Standing in a secluded corner of the black market, Aaron scanned the motley crowd of traders and their peculiar wares. His recent purchase of Arna had already drawn some attention within the market, precisely the effect he desired. To fully uncover the secrets behind the "Shadow Alliance," he needed to make his presence known here.
The Shadow Alliance was a mysterious organization that had only risen toward the end of Aaron's previous life, ultimately seizing control over most of the kingdom's underground market. It became the hidden support for numerous nobles and sorcerers alike. The alliance's members included exiled sorcerers, retired warriors, and even influential nobles. Aaron had briefly cooperated with the Shadow Alliance in the past and had witnessed its power firsthand, though he had never been able to dominate it fully.
"If I can bring them under my influence before they solidify their position…" A glint of cold resolve flashed in Aaron's eyes. He knew time was of the essence and that he would need to act swiftly.
He made his way to the most concealed corner of the market, entering a shabby-looking magic materials shop. The shopkeeper was a hunched old man, his eyes half-closed, scrutinizing each customer who walked in.
"I've heard there have been issues with the supply of rare forbidden magic materials lately," Aaron murmured, his tone casual as if making idle conversation.
The old man looked at him for a moment, his gaze lingering briefly on Aaron's ring before a slight smirk tugged at his lips. "Young master, prying into matters like this isn't exactly appropriate for a minor noble."
"Does the Shadow Alliance have anything to do with it?" Aaron asked directly, not bothering with pretense. In the black market, indirectness only bred suspicion; straightforwardness could earn a sliver of trust.
The old man's smile froze momentarily before he composed himself. Moving behind the counter, his fingers glided over a pile of ancient magic scrolls. "People here don't say that name aloud. But if you're asking, it means you've already chosen not to hide your ambitions."
Aaron gave a cold smile. "I'm still waiting for an answer."
The old man was silent for a moment, his voice growing somber. "Yes, the Shadow Alliance is tightening its control. They're using rare resources and ruthless methods to bind useful people to them. I suggest you be careful not to cross their core interests."
Aaron nodded, having gathered the information he sought. The Shadow Alliance was indeed making moves, and he had time to uncover their plans.
As he left the magic shop, Arna cast him a cold look. Though her hands were no longer bound, Aaron's attendants kept a close watch on her. She said nothing, her eyes filled with wariness and simmering resentment.
"Let's go back to the manor," Aaron said simply, heading toward the market's exit.
By the time they returned to Vicente Manor, the night had deepened. Aaron arranged for Arna to stay in a remote room and instructed his attendants not to guard her too closely. As he turned to leave, he paused at the door, his voice low but clear. "Arna, I have no need for a slave. What I require is a warrior. I value your potential, not your appearance. You can choose to stay here and work with me, or you can attempt to escape—but the consequences will be yours to bear."
Arna did not respond, her purple eyes glinting in the dim candlelight like a wounded wolf. Aaron cast her one last look before turning and leaving.
In the days that followed, Aaron resumed his training regimen within the manor while discreetly observing Arna's behavior. She remained guarded, avoiding interaction with the servants and frequently gazing out into the distance, as if weighing her chances of escape. But Aaron was in no hurry to apply pressure; he understood that true loyalty took time and calculated gestures to foster.
He began sending her books on tactics and ranger skills and even granted her access to the training grounds. At first, she merely watched from a distance, but one morning, she finally took up a bow and entered the training grounds, beginning to practice the nearly forgotten techniques she had once mastered.
"She's beginning to waver," Aaron observed from afar, assessing her actions. He wasn't interested in immediate compliance; he sought a warrior who would one day follow him wholeheartedly, not a servant bound by coercion.