Golden Path

4. Golden Legacy

A few weeks had passed since Korin and Sutekh began their adventures together. They had completed numerous quests, their teamwork improving with each mission. Their bond had strengthened, and they often found themselves anticipating each other's moves in battle. One day, after successfully completing a demon-level quest, Korin decided it was time to seek answers that had been lingering in his mind. He chose to visit Jorun's store to inquire about the mysterious reaction the old elf had upon their first meeting, particularly the mention of "Midas."

Meanwhile, Sutekh headed to the guild to deliver the carcass of the monster they had slain, eager to collect their reward and perhaps pick up new quests.

Korin made his way through the bustling streets of Nefris, the sun casting a warm glow over the sandstone buildings. Upon reaching Jorun's ancient shop, he pushed open the creaky door. The familiar scent of old parchment and mystical artifacts greeted him.

Jorun looked up from behind the cluttered counter. "You again," the desert elf said with a hint of surprise. "What brings you back to my humble store?"

Korin approached him, his expression earnest. "I have questions that need answers," he replied. "Last time I was here, you seemed... startled by something when you looked at me. You mentioned someone named Midas. I need to know who that is and why you reacted the way you did."

The old elf studied Korin for a moment before nodding slowly. "Very well," Jorun said, gesturing for Korin to take a seat on an old wooden stool. "Perhaps it's time you learned about the legend that few remember."

Jorun took a deep breath, his eyes reflecting memories of a distant past. "You remind me of someone I met about 170 years ago. A mysterious man whose name I never learned. He possessed an aura much like yours, powerful yet concealed. It was unsettling, to say the least."

Korin listened intently as Jorun continued.

"As for Midas," the elf began, "he is a figure from ancient mythology, dating back over 10,000 years. Midas was once known as the God of Wealth and Power. He harnessed immense wealth and unparalleled power, which he shared with the world."

Jorun leaned forward, his voice lowering. "But legends say that Midas was not always a god. He was once a mortal, just like you or me. He lived in a prosperous kingdom, a place of peace and abundance. However, one fateful day, his kingdom went to war with a rival nation. The conflict was devastating. His homeland was defeated and ultimately destroyed."

Korin's eyes widened slightly, the story resonating with him in ways he couldn't quite explain.

"In the depths of his despair," Jorun continued, "something extraordinary happened. Midas's heart began to beat rapidly, unnaturally so. The blood coursing through his veins transformed, producing pure gold. In his anguish, he reached out to touch a broken piece of wood
... and it turned into solid gold right before his eyes."

Korin felt a chill run down his spine as he recalled the golden cracks on his own right arm.

"Astounded by his newfound abilities," Jorun went on, "Midas discovered he possessed incredible strength. He could lift massive rocks with ease, perform feats no ordinary human could. Realizing the potential of his powers, he swore an oath that day, to grant wealth and power to those in need, to prevent others from suffering as he had."

The old elf paused, letting the weight of the story settle.

"Midas became a beacon of hope," he said softly. "But with great power comes great responsibility and great danger. Some say his generosity angered the other gods, while others believe he became corrupted by his own abilities. His fate remains a mystery, lost to the sands of time."