"Hey, isn't that my dear brother Elmo? I heard you've been away on a journey lately. How was it? You must have gotten a lot of good stuff, right? Haha, it's rare to see a big merchant like you out here in person!" A lavishly decorated carriage pulled by eight horses came to a gradual halt. Inside, a rotund figure leaned out the window, displaying a wide grin at the equally impressive figure who sat in the adjacent carriage.
"Oh, it's my beloved brother Ruben! What brings you here to wander around today? Have you made a big profit recently and come out for some fun?" Elmo observed Ruben's somewhat bloated figure, a polite smile creeping onto his lips as he drew closer. "I'm traveling about to clear my mind. I'm not like you, brother Ruben; you have vast assets and need to handle things personally. I'm a drifter; it doesn't matter to me whether I'm there or not."
"Haha, you sure know how to joke, Elmo. A gladiatorial arena as big as yours is a small place? Then what does that make me—destitute on the streets? By the way, is this kid new? He looks a bit thin, but his sharp eyes show your keen judgment, brother. Where did you get him?" Ruben laughed with great joy, his face glistening in the sun like a speaking pig.
"I saw someone playing with him on the road, felt sorry for him, and brought him along. It's nothing noteworthy." If you like him, he's yours." Elmo replied, maintaining a smile that appeared friendly while also holding an air of mystery. Joseph, sitting in front of the carriage, picked up Finn, who was watching coldly from the side, as if ready to toss him onto the other carriage at a word from his boss."
"Haha, you jest. How could I take someone you've chosen? Oh, it's getting late. You know, my strong body makes me hungrier than most, so I'll go grab a bite. Come find me for a drink sometime; I've got some fine wine waiting!" Ruben chuckled as he pulled his large head back into the carriage and tapped the roof to signal the driver. The driver heard the cue, shook the reins, and the sturdy black horses galloped away with steady strides.
"Safe travels, brother Ruben." I'll be waiting at home for your grand arrival. " Elmo said, watching the departing carriage, his smile disappearing in an instant. "Damn it, what business could that pig be pursuing around here? Joseph, find out his movements; I don't want him making a fortune while I'm away."
Meanwhile, around the corner, Ruben's expression darkened. " Why is that guy back so early? Didn't he say it would be three more days? Damn it, these useless fools can't even gather that little information. Looks like we need to change our plans; we can't offend Elmo openly. That guy is known for being ruthless; it's not the time to be enemies. Damn it, I bet my darling Melissa misses me; I need to check on her. I hope I don't see another man in her bed, or else... Oh, of course, I still trust her loyalty. Let's go, Callum; we're heading for a surprise inspection at Melissa's."
"Joseph, it's time for us to leave too. Months away, and it's time to head home. But before that, let's visit Kayden; there might be surprises. My God, I suddenly have so much money I don't even know how to spend it. Heh, I want everything I desire, not a single thing left behind." A bloody smile crept onto Elmo's lips, his eyes gleaming with greed.
The land of this world is divided into several continents, one of which is Varia, where Finn currently resides. Varia is primarily composed of forests and plains, distinctly separated, with large patches of forest or plains resembling a jigsaw puzzle, rarely mixed. Compared to forests, plains are more suitable for human habitation, so nearly every plain has at least one human settlement. The west is the most desolate and turbulent region of the continent. Dune City, a sand city situated on the Baimu Plain, is named for its year-round sandstorms and serves as the center of chaos in the west. The city boasts two grand gladiatorial arenas on either side, witnessing countless life-and-death struggles while reflecting the unique brutality and glory of this city.
In the eastern part of Dune City stands a grand oval building, ancient and solemn. The luxurious seats and high safety railings all signify its noble status. This building is none other than the renowned ML Arena (Mad Lion Arena), one of the four great arenas of Varia, backed by the shrewd merchant Ruben.
To the west of the city is the uniquely designed LB Arena (Iron Blood Arena), featuring an octagonal shape. The central circular arena resembles a beast's gaping mouth, with wide stands lacking seats but filled with strange iron pillars, and low railings that induce a desire to jump down, while also creating the thrilling atmosphere of gladiators or beasts springing up at any moment.
Crossing several bustling streets, Elmo and his group arrived in front of a massive square building constructed of yellow-brown bricks, resembling a silent library. Two majestic griffin statues stood guard at the entrance, and above the door were three large golden words: "Sablehold of Enslavement."
"Let's go; we're visiting an old friend." Elmo wore a significant smile as he stepped onto the stone steps leading to the Sablehold of Enslavement.
"Who goes there?" A guard dressed in simple leather armor stepped forward to block them, only to be sent flying into a corner by Joseph's punch.
"What's all this noise about?" Another man rushed out but changed his expression upon seeing Elmo. "Oh my, isn't this Lord Elmo? What brings you here?"
"Stop the pleasantries. Where is your master? I want to see him!" Not wanting to see the man's fawning demeanor, Elmo pressed his hand against the man's face, pushing him down into the corner. He then strode inside.
"What's going on? Can't you give me some peace?" Kayden's voice came from the inner hall, tinged with irritation. He quickly stepped out, his expression shifting upon seeing Elmo, though he quickly regained his composure and welcomed him warmly.
"Oh, brother Kayden! How have you been? You look well!" Upon seeing Kayden, Elmo plastered on his trademark smile, opening his arms for a hug.
"Uh, Elmo?" Kayden's expression was slightly unnatural. He had received news that Elmo wouldn't return for at least three more days, so he was surprised to see him back so soon. "Brother Elmo, what brings you here?"
"Haha, life is full of surprises! I wanted to return early to see you," Elmo said, smiling as he embraced Kayden, as if they were old friends reuniting after a long time.
"Look at me; how could I let brother Elmo stand here? Come in, let's talk!" Kayden led Elmo inside, asking as they walked, "I heard you made a big deal in the Middle East. Why are you back so soon? If I had known you were returning today, I would have prepared a feast for you!"
"Oh? You really keep up with the news!" Elmo smiled. "Actually, I didn't do much business in the Middle East; I made a few friends, broadened my horizons, and cleared my mind. But your business seems to be growing; I heard you recently received a batch of high-quality goods. It looks like Dune City's number one slave trader is about to become the number one in Everlasting Wilds!"
"Brother, you flatter me. I'm scraping by. But yes, I did get a new batch of goods recently, including some fine girls—all virgins. You should take a few back for yourself later," Kayden chuckled as they exchanged pleasantries while walking into the inner hall.
Luxurious white jade pillars supported the spacious area, and a massive rectangular dining table was laden with sumptuous dishes, filling the air with enticing aromas.
"What's this...?" Elmo glanced at the feast.
"Haha, brother, don't mind me. I'm a bit greedy and like to have a full spread at every meal. Since you've traveled far, I thought you might want a taste of something delicious. If you don't mind, let's have a meal here as a welcome for you," Kayden smiled.
"Brother Kayden, you're too kind. But I haven't been home in a while, and I'm worried my servants might have caused some trouble. I need to head back quickly," Elmo politely declined, instinctively pulling out a cigar to light. He then got straight to the point. "I heard you recently received a good batch of goods. How about I take a look?"
"Sure," Kayden grinned, leading Elmo toward the backyard.
The backyard was a large garden, with a rockery in the center. In a desert city like Dune City, seeing a garden was quite unusual.
Behind the rockery, a discreet stone could be slightly moved, revealing a tall secret door. A few of Kayden's loyal subordinates emerged to greet their master.
"Ugh, still so damp in here," Elmo frowned. Although it wasn't his first visit, he was still very dissatisfied. "I mean, brother, you're not short on money. Can't you clean this place up a bit?