Cole led Isaac through the Black Market, the crowds parting slightly as they passed. The air was thick with the scent of exotic spices, strange perfumes, and something else, something indefinable, that prickled at Isaac's senses.
The Black Market was a labyrinth of narrow alleyways and hidden squares, nestled within the sprawling port city of Bayam.
As they navigated the crowded square, Cole kept a watchful eye on their surroundings. A seasoned adventurer, he seemed to know where he was going, his movements purposeful and direct. Finally, they stopped in front of a stall tucked away in a dimly lit corner.
The stall was draped in dark velvet, and the only light came from a single, flickering lantern that cast long, dancing shadows. Behind the stall stood a young woman with striking features. She had long, dark hair that cascaded down her shoulders, and her eyes, which seemed to absorb the dim light, were sharp and intelligent. There was an air of quiet confidence about her. She regarded Cole and Isaac with a cool, appraising gaze.
"Diana," Cole said, his voice low and respectful. "I'd like you to meet someone. This is Isaac."
Diana inclined her head slightly in greeting, her expression still guarded. "Cole," she acknowledged, her voice smooth and melodic. "You bring a student to the Black Market? That's a new development." Her gaze shifted to Isaac, lingering on his face with an intensity that made him slightly uncomfortable. There was a sharpness to her gaze, a probing quality that hinted at an ability to perceive more than what was immediately apparent. A faint, almost imperceptible energy seemed to radiate from her. "He seems young."
Cole chuckled softly. "He is and He's new to all of this," he explained. "I thought you might be able to help him." He gestured towards Isaac. "Isaac, this is Diana. She's well, she's someone who can help us acquire certain things."
Isaac shifted uncomfortably under Diana's intense gaze. He had the feeling she could see right through him, and it made him feel both uneasy and strangely intrigued. "Nice to meet you," he mumbled, feeling a bit out of his depth.
Diana's lips curved into a slight smile. "The pleasure is mine, Isaac." Her attention returned to Cole, her sharp gaze assessing their needs. "So, what is it you seek today?"
Cole met her gaze directly. "We're looking for information. Specifically, the formula for a Sequence 9 potion. The Mystery Prier."
Diana's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing her face. "The Mystery Prier? That's ambitious, even for you, Cole." She paused, then her gaze shifted back to Isaac, studying him with renewed interest. A flicker of recognition, or perhaps a dawning understanding, crossed her face. "Is this for him?" she asked, her voice laced with curiosity. "He doesn't seem like the type to be dabbling in such things. Where did you find him?" Her eyes seemed to gleam with an arcane light for a moment. A subtle pressure, like a probing hand, reached out to Isaac's mind, then was just as quickly withdrawn.
Cole stepped forward slightly, effectively shielding Isaac from Diana's probing gaze. "That's not important," he said firmly, his tone brooking no argument. There was a subtle edge to his voice, a warning that Diana seemed to acknowledge, though not without a hint of displeasure. "What is important is whether or not you can help us."
Diana raised a delicate eyebrow, her expression unreadable. She seemed to sense Cole's reluctance to discuss Isaac's origins and, for the moment, decided not to press the issue. For now. "Very well," she said smoothly. "I may be able to acquire what you seek. But the Mystery Pryer formula is not something to be taken lightly. Are you certain this student of yours is ready for it?"
Cole nodded, his gaze unwavering. "He will be."
Diana's gaze returned to Isaac, her eyes sharp and penetrating. She seemed to be assessing him, trying to gauge the strength of his will and the depths of his potential. She also seemed to be trying to discern something else, something hidden beneath the surface. "You understand what this entails, young one?" she asked, her voice low and serious. "The path of a Beyonder is not a game. It's a commitment, a sacrifice. And the Hermit pathway, in particular, is fraught with peril." She paused, choosing her words carefully. "It demands a level of self-control and mental fortitude that few possess. The potions themselves can be overwhelming. They can bring madness if you are not careful."
Isaac frowned, confused and a little alarmed by her words. "I'm willing to learn but what Madness are you talking about?"
Diana's gaze flickered to Cole, then back to Isaac. "That is something your mentor can explain to you. What matters now is that you understand the risks."
Cole stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Isaac's shoulder. "She's right, Isaac. This path is not easy," he acknowledged. Then, turning back to Diana, he added, "But it's also not a death sentence. With proper guidance and training, you can learn to control the power within you." He stressed the word "control," and Diana's eyes narrowed slightly.
Her gaze lingered on Cole, a flicker of curiosity in her eyes. She could sense the underlying meaning in his words, the implication that Isaac was more than just a novice. Half-Beyonder? And Cole is taking him under his wing? she mused to herself, intrigued. Diana watched them for a moment, then sighed softly. "Very well. I will procure the formula for you," she said, her voice resigned but firm. "But I urge you both to tread carefully," she warned, her gaze sweeping between them. "The world you are stepping into is far more complex and dangerous than you can possibly imagine."
She turned and disappeared into the shadows behind the stall, returning a few minutes later with a small scroll. She handed it to Cole, her expression solemn. "This is the genuine formula."
Cole took the scroll, his expression equally serious. "Thank you, Diana. Is 250 pounds acceptable?"
Diana spoke. "No 200 will be enough." She turned to Isaac as Cole placed the money on the tabe from a pouch on his side. "Good luck young one."
Diana's gaze lingering on Isaac for a moment longer. There was something in her eyes, something that Isaac couldn't quite decipher. As they turned to leave, Isaac could still feel her gaze on his back.