his mind. He decided to take a chance and thought of a short bolt, of how it should fly when the trigger of the crossbow was released, of its strength. He wanted to fire such a bolt, a projectile that would hit his opponent. He closed his eyes and sent another portion of energy in front of him. He saw with his eyes the golden shape of the bolt, its straight and deadly profile. He opened his eyes and released the power.
This time, a circle inscribed with dragon runes appeared in front of his hand, and the energy he pushed into it illuminated them with golden light. A shot. Bolt. Penetration. It ignited in the air for a few heartbeats, and then all the energy concentrated in one point and flashed ahead. The magical bolt pierced the golden shield as if it wasn't there and flashed forward between the silver bullets.
Darius sat with his head resting on his hands and tried to think about what his friend had told him. He looked at the man's depressed face and knew that the blacksmith couldn't handle it all. He couldn't manage anything himself against someone who had so many contacts. It didn't help that Matheo was the most famous armourer and had his own, quite considerable, influence, which was further reinforced by his father-in-law's connections. However, this did not mean much on Atlantis and could be bypassed in various ways. The only people whose influence trumped the aristocrats were the officers of the Royal Guard.
-I know I'm putting you in an uninteresting position, but I really don't know what to do.-The blacksmith spoke very quietly, which in itself was unusual given his booming voice and powerful build.-No one else can help me.-He bowed his head and looked at the cups standing on the table.-If I had any other choice I'd rather not drag you into this.-He added in a whisper.
-Matheo, you have always been a friend of my family.- Said Bleist after a while.-Father respected you and treated you like a second son, for me you have been
