The nature of the human heart is the same everywhere.
This world is neither wholly kind nor wholly evil. It is not purely white, nor does it fall into the depths of blackness. It is merely a shade of gray, a bit hazy.
People live according to the rules of their world. Human nature encompasses selfishness, jealousy, and actions that may be less than honorable, all in the pursuit of self-preservation. This holds true in any world.
And now, it's no different.
In another tavern, accompanied by soothing music, the opulent establishment bustled with patrons enjoying their meals and drinks, chatting and laughing in what seemed like a sophisticated dining environment.
"Haha, Sir Kelly, you are too kind… Hmm?"
At the counter, a portly middle-aged man in a dusty yellow robe was merrily conversing with a distinguished guest, seemingly in high spirits.
Suddenly—
"Crash!"
A figure flashed past, and the grand door was forcefully flung open by a powerful body. Before anyone could react, a robust figure had stormed in, scattering tables and chairs in all directions.
The once-smiling, portly man's expression turned abruptly to one of distress.
"Ah… um… help me, Boss Joseph! Save me!"
Amidst the shocked cries of patrons, the scene descended into chaos. From among the wrecked tables and chairs, a burly blond man crawled out, kneeling in pain and desperately pleading with the man at the counter.
"Jack?!"
Joseph faltered, his brow furrowing slightly, but he ignored the street thug who had ruined his tavern. Instead, he shifted his gaze to the doorway.
The sunlight streaming into the room was blocked, and standing in the shadow of the broken door was a tall, imposing figure. The sunlight made it difficult to discern their face clearly.
"Sir, you've brought a fight into my tavern. Don't you think you owe me an explanation?"
Just seeing this figure gave Joseph an inexplicable sense of immense pressure. Even though he had connections and was a prominent figure in the city of Radiant Sun, commanding respect in both the legitimate and underground worlds, this person made him tremble.
The aura exuded was like an ant facing a terrifying dragon, a fear so overwhelming it was hard to bear. This kind of presence was something even the greatest emperors of the Empire of Hiss had never possessed.
Yet, no matter what, he had to face it.
The moment he saw Jack, he had a good idea of the situation.
He had bitten off more than he could chew.
As thoughts raced through his mind, he forced himself to calm his complex emotions, took a deep breath, and addressed the figure standing quietly at the door.
"Hmm?"
"Tap, tap, tap…"
The figure smiled lightly and walked slowly into the exquisitely decorated tavern, their footsteps rhythmic and deliberate.
Joseph finally saw the person's face: a young man of striking appearance, yet with a look of weariness and gravity that suggested countless years of experience.
Ethan Drake approached, seated himself at an undisturbed table, and leisurely poured himself a cup of hot water. Then, with a smile, he addressed Joseph, "Boss, shouldn't I be the one asking questions here? Why have you already started questioning me?"
"…"
The story was not complicated.
Even without using any magic, Ethan could guess the reason.
Rivals in business.
Radiant Sun City was large, but there were only so many patrons. Recently, the Black Flame Tavern's reputation had soared, reaching even the upper echelons of society and the palace.
As the number of customers increased here, naturally, others had fewer patrons. It was normal for others to resort to underhanded methods.
Money could turn people into devils. It was common for others to try to tarnish one's reputation to boost their own.
Ethan understood all this, though he didn't like it.
The reason for his grand entrance was not merely revenge, but to make an example. To ensure that others would think twice before causing trouble for him.
To affect his mood!
"You! What are you saying?! Are you here to make trouble? Do you know who owns this tavern?!"
Joseph's gaze flickered, his face flushing red as he spoke with a bit of bravado.
"I don't know, and I'm not interested in knowing. Boss, this gentleman has damaged my tables and chairs and owes me 10,000 gold coins. He has no money, but he says you can pay for him."
With a smile, Ethan threw the hot water from his cup at the prone Jack, causing him to scream in pain.
Ethan, treating Jack like a stray dog, did not glance his way. Instead, he narrowed his eyes and stared directly at Joseph. "So, I'm here. Now… can you give me the money?"