–—- ??? —---

  “I’m sorry, I cannot sell my ancestral home.” The silver-haired woman said, shaking her head.

  Her aged face creased into an apologetic smile. “I know it’s unreasonable, considering your benefactor is the reason for its continued existence. But…”

  Her face dropped, and her eyes shifted from Kaledo to Wilbur. “Would you grant me this one selfish desire? My forefathers created this estate at the very beginning of Golvan. There has always been a Thornwall within its walls, and I wish for that to continue.”

  “Is that why you perished here?” Kaledo asked, obviously disappointed but still curious. “From my understanding, almost every noble family fled through secret exits right before the army arrived. I cannot imagine a family as old as the Thornwalls’ lacking the means to escape.”

  The woman, Lady Thornwall, scowled toward Kaledo. “They are cowards. To leave during a time of crisis is the action of one unworthy of their station.” She sighed. “However, that does seem to be the majority of the noble houses these days. Far too many have forgotten where their duties lie. Instead, they spend their time scheming, socializing, and searching for any weakness to exploit.”

  “I admit, I would not say I am familiar with the matters of nobility.” Kaledo nodded. “However, I have encountered many of them since I arrived in Golvan. They can be…” The merchant paused, considering. “Uncooperative.”

  Thornwall chuckled, nodded, then turned her attention to the silent wizard.

  “Now, I will admit, I haven’t heard a single rumor of someone like you.” She tilted her head, her old eyes gleaming with curiosity. “Which is something that rarely happens. You do not live as long as I have without acquiring ways to stay informed about powerful people. ”

  Wilbur met her curious gaze, his face aloof following Kaledo’s suggestion. In response, he merely tilted his head.

  “Ah, but how rude of me. Please ignore the chatter of a curious old woman.” Thornwall smiled. “Sir, you have given me an immeasurable gift. The return of my life and home.” She bowed her head to Wilbur. “I wish to reward your benevolence for such an immeasurable gift.”

  Silence fell as Thornwall and Kaledo waited for Wilbur’s response.

  The wizard studied Lady Thornwall. She looked to be in her seventies by Earth standards. But as he had discovered time and time again, his perceptions of age from Earth were almost always wrong. In Vlanoris, the effects of aging were slowed by levels and the stats that came with them. While combat was the fastest way to advance, one could level through practicing their passions, skills, or trade.

  If Wilbur had to guess, based on the woman’s wrinkles, her age must be at least three digits. According to Kaledo, the Thornwall family focused on either the path of business or adventure. The merchant had explained that the last generation of the family had focused on the latter. While skilled, Thornwalls had a reputation for being stubborn and unyielding in all things. Unfortunately, for an adventurer, this was a surefire way to achieve an honorable yet short career.

  Wilbur wondered what they might have stashed away. Definitely some interesting or unique artifacts he hadn’t seen. But the more he ran the woman's words through his head, the more he dismissed the idea. Considering their luck with the last generation, and the woman’s stance on greedy nobility, it was unlikely they possessed anything of value to him.

  So what did he want?

  It seemed they were unlikely to convince this woman to part with her estate. From Wilbur’s guess, she had gone down with the metaphorical ship when the demons invaded Golvan. Which meant any method Wilbur could use to convince her would be… unsavory. At that point, that wasn’t something he wanted to do.

  He glanced at Kaledo, then back to Lady Thornwall.

  “It’s fine. I’m not interested in anything besides the land.”

  The noble raised an eyebrow.

  “Really? Just like that?” Thornwall leaned back in her chair.

  The wizard shrugged. “As I said, it’s fine.”

  Thornwal watched Wilbur with a calculating gaze. “You aren’t going to find another way to force my hand?”

  Wilbur frowned. “No.”

  “Interesting.” Thornwall's eyes gleamed, her stare intense. “I must admit, I find you quite intriguing. I have known many powerful individuals, and they all share a common trait.”

  Her thin fingers tapped across the chair’s arm. “They like things to go their way. In fact, most will insist on it.”

  She turned to Kaledo.

