Meeting the Merchant

Vecna, Elysia, and Maribel emerged from the Town Hall, their footsteps echoing through the grand entrance as they made their way down the stone steps. The imposing structure of the Town Hall loomed behind them, a symbol of Summit Crest's governance.

As they descended the steps, the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the cobblestone square. A gentle breeze ruffled Elysia's hair, and she took a deep breath of the crisp mountain air. 

'This breeze reminds me of home. Compared to Silvermoon, this human town isn't that awe inspiring, but it still gives you a peaceful vibe.'

The town was alive with activity, and the bustling sounds of merchants peddling their wares and townsfolk going about their daily routines filled the air.

As she walked alongside Vecna and Maribel, Elysia couldn't shake the longing for her lost homeland. Her purple eyes glistened with unshed tears, hidden behind a veil of stoicism. 

Mr. Norwood, the town's chamberlain, accompanied them, a polite smile on his face. His role in the town's administration was evident in the way he carried himself, with an air of authority and grace.

"Thank you for your assistance, Mr. Norwood," Vecna said, acknowledging the chamberlain's role in facilitating their meeting with Mayor Thornfield.

Norwood nodded with a polite bow. "It was my pleasure to assist you. Mayor Thornfield has high hopes for your aid in our time of need."

"Sir Vecna, Lady Elysia, Miss Maribel," Mr. Norwood began, "we have spare rooms in the mayor's residence, and I can arrange for you to stay there comfortably during your time in Summit's Crest. It would be our pleasure to accommodate you as honored guests."

Vecna considered the offer for a moment, appreciating the town's hospitality. However, he had a different perspective on how to contribute.

"Thank you for your generous offer, Mr. Norwood," Vecna replied with a polite nod. "But I believe it would be more beneficial if we stay at the local inn. By doing so, we can support the local economy and establish a stronger connection with the townsfolk."

Elysia and Maribel both nodded in agreement, supporting Vecna's decision. Elysia's elven heritage made her particularly appreciative of the beauty of Summit Crest and its surroundings. Staying at the inn would allow them to immerse themselves in the town's culture and interact with its people.

Mr. Norwood respected their choice and smiled warmly. "Very well, I understand. If you change your mind or have any other needs, please don't hesitate to contact the mayor's office. We are at your service."

"You people shouldn't worry about me. Simply focus on building up your defenses and make sure to not create a window for the Orcs to strike."

Vecna thanked Mr. Norwood once more, and the chamberlain bid them farewell before turning to head back toward the Town Hall. The trio watched him go, appreciating the warm welcome they had received in Summit Crest.

As Vecna and the others approached the stables, the sight of Huginn, Vecna's faithful black stallion, immediately caught their attention. 

The horse stood tall and imposing in his stall, his ebony coat gleaming in the soft afternoon light. His powerful muscles and regal demeanor made him a striking presence in the otherwise rustic stable.

However, there was something unusual about Huginn's demeanor today. His ears were pinned back, and his tail flicked impatiently. His nostrils flared as if in annoyance, and he pawed at the ground restlessly with one hoof.

Vecna approached his steed, a sense of concern washing over him. "What's gotten into you, Huginn?" he muttered, patting the horse's neck.

Huginn responded by tossing his head, a clear display of his irritation. His obsidian eyes fixated on something that had clearly riled him. As Vecna examined the source of Huginn's annoyance, he noticed an envelope wedged securely on the straps of the saddle.

'Hoh? Someone skilled enough to dodge Huginn's kick?'

It was then that Vecna realized the cause of Huginn's displeasure. Someone had invaded the horse's space and stuck the envelope there without his consent. The stallion snorted and stomped his hoof in frustration, clearly feeling violated.

Vecna carefully retrieved the envelope from the saddle, his curiosity piqued. 

'I guess, this one should be from the Merchant. I know this type of troope far too well. He's approaching me, thinking that he is the Boss of this Town and me, an 'lowly' adventurer should only care about money.'

