Rhys stared at the orb, waiting for something—anything—to happen.
But it only pulsed softly in his hands, like calm breathing.
Sophia tapped her foot.
"Well? Is it gonna hatch? Shine? Summon a demon? Something?"
Rhys shook his head.
"It's just… warm. And it's moving a little."
Caria leaned closer.
"Maybe shake it?"
Lyra grabbed her wrist immediately.
"Do not shake ancient magical objects."
Caria shrugged.
"Fine, fine."
Aria smiled gently.
"It's reacting to Rhys. That's what matters."
Puddle hovered beside it, her tiny face serious.
"It is sleeping. But it knows Master now."
Rhys blinked.
"…It knows me?"
Puddle nodded.
"Yes. It remembers your mana. It will open when ready."
Before Rhys could ask more, the auctioneer slammed his staff again.
"Next item! Item #9!"
A large wooden crate was dragged forward.
Everyone watched as the lid was opened—
—and a giant silver gauntlet floated out, glowing with runes.
Sophia whistled.
"Whoa. That looks cool."