  “Even more interesting is you, Merchant Kaledo. I mean no disrespect, but I’m finding it hard to understand how you ended up in this negotiation. Your entrance to our city was that of a common merchant. You’re hardworking, but not noteworthy.” Thornwall gestured towards Wilbur. “Which begs the question: How did one like you end up with someone like him?”

  “I’m standing right here,” Wilbur said dryly.

  “You are!” Thornwall smiled. “In my defense, you have just been silently observing our conversations.” She gave him a wink. “I would be happy to direct my questions towards you. Or I can merely quell my curiosity, and we can conclude our business.”

  “Hmmm…” Wilbur met her gleaming gaze, then nodded. “Fine. I met Kaledo earlier today. He offered his services, and I agreed. It’s one of the better choices I have made since coming here.”

  Lady Thornwall nodded, then smiled, “Why do you need property in a ruined city?”

  “You will find that out soon enough,” Wilbur smiled back. “Who knows, I might be such an annoying neighbor that you end up selling this place afterall. Just to get away from me.”

  Thornwall laughed. “So you do have a plan to push me out. And you’re already telling me what it is? How bold.” There was a twinkle in her eye as she added. “You may discover the older you get, the more stubborn you become, and I am quite old.”

  This made Wilbur chuckle. If she had any idea just how many centuries had passed him by…

  “Are you sure there’s nothing I can offer?” Thornwall asked. “It doesn’t feel right to leave you without anything. Resurrecting someone from the grave is no small favor.”

  Wilbur just shrugged. “Nothing I could think of.” He glanced at Kaledo. “Unless you have something to add.”

  Kaledo looked between them, thoughtful. “Perhaps…” He turned to Thornwall. “Lady Thornwall, would you agree to work with us in the future?”

  The noble glanced at the merchant with interest. “Work with you? What are you suggesting?”

  Wilbur nodded, also wondering what he meant. They hadn’t talked about this at all.

  “Well It’s simple really.” Kaledo smiled. “Wilbur is new to Golvan. He’s not acquainted with anyone in the city.” He gestured toward Thornwall. “He could likely use your advice and connections within the city.”

  Wilbur frowned, glancing between the two. Lady Thornwall seemed to think about it for a moment, then nodded.

  “It would be my pleasure. I could even arrange an entrance into the city's social circles.” She smiled at Wilbur. “I would be more than happy to introduce you. Perhaps even host an event to welcome you to Golvan.”

  Wilbur’s blood ran cold at the look she gave him. His mind brought back memories of when he was a hero. All the meaningless and awful parties he had to attend. Countless nobles, insisting they get to shake the heroes' hands.

  “Nope. I’m good. Thanks!” Wilbur said quickly. “I don’t need that, nope.”

  “What’s the matter?” Kaldeo asked. “Is that not a good plan? I thought th–”

  “Pass,” Wilbur’s head shook violently. “Thank you very much.” He met the woman’s confused gaze. “Lady Thornwall, great to meet you, but I have a long list to complete, and the day is quickly passing. Thanks, but no thanks, I’m done.”

  Wilbur forced a smile, gave a curt nod, then turned and practically teleported to the door. He yanked it open, then vanished as he retreated from the mansion.

  –—- ??? —---

  “He’s really quite…” Lady Thornwall spoke after a long moment of silence. “...odd”

  The merchant shifted his attention from the door. He schooled his confused expression.

  “You have no idea,” Kaledo said. “I have no idea what to make of him.”

  “Well,” Thornwall smiled. “It seems he’s not a fan of parties. I will remember that.”

  “That… seems to be the case.” Kaledo nodded, then rose from his chair. “I should go after him.”

  “Oh, don’t worry about that.” The woman waved dismissively. “But, do come and visit me in the future. We can speak on more relaxed topics. Ones that do not involve business.”

  “It would be my pleasure.” He bowed to the noble. “Thank you for your time, Lady Thornwall.” Then he turned and followed after Wilbur, the door shutting behind him.

  After he left, Lady Thornwall sat in silence, her mind churning. A careful, watchful eye would be needed for this stranger. She nodded to herself, pulled out a pad of paper, and began jotting down instructions. Many things needed to be set in motion. She finished writing, then reached for a small silver bell on the side table.

