The following evening, under Joel’s introduction, Alaric met with the President of the Adventurers' Association. Managing all the adventurers within a count's domain, the President wasn't short on cash. After the pleasantries, Alaric expressed his desire to foster good will, and ultimately, the President accepted one of the precious crystals smuggled from demon territories at “cost price”—eighty gold apiece—as a gift, considering Joel's face.
In truth, Alaric had already devised his money-making plan on his way back to the count's land. Knowing that the wealthiest man must be the count himself, and that the count trusted his old butler more than his own lady, Alaric aimed to forge a connection with him.
A key figure in the count’s domain, the butler wasn’t someone just anyone could meet. Starting with the well-acquainted President of the Adventurers' Association seemed a smart choice and, by happy coincidence, Joel was good friends with the President. So, the plan to “cast a long line to catch a big fish” took shape.
As expected, a week later, a low-key gathering took place, with many of the count’s officials attending, including both Presidents. Under the assault of Alaric’s golden promises, Joel vowed to bring Alaric to the dinner.
At the feast, Alaric set eyes on the Count's old butler, Seth—an aged yet dignified gentleman—up close for the first time.
Knowing the make-or-break nature of his business deal, Alaric approached the butler and introduced himself politely: “Good evening, Mr. Seth. I'm Alaric, a merchant who travels between the capital and the viscounty. Lately, there's a new magic device that's all the rage among the nobles. I've managed to acquire a few at great expense, and intend to present them to the count. May I inquire if you could inspect them first? I swear on my merchant's honor, you won't be disappointed.”
Nobody knew if Seth’s presence represented the count or himself, but that didn’t stop Alaric from making his move. Luckily, he caught the butler’s interest.
Seth, curious yet expressionless, said, “Such a thing exists? Show me. If your claims hold true, I believe the count will be pleased.”
“I wouldn’t dare deceive anyone, of course I have it.” Alaric wasn’t lying; the merchant who bought the most crystals was responsible for the capital's district. If he rode hard, he should arrive soon—and Alaric believed it wouldn't take long for the crystals to become a sensation there given his strategies.
Alaric presented a particularly striking crystal with both hands to Seth.
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The butler examined the crystal, stroking his beard, “This is indeed fine craftsmanship. From its appearance to its magical craftsmanship, it’s flawless.”
“You have quite the discerning eye, Mr. Seth.” Alaric was quick with praise when it was due.
Seth led Alaric to a private room in the banquet hall, where they tested the crystal, leaving even the worldly butler impressed, “An interesting item indeed, worthy of the count’s attention. But how does it contain images of succubi from the capital?”
Alaric was prepared, “The succubi portrayed here are capital ladies in disguise, shaped by the image we all have of succubi.”
“I see. Such lifelike mimicry; I wonder which highborn is behind this.”
Alaric chuckled internally, as he had no idea either, but outwardly maintained a smile.
Seth gave the nod of approval, and Alaric earned the opportunity to meet the count in three days, with instructions to bring all the fresh crystals to the castle.
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“Yes, just like that, Lord Count, just channel your magic into it.”
“The essence works just as well, my lord. I lack magical talents and use essence myself...”
“Oh no, I am but a humble commoner, not to be compared with your lordship.”
After a successful demonstration and hands-on instruction, Count Reed mastered the new gadget. With a grand gesture, he purchased the remaining crystals from Alaric for one hundred gold coins each. Then, with a chest full of coins, Alaric was escorted out of the count’s castle.
On the way out, Seth gave him high praise, “For a commoner meeting the lord for the first time, you did rather well. The count likes novel and unique things. If you come across anything during your travels, buy it and find me in the City of Gath.”
“Thank you, Mr. Seth.”
Different from the count, who sought novelty, Alaric was a practical man. His desires were simple: big deals for gold, small change for silver. As far as he was concerned, crystals, gems, antiques, and magic devices were all unsubstantial compared to the hard coins in his hand.
At home, Alaric stashed a portion of the coins in a secret compartment in the wall, a habit of his to keep reserve funds and never borrow from anyone. He believed his prudence was key to his success. With his saved money, even if he were hanged, his family could live in peace.
Looking at the remaining coins, Alaric began to plan their allocation. Since Lord Toras required cloths of every quality, he'd have to visit several places. After laying out his itinerary, Alaric decided to rest at home for a week to spend time with his family before embarking on his next merchant trip. After all, Lord Toras had forbidden their group from meeting for trades; Alaric just had to keep pace.
Whenever he thought of the enigmatic lord, Alaric felt complex emotions. As a merchant, he didn’t want to trust him, but compared to that lord, he was as insignificant as an insect—why would someone deceive an insect? During their trades, piles of gold sat on the long table behind the goblin, as if tempting them to sin. Alaric was well aware the Lord Toras made his disdain for them clear; they were nothing more than useful tools.
In the end, Alaric resolved to stand by Lord Toras for a future washed clean of his crimes and the promise of protected wealth in his later life. He committed to becoming the most useful tool in the lord’s hand.
For that goal, more capital was necessary. And so, it was time for Joel’s shameless exploitation to end.