Chapter 90: A Hidden Gift
The evening air in Asgard was crisp, the first hint of winter approaching as the seasons began to change. Volundr watched from a distance as Rossweisse practiced in the training courtyard.
Her movements were deliberate, but there was still a trace of hesitation in her form, a slight falter when it came to controlling the more complex spells. He had been patient, guiding her at her own pace, letting her discover the magic that suited her best.
And though she had made remarkable strides, Volundr knew the time had come to give her something more—a subtle boost, a gift that would push her beyond her limits.
As Rossweisse practiced, her eyes narrowed in concentration, her delicate fingers weaving the runes for a defensive barrier.
It shimmered and crackled with energy but faltered for a brief moment before stabilizing. Frustration flitted across her features before she sighed and lowered her hand, staring at the incomplete shield.
Volundr stepped forward, his presence soft but noticeable. She glanced up, surprised by his sudden appearance.
"You're improving," he said quietly, his voice calm yet reassuring.
"But there's more to your magic than you realize."
Rossweisse blinked, still a little uncertain.
"I... I know my magic isn't as strong as it should be. I still can't control the Siez-style magic the way others do." There was a hint of self-doubt in her voice, and Volundr noticed it instantly.
"That's because Siez-style is not your strength," he replied, his gaze thoughtful.
"But your true potential lies in other areas. Your ability to defend and support, your tactical mind, and your magic's versatility—it's far greater than you think."
She looked at him, puzzled. "But how can I—?"
Volundr smiled, raising his hand to silence her.
"You've made progress, Rossweisse, but the path ahead requires more than just effort. It requires the right tools."
With a flick of his wrist, a soft light glowed in his palm, coalescing into an ornate magical artifact—a small, rune-inscribed crystal pendant suspended on a fine silver chain.
He stepped toward her, handing the pendant to Rossweisse, whose eyes widened in surprise.
"What is this?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
The pendant was small, but the aura of magic radiating from it was undeniable. The runes inscribed on it shimmered with an energy she had never felt before.
"It's an artifact designed to enhance your defensive and support magic," Volundr explained, his tone calm but filled with quiet assurance.
"When you wear it, it will help you better control and amplify your abilities. It's a gift, one that will help you grow further, though it will take time for you to fully unlock its potential."
Rossweisse stared at the pendant, feeling the weight of his words. Her hands trembled slightly as she took it from him, the crystal's warmth surprising her.
She had never received such a personal gift, especially one that carried such significance. The gesture felt both humbling and reassuring.
"But... why give this to me?" she asked, her voice soft with a mix of surprise and confusion. "I'm not sure I deserve it."
"You deserve it because I believe in your potential," Volundr replied, his voice steady.
"You've worked hard, and you've shown that you have the determination to improve. This artifact will help you reach your true potential, just as I'll be here to guide you along the way."
Rossweisse's eyes flickered with something akin to gratitude, and for a moment, she stood there, speechless.
She had always been used to earning everything through hard work, but Volundr's gift was different. It wasn't something she had earned through performance or status—it was a quiet sign of faith, one that spoke more than words could ever convey.
Slowly, she clasped the pendant around her neck, feeling its magic pulse gently against her skin.
A sense of warmth spread through her, and for the first time in a long while, she felt a surge of confidence. It wasn't just the gift itself; it was the belief behind it. Volundr believed in her.
"Thank you," she murmured, her voice trembling slightly with emotion.
Volundr nodded, a rare smile flickering across his face.
"This is only the beginning. You have much more to discover about your magic and yourself. Don't rush it. Trust in the process, and take your time to grow."
He watched her for a moment longer, noting the subtle change in her demeanor. There was a quiet resolve in her eyes now, a spark of something greater than the uncertainty that had plagued her before.
The pendant would aid her, of course, but it was her own growth and the confidence she would gain from it that would make her truly formidable.
As Volundr turned to leave, he paused for a moment and glanced back at her. Rossweisse was already experimenting with the artifact, her magic feeling more controlled, more stable. Her confidence was growing, and he could see it in the way she held herself.
She was closer to realizing her potential, and while Volundr knew she wasn't ready yet, the seed had been planted.
This was the moment she would look back on as the first step toward something greater.
as she bloomed into the powerful mage she was destined to be.