'Half-half. I do care about money, but I'm not a slut to sell my body.' 

'If this guy sounds like a moron, I might dispatch him sooner than later. While I'm going to Saudi, I doubt I'll be able to connect inside Satisfy.'

He couldn't help but share in Huginn's annoyance at the audacity of the intruder. Opening the envelope, he discovered a letter inside, and the sender's name immediately caught his attention: Davian Vinespine.

The letter that Vecna unfolded and began to read was written with an air of confident authority, reflecting Davian Vinespine's true personality.

Vecna began to read the letter, the words on the page hinting at the merchant's desire to acquire Vecna's services. It seemed that Davian was willing to go to great lengths to arrange a meeting and discuss the matter further.

『To the Esteemed Adventurer,

I trust this letter finds you in the best of health and spirits. Allow me to begin by expressing my admiration for your remarkable exploits in Summit's Crest. Your reputation as an individual of exceptional talents and capabilities has not gone unnoticed, and I find myself intrigued by the potential that lies within your abilities.

In a town where power and influence often reign supreme, it is my belief that individuals such as yourself possess the capacity to shape the destiny of Summit's Crest. I have heard of your recent endeavors, your involvement in the matters concerning the Goblin Tribes and Orc threats, and I must say, I am impressed. It is clear that you have the potential to be a pivotal figure in the future of the Guild Hall.

It is in light of this recognition that I extend to you an offer, one that I believe can be mutually beneficial. I propose a meeting between us, a chance for us to discuss your role in the grander scheme of Summit's Crest. Your unique skills and perspective could be an invaluable asset to someone in my position.

Rest assured, I do not make this offer lightly. My reputation as a merchant of influence is well-earned, and I do not waste my time on endeavors that do not hold promise. Should you choose to entertain this meeting, you will find that I am a man of my word, and I am willing to offer substantial compensation for your services.

Summit's Crest is a town on the precipice of change, and I believe you have the potential to play a pivotal role in its future. Your decision will, of course, be entirely your own, and I respect your autonomy in this matter. However, I urge you to consider the possibilities that await us if we were to join forces.

I have taken the liberty of arranging a discreet meeting location should you be willing to entertain this proposal. A messenger will deliver the details to you shortly. I hope that you will give my offer the consideration it deserves.

In closing, I extend my hand in friendship and collaboration, Mr. Adventurer. The future of Summit's Crest could be shaped by individuals of our caliber, and I believe that together, we can achieve great things.

Yours in anticipation,

Davian Vinespine』

'Huhuhu, that's quite brazen if you ask me. He actually extended me an olive branch.'

Huginn snorted again, as if expressing his disdain for the merchant. Vecna couldn't help but agree with his steed's sentiment. The audacity of Davian Vinespine to approach Huginn in such a manner was truly irritating.

'What should I do? Give him a chance to see what he has to say? Maybe I will make use of this individual.'

Vecna sighed on the outside, realizing that he couldn't ignore this offer. Davian Vinespine was known to be an influential figure in Summit's Crest, and his connections and resources could be valuable. 

Turning his attention back to Huginn, Vecna patted the horse's neck soothingly. "I share your annoyance, my friend. Let's see what this meeting with Davian Vinespine entails. For now, let's make our way to the inn and rest. We have much to discuss."

With a final snort of displeasure, Huginn seemed to reluctantly accept this decision. Vecna led his steed out of the stables and towards the inn, the envelope from Davian Vinespine clutched in his hand, before being sent into his Inventory Bag.

Vecna, Elysia, and Maribel left the stable behind, Huginn's irritation still palpable in the air. They made their way through the town's winding streets, the cobblestone paths illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns that had been lit as dusk settled over Summit's Crest.

The trio's horses galloping echoed through the quiet streets, occasionally accompanied by the laughter of children playing nearby. As they walked, Vecna couldn't help but observe the townsfolk going about their evening routines.

