A Deal

Behind him, the players started talking nonsense again.

"This is going to be good!" one player whispered to his friend.

"That summoner's about to learn what happens when you mess with the wrong people," another said, grinning ear to ear.

Arthur stopped in his tracks, slowly turning to face the level 4 player who had begun walking toward him.

His eyes locked with the man's, his expression unreadable. "Something I can help you with?" he asked, his tone calm.

The air seemed to slightly crackle as the two stared each other down.

The man stood directly in front of Arthur with a composed look, but his cautious gaze betrayed his wariness of Arthur.

Beside him, the smug player had a smirk, clearly enjoying himself.

"My name is John," the man said, his voice calm. "May I know yours?"

Arthur tilted his head slightly, evaluating the man before replying, "Fateless."