Chapter 9 11:Threatening Deal[II]
Chapter 9 11:Threatening Deal[II]
A solemn silence settled over the room for the moment.
The dealer's eyes twitched a few times, and he coughed awkwardly, trying to break the tension.
"Sir, how did you know that?"
"Was it supposed to be a secret? If so, how did so many people come to know about it?"
"I see!" He mused and then spoke slowly.
"It seems you are someone from the upper circle. With a face like that, it's hard to believe that you hail from ordinary roots."
I wanted to refute that not every good-looking guy hails from a powerful family, but on second thought, I thought that it was better to let the misunderstanding brew. Even if he figured out the truth later, it wouldn't be a problem since I hadn't done anything dangerous or illegal to provoke trouble.
"I will take a fair measurement," the dealer said, beginning to pick up the stones.
His eyes glowed a bit as he examined each stone from different angles, tracing the contours of the rocks with care.
One by one, he picked the stones and examined them before keeping them aside. At first, his expression was calm, but as he continued, amazement and shock started to flicker across his face. Though he tried to conceal it, it was obvious that he was impressed.
"I have examined everything. A few of them contain precious stones. Altogether, they would be worth about 100,000 Crypts."
After saying that, he paused, watching for my reaction. But upon seeing the blank look on his face, his confidence faltered.
Raising my hand, I drew a line across my forehead. "Is there something written on my forehead?"
"Not that I can see?" he answered, puzzled.
"Then why are you treating me like an idiot? Do I have a mark that says I am one?"
"What do you mean?" his eyes slightly narrowed.
"Do you think I don't know what's in there? Or is it just because I am a kid that you think you can scam me."
"Cough... cough..."
"Dear customer, don't get upset. I will raise the price. How does 200,000 sound?" he offered with a strained smile.
"Tsk!"
I clicked my tongue, massaging my forehead.
Folding my legs, I assumed an authoritative stance, trying to act as coldly as possible. I kept my tone calm but firm, imitating the demeanor of someone with high power while still maintaining a charismatic smile and acting benevolent.
"Listen here, man, we both know what it's really worth. As a merchant, I know it's your job to make profits for yourself, but I don't have time for all this bullshit"
"Listen here!"
SNAP!
I snapped my finger and pointed at a square-shaped stone.
"You have heard of the Emberhearts, right?"
"Of course, I know. Who wouldn't know of it?" he replied, nodding cautiously.
"Then you must know that the Duchess's lovely daughter is entering the Arcadia Academy?"
"Umm... sure, but what of it? Are you looking to buy some information?"
"No," I said, leaving in closer. "Rather, I want you to give a very important piece of information."
After saying that, I pulled him closer and whispered into his ears.
"WHAT!"
The man recoiled, his face pale upon hearing my words.
"What! Are you kidding me? I can't do that! I refuse. If this is false, my head would be displayed all over the world—after they cut it off!" The dealer screamed and backed away in panic, but I grabbed his arm firmly.
"Listen here, Samuel... Umm... is that your name, whatever..."
"Don't miss this opportunity. This is a once in a life-time opportunity, you can't miss it."
His eyes nervously darted.
"Just think about it. You aren't taking the risk, rather it's me, after all, I am the one who provided the information. If it turns out to be false, they won't do anything to you, and will come after me."
Samuel's eyes flickered with uncertainty as my smile widened and I started whispering like a devil tempting a soul, showing him the prospect of the future.
"I will even guarantee it. You can even disclose my identity if necessary."
"If the information turns out to be true, just wonder what it could mean to you. You will gain Emberhearts' trust. With their backing, you could expand your business, becoming a world-renowned merchant. So think. You can even step into the black market which you aren't able to because of the lack of noble support."
Samuel's eyes quivered and his Adam's apple twitched as greed, caution and anxiety played across his face.
"Just think..." I urged.
"Is this... true?" he asked, still skeptical.
"Of course it's true," I nodded with a grin that grew wider with every second Samuel hesitated.
"If you believe that I am lying, take my pic and name for future reference. Also, you can find me in Archeon Academy. You can even reveal to her that it was me who provided the information."
"Just do it—and be her savior." I added, my voice dripping with reassurance and patted his hands that were trembling violently from fear and excitement.
"Uh... Okay..." he stammered. "I will send the message."
'Good!'
I raised my thumb in approval.
With this, the first piece was placed on the board. And the game had finally begun.
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