UTOPIA [2021]

[ 5 ]

Blinking confusingly at the person presented in front of you, your brain seemed to have yet come to terms at the sudden event. The person — and his crew was supposed to arrive in three days but was now standing in front of you, even so triumphantly?

Guessing that your expressions have made him laugh, you presumed that he was having a little too much fun despite his rude actions.

I mean who wouldn't be annoyed by an unexpected guest who came on short notice and appeared days before the initial expected date? Especially if that person acts as an envoy between the two nations, as well as his own business.

Regardless, despite the major annoyance that was ticking you off, you continued to wait for the commotion to go down.

With the newly arrived guest, the palace seemed to have been lit with a new fire. From the great halls to even the tightest crevices, everyone is curious of the person's purpose of returning, especially when they have such an intimate relationship with you.

Though, you would like to admit that 'intimate' was a little too exaggerated and over the top.

Anyways, as expected, after sensing your unusual yet eerie silence, people began to quiet down, knowing to not piss get on your nerves and piss you off.

After everyone has calmed down and put their attention on him, the Merchant formally greeted you, the ruler.

" Greetings to the Emperor/Empress of Corea."

His smooth yet experienced way of taking was unmistakingly one of the reasons why you're so intrigued with him. Everyone knows that merchants are those who make a living by haggling the best price of a product using their mouth and skill. The Merchant, in some ways resembles that stereotype, however, he is also much more.

The way that he presents himself is full of confidence, making people think of him as more of a businessman rather than a lowly and sly stealer of the streets. There is this elegant yet comforting feeling whenever the Merchant open his mouth to speak, thus gaining your interest and soon after, friendship.

" Merchant of the South," you looked down nochantly at his folded form, " it has been a while."

Gracefully brushing your hands, you motioned him to stand up.

Standing up proudly, you could tell how much the Merchant values his own self just by the confidence that is radiating off him.

Grinning at your greeting, he gracefully replied, " Indeed, your majesty. The months that I've spent here in the capital went by abnormally fast that when the final date arrived, I could no longer believe it myself."

Smirking at his flattery response, you had to make sure that he knows that you are willing to join the game. After all, it does take two to tango right?

" The feelings are mutual," you said, leaning against the throne to showcase your dominance, " Since you've arrived in such short notice, is there a particular reason that I had yet been aware of?"

Contradicting to you wanting to follow the flow, you knew that there were more important things to talk about now. Also, you guys both have plenty of time to tease and flirt with each other so there is no worries on that part there.

Instead cowering in fear at at your sudden harsh question, the Merchant only looked at you. You also may or may not have detected a small smirk that was imprinted on his face.

Cheeky minx, he must have known that I wouldn't be able to do anything to him.

— for many reasons of course.