Witcher: The Half Elf

After listening to the Magic Knight's lengthy and detailed introduction, Wayne couldn't help but feel a pang of exasperation.

The mention of a "Magic Alliance," along with a series of galaxy and planet numbers, made it clear that this knight originated from a magical civilization that had reached extraordinary heights—one that had even ventured into the stars. Such a world was far beyond anything the Northern Realms or even the ancient elves of the Continent could imagine.

Wayne reflected briefly on the disparity between magical civilizations. Some worlds treated magic as a natural and essential part of daily life, embedding it into their cultures and technologies. In these places, magic was revered and its study was universal. Other worlds viewed magic with suspicion or outright hostility, branding practitioners as heretics or abominations to be purged.

The potential of magic also varied greatly. In some realms, magicians could rival gods, altering the very fabric of reality, while in others, they were little more than street performers, easily overpowered by ordinary warriors.

But Wayne didn't have time to dwell on such philosophical musings. He looked at the Magic Knight and spoke with calm authority:

"You may stand down, Herald. Wait for my command outside the altar."

The Magic Knight rose with mechanical precision. With a practiced motion, it collected its massive lance and delivered a deep, formal bow.

"As you command, Master. Herald awaits your orders."

The sound of its heavy footfalls echoed in the chamber as the knight exited. The metallic clanking of its iron boots was a stark reminder of the behemoth's extraordinary weight and durability.

Once the Magic Knight had left, Wayne turned his attention to the remaining two epic treasure chests. Without hesitation, he opened the first.

Ding! The treasure chest is opened—Epic Level.

Obtained: 23,622 Orens, three tons of Azerite ore.

As the system announcement faded, a radiant pile of gold coins materialized beside a crystalline formation. The Azerite gleamed with an almost hypnotic brilliance, its translucent surface swirling with visible streams of magical energy. It was as if the crystal contained a living, pulsating force.

Wayne's gaze was drawn immediately to the ore. Ignoring the heap of coins, he approached the Azerite and placed a hand upon it.

The moment his skin touched the crystal, a wave of warmth surged through him. It was as though every fiber of his being was bathed in pure, untainted life energy. Memories of joy and tranquility surfaced, and even the oppressive hellish magic within him, left by Baal, seemed to momentarily retreat.

The sensation was indescribable—a blend of euphoria and harmony, as though his very essence was being nourished by the energy of a higher being.

But Wayne was not one to be misled by illusions. He knew exactly what Azerite was: the crystallized blood of a Titan, formed from the very lifeblood of a world-soul. Originating from the fabled world of Azeroth, Azerite was renowned for its unparalleled magical properties. It could enhance potions to godlike levels, forge legendary weapons, and serve as a nearly limitless energy source.

Yet despite its immense potential, Azerite had limits. While its presence could suppress Baal's hellish magic and ease Wayne's burden, it could not grant miraculous transformations or elevate him to a higher existence on its own.

Satisfied with his prize, Wayne hefted the massive, three-ton crystal onto his shoulders. Though its weight would have been impossible for an ordinary man, Wayne carried it with ease, his enhanced strength a testament to years of mutations and training. He set the crystal aside and returned to the altar for the final chest.

With anticipation, he opened the second epic treasure chest.

Ding! The treasure chest is opened—Epic Level.

Obtained: 26,666 Orens, large magic ship.

As the system's announcement faded, Wayne, who had been eagerly anticipating a new epic item, found his expression shifting rapidly from excitement to surprise.

A thunderous explosion resounded across the sky. Suspended high above Kaer Morhen, a massive vessel materialized out of thin air. The ship, over 60 meters in length, boasted a design both simple and imposing. A majestic dragon head, intricately carved into the bow, gave it an air of grandeur, while the entire hull exuded a distinctive eastern aesthetic. Its elegant, otherworldly charm was undeniable, its presence both awe-inspiring and alien.

The ship hovered dozens of meters above the castle, its immense size and regal construction immediately drawing the attention of all who worked below. The giants assisting with construction froze, their crude tools hanging limply in their hands as they stared skyward with dumbfounded expressions.

Members of the Witcher Order, however, were quicker to act. Believing the ship to be the herald of an unknown and potentially hostile force, several grabbed their weapons and sprinted toward the castle's upper levels, prepared to defend their stronghold.

Meanwhile, the younger witcher apprentices stood rooted to the spot, gazing at the floating marvel with wide-eyed wonder. Though they lacked the experience to grasp the potential threat, their curiosity burned bright as they whispered excitedly among themselves.

"Damn it," Wayne muttered under his breath, his mind racing. "How the hell am I going to explain this?"

Wayne's gaze darted around, assessing the situation. It was then that his eyes landed on the towering figure of Magic Knight Herald. The knight's imposing frame, sleek design, and air of authority struck Wayne with a sudden idea.

With the core members of the Witcher Order already aware of Wayne's unique abilities—his capacity to traverse worlds, his encounters with strange and powerful artifacts—this situation could be spun into a believable tale. The arrival of the ship, coupled with Herald's presence, could easily be woven into a narrative about his travels. Wayne quickly began rehearsing his story, formulating a credible explanation for Vesemir and the others.

Turning his attention to Herald, Wayne issued a set of whispered instructions, effectively appointing the Magic Knight as the "captain" of this extraordinary vessel. Herald's stoic and authoritative demeanor would lend credibility to the cover story when the witchers arrived.

Meanwhile, Wayne began scanning the system's detailed description of the ship. Judging by its grand design, airborne capability, and the sheer amount of magical energy it radiated, this was no ordinary vessel.

Magic Ship

Origin: Crafted in the legendary empire, part of the Toril world.

Purpose: Designed for long-range exploration, interdimensional travel, and spacefaring missions.

Specifications: Length: 63 meters Width: 10 meters Height: 28 meters Weight: 35 tons

Material: Constructed entirely of rare and enchanted materials.

Features: Powered by advanced magical propulsion. Resistant to powerful magical forces and extreme environmental conditions, including the vacuum of space.