Chapter 103: A Noble's Visit

Abel sent out messages to the nearby apostles and his friends, their replies trickling in as he waited. With each response, he felt a web of support forming quietly around him, reinforcing his confidence in his observations.

Abels mind still lingered on the mysteriou figure he had encountered in the bar, so when he approached his temporary villa, he made a quick turn nd headed to Chestnut st to take a few extra laps.

Abel began strolling down the street near the man’s residence, weaving his presence into the everyday flow of the town. His walks appeared casual; he’d pause here and there, glancing idly at the surroundings, blending into the street’s quiet rhythm. Passersby barely noticed him, and he kept his focus light, observing without lingering too long.

Once satisfied, Abel turned back toward his temporary villa, blending back into the winding streets, his mind already planning the next steps he would take.

The sun was setting as Abel approached his temporary villa, casting a warm orange glow over the town. As he neared the gate, he noticed a luxurious carriage parked outside. It was adorned with gold trimmings and pulled by finely groomed horses—an obvious display of wealth. Standing beside it was a guard, clad in light armor with a sword strapped to his side. The guard's sharp eyes locked onto Abel as he approached, and he quickly knocked on the carriage door.

Abel sighed, regretting that he hadn’t yet moved in the staff he had hired for the villa. If they were present, they could have dealt with these unwanted visitors before they even reached him. Despite being a new arrival, it seemed nobles were eager to get a meeting with him—likely to probe his intentions in town.

As Abel reached the gate, the carriage door swung open, revealing a well-dressed nobleman with a pointed nose, neatly trimmed goatee, and a thin mustache. His attire screamed wealth—embroidered silk clothing, adorned with golden accessories that glittered in the fading sunlight.

The nobleman approached Abel with an exaggerated smile, extending his hand. "Good evening, sir. A pleasure to finally meet you. I am Vander Cinco, of the Cinco family here in Reinhart."

Abel shook his hand, keeping his expression neutral. "Abel Noria."

"Ah, yes, Mr. Noria! I’ve heard much about your arrival. Esteemed guests such as yourself don’t often grace our humble town. May I have the honor of a conversation inside?"

Abel hesitated but ultimately nodded, leading Vander toward the villa. He kept his thoughts to himself, sensing faint traces of mana from Vander. Something about this man felt off. As they approached the entrance, Abel glanced at the guard following them, his hand gripping the hilt of his sword.

"Your guard will need to leave his weapon outside," Abel said, his tone polite but firm.

The guard’s eyes narrowed. "I don’t think—"

Abel stepped closer, his calm gaze unwavering. "I insist."

Vander, sensing the tension, nodded at his guard, who reluctantly removed his sword and left it by the door. The guard shot Abel a cold look before following them inside, clearly unhappy with the situation. Abel wasnt afraid of the sword nor the guard, however, he had to show his authority in his own home.

Once inside, Abel led them to a spacious, luxurious room adorned with rich wooden furniture and tall windows that let in the last rays of the setting sun. The air smelled faintly of jasmine, thanks to the flowers that decorated the corners of the room. Abel gestured for Vander to sit, and after a moment, offered him tea.

The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

"Tea would be delightful," Vander said, reclining into one of the plush chairs.

Abel moved to the kitchen, quietly making the tea. With his sharp hearing, he caught the guard’s whispered words to Vander. "Just say the word, and I’ll deal with him. He doesn’t look like much."

Vander chuckled softly. "Looks are always deceiving. Let’s not be too hasty."

Abel smirked to himself as he carried the tea back into the room, placing it in front of Vander. The guard raised an eyebrow expectantly, clearly waiting for his own cup.

"I’m afraid I didn’t make enough for three," Abel said with a feigned apology. "Perhaps next time."

The guard’s face reddened, but Vander waved his hand dismissively, eager to move on. "Thank you, Mr. Noria. Now, I like to be a straightforward man, so I’ll get right to the point."

Abel sipped his tea, watching Vander closely.

"I know that you are not just any ordinary guest," Vander began, his voice low and smooth. "You’re here because of your... connections. You belong to an organization that deals with magic. And, like all men with power, you seek to further your personal gain. I respect that."

Abel raised an eyebrow but said nothing, letting Vander continue.

"That’s why I’m here. I’m a man of means, Mr. Noria. I have resources—money, influence—and I am willing to pay for what I want. So, tell me, what would it cost for you to share some of that magical knowledge with me? Or perhaps a magical item or two?"

Abel chuckled softly, setting down his cup. "I think there’s been some misunderstanding. I’m afraid I don’t know what you’re talking about."

Vander’s smile faltered slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. "Come now, Mr. Noria. Let’s not play games. I’ve been in this town long enough to know how things work. You and your kind don’t come here out of the goodness of your hearts. You want something, just as I do."

"Even if I were connected to some organization, what makes you think I’d be interested in selling anything to you?" Abel asked, his voice calm but with a hint of amusement.

Vander’s expression darkened slightly. "Because Reinhart is a dangerous place, Mr. Noria. There are people here—powerful people—who wouldn’t hesitate to make things difficult for you if you don’t align yourself with the right allies. There is magic where you come from but best believe there are some here too."

Abel’s eyes gleamed with mild interest. "Is that so?"

"Indeed," Vander said, leaning forward. "I can protect you. I have connections in this town that can ensure you avoid any... unfortunate accidents. All I ask in return is for a little cooperation."

Abel let a silence stretch between them for a few seconds, then smiled. "I appreciate your concern, Mr. Cinco, but I assure you, I’m not too worried."

Vander frowned, clearly not expecting such a casual dismissal. He stood abruptly, placing his cup on the table. "Well, if you change your mind, my offer still stands. But remember, this town can be... unpredictable."

Abel remained seated, taking another sip of his tea. "Thank you for the tea, Mr. Noria. I’ll see myself out."

Abel didn’t bother getting up. "Please do. And close the door behind you."

Vander’s face twisted in annoyance, but he quickly masked it with a forced smile. With a curt nod, he turned on his heel and left, his guard trailing behind him. The sound of the door slamming echoed through the villa.

Abel chuckled to himself. "Petty," he muttered, swirling the tea in his cup. Vander Cinco was clearly underestimating him. He couldn’t tell if it was ignorance, or if the Cinco family really had some trump card up their sleeves.

Whatever it was, Abel knew this wouldn’t be the last he heard from Vander and his Cinco family as this validated Abel's thought that they had a hand in the magical changes in town.

He leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. The town of Reinhart was proving to be far more complicated than he’d anticipated, and with people like Vander lurking around, he would have to tread carefully.

Taking one last sip of tea, Abel rose and walked to the window. The sun had fully set, and the moonlight bathed the town in a pale glow. He watched the streets for a moment, the quiet of the night wrapping around him.