In this world, there are adventurers, knights, mystical races, magic spells, and treasures. But this is not stories about them. This is just a story about a humble man working as a traveling merchant who dream to become rich to support his family. O...
Having never lingered in one place for too long, the thought of dining at various establishments in the capital had seldom crossed my mind. However, a flicker of curiosity remained, even though time constraints often prevented me from indulging in such explorations. As expected of a public facility in the capital, this tavern surpassed even the Master's establishment in Goldkorb. I found myself drawn to this tavern solely due to its convenient proximity to the guild lodge. There was no particular motive beyond that practicality.
The ambiance within mirrored that of Goldkorb, yet the patrons here were most likely fellow merchants like myself. This made it an ideal setting for forging new connections and exchanging news among our ranks. I recognized a few familiar faces, as we had crossed paths during past trade transactions. After exchanging pleasantries with my fellow merchants, I excused myself and settled onto a barstool, promptly ordering a refreshing ale to quench my thirst.
"Good evening, Takahiko," greeted an elegant woman's voice as I settled into my chair at the bar. I turned my gaze towards the source, only to find a red-haired woman with a captivating figure standing beside me. Without hesitation, she embraced my arm, pressing her ample bosom against it, stirring desires within me.
"Good evening, Cordelia.. And uh.."
"What is it, dear Takahiko?"
I felt as if my mind teetered on the edge of losing itself, as her sweet, alluring fragrance enveloped me.
"It's not that I dislike it, but could you please refrain from holding my arm in such a manner?" I spoke my words, determined to maintain my composure and preserve my expression despite the inner turmoil I felt.
A bewitching smile graced her lips as she maintained her grip.
"But I simply don't want to," she continued teasingly, relishing in the playful banter.
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"Why?!" I fought the urge to shout.
"You declined my invitation to my home six months ago", Her voice carried a hint of feigned sadness. Her attempt to pull at my heartstrings was evident.
"..." I observed her closely, my instincts urging caution in the presence of this seductive woman. She possessed a certain power over men, and my inner voice continued to sound the alarm, urging me to remain vigilant.
"Do you understand how difficult it has been for me to wait for your return, Takahiko?" Her expression grew increasingly flustered, as if she refused to accept rejection from me.
Sensing myself becoming ensnared in her alluring rhythm, I swiftly formulated a response. "Let us discuss this matter at a more opportune time. But for now, would you kindly take my order?"
With a sigh of resignation, Cordelia finally relented. "Very well, but promise me," she insisted.
"I promise that we shall have another conversation before I depart from Vermina," I assured her, hoping to appease her for the time being. Carefully and deliberately, I outlined the specific terms of our promise, ensuring that my words could not be misconstrued or manipulated to suit her desires.
Cordelia proceeded to take my order. She was undoubtedly the alluring face of this tavern, serving as its poster girl. It came as no surprise that her presence attracted a multitude of male customers, as was to be expected from a figure fulfilling such a role.
"Seems like she's taken a liking to you, eh?", a middle-aged man beside me suddenly remarked, breaking the silence.
"And I am unsure of the reason behind her interest," I responded, intrigued by the man's observation. Extending my hand in greeting, I introduced myself. "I am Takahiko, a traveling merchant."
He clasped my hand firmly and returned the introduction. "Geoffrey Gemheart, proprietor of the renowned Gemheart store located within the eastern commercial blocks of Vermina." His attire hinted at his merchant status, confirming my initial impression.
