Chapter 22 - 21: A Threat ?
Kael finished his business and returned to the inn. Although he still had many canned goods that he hadn’t managed to sell yet, he left quickly before the market closed. He suspected that some kind of accident might befall him later—trouble often followed success. After all, a profitable first day usually attracted jealous eyes.
So, he came back without taking any risks.
The tavern was nearly empty now. Most people were still out finishing their daily business. However, Kael spotted Alenia clearing tables.
"You came back early," she remarked, her tone somewhere between amusement and curiosity. "So? How was your first day as a merchant?"
"I sold my stuff faster than I thought I would, and I made a lot more profit than I needed. It seems I’ve made a few new enemies along with the profit."
She chuckled and set the glass down. "That’s nothing new. Business breeds envy faster than a noble’s scandal. I’m just surprised you managed it on your very first day."
Kael gave a wry smile. "I’m not afraid of it. Anyone afraid of making enemies shouldn’t be in business. My products were revolutionary—people swarmed to my stall."
Alenia paused, then nodded thoughtfully. "If people are starting to envy you, it means you’re taking more than you’re giving. That’s how power shifts begin."
"Yes, but in my opinion, those alchemists and blacksmiths have been doing business here for a long time. Their influence in this city is much greater than mine. I’m afraid they may secretly plot against me... or do me some harm."
She leaned against the bar. "You’re not wrong. We call it the Market Ring. It’s not official, but most long-standing merchants are part of it. They set prices, block outsiders, and even pressure the guilds to favor them."
A cartel, huh. I knew it. These bastards are basically medieval Walmart with knives instead of lawyers.