The rich and the poor

Orum'thik, and his domain adjusted to the customers inner expectation of a place for commerce. With Norris as a customer, Orum'thik shifted to that of a well-dressed businessman, and the store transformed into a modern, sleek commerce building. Orum'thik grinned, his eyes twinkling with mirth.

"I must say, I'm intrigued by your sense of style, Norris. Which plane inspired such pleasing aesthetics?"

Norris shrugged, a hint of a smile on his face. "I just imagined a world in my head."

Orum'thik chuckled, clearly not believing Norris, but he chose to change the topic instead. Any newly discovered dimensional plane represent great wealth and knowledge making anything about planes a sensitive knowledge.

Norris sighed, his eyes scanning the realm. "The Arcum," he mused aloud, his voice carrying a tinge of both awe and resignation. "It truly deserves its name as the Seducer of Souls."

Orum'thik chuckled, his newly Humanoid 21st century modern look rippling with amusement. "And why shouldn't it, my dear Norris? People die for wealth just as a bird dies for food. The Arcum, however, is neutral—it sells and accepts good and evil alike as payment. A fair exchange, I dare say." His tone was light, but there was an undertone of gravity in his words that was impossible to miss.

Norris simply sighed again, his shoulders relaxing in quiet acceptance. "The last time I came here," he began, "I used a ritual to arrive directly in your domain. It's the first time I've seen the Arcum in its full glory."

Orum'thik seemed to swell with pride, "Something created by a coalition of gods can never be ordinary, my friend. The Arcum's splendor is no accident—it is their masterpiece, a realm designed to fulfill every need and desire in exchange for wealth." His voice carried a reverence that even Norris could feel.

"Well, in any case, I think you'll find something that suits your pursuits here. Let me show you some of our finest items."

Norris wandered over to a nearby shelf, his eyes scanning the array of information of exotic items on display. Orum'thik skipped alongside him, his feet tapping out a lively rhythm on the floor.

"Ah, Norris, are you looking for something to quench your thirst? Can you imagine being in a magic-free area and not being able to summon or create water and die because of thirst? Can you imagine wasting your pitiful mana needed for dangerous situations to summon water in an adventure? Can you imagine trying to hunt magic creatures in dungeons because of their blood for rituals? Can you imagine paying mercenaries to go for weeks grinding in a dungeon just for a liquid with specific magical properties? Are you ready to say goodbye to lack of water?? Well, I have just the thing for you! Introducing our artifact of the day: the Aquafont!!!"

Orum'thik gestured to a nearby counter, where a small, delicate crystal sat on display. "The Aquafont is a marvel of the elemental planes!!! Even in a place with spatial restrictions and mana restriction It can summon water from the elemental planes, which is beyond any mortal water, and imbue it with any flavor or property you desire!!!"

Norris's eyes widened as he contemplated the possibilities. He missed the taste of soda and carbonated drinks from his previous life, and the thought of experiencing those flavors again was almost too exciting to bear. It can also be used as a replacement for materials in many rituals and arrays.

The Wealthkeeper nodded, his form shifting with a smile. "And the price for this marvelous artifact is... one million gold coins."

Norris's eyes dulled, his face falling in disappointment.

Orum'thik continued, "Or, for our special welfare package, ten thousand gemstones of Starlight Serenite."

Norris's eyes dropped, his shoulders slumping in defeat. He knew he didn't have anywhere near that amount of wealth.

Orum'thik continued, "Or, for our special welfare package for the slightly 'less wealthy', ten thousand pure gold pieces."

Norris's eyes lit up with hope, his shoulders squaring in anticipation. Maybe, just maybe, he could afford it.

But then Orum'thik dropped the bombshell. "Plus, your firstborn, your left kidney, and a few other... miscellaneous items."

Norris's eyes went wide, his jaw dropping in shock. He felt like he'd been punched in the gut.

"10,000 pure gold pieces, my future firstborn, my left kidney...?" he repeated, his voice trembling.

Orum'thik nodded cheerfully. "That's right! It's a steal, if I do say so myself."

Norris's face contorted in mock horror. "You know, I think I'll just stick to drinking muddy water from the river. At least that's free."

He realized that even the definition of "slightly less wealthy" was out of his reach. He was poorer than poor.

Norris's face still in shock, his mind reeling from the exorbitant price tag. "Even in the otherworld, the poor don't have rights," he muttered, his voice barely audible.

Orum'thik chuckled. "I'm a fairly reasonable being. Tell you what, Norris, I'll give you a chance to earn a discount. All you have to do is answer a little riddle for me."

Norris's face was blank as he was getting out of his reveries.

Orum'thik's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Here's the riddle: What can be broken, but never held? What can be given, but never sold?"

Norris didn't even think much before answering, "Trust, the answer is trust". Orum'thik's face lit up with a warm smile. "Ah, trust! You are absolutely right, Norris! Trust is indeed something that can be broken, but never held. And it's something that can be given, but never sold. Well done!"

