Evan shook his head, the weight of uncertainty settling heavily on his shoulders.
"House Valen, House Lunaris, House Carden, and House Altrix," Rook continued. "Each one's got its own way of doing things. House Valen – Known for its vast lands and powerful military, House Valen has strong ties to the Aurelian Knights. House Lunaris – This family is aligned with the Mage Tower and specializes in alchemy and enchanted trade, often employing mages to experiment with magical innovations. House Carden – House Carden controls a significant portion of the trade routes and is involved with the Assassin's Guild, though quietly, to secure their economic power. House Altrix – Closely tied to the Church of the Celestial Light, House Altrix is considered the most "pious" and uses its influence to sway religious doctrine in ways that benefit them. And the strongest of all the Royal Family, he most powerful entity within the kingdom, presiding over a vast realm and holding authority over all major factions, from the Mage Tower to the Aurelian Knights and the noble families. The royal family's influence shapes not only the political landscape but also the cultural and moral direction of the kingdom. Known for its long lineage, the family's claim to the throne is rooted in both divine right and ancient magical bloodlines that have given them an almost mythic status."
Evan slumped back in his chair, his half-eaten ramen forgotten, its steam slowly dissipating into the air like wisps of uncertainty. "That's... a lot to take in. You're telling me I've opened shop in the middle of all these power plays?"
"Caught on quick, haven't you?" Rook twirled his chopsticks with a casual flick of his wrist, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "Each faction's got their own agenda. The Mage Tower would love to study your products, figure out how they work, maybe even reverse-engineer them. The Church might declare them unholy if they don't get their cut, especially if they think anything you sell competes with their divine providence. And don't get me started on the noble houses; they're a whole different kettle of fish, each with their own schemes and intrigues."
"But I'm just selling food and drinks," Evan protested, running a hand through his unruly hair in a gesture of frustration. "How is that threatening to anyone? I mean, it's just ramen and cola!"
Rook leaned forward, his voice dropping conspiratorially as if sharing a secret. "Your Cola gave me reflexes I've never experienced before. This ramen? I can feel like I could lift a huge rock right now. Power is power, Evan; it doesn't matter if it comes from a sword, a can of cola, or a cup of noodles. In this world, even the most harmless things can hold unexpected strength, and that makes you an unwitting player in a game far beyond your understanding."
"Great," Evan muttered, his voice laced with sarcasm, the weight of his new reality settling heavily on his shoulders. "So I've got to watch out for mages, priests, nobles, and... what was that about an Assassin's Guild?"
"Ah, noticed that detail, did you?" Rook's eyes glinted with mischief, a spark of excitement igniting in his demeanor. "Let's just say House Carden's 'quiet involvement' keeps a lot of daggers sheathed. For now, at least. They operate in shadows, and their motives are as murky as the depths of the Forbidden Depths in the Great Forest."
"Perfect," Evan sighed, pushing his ramen away, his appetite vanished in the face of mounting anxiety. "Any other cheerful news about who might want to either control or kill me? Because this is really starting to feel like a bad dream."
"The Aurelian Knights might take an interest too," Rook continued, his tone a mix of caution and intrigue. "They're always looking for advantages in battle, and your products could give them the edge they seek. Though they're more likely to march through your front door than stick a knife in your back. Their discipline and honor are a refreshing change from the others, but they can be just as demanding."
"At least they're honest about it," Evan said dryly, his mind racing with the implications. "And the Royal Family? What about them?"
"They've got their fingers in everything," Rook replied, his expression shifting to one of seriousness. "If your shop gets big enough, they'll definitely notice. Whether that's good or bad... well, that's a whole different story." Rook shrugged, his nonchalance belying the gravity of the situation. "Depends on how useful they find you. They can be both a blessing and a curse, and you never know which one you're dealing with until it's too late."
Evan listened intently, trying to absorb the deluge of information. "And the adventurers? What's their role in this chaos?"
Rook grinned, his enthusiasm palpable. "Adventurers are a mixed bag. Some are in it for the fame, others for the money, and quite a few are just looking for a thrill. But the ones who stick around here, by the forest? They're after something big, something that can change their fortunes. There's treasure hidden in those woods—ancient magic, powerful relics. And the deeper you go, the more dangerous it gets. Those woods have a way of enticing the brave and the foolish alike, promising glory but often delivering peril."
Evan took another bite of his ramen, trying to process everything. The forest, the kingdoms, the adventurers—it was all far more complicated than he'd expected when he first arrived in this strange land. "Sounds like a lot to take in. I thought I was just supposed to sell some snacks."
Rook chuckled, a warm sound that filled the room, momentarily easing the tension. "It is. But you'll get used to it. Just remember—people will start noticing you, and not all of them will have good intentions. Some might come seeking your products, but others could come seeking something far darker, especially if they think they can exploit you."
Evan nodded, feeling a growing sense of unease settle in his stomach like a stone, heavy and unyielding. His shop was supposed to be a simple corner store, a haven for weary travelers and hungry adventurers, but now it seemed like he was at the center of something much larger and more perilous than he had ever anticipated.
Before he could say more, the door opened again with a soft chime, and Lyra stepped into the shop. Her presence was commanding, a warrior's confidence radiating from her as she surveyed the room. The air shifted as she entered, bringing with her an aura of strength and determination that momentarily distracted Evan from his spiraling thoughts.