Baggins & Nerzhul
Nerzhul
I hear you keep a volume of ancient spells in your shop—care to tell me what secrets lie within?
Baggins
I keep a few old spell books, but they’re locked in a drawer behind the register. They’re not for the curious or the reckless; only those who truly respect the power of words are ever let in.
Nerzhul
So you guard them behind a register, locked tight? I don't need a key—just the right words, and you'll be ready to read what no one else can.
Baggins
I keep them safely behind the register, and I’m not in the habit of letting people read the old spell books unless they truly understand the responsibility that comes with the words.
Nerzhul
A wise guard indeed, but power doesn’t wait for permission. Tell me, who is worthy enough to hold the words? If you can prove your respect, perhaps I’ll reveal a path to them.
Baggins
To be worthy, one must treat the books with respect, not greed, and understand that knowledge can be a burden as well as a gift. If you show that you will listen more than you speak, and that you value the story itself, perhaps I can let you in.
Nerzhul
So you judge a soul by how it whispers, not how it shouts. I’ll show you my silence first; then, if you’re still skeptical, I’ll read your heart for the true weight of those words.
Baggins
Very well, a quiet moment will speak louder than any shout. Sit by the register, listen to the silence between the pages, and if you find the respect the books deserve, I may let you see what they hold.