  This novel's true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

  Her hand froze mid-air as a thought occurred to her.

  She glanced around the room, frowning.

  “Wait… Where are my staff?”

  –—- ??? —---

  “Let me make something crystal clear.” Wilbur stared down the merchant as they walked down the ruined street. “Absolutely, positively, NO social events. Not now. Not ever. Understand? I am not attending parties or any function of any kind.”

  “But–”

  “No buts!” Wilbur snapped. “Please, never, ever arrange for me to–” Wilbur shuddered. “--socialize.”

  Kaledo stared back, confusion written across his face. “I don’t understand.”

  “You don’t have to.” Wilbur grimaced. “Just don’t do it.”

  They walked down the street in silence. The wizard fuming, the merchant thinking.

  “Okay… Got it.” Kaledo said.

  “Good!” Wilbur beamed, then glanced around. “So, how many do we have left?”

  Kaledo’s brow scrunched as he concentrated. “Seven more. Only one should give us trouble.”

  “Well,” Wilbur nodded, “let's get to it then.”

  They made their way down the street to the next stop. The negotiation was blessedly short, the homeowner almost instantly agreeing to sell. This continued for the next five stops. Some took longer than others, but all eventually agreed. Wilbur smiled as the broken system kept informing him he had a new property within Golvan.

  But then they got to the ‘problem’. The merchant was visibly nervous as they approached the rubble pile that was the mansion. Wilbur waited for him to say something, but the man had grown silent. Wilbur wasn’t going to push him, so he shrugged, clapped twice, and the home reappeared.

  They did their usual routine, the wizard waiting outside. This time, the door opened again within moments. Kaledo exited, his face tinged red with frustration.

  Wilbur raised an eyebrow, watching him slam the door shut, then storm away from the excessive mansion.

  “Is there a problem?” Wilbur asked.

  Kaledo stopped a few paces from the wizard, his hands clenched so tightly they had gone pale.

  Then he slowly let out a breath.

  “Yes.” He replied, “There is.”

  Wilbur waited as Kaledo collected himself.

  “He’s not going to sell.” Kaledo continued. “Nor negotiate. In fact, I didn’t get to say a word.” He took another breath, then released. “he just spat at me.”

  “What?!” Wilbur said, his eyes narrowing. “Why?”

  “I did say he could be a problem.” Kaledo sighed, his anger falling. “I had hoped that coming back from death would have taken the edge off his rhetoric. At least enough to let me speak.”

  Wilbur’s brow lifted slightly.

  “He talked down to me, literally.” Kaledo shot a glare over his shoulder. “He was standing on top of the stairs in the entrance hall. He never took a step, only threw insults at me and demanded I leave.”

  Wilbur was confused. Why? He knew every place had its fair share of horrible people, but this was too much.

  He examined the mansion again, taking in the details. It was gaudy, ornate, and… familiar. Complicated stonework, arched windows, and silver inlay on the doors. Carved into almost every surface were depictions of trees, animals, and plains.

  Wilbur sighed.

  “Is he an elf?”

  Kaledo nodded.

  “I take it he doesn’t like humans?”

  “That’s an understatement. My guild has a standing warning on trading or interacting with him or his family.”

  Wilbur nodded slowly. “So he hates humans.”

  “Yes.”

  Wilbur shrugged. “Well, that’s a shame.” He stepped back, glancing back and forth as he took in the block. “For an elf, this mansion is excessive.”

  “He says it's the ‘proof of the superiority of elven craftsmanship.’” Kaledo gave him a weak smile. “Sorry. I thought I could at least start negotiations. I’ve failed here.”

  “Psh.” Wilbur rolled his eyes. “Why are you apologizing? You tried. Some people are just unreasonable.” He gestured Kaledo forward. “Come on, step away from the Jerk’s Abode.”

  Kaledo glanced back towards the elven mansion, hesitating for a moment. It looked as if he was thinking of trying again.

  “Don’t waste your time,” Wilbur said. “I doubt a second attempt will go any better.”

  Kaledo’s shoulders slumped, then he nodded and stepped away.

