The Iron Fang Armory
The carriage slowed to a stop as it approached the center of the market district. Orion looked out the window, his eyes focusing on a huge building in front of him.
The Iron Fang Armory resembled a stronghold between the neighboring shops. It was imposing, with its architecture constructed from dark-stoned walls accented by golden ornamentation that glinted in the light. Its front was adorned in flags bearing the logo of a coiled dragon engulfing a sword, clearly identifying it with fame.
The building stretched over a huge premise, with various armed guards standing at the door. In contrast to usual shopkeepers, the guards carried an aura of discipline, with their Armor gleaming to a sharp finish. It was clear that this merchant house was not an ordinary setup—it was an influential force in itself.
As the door to the carriage creaked open, Orion and Lyra stepped out from carriage. Behind them, their escort guards lined up behind them in perfect line. With so many warriors present, drew the attention from passing merchants and customers, but Orion paid no heed, his eyes set upon the stunning structure ahead.
Lyra, at his side, emitted a soft gasp of wonder. "This place is. incredible," she breathed, her blue eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Orion nodded, his face a blend of amusement and interest. "Iron Fang Armory, eh?" He grumbled to himself. "Let's go."
When they reached the door, two heavy armoured guards standing by the doors immediately block their way, crossing their spears to present a barrier.
"State your purpose before entering with this many guards," one of them said in a firm tone.
The action was abrupt—almost rude. Lyra furrowed her brows, slightly offended, but Orion remained composed. He knew well that establishments like this had strict rules regarding who could enter.
Before he could answer, Commander Black intervened, his presence drew attention of guards. Without any words, he reached into his armour pocket and pulled out a small but exquisitely crafted insignia – the viscount Thorne household seal.
As soon as the guards caught sight of insignia it, their mouths dropped open in surprised.
"T-The Viscount's household?" One of them stuttered, before both at once dropped down on one knee, bowing deeply. Then guard suddenly realize identity of Both young Man and young Girl.
"Our deepest apologies, Young Lord and Young Lady!" one of the guards said, his voice now full of respect and fear. "We did not recognize you. Forgive our insolence!"
Orion gave them a calm look before he shook his head. "It's okay. You were just doing your job."
Lyra, on the other hand, pressed her lips together, seeming to want to said something. But upon hearing Orion's composed reply, she merely huffed and folded her arms in muteness.
One of the guards, who was still on his knees, hastily rose. "Wait here, please, my lord. I will go and tell the owner right away that you are here!" Not giving any chance for a reply, he hurried into the building.
Orion sighed and looked at Lyra, who was still mildly annoyed. "You don't have to be upset," he said with a slight smile.
"I just don't like the way they treated you before," Lyra grumbled, folding her arms. "They need to know their place."
Orion smiled softly. "It's okay, Lyra. I'd rather people speak to me normally than bow continuously."
She pouted a little but remained silent.
Soon enough, the doors of the Iron Fang Armory creaked open again. The guard who had entered earlier returned—this time, with a stunning woman by his side.
She was… gorgeous.
The first thing Orion had seen was her bright crimson hair, falling down her back in heavy waves. Her eyes, a rich ruby colour, sparkled with intelligence and mischief. Her body was nothing short of seductive, her figure silhouetted by the black-and-red robes she wore. The fabric clung to her body beautifully, and the neckline of her clothes down just far enough to show a tempting flash of her cleavage.
She was the personification of seduction.
Her lips curled into a seductive yet elegant smile as she moved towards him. There was a confident air about her movement, a composure that signalled she was use to commanding attention and respect where she go.
"Ah… so you must be Orion Thorne," she said, her voice honey-smooth but imbued with an undeniable thread of playfulness. "And this beautiful young woman next to you must be Lyra Thorne, your sister."
Orion nodded. "That's right."
She put a delicate hand on her chest and bowed slightly. "It is an honour to finally meet you, Young master and young miss. I am Selene Valtor, owner of the Iron Fang Armory."
Lyra narrowed her eyes slightly from side. Something about this woman put her on edge.
Selene straightened, her crimson eyes locking onto Orion with a knowing glint. "The famous dual affinity awakener of Valeria City… and just as the rumours say—" she tilted her head slightly, her smile turning a little more seductive. "—you're quite handsome as well, my lord."
Orion simply responded with a polite smile. "You flatter me, Miss Selene."
Lyra, next to him, furrowed her brow tightly. She disliked the look the woman was giving her brother. And she definitely disliked the way Orion's wasn't reacting to it.
Selene's eyes swivelled ever so briefly Lyra's direction, and then their eyes met.
Something quiet passed between the two.
Selene's grin grew more entrenched, as if amused by Lyra's reaction.
Lyra, meanwhile, experienced an unfamiliar feeling twist inside of her chest. Uncertainty.
Then there was a pause before Selene resumed. "Now then, my lord, may I know the reason for your visit today?"
Orion nodded and replied straightforwardly. "I want to buy a weapon."
Selene's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Ah, so you've arrived at the right place." She pointed towards the enormous building behind her. "Iron Fang Armory contains the largest selection of weapons in Valeria City. From magical swords to highly rare artifacts, we only sell the best product."
She stepped little closer, lowering her volume by just a little. "I promise you; you won't leave disappointed."
Orion nodded. "I am curious to seeing your collection."
Selene laughed. "Then, my lord, allow me to personally guide you to our finest selection."
Orion blinked. "Are you sure? You're the owner. Surely you have more important matter to attend."
Selene let out a light, musical laugh. "Oh, but I do make exceptions for special guests." She winked at him. Orion lite smiled back. "Then, thank you for the privilege, Miss Selene."
Lyra's frown grew deeper.
As Orion and Lyra entered, only Commander Black followed. The rest of the guards remained outside.
Selene walked beside Orion, sometimes accidentally brushing her arm against his as she spoke, her voice silky smooth and interesting.
Lyra walked on the opposite side and could sense the unspoken tension in the air. She didn't know why, but there was something about this woman that made her uncomfortable.
And worse… she didn't like the way easily Orion had accepted her presence.
A mix of jealousy, protectiveness, and something more—something deeper—inflamed in her.
Stepping deeper into the building, Lyra clenched her hand in fists. She wasn't sure why she felt this way.
But one thing was for certain. She didn't like Selene intersion with Orion.