Elysia's thoughts were elsewhere. The familiarity of Summit's Crest had stirred memories of her homeland.

She gazed up at the buildings, their wooden facades adorned with colorful banners and flowerboxes. The town may not have matched the majesty of Silvermoon, but it had its own charm, a sign to the resilience and spirit of its inhabitants.

Vecna, too, was lost in thought for a moment, before letting this matter be settled later after getting to an Inn.

'Why am I even worrying? Maribel is higher in level than this whole region, I'm sure she has a lot of tricks under her sleeves that she isn't willing to show.'

'Her Support Spell is enough to give a hint that she has something broken up there, hidden.'

'So, their safety isn't even a question. Meanwhile, I'm an Immortal Vampire, if that Merchant thinks he can kill me easily, he is miserable wrong.'

Maribel, always perceptive, sensed the somber atmosphere and decided to break the silence. "So, what do you make of that offer, Vecna?"

Vecna considered his response carefully. "Honest with you. It's intriguing, to say the least. If not, I'm wondering what is in the mind of that man asking the one who was about to make his way into his home and slay him?'

"Still, there are too many unknowns. I can't afford to make a hasty decision."

Elysia, her thoughts returning to the present, nodded in agreement. "I agree. We should proceed cautiously. This Davian Vinespine's motives are unclear, and we need more information."

With that settled, they made their way to the inn, the warm light spilling from its windows inviting them inside. 

The inn's interior was cozy and inviting, with a warm hearth crackling in the corner and the pleasant aroma of cooked meals wafting through the air. It was a place that offered solace to travelers and townsfolk alike.

Vecna approached the innkeeper, a stout and friendly woman with a welcoming smile. "Good evening. We'd like a room for the night, please."

The innkeeper nodded, her eyes flicking curiously to Vecna's unusual appearance, but she didn't comment. "Of course, sir. How many beds will you be needing?"

"Two," Vecna replied, motioning to Elysia and Maribel beside him.

With their room arranged, the three of them settled at a wooden table near the window. They perused the menu and placed their orders for dinner. 

The meal was hearty and satisfying, and they enjoyed it in relative quiet, occasionally exchanging words and glances that spoke of their growing camaraderie.

As the evening wore on, they made their way to their room for the night. Elysia and Maribel settled in, preparing to rest and recover from the day's events. Vecna, on the other hand, found himself torn between the world of Satisfy and the real world.

His next choice wouldn't be accountable by his calculations since he had no idea what the opposite party had in their mind. 

'I can't help it. Tomorrow I'll have to travel to NEOM, and like this 3 days inside Satisfy are shaved. I should be able to log inside Satisfy maybe after I settle mom in the Clinic.'

Sitting on a couch that was customary to be inside in each room of Saharan Empire houses, he contemplated the letter from Davian Vinespine. 

The potential rewards were enticing, but the risks were equally daunting. He knew that a week away from the Satisfy Realm could have consequences, both in terms of his personal progress and the fate of Summit's Crest.

After much deliberation, he made his decision. He couldn't ignore the offer. With a determined resolve, he prepared to leave the inn room.

'I'm not risking much in hindsight. Also, I want to see this person face to face to have a better understanding of his persona.'

Elysia and Maribel, sensing his restlessness, looked at him with concern.

"Vecna, where are you going?" Elysia asked, her voice filled with worry.

'Right… I haven't told them much about what it entails to be an "Cursed" individual. They might be aware of certain aspects, but not to the point they understand about the real world.'

'This reminds me about the question. 'Are we living in a simulation?' The girls certainly do… What about me?'

Faced with Elysia's question, and watching her worried face, he turned around and stood before Elysia and Maribel, his demeanor serious yet filled with an underlying warmth. The room was bathed in the soft glow of candlelight, casting dancing shadows on the walls. 

"I have some important matters to attend to in my own world," Vecna began, his gaze alternating between the two girls. "I'll be away for about a week. During that time, I need both of you to be vigilant, especially when it comes to Davian Vinespine."

