn’t just lock it. They wanted to make sure no one could open it.”

“Exactly.” She tapped her rings together, the soft chime filling the air. “And that means opening it carelessly could be… unwise.”

Ethan leaned against the counter. “Alright. So, can you open it?”

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The woman smiled—a knowing, amused smile.

“With the right tools, yes,” she said, sliding her silver stylus back into her robe. “But such work isn’t free.”

Ethan exhaled. Of course. Nothing ever was.

“What do you want in return?”

She studied him for a moment, as if considering her options. Then she spoke.

“I need an Ethereal Inkstone.”

Ethan’s brows furrowed. “Never heard of it.”

She nodded. “Not surprising. It’s rare—used to inscribe runes onto magical items. Without it, certain enchantments are impossible to craft.”

Ethan opened his system interface and did a quick search.

"Ethereal Inkstone"

Availability: Limited

Cost: 3 Astral Coins

He grimaced. That was most of his remaining balance.

The woman caught his expression and smirked. “Pricey, isn’t it?”

Ethan tapped his fingers on the counter. “If it’s so rare, why not get it yourself?”

She shrugged. “I could. But I have other priorities. And besides—you’re a merchant, aren’t you?”

Ethan sighed. She had a point.

But spending 3 Astral Coins on a gamble wasn’t exactly smart business.

But…

He glanced at the Sealed Relic Box.

The Collector of the Forgotten had left this in his hands. It wasn’t just some random item—it had importance. And if it was worth hiding, then it was probably worth unlocking.

His gut told him this was a risk worth taking.

He exhaled. “Fine. Give me some time.”

The appraiser inclined her head. “Two days,” she said. “I’ll return then.”

She turned toward the exit, her robes swaying with each step. The shop bell rang softly as she disappeared into the night.

Ethan stared at the Sealed Relic Box, running a hand through his hair.

“Whatever’s inside,” he muttered, “it better be worth it.”