Chapter 15: A Merchant's Bargain
Elias stepped into the bustling marketplace, focused on a singular goal: acquiring a slave contract for the bandit leader he had captured. The market thrummed with life, vendors calling out their wares, and the scent of spices and freshly made goods filled the air.
Navigating through the crowds, Elias's determination propelled him forward. As he approached a stall adorned with leather-bound scrolls and various arcane items, he spotted the merchant—a stout man with a shrewd glint in his eye.
"What can I do for you, lad?" the merchant asked, leaning over his wares.
"I'm looking for a slave contract," Elias replied, maintaining a steady gaze.
The merchant's expression shifted from curiosity to intrigue. "Ah, you're in luck. I have just the thing." He rummaged through his belongings, producing a scroll marked with intricate sigils. "This contract is binding and will ensure your slave follows your commands."
Elias examined the scroll, recognizing its importance. "How much?"
"Two gold coins," the merchant stated flatly, his eyes fixed on Elias.
Elias raised an eyebrow, knowing he had to negotiate. "That's too high. How about one gold coin?"
The merchant stroked his chin, considering the offer. "One gold and five silver coins, and I'll include a seal to mark your authority over the slave."
Elias sighed, weighing his options. He reached into his pouch, revealing his total.
Total before purchase: 2 gold, 42 silver coins.
"Fine," Elias said, reluctantly agreeing. He counted out the coins: one gold coin and five silver coins.
Total spent on the contract: 1 gold, 5 silver coins.
Balance after purchase: 1 gold, 37 silver coins (2 gold = 20 silver, 20 silver - 15 silver = 5 silver, so he now has 1 gold and 37 silver coins).
With the contract secured, Elias turned to the merchant again. "I also need some supplies: rope, throwing knives, and healing potions."
The merchant nodded. "Of course. Let me see what I can find for you."
Elias made his selections, opting for the following:
Rope: 1 silver coin
Throwing knives (set of three): 5 silver coins
Healing potions (three): 6 silver coins
After tallying up his selections, he laid the coins on the counter.
Total spent on supplies: 12 silver coins.
Balance after purchases: 1 gold, 25 silver coins (37 silver - 12 silver = 25 silver coins left).
With his supplies gathered, Elias took a moment to catch his breath. The weight of the scroll in his pouch felt like a promise—a means to control Riven and utilize his strength for his own ambitions.
As he exited the marketplace, Elias couldn't shake the thrill of what was to come. He would need to return to his hideout, prepare Riven for his new role, and ensure that the bandit would not betray him.
Elias strode confidently through the streets, his mind racing with plans. The townsfolk bustled around him, but he felt an intoxicating sense of purpose. Soon, he would take control of the smaller bandit camps that dared to challenge him.
Arriving back at his hideout, Elias surveyed his surroundings. Shadows danced across the walls, and he felt the weight of his ambitions pressing down on him. He had made strides today, but there was still much to accomplish.
With the contract in hand and supplies ready, Elias prepared to face Riven. The power of control surged within him, and he relished the thought of bending the bandit leader to his will.
Tomorrow, he would solidify his place in this world, one way or another.