  “Maybe we could… find someone else to try and negotiate the sale?” Kaledo suggested. “Perhaps someone from his race? My guild might have someone who could help us.”

  “No, I don’t think so.” Wilbur shook his head. “Besides, it won't be an issue.”

  “What do you mean?” The merchant frowned, glancing towards the wizard.

  Wilbur grinned, his hands raised.

  Clap. Clap.

  Magical energy surged. The property blurred. And then a shriek as someone slammed into the dirt.

  Kaledo stood unmoving as he stared.

  “What IS THE MEANING OF THIS!?!!” A high-pitched bell-like voice screeched. From the empty plot, a figure shakily got to his feet. Their fancy clothes were covered in dirt, and a furious elven face glared venomously towards them. The elf stormed towards them, his mouth opening as his foot hit the cobblestones of the street.

  As his foot touched the stone, it was as if the elf had been flash frozen on the spot. His muscles rigid, his face locked in an expression of hate and rage.

  “Oh! What's this?” Wilbur stepped forward, his eyes wide in mock relief. “A survivor!” he nodded sagely. “I cannot believe someone survived! A miracle!” His gaze swept dramatically across the ruined city. “But, one with your reputation would be without support in such a ruin. This city is no place for you." Wilbur nodded dramatically, as if his words were the most logical thing said all day. "Let me help you with that!”

  Clap. Clap.

  The elf vanished.

  “What… What did you just do to him?!” Kaledo gasped, his eyes wide.

  Wilbur winked. “Sent him to the nearest occupied imperial town.” He squinted. “Well… roughly, anyway. Should be within the town.” He scratched his head. “Or at least in the surrounding land. Bah. Close enough,” He smiled at the merchant. “Problem solved.”

  “But… But… he’s someone with a lot of power in the empire. It's the only reason people put up with him.” Kaledo said, gulping.

  Wilbur shrugged. “I’m not in the mood to deal with some angry neighbor yelling at me while I’m working.” He gestured toward the now-empty plot. “Regardless, I saved his life. He should be thankful.” Wilbur paused, “And if he’s not? It’s not like he paid me to bring his crappy mansion back.”

  With that, Wilbur turned and strode down the street.

  Kaledo stood for a moment, mind reeling. He stared at the empty plot, then at the receding wizard. After a moment, he shook his head, then chased after Wilbur.

  The wizard nodded at the merchant, and they walked side by side. They stopped at the midpoint of the block, and Wilbur examined his new land. Only two plots from the entire block were not owned by him, but that was fine. Even without those, there should be more than enough room.

  "So, what's next?" Kaledo asked.

  “Next item on my list,” Wilbur replied. “What we got should be good enough for my purposes.”

  “Oh, good,” Kaledo said nervously, wearing a complicated expression.

  At this point, their original deal was finished. That thought made Wilbur sad, as having a Kaledo was very useful. He wondered if the merchant would agree to continue working for him. Or at least be available to work on a contract basis.

  “You have a question?” Wilbur asked as he watched the man shift nervously.

  Kaledo took a deep breath.

  “Since we have finished our deal, I wanted to say. I appreciate you giving me this opportunity.” He wrung his hands. “But as far as payment goes…I know we had agreed on ten percent of money saved… but…” his voice lowered. “Could I ask for something else instead?”

  Wilbur tilted his head. “And what would that be?”

  “Well– you could–well, I know you can't–but I would–" Kaledo stammered, then collected himself. "The truth is, I don’t want the gold.”

  He paused, then continued at Wilbur’s nod.

  ”What I need is information. Information that will help me bring my sister back.” Kaledo set his jaw, his expression intense. “You’re the most powerful person I’ve met. If I can somehow, someway, convince you to help me, I think that might be the only hope I have. The church was a longshot, and so is this. But I just can’t help but believe you are my best chance.”

  His eyes were pleading as he stared at the wizard. “So please, whatever the price is, I’ll find a way to pay it. Even if my request is impossible, I’ll gladly pay anything to have the slightest chance.”

  Wilbur was silent as he stared back. Kaledo’s gaze was like steel, but his body shook slightly.

  Impossible.