Elysia's brows furrowed with concern. "But Vecna, what if something happens to you? What if you don't return?"

Vecna reached out and gently cupped Elysia's cheek, his thumb brushing against her soft skin. "Elysia, I promise I'll return. You have my word."

His tone was reassuring, but he couldn't help but tease her a little to lighten the mood. "Besides, you're an Elf. Time passes similarly for me. One week will feel like only a couple of days for you. That applies to you too, Maribel."

Maribel managed a faint smile, though her worry still lingered in the corners of her green eyes. "Just promise us you'll be careful, Vecna. We'll hold down the fort here in Summit's Crest."

There was a mix of feelings and thoughts inside Maribel's soul, as she got herself ensnared by this charming youngster that was so considerate of both girls' feelings.

Vecna nodded, his gaze sincere. "That's reassuring, Maribel. You both take care as well. If the Orcs make any moves, remember our plan to offer support to Summit's Crest. But if it proves too dangerous for you, abandon the mission."

With their worries momentarily eased, Vecna didn't prolong the farewell. 

He turned toward the window, a faint smile playing on his lips. With a display of his vampiric agility and nature, he gracefully ascended to the window sill. Before stepping out, he cast one last glance at Elysia and Maribel.

"You better not freak out when you wake up and don't spot me on my couch, reading," he quipped with a wink, his voice filled with playful humor.

And with that, Vecna vanished from the room, leaving behind only the rustling curtains and the lingering sense of his presence.

The town had taken on a different atmosphere under the cover of night, with torchlight casting long, flickering shadows that danced upon the cobblestone streets.

Vecna moved like a phantom through the town, his movements so swift that they appeared as little more than a blur to anyone who happened to catch a glimpse. 

The cloak he wore billowed behind him, and his steps were as silent as a wisp of smoke. As he navigated the winding alleys and narrow pathways, he occasionally encountered drunken townsfolk stumbling out of taverns and alehouses.

With a mere flicker of his vampiric agility, Vecna would dart past them at such incredible speed that the inebriated individuals were left bewildered. 

Some, caught in the sudden gust of wind created by his passage, found themselves toppling over and tumbling unceremoniously into open sewers or water troughs. Laughter and curses would follow in his wake, but Vecna paid them no heed.

"Did you see that?" one man exclaimed, his ale sloshing out of his tankard as he pointed at the blur that had just passed by.

"It was like a ghost!" another added, rubbing his eyes in disbelief.

The sudden gust of wind created by Vecna's passage sent some of the inebriated individuals stumbling. They found themselves toppling over or slipping on the wet cobblestones.

"Oi! What just happened?" a woman cried out as she landed in an open sewer.

Laughter and curses erupted in the wake of Vecna's passage. Some of the townsfolk picked themselves up, shaking their heads in amazement.

"Never seen anything like it!"

"Must be a trick of the ale."

Vecna paid no heed to the commotion he left behind, his crimson eyes focused on his destination—the mansion of Davian Vinespine. He had a meeting to attend, and there was no time for distractions.

His journey took him deeper into the heart of Summit's Crest, the imposing walls of Davian Vinespine's mansion drawing nearer with each graceful stride. 

'Why bother sending me to different locations? Scared that I would harm you? That's not like a villain.'

'Villains like us need to be calculative in each of our steps.'

The opulent estate stood as a testament to Davian's wealth and ambition, a stark contrast to the modest surroundings of the rest of the town.

With a final, fluid leap, Vecna cleared the mansion's gates and landed gracefully within its grand courtyard. 

As he phased into the dimly lit office within the mansion, Vecna's tall, imposing figure appeared like a specter, causing Davian Vinespine to startle and almost drop the parchment he had been scribbling on.

[Davian Vinespine - LV. 180](Silver-Gold)

"Do I take you weren't prepared for any visits? Then, here you have my apology for intruding, sir Davian Vinespine."