Orum'thik nodded, clearly impressed. "As a reward for your cleverness, I'll give you a 95% discount on the Aquafont. What do you say, Norris? Will you take the deal?"

Orum'thik smiled, seeming to sense Norris's hesitation and wariness. "Come, Norris, don't be shy. The Aquafont is a powerful artifact, and I'm willing to let it go for a song. Ninety-five percent off is an offer you won't find anywhere else, I assure you."

Norris raised an eyebrow, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied Orum'thik's expression. "What's the catch?" he asked, his voice low and cautious. Norris mentally prepared himself. As far as his bottom line wasn't crossed…too deeply, he'd do everything within his own to get this artifact.

Orum'thik chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "No catch, Norris. Just a... let's call it a 'gesture of goodwill'. You seem like a promising young adventurer, and I'd like to help you on your way."

Norris's eyes lingered on Orum'thik's face, searching for any sign of deception. But the Wealthkeeper's expression seemed genuine. Norris decided to take this gesture of good will from Orum'thik. This warmed up their relationship with Norris visibly trying to get closer and show a natural side which made Orum'thik visibly pleased. Norris decided to get what he came for.

"I'm looking for a full kit for battle mage," Norris replied. "I need a wand, a battle robe, and a spellbook."

Orum'thik's eyes sparkled. "Excellent! Let me show you our luxurious options."

Orum'thik, the Wealthkeeper, smiled knowingly. "Ah, Norris, you're looking to outfit yourself for the trials ahead. I have just the things for a discerning battle mage such as yourself."

"Behold, Norris! The majestic 'Stallona Robe', crafted from the rare Stallona tree, infused with the essence of stardust. This enchanting robe is attuned to the celestial ballet, amplifying its wearer's magical abilities under the starry sky.

"The 'Stallone rob' grants the wearer:

- A +5 bonus to Spellcasting ability under the stars and night

- Increased resistance to blunt damage and cold temperatures

- Basic Energy Resistance

- Increased magical energy: amplifying spellcasting abilities

"The robe's durability is rated at 500 'Magical Stress Points' (MSP). Each time the robe protects its wearer from a spell, it absorbs a portion of the magical stress, gradually depleting its MSP. When the MSP falls below 10, the robe's automatic teleportation feature will be triggered, instantly transporting the wearer to a safe location up to 1,000 miles away.

"The robe's pockets are enchanted with the 'Traceless Charm', expanding its storage capacity to approximately one cubic meter. This ingenious charm was modified which also allows the robe to read the wearer's surface thoughts, facilitating effortless retrieval of items from the pockets in the heat of battle.

"Next, we have the 'Tome of the Demigod', a rare and precious spellbook containing a comprehensive collection of battle spells. This magnificent tome is crafted by the demigod, Erebus, who only bestows it upon the world once every hundred years. It contains the crystallisation of a century in the magic world with each spells updated based on ingenious spellcasting techniques and theories made that century with the vision of a demigod. Making it invaluable. It also aids spellcasting"

"Then, there's the 'Soulstone', a reliable energy source crafted by the demigod, Eler'buzs Jhe. This enchanted crystal extracts energy from the warp while protecting you from its unpredictable nature.

"Last but not least, we have the 'Elderwood Wand', crafted from a rare, ancient tree with natural enchantments that increase energy absorption. Master wand maker, Elwynn, has carefully honed the wand's natural enchantments, allowing it to direct ambient energy and increase spellcasting abilities.

"But I sense that you may be looking for something more... affordable. Allow me to show you our more budget-friendly options."

With a flourish, Orum'thik revealed the lower limit items:

1. A simple, wooden wand (1 gp)

2. A basic, leather-bound spellbook (2 gp)

3. A small, copper focus (1 gp)

4. A humble, cloth robe (1 gp)

Norris although Already used to the difference between the rich and poor still felt pained. The money he thinks is good and enough and is reluctant to spend might be someone else's pocket money. He decided to use his sword wand as it is, with his robe which has automatic force field and energy protection. He chose to look for an extra Magic item for his safety preferably offering passive protection and also get a custom spell book and focus.

Norris's eyes scanned the shop, his mind made up. "Orum'thik, I think I'll pass on the luxurious items. My current wand and robe with will suffice. However, I am interested in acquiring an extra safety device, preferably something passive. Additionally, I'd like to commission a custom spellbook and focus that cater to my specific needs."

Orum'thik's expression changed from one of anticipation to understanding. "Very well, Norris. I respect your frugality. Let me show you some of our more... practical safety devices."

He led Norris to a section of the shop filled with various protective items. "We have a selection of passive safety devices that you can afford, such as the 'Shadowstep Cloak', which grants the wearer a temporary boost to agility and speed when in danger. Or the 'Aegis Amulet', which provides a passive shield against magical attacks."

Norris considered the options. "I'll take the 'Shadowstep Cloak' and the 'Aegis Amulet'."

Orum'thik nodded. "Excellent choices. The total cost for the cloak will be 2,200 gold pieces, and the amulet will be 2,500 gold pieces."

