38: Gathering Divine Materials

With the crystal vein secured and a powerful alliance forged with Eldrathorn and the Forest of Whispers, Hanna’s next task was to procure the necessary metals and materials to craft the devices for her disciples. She knew that the success of her vision depended not only on the potency of the materials but also on their durability and sacredness. Thus, instead of settling for low-grade divine metals, Hanna decided to seek out high-grade divine materials, ensuring the devices would withstand the test of time and use.

Hanna began her quest in the trade city of Zarath, where she had previously freed countless slaves and had left a lasting impression. The city, known for its vast markets and access to rare goods, was the perfect starting point. Upon her arrival, the city lord greeted her with respect and a touch of wariness, mindful of her previous monumental purchases and the power she wielded.

“Hanna, to what do we owe the pleasure of your return?” the city lord asked, offering her a seat in his lavish council room.

“I am in need of high-grade divine metals and materials,” Hanna explained, her voice firm yet polite. “Specifically, metals that can channel and hold substantial amounts of spiritual energy without degradation.”

The city lord nodded, understanding the significance of her request. “We have access to such materials, though they are rare and costly. However, given your previous generosity and the good you have done for Zarath, I will ensure you receive a fair price.”

Grateful for his cooperation, Hanna spent several days in Zarath, negotiating and acquiring the necessary divine metals and materials. She procured mythril, celestial iron, and star silver—each known for their exceptional properties and suitability for crafting items meant to handle vast energies.

With the materials gathered, Hanna next visited several other cities, each known for different rare resources that would complement the divine metals. In each city, her reputation as a liberator and a powerful cultivator secured her favorable dealings and access to the best materials available.

Once she had all she needed, Hanna returned to the Keeper of Knowledge, her arms laden with materials that shimmered with latent power. The Keeper greeted her in his library, which was filled with the soft glow of enchanted lanterns and the musty scent of ancient tomes.

“Keeper, I have gathered high-grade divine materials for the crafting of the disciples’ devices and the central artifact,” Hanna said, laying out the materials on a large, sturdy table. “I need your guidance on how to properly assemble these components into the system we envisioned.”

The Keeper examined the materials with a discerning eye, occasionally nodding or muttering appreciatively at the quality of what she had brought. “You have done well, Hanna. These materials are indeed of the highest quality. Now, let us discuss the assembly,” he said, pulling out scrolls and diagrams from his vast collection.

Together, they spent hours poring over ancient blueprints and modern enchantments, combining traditional craftsmanship with mystical enhancements. The Keeper detailed the process for integrating the crystals with the metals, ensuring that each device could maintain a stable connection with the central artifact and withstand the rigors of frequent use.

“For the central artifact, we must create a core of fused mythril and star silver, encased in celestial iron to form a conduit for the spiritual energy,” the Keeper explained, sketching a detailed diagram. “This core will link to the Great Way Tree, drawing stability from its ancient power and distributing that energy throughout the network.”

Hanna listened intently, taking notes and asking questions to clarify complex points. The process was intricate, requiring precision and a deep understanding of both physical and spiritual crafting techniques.

As their meeting drew to a close, Hanna felt a surge of excitement and anticipation. The project was ambitious, blending the mystical with the practical, but she was now equipped with the knowledge and materials to make it a reality.

“Thank you, Keeper, for your invaluable guidance,” Hanna said, her eyes bright with determination. “I will begin the crafting process immediately.”

The Keeper nodded, his expression approving. “I have every confidence in your success, Hanna. You are creating something truly revolutionary.”

With the Keeper’s blessings and the plans firmly etched in her mind, Hanna left the library, ready to undertake the meticulous task of crafting the devices. She knew that once completed, these tools would significantly enhance the capabilities of the Forest Immortal Sect, bringing her vision of a connected and empowered community one step closer to fruition.