Chapter 11 - Blackwater City
Blackwater City smelled like incense, horse sweat, frying dumplings, and crime.
I liked it immediately.
Mira did not.
"Keep your hand on your coin pouch."
"I have one copper."
"Then keep your hand on your dignity."
We had forty-eight hours to save Jace and no plan.
The gray-robed man had left one clue: a black token stamped with a broken halo.
Every merchant who saw it suddenly became busy.
Except an old woman selling cursed objects beneath a red umbrella.
She smiled at me.
"Heavenbreaker token. Haven't seen one in years."
My system froze.
[External term recognized: HEAVENBREAKER]
[Information locked.]
I leaned closer.
"Who gave it to you?"
"Wrong question."
Apparently everyone in my life had agreed to become mysterious.
She pointed at my wrist.
"Black Vein contract. Ash channels. Lightning scar. You're collecting problems quickly."
"Can you help us get into Iron Lotus prison?"
"Yes."
Mira narrowed her eyes. "Price?"
The woman placed a cracked sword on the table.
"Take this into tomorrow's Blackwater Ascendant Tournament. Reach the final."
I looked at the sword.
[Broken Sword]
[Rank: Trash]
[Hidden property detected.]
The system offered a quest.
[DEFY ITEM FATE]
[This weapon is destined for scrap.]
[Make it famous.]
I picked it up.
"Deal."
The old woman grinned.
May you like
"Good. Because your first opponent is the city champion."