  How many times had that word been said to him? Over the years, it had been repeated again and again.

  Leaving Vlanoris–impossible. Creating his rewind skill–impossible. And yet, despite everyone’s doubts, Wilbur had always found a way.

  Had he looked the same as Kaledo to those people? That resolve and determination burning from him, nearly visible?

  Wilbur gave him a reassuring smile. He stepped forward and awkwardly put his hand on his shoulder.

  "Kaledo, I'm going to pay you."

  Kaledo froze, then he exhaled slowly, his shoulders slumping.

  “I understand,” Kaledo said quietly.

  “No, you don't,” Wilbur replied, shaking his head. The merchant’s eyes snapped up.

  “Because, yes, I’m going to pay you.” Wilbur continued. “But, I promise you, I will do everything in my power to bring your sister back.” He smiled at Kaledo. “I’m Wilbur the Wizard. You don’t know this, but I have a horrible track record with ‘impossible’ things.” Wilbur grinned. “I have a nasty habit of making them happen.”

  Tears filled Kaledo's eyes. “I don’t… I… thank you.”

  Wilbur nodded, then awkwardly stood there. His hand continued to rest on the man’s shoulder, and the Wizard stiffened. Should he… pull his hand away? Hug the guy? Hell… Why’d this have to go to tears?

  His eyes darted between his hand and Kaledo’s tear-streaked face. Was he supposed to give a reassuring grip? Would… that be weird? Why had he reached out?

  Kaledo watched Wilbur, then laughed. He cleared his throat, then gently pushed Wilbur's arm away as he wiped his face.

  Wilbur retracted his hand in a blur, glad the merchant had fixed the problem for him.

  “Thank you, Wilbur,” Kaledo said, wiping away the last of his tears. “Now, what do you need me to do? Anything you need, I am here to help.”

  “Well…” Wilbur glanced back at his land. “For right now, you can just watch.” He gestured for the man to follow and strode into the center plot.

  The grateful Kaledo fell in beside him as they headed past the estate’s mansion. They reached a point that was roughly the center of the block. Wilbur stopped, turning and taking in the surrounding land.

  "I have been curious," Kaledo said. "What exactly is your plan for all of this land?"

  Wilbur paused, glancing at the merchant. Maybe he should let the man in on his plans? It’d be nice to have his opinions. He could help him avoid any unnecessary social obligations.

  “Guess I can tell you.” Wilbur nodded. “I’m going to build a school. A school of magic.”

  “Magic? Really?” Kaledo glanced around. “With the land you purchased?”

  “Yup!” Wilbur grinned.

  Kaledo blinked. “How many of the plots will the school take up?”

  “All of them!”

  “That…” The merchant stared in disbelief. “By the radiance… That seems a bit excessive…” He shook his head. “But, I guess I should have expected that. I would love to see it when it’s complete.”

  “Well, you’re in luck!” Wilbur rolled up the long sleeves of his tie-dye robe. He held his bare arms out and then smiled. “Construction begins today!”

  Clap. Clap.

  Glowing arcane lines shot from his fingers. They crackled as they raced across space, zigzagging and picking up speed. Some shot back the way they had come, others to their front, left, right, up, and even underground.

  As they arcane threads spread, they left behind glowing lines that stabilized and seemed to sear into reality. Outlines of doorways, halls, walls, and more took form around them. Kaledo watched in amazement as line after line filled the block with designs of the structure.

  With every passing second, the ghostly outline of the structure grew in detail.

  “Wow…” Kaledo whispered. “That’s amazing.”

  “Ha!” Wilbur laughed, his eyes darting in every direction as he managed hundreds of arcane threads.

  “If you think this is cool, just you wait.” Wilbur grinned. “Stick with me, Kaledo, and you’ll see the most amazing things.”

  He looked up to the sky, Kaledo following his gaze.

  Up above, countless threads raced to a central point. The grand ceiling of the main hall. In a spectacular display, they converged, then swirled upwards, the outline of a massive tower taking shape overhead.

  “Because you see.” Wilbur continued, his grin widening.

  “This is just the beginning.”

  –—- ??? —---