The Dark Ascendant

The Copper Hearth slowly returned to its lively hum after the departure of the Steel Fangs. Raj took another sip of the rich stew, the warm broth grounding him as his mind raced. Dorian's display of strength left a lasting impression, but it also reinforced something important—this world respected power, and without it, survival was precarious at best.

"So," Raj said, keeping his voice low but steady, "about the Scholar Gem. You mentioned that certain Gems aren't easily accessible through normal channels."

Dorian nodded, dipping a piece of bread into his stew. "That's right. Especially the rare and specialized Gems like the Scholar Gem. Most people get their Gems through the chapel or academy, but those places tend to offer only the common Paths—Warrior, Mage, Archer, and the like."

"And the Scholar Path?" Raj leaned forward slightly, his curiosity genuine.

Dorian glanced around the restaurant, ensuring no one was paying attention, then lowered his voice. "The Scholar Gem is tricky. Not many people want it because it doesn't grant immediate power like the combat-oriented Paths. It's more… cerebral. But those who do seek it often turn to the black market."

"The black market?" Raj's interest piqued.

"Yup." Dorian chuckled, taking another bite of his meal. "There's a whole underworld here in Ravendale, hidden beneath the surface. The black market deals in everything—from rare herbs and forbidden artifacts to Gems you'd never find in the chapel or academy."

Raj's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "How reliable is it?"

"Depends on who you deal with," Dorian said. "There are a lot of opportunists who'll sell you fakes or defective Gems. But if you know the right people, you can get your hands on just about anything."

"And you know these people?" Raj asked, his tone careful but inquisitive.

Dorian smiled knowingly. "Let's just say I've been around long enough to know how the game is played. I've got a few connections who might be able to help you. But it won't be cheap, and there's always a risk."

Raj leaned back in his chair, considering his options. "Risk is something I'm willing to take. I'm more concerned about the quality of the Gem. I don't want a faulty one that will cripple my growth later."

"You're smart to be cautious," Dorian said. "Some Gems on the black market are unstable, mutated by tampering or improper handling. Those can cause more harm than good. But…" He paused, his eyes glinting with a hint of mischief. "There's one source I trust. A dealer named Harlin. He's… unconventional, but he knows his trade. If anyone has a genuine Scholar Gem, it'll be him."

Raj tapped his fingers on the table. "And where would I find this Harlin?"

Dorian set his spoon down, folding his arms. "That's the tricky part. He doesn't operate out in the open. You'll need an introduction, and even then, he won't meet you unless he's sure you're serious. Harlin runs a hidden shop in the back alleys near the river docks. I can arrange a meeting, but it'll take a day or two to set it up."

"I'm in no rush," Raj said, though his mind was already spinning with plans. "I want to do this right."

"Good," Dorian replied. "Patience is key in these matters. Harlin's a decent guy—for a black market dealer—but he values respect and discretion above all else. Don't try to bargain too hard with him. He hates that."

Raj nodded. "Understood. I'll follow your lead."

They continued eating in silence for a moment before Dorian spoke again, his tone more serious. "One more thing. The black market isn't just a place for rare goods. It's a gathering spot for… unusual types. You'll see people there who operate outside the normal rules of society—mercenaries, rogue magicians, treasure hunters. Be ready for anything."

"Sounds like the perfect place for someone like me," Raj said with a faint smile.

Dorian laughed. "You'll fit right in, no doubt."

The conversation shifted to lighter topics for a while—local rumors, the history of Ravendale, and Dorian's stories of his adventures. But Raj's mind remained focused on the task ahead.

The Scholar Gem. It was within his grasp now, but it would take cunning and patience to secure it. The black market sounded like a dangerous place, but danger was something Raj had long grown accustomed to.

As they finished their meal, Dorian called for the bill, tossing a few coins onto the table. "I'll send word when the meeting with Harlin is arranged," he said, rising from his seat. "Until then, keep your head down. The Steel Fangs might not be done with us just yet."

Raj stood as well, his gaze steady. "Let them come. I'm ready."

Dorian clapped him on the shoulder, a grin spreading across his face. "I'm starting to like you, Raj. You've got guts."

They left the Copper Hearth together, stepping out into the cool evening air. The streets of Ravendale were beginning to quiet as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the cobblestone roads.

As they walked, Raj's thoughts returned to the black market and the hidden world it represented. He could feel the artifact within him pulsing softly, as if eager for the next step in his journey.

The path was dangerous, but that only made it more enticing.