Mana Contract

"Do you want to become stronger than your brother?"

Upon hearing the question Azriel completely stopped in his tracks.

A vein bulged on his forehead and his eyes turned cold.

"What did you say?"

Turning toward me, he took a couple steps forward, his stance quite rigid and intimidating for someone of his build.

It was quite surprising to witness the transformation in his demeanor.

"Do you want to become stronger than your brother?"

However, I didn't yield under his intense pressure, matching his aura with my own Mana.

I didn't feel particularly threatened by his sudden shift in attitude but just in case he tried something funny, I had my hand ready on the hilt of my sword.

"..."

For a moment, both of us stood in a tense silence.

In the end, the temporary boost in Azriel's aggression subsided and he relaxed his stance, breaking eye contact with me.

"Are you ready to listen to my proposal?"

Seeing that he calmed down I went back toward the chair and sat down, gesturing toward the empty seat across from me.

If Azriel wasn't willing to listen to my proposal or engage in a civil conversation even now, then there was no point in continuing this interaction. Although it is hard, I can find other people that can get me to the auction for an adequate prize.

Azriel hesitated for a beat, his gaze lingering on the offered seat for a moment. Then, with a muttered curse, he strode across the room and slumped down rather ungracefully.

"Alright, alright..."

He grumbled, avoiding my gaze.

"Spit it out. What's this grand proposal of yours?"

I leaned back in my chair, allowing a small smile to play on my lips.

I got him.

"Very well..."

I cleared my throat, the sound echoing in the sudden stillness.

"Azriel."

I began, emphasizing each word.

"I'm offering you the chance to acquire a six-star sword manual."

The words hung heavy in the air, the tension in the room thickening like fog. Azriel's head snapped up, his features a mask of disbelief.

"A... six-star? Are you serious?"

A slow, genuine smile spread across my face.

"Deadly serious. A manual that holds the secrets to techniques capable of propelling you beyond your current limitations, beyond even your brother's reach."

He scoffed, but a flicker of something akin to hope flickered in his eyes.

"Don't play games with me. There's no such thing as a six-star manual just lying around for the taking."

For a moment, both of us stopped talking.

It was quite amusing to see the disbelief etched across his face, as if he couldn't fathom the possibility of such a valuable treasure.

I bet that even his family, with all their wealth and connections, would struggle to obtain a six-star sword manual. Not because they don't have enough money, but because such treasures are rarely seen in the world.

Only a hundred or so six-star tomes exist in the entire realm.

I'm not even talking about seven star manuals, which are practically mythical.

"Let's sign a Mana Contract."

However, I am confident I can get one. I am a transmigrator who practically knows everything about this world, so I know where to acquire the elusive six-star sword manual.

Azriel's face drained of color quicker than a sunset. He fumbled with his hand, accessing a small, intricate ring on his finger. This was a spatial ring, a magical item that allowed the wearer to store objects within an extra-dimensional space.

These rings were incredibly rare and expensive, coveted by nobles and adventurers alike for their utility and prestige. His ring, however, seemed slightly worn.

He pulled out two items from the ring: an old, brittle piece of paper that resembled papyrus and a simple quill pen. He shoved them towards me with a trembling hand.

"Alright."

He muttered, his voice barely a whisper.

"If you're serious about this... contract."

I took the offered items, my curiosity piqued.

This wasn't your everyday parchment. I didn't expect him to carry such an item in his spatial ring.

This was a Mana Contract, a powerful binding spell etched onto a specially prepared material. Breaching the terms of such a contract resulted in swift and severe consequences. The offender would either face instant death or, worse, have their mana core, the source of their magical power, explode from within, leaving them a crippled husk.

The contract, as dictated by me, outlined our responsibilities in clear, concise terms. Azriel would help me acquire the spot in the auction, and in return, I would provide him with the six star sword manual.

My liabilities included maintaining the secrecy of the manual's existence, while his responsibilities included ensuring my safety during the auction and keeping me company while we are at the event.

With careful strokes, I transcribed the contract onto a fresh piece of parchment. Finishing the last word, I held the quill to my finger and pricked the tip, letting a single drop of blood fall onto the paper.

Splash...

The blood glowed faintly, then seeped into the parchment, leaving behind a shimmering sigil. This was my binding oath, a magical signature forged with my life force.

As Azriel mimicked my actions, a tense silence filled the room. The contract was formed, an unbreakable bond etched with blood and magic, sealing our agreement and binding us to its terms.

"Well, I have stuff to do, so I leave you to your preparations."

Watching as the contract turned into light particles, I spoke and stood up.

Azriel simply nodded his head with a thoughtful expression and waved me off.

He didn't even notice the treacherous smile that was spreading across my face as I walked away.

He doesn't even know that he signed a contract with a literal demon.