V1C 9: The Deal.
631 Words
Under the glow of the Golden Lion, nearly everyone else seems to fade into obscurity.
It's not just his sun-like appearance, his distinguished background, or his formidable strength, but his royal demeanor, gentle and transformative, that captures hearts.
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Behind Orphelock, the black flames burn silently, undimmed even by the Golden Lion's radiance.
The face within the flames, beautiful yet aloof, dares anyone to look directly yet etches itself into their hearts.
The misfits steal glances, quickly looking away as if the black flames sear their eyes.
The dark mage's robe cannot hide his elegance; his straight legs, full hips, slender waist, and dramatically curved chest constantly draw eyes, turning men into beasts.
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Rog, Lens, Franko, and Ate sit uneasily, surprised by the Golden Lion's sudden visit.
They fumble to welcome Orphelock, offering the finest refreshments.
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Sipping tea, the Golden Lion moves flawlessly.
His guard, Richard, spills a bag of colorful gems on the table, announcing Orphelock's intent to discuss a partnership.
"These gems are worth about 50,000 gold coins, consider it my down payment. “
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Rog, tearing his gaze from the gems, nervously responds, "If it's something you can't handle, we doubt we can either.
" Lens covers Rog's mouth, "Ignore him.
Whatever you need, just command us.
I, Lens, am ready to face any challenge!" His eyes, however, remain fixed on Elysees.
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Orphelock, amused at their boldness, notices their stares at Elysees.
"Ignorance truly is bliss," he thinks, sensing the growing hostility behind him.
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"There are conditions to my partnership," Orphelock continues, unveiling a map with a marked abandoned castle in his territory, now overrun by thieves.
"It's 415 miles southwest of Falburg, near the Demon Forest.
Despite its unimportance, nearby towns and villages mean I cannot abandon my people there.
I need you to retake it.
The 50,000 gold coins in jewels are your starting funds.
How you accomplish this, whether alone or with a heavy cavalry troop, is up to you.
You have six months. “
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"If you succeed," Orphelock promises, "I'll persuade my father to grant you that land.
You'll become nobles with your own territory.
Plus, I'll invest 100,000 gold coins in the Hammer of War, claiming half its profits. “
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The offer excites them, and they crowd around the map, though understanding little.
Orphelock watches, his guard visibly disdainful.
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Ate finally asks, "How can we, without a single soldier, defeat a band of thieves?" Elysees responds coldly, "Only now you ask for intelligence?".
Orphelock answers calmly, "The thieves are actually a detachment of the Ice Fox mercenary band from the Ronn Kingdom, around 500 strong. “
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Rog ponders, "Such foes seem beneath the Golden Lion.
Couldn't you intimidate them alone?".
Orphelock smiles, "Consider it a test.
If you pass, Bavaria could use more loyal and capable men. “
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The room's temperature drops as they contemplate the challenge.
Lens solemnly adds, "With Bavaria's military might, dealing with us would be easy.
We're humble in our ambitions, content with simple pleasures. “
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Orphelock appreciates their spirit, noting their potential and the success of the Hammer of War.
He hints at life's fleeting nature, suggesting seizing this opportunity for glory.
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Motivated, they agree to the challenge, despite its dangers.
Rog, even blinded by Orphelock's brilliance, commits, followed by others, jesting about sharing the bounty.
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As they plan to raise a force, Elysees's cold gaze paralyzes them, demonstrating their powerlessness against her.
She leaves, her departure as ominous as her silence.
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Regaining composure, they reflect on the daunting task ahead, buoyed by the prospect of nobility and wealth.
Despite doubts about their capabilities, the allure of adventure and the chance to rise in status drive them forward, setting the stage for their perilous journey.
- Writer
