Bugree watched Raphaello with a renewed expression of respect and curiosity. His erect and serious posture reflected his recognition of the latent potential he saw in the young wizard. A sense of wonder mixed with a twinge of hope crept into his chest as he considered the possibilities that would unfold if he could support Raphaello in his learning.
His eyes fixed on Raphaello, examining him as if he were trying to read the hidden layers behind his determined gaze. He recognized the presence of an exceptional talent, an individual whose words and behavior betrayed no gaps or uncertainties. Raphaello conveyed an aura of wisdom that surpassed his youth, as if he had lived countless experiences.
Bugree decided to address the matter directly. He bowed slightly towards Raphaello, maintaining a respectful posture, and asked:
- Where do you come from, Raphaello? What brings such a remarkable talent to these forgotten lands, where the shadows of Baron Jericho loom large over the less fortunate?
Raphaello noticed Bugree's change in behavior towards him. He felt compelled to answer honestly, considering the genuine interest Bugree was showing.
- I don't come from an easy place to talk. My childhood memories are stained with suffering and pain, as I was a slave from an early age.
Raphaello revealed with sincerity, his words filled with an intensity that resonated in the small store.
Bugree absorbed Raphaello's words with a thoughtful and contemplative expression. He pondered the young mage's origins and the possibilities that would unfold if he had access to higher level magic. The idea of Raphaello becoming one of the greatest wizards on the continent, challenging existing social and political structures, awakened an inner fire in Bugree.
He knew that if he could provide Raphaello with the resources and support he needed, the young wizard could become an undeniable force to be reckoned with in the village and beyond. The mere idea of Raphaello's ascension gave him a sense of renewed determination, a belief that perhaps he could influence the course of things in the world in which they lived.
Bugree watched Raphaello with a sincere and confident gaze, expressing his appreciation for the young mage's talent and determination. With a serious and solemn tone, he addressed Raphaello:
Raphaello, I was impressed by what I just witnessed. I promise that I will fulfill my promise to pay off your debt, and in addition, I will provide you with a basic level 3 spell of your choice.
Raphaello, deeply grateful for Bugree's generosity, felt a comforting warmth spread throughout his body. A genuine smile appeared on his face, reflecting the gratitude he felt at the moment.
Thank you very much, Bugree. I also thank you for believing in me. I promise I won't try to take advantage of you anymore. I will be a loyal customer and will buy more spells from your store.
Raphaello spoke with sincerity and his tone filled with gratitude.
Bugree, listening to Raphaello's words, felt a mixture of emotions overflow in his heart. He realized that the time had come to reveal his own plan to help Raphaello grow stronger. However, he was also aware of the limitations he faced regarding providing combat magic.
Raphaello, let me tell you something. I intend to help you in any way I can. However, my options are limited, as the scrolls I have in my store are more utility-oriented than combat-oriented. To gain more knowledge of combat magic, I will need to acquire specific books, and this will not be easy.
Raphaello absorbed Bugree's words with a thoughtful expression. He nodded, indicating that he was willing to listen to Bugree's proposals.
Bugree continued, revealing his suggestions to help Raphaello gain more knowledge. He warned of the need for caution and discretion, proposing two important requirements.
There is a way to get combat spell books, but you will have to follow my suggestions. First, after learning the spells, you will have to burn the books to avoid any problems. If these books are found in the village, there could be a hunt, and my safety would be at risk. Secondly, you must not demonstrate your powers in any way anywhere. Baron Jericho's army has magic-tracking mages, and this could put him in danger.
Raphaello absorbed Bugree's every word, understanding the importance of keeping his magical abilities a secret. He nodded in agreement, demonstrating his willingness to follow Bugree's directions.
Bugree noticed Raphaello's acceptance and felt a sense of satisfaction when he saw the young wizard's willingness to collaborate. He smiled slightly, hopeful for Raphaello's future and the partnership they were about to develop.
Bugree approached Raphaello and began showing the basic level 3 spells available in his shop. He carefully showed the scrolls, revealing a variety of spells that could be useful in different situations.
As Bugree introduced the spells, Raphaello looked eager, his eyes shining with anticipation as he examined each option carefully. It was as if he was in a candy store, pondering which flavor to choose from the array of tempting delicacies.
He also presented Raphaello with a manual that contains information about mana cores and how to evolve them through Qi cultivation.
After analyzing each of the options, Raphaello realized that there was one spell in particular that could fit perfectly into his plan. He decided to choose "De-rustare", a magic that removed rust. Raphaello was satisfied with his choice, aware that this magic could be valuable in his greater purpose.
With a satisfied smile, Raphaello thanked Bugree for the magic and prepared to leave the store. However, before he could walk away, Bugree interrupted him with one last remark.
Bugree called Raphaello by name, attracting his attention. Raphaello looked at Bugree curiously, waiting to hear what the shopkeeper had to say.
- Raphaello, make sure you earn enough coins. Combat spells are all in books and are generally more expensive than basic scroll spells.
Bugree warned with a serious tone, pointing out the importance of acquiring financial resources for his future endeavors.
Raphaello confirmed with a raised thumb, indicating that he understood the message and would take Bugree's warning into consideration. With a farewell gesture, he said goodbye and headed towards the village square with two tools in hand, his determination renewed and his purpose even clearer in his mind.
I would like your help. At first, I wrote the character's thoughts in quotation marks; however, the thoughts could sometimes get long. Currently, I feel the need to write down his thoughts, and I'm wondering if you'd prefer me to write them in a third-person narration or in quotation marks, expressing exactly what he's thinking in his words.