Norris nodded with a slightly pained look. "Very well."

Orum'thik smiled. "We also offer custom spellbook services. Would you like to source the production of your spellbook to our store?"

Norris thought for a moment before responding. "I'm looking for a custom spellbook that caters to my Arcane and necromancy needs, specifically soul spells."

Orum'thik nodded. "I see. We offer high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship."

Norris leaned forward, his eyes locked on Orum'thik. "I want this spellbook to be truly unique, attuned to the soul and arcane energies. Can you recommend materials that would enhance its properties?"

Orum'thik nodded thoughtfully. "For a spellbook that resonates with soul energy, I recommend using hides from advanced ghouls. These creatures possess a strong connection to the soul, making their hides an ideal choice."

Norris's eyes lit up with interest. "That sounds perfect. What about the arcane affinity?"

Orum'thik smiled. "For that, I suggest using a leather formed from the dead skin of a titan who resides in the arcane realm. This material will provide a natural affinity with arcane energies, amplifying the spellbook's magical properties."

Norris thought for a moment before speaking. "I'd also like to incorporate materials from the spiritual realm. Something that will further enhance the spellbook's connection to the soul."

Orum'thik nodded. "I have just the thing. We can infuse the spellbook with ectoplasmic threads, woven from the essence of restless spirits. These threads will amplify the spellbook's soul-attuned properties, allowing you to tap into the raw emotional energy of your targets."

Norris nodded, impressed with Orum'thik's expertise. "I like it. Let's use these materials for the spellbook's creation."

Orum'thik bowed his head in approval. "I will prepare the necessary materials. The total cost for the spellbook's creation will be 2,800 gold pieces."

Norris grinned mischievously. "Now, about the... 'other' goods. You know, the ones that fall off the back of a wagon. Where can I find those?"

Orum'thik's expression turned neutral, but a hint of amusement danced in his eyes. "I'm afraid I don't know what you're talking about, Norris. This is a reputable establishment, after all."

Just then, Orum'thik pretended to slip, and a piece of paper fell from his pocket. Norris quickly picked it up, his eyes scanning the contents. The paper contained a set of coordinates, likely leading to the black market goods Norris had been inquiring about.

Without hesitation, Norris memorized the coordinates and then burned the paper with a flick of his wrist. Orum'thik watched, a smile spreading across his face.

The two shared a knowing glance, their eyes sparkling with amusement. Norris nodded in appreciation, and Orum'thik bowed his head in respect.

With their transaction complete, Norris bid Orum'thik farewell. "Until next time, Orum'thik. May our paths cross again soon."

Orum'thik smiled, his eyes glinting with anticipation. "I look forward to it, Norris. May your... acquisitions serve you well.", Orum'thik back to his normal Form with his domain waved Norris goodbye.

***

As I emerged from the black market's hidden alleyways, the flickering torches cast eerie shadows on the walls. My eyes gleamed with a mixture of exhaustion and joy. The world of magic really is fantastic.

A battle fought with consciousness felt like a battle royale in a virtual reality world. Shaping whatever you want and fighting with it was exhilarating. Your assets are Imagination and The strength of your Consciousness which you can use to access more resources to fuel your imagination. My imagination baptized by my previous life gave me an edge. My consciousness strength was in the middle rank though.

Though adding magic mini rocket boost to knives was wild even for me, I couldn't use a gun though. Don't want that to come to this world before I'm strong enough to ignore it.

The winner gets the artifact, and the merchant uses the battle to activate a ritual. Win-win. Coming out of an alley after what looks like an illegal fight is so like novels in my previous life. Without reflecting my thoughts, the alleyway changed showing it's true face. A coalition of demiplanes forming a black market.

I gazed at the Chaos Artifact, "Thokk'kraa'zha, the Mind-Shaper", clutched in my fist though this is merely an image. Its illusion abilities, which almost seemed like bending reality, would surely help me in the war and beyond. I'm so happy right now, to be honest.

But the cost had been considerable. My cognition, pushed to its limits, had borne the brunt of the battle. The air was thick with the stench of blood – my blood. I was splattered with crimson, my clothes torn and tattered. Yet, I knew the truth: in the realm of consciousness, there was no physical harm.

With a thought, I restored my appearance to its former state. My wounds vanished, my clothes mended themselves, and the bloodstains disappeared. I noticed a subtle change, though. My eyes, once bright and piercing, now seemed... dimmer. The fatigue of my consciousness was beginning to show.

I glanced down at my chest, where a faint, glowing coin seemed to pulse with a life of its own. It was my heart in this realm, a symbol of my connection to the mysterious forces that governed this world.

As I stood there, basking in the afterglow of victory, I knew it was time to return to my physical body. I focused my mind, and the world around me began to blur. My vision tunneled, and I felt myself being pulled downward at an alarming rate. My stomach lurched as the ground rushed up to meet me.

I was descending, plummeting toward my physical form at a speed that left my head spinning. And then, everything went black.