When one treats people with benevolence, justice, and righteousness, and reposes confidence in them, the army will be united in mind and all will be happy to serve their leaders.
-Sun Tzu
Under the hot sun, Mengus approached the caravan trader, a seasoned merchant with a face etched by the dry sand of infinite number of journeys. The trader's stall was made out of vibrant fabrics and colorful tapestries that moved on the breeze, grabbing everyone's attention.
Many goods sprawled across the wooden tables, anything you needed, he had it. Spices in weird-looking jars, bolts of fine silk, jewelry, and mysterious trinkets from lands unknown. Shelves held vials of exotic perfumes, expensive gemstones, and well-crafted small figurines carved from ivory.
A long army of camels lingered behind him. The camels, their fur varying in different shades, were well groomed, colorful decorations hang over their long necks, some type of bells that rang with each step.
The trader had a turban that sat atop his head, his eyes were sharp, carefully scanning the filled market, waiting for his next customer to seal a good deal.
"Good trader, my name is Mengus, how can I call you?" Mengus began talking, his eyes locked on the man's weather-beaten face.
"Yusuf, nice to meet you. How can I help you today?"
"I have a proposition for you."
The caravan trader raised an eyebrow, Mengus managed to pique his curiosity. "I'm listening, go on. What brings you here, to my humble caravan?"
Yusuf
Trading: 200
"Is he acting humble or is he actually humble? I never saw such a high level ever before...Everything else is trash, but still, impressive."
"You don't have to act in front of me," Mengus began. "I know you are a great trader, I could bet everything I have right now in this poach, I'm confident."
The man just smiled, letting Mengus take the lead of the conversation. Not saying anything is sometimes better than speaking empty words.
Mengus grinned, revealing a glint of excitement. "I want to create my own caravan in this town, and I need your expertise in organizing it."
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The trader stroked his beard, considering. "That would be simple, if you let me take control of it, but what's in it for me? Because just like you see, I already have a caravan, leading two would be problematic."
"What about her?" Mengus pointed his finger at a figure behind Yusuf.
The trader's gaze followed Mengus's finger, landing on a young woman with a confident stance, and confused face.
"Elie? She's my daughter. She has no experience I'm afraid."
"Elie," Mengus continued, "I propose a fair trade. I'll pay you handsomely, and in return you take the lead of my soon-to-be-formed caravan. I'm pretty sure you have some kind of experience, you followed your father on his journeys right?"
"Since I was a child, sir." she spoke up, her voice sweet on the light breeze.
"I knew it..."
Elie
Level: 7
One Handed:100
Two Handed:15
Polearm: 110
Bow: 105
Crossbow: 5
Throwing: 10
Riding: 90
Athletics: 120
Smithing: 0
Scouting: 50
Tactics: 40
Roguery: 0
Charm: 0
Leadership: 0
Trade: 90
Steward: 0
Medicine: 0
Engineering: 0
Traits: Daring, Generous, Merciful
"What is this? I can even see her traits? Is it because I'm a higher level than her? Will have to check this out, could come in handy."
"I suppose if you don't mind, she could lead your caravan," Yusuf said. "You can continue the negotiations with her now." He gave Mengus a soft smile and turned his attention to the next customer.
Mengus reached into a pouch, a hefty amount of gold coins made a beautiful sound. "Fifteen thousand gold for you guidance and assistance. I want to ensure that this caravan is well-organized and well-protected."
That was a huge amount of gold, she didn't look that impressed. "Add five more thousand, for the caravan guards, and we have a deal."
Mengus nodded in agreement. "Skilled guards don't come cheap, you are right. Here, five more, let me know when you get everything so I can come and check it out. I'll be in that tavern over there." he pointed his finger towards a small building.
Excitement and determination filled Elie's gaze as she nodded in agreement. The preparations for Mengus's caravan began, soon they will be ready to embark on this new adventure.
image [https://i.imgur.com/V2qfD4U.jpeg]