The Albionic Chronicles Part 1 Chapter 5: Onwards To Cambridge

Onwards to Cambridge

To facilitate their journey, Sylvester, ever the resourceful wizard, conjured two ghostly steeds out of thin air. The ethereal horses would serve as their swift and otherworldly means of travel. Together, mounted on these spectral steeds, Bilo and Sylvester rode westward towards the college town of Cambridge.

As they rode towards Cambridge, Sylvester took the opportunity to enlighten his comparatively less informed companion, Bilo, about the intricacies of the renowned wizarding university. Sylvester shared that of the two great magical colleges in Albion, Cambridge specialized in experimental and, at times, controversial magics. This reputation made it a hub for the exploration of magical frontiers, delving into practices that might be deemed illegal or unorthodox in other magical institutions.

Adding another layer of fascination, Sylvester explained that Cambridge operated as an independent state within the borders of Albion. The college functioned under a unique system, with its leader, the Archmage, appointed by tenured professors representing various magical disciplines. This arrangement granted the university and the city built around it a considerable degree of autonomy, allowing it to pursue magical studies and experiments with a level of freedom and independence uncommon in other parts of the world.

As they approached the city of Cambridge, the skyline was adorned with towering spires, dominated by two prominent features: the Archmage's tower and an enormous floating shard of stone, seemingly anchored to the walls by chains. Intrigued by the sight, Bilo couldn't help but ask Sylvester about the purpose of the floating rock.

Sylvester, with a hint of pride in his voice, explained, "Ah, that's the evoker's ward. You see, the practitioners of evocation magic are known to have...accidents. To prevent any unintended magical spills onto the unsuspecting townsfolk, they've placed that stone up there as a precaution." Bilo nodded in understanding, appreciating the college's foresight and ingenuity in managing the potentially hazardous side effects of magical experimentation.

Stepping into the city of Cambridge, Bilo and Sylvester wasted no time in addressing their immediate needs. The Portuguese weapon, now a potential asset, needed appraisal and, perhaps, a buyer. Sylvester, familiar with the magical marketplace of Cambridge, guided Bilo towards a unique establishment.

Approaching the shop, they entered to find a fascinating scene – several automatons diligently engaged in various forms of labor. Sylvester informed Bilo that the proprietor, Rossana, was a drider with a penchant for shyness, choosing to remain hidden from view. Undeterred by the lack of a visible owner, the duo decided to entrust the appraisal of their mysterious bag to one of the automatons.

Handing off the bag to the automaton, Bilo and Sylvester watched as the mechanical servant scuttled away to present their item to Rossana. The anticipation lingered as they awaited the outcome. When the machine returned it relayed that the owner had offered 6000 gold pieces for the rare artifact, a hefty sum that proved more than satisfactory. The two split the cash amongst themselves and decided to invest their newfound wealth in some new supplies that would aid them in their future endeavours.

Recognizing the need for a more suitable weapon for Bilo, the duo sought the expertise of Nekrid, the esteemed gunsmith in Cambridge. Following directions, they arrived at Nekrid's shop and were greeted by the grumpy yet skilled gnome himself. Nekrid, sizing up Bilo's impressive stature and muscular build, couldn't help but inquire about the tiefling's familiarity with a particular firearm.

After a brief exchange, Nekrid posed a question to Bilo, "Have you ever heard of a Vickers machine gun?" The prospect of a new and potentially formidable weapon intrigued Bilo, who awaited further information from the experienced gunsmith.