Values of Strength

While there are much easier ways to get the information that I needed out of the Lizardmen, I should start building a good reputation with their kind. Doing so would make things far less difficult for me in the future, as I know things that I should not have known yet.

This is the same with other races I will come across, not to mention it is far more profitable remaining completely neutral. But of course, there are different kind of reputations. It all depends on the race.

"The Hive is very strong – gahk!"

An enormous Magical and Spiritual pressure slams the Leader straight down into the ground, breaking several of his ribs in the process. The rest of the Lizardmen flinch, as they can sense an incredible aura radiating from me.

Feeling such overwhelmingly aura exerting against his body, the Leader quickly changes his mind and gives in to my demand, and from that alone, I know how strong the leadership of the Hive is. It is very likely that not even the Queen or her Royal Guards can wield their aura in such a way.

But that does not mean they are weaker than the current me. It is only my knowledge, understanding, and comprehension are greater than theirs, as there are ways to appear far more powerful than I am.

It is all in the illusion.

From the description given by the Lizardmen, I have a good idea of where the Hive is located. It appears that my mother is heading there at the moment, at least from where the pendant is pointing.

I ask a few more questions before producing Calling Cards. A customer is a customer no matter where they had come from. "I can be contracted through these magic items. The instructions are on the back, and if you cannot read it, one of those others should be able to."

The others are the transformed monsters.

After handling the Calling Cards over, I continue. "Is there a specialized craftsman amongst you? I need a Weaponsmith and Armorsmith, but a Blacksmith is good enough."

Blacksmith is a jack of all trade. As such, it is better to have Weaponsmiths forge weapons for me. But finding one is quite difficult as their class are rarer than that of a Blacksmith.

The Lizardmen look at each other for guidance, and I sigh in response. "I will pay for their services, and the price is negotiable."

"We only have your words, Master Merchant," the leader points out. He is having difficulty breathing due to the cracked ribs, but he should be fine with a day rest or two. Less if he is at a high level. Sadly, I cannot see his level due to my current level.

"You have my words," I emphasis firmly.

Monster such as Lizardmen and the likes value strength, and strength can come from anywhere, even in my words and my dispositions. Therefore, I must hold my ground no matter what. But that mightn't be enough, so it is good thing that my Charismatic Aura helps out greatly.

The leader eventually nods. "As long as the price is negotiable, Master Merchant. But I cannot decide myself. Only the Chieftain can."

"Of course, feel free to relay what I am offering to your Chieftain," I response with a devilish smile.