Chapter 550
And now this bastard’s starting, too.
Ian let out a silent snort. In truth, Thesaya had also started showing interest in Yog ever since she learned that it wasn't the Swamp's Resentment she had known, but a fragment of an unknown ancient god. The one who had told her that was, of course, Lucia, a few days ago.
At last, Jamal said, "I cannot deny your words."
His eyes had grown keen, filled with the workings of reason, calculation upon calculation. "Perhaps it would be a better choice to turn around right now and head straight for Tahena."
Stroking his chin, which was as smooth as his head, he continued as if to himself, "Even if we were to return to the mainland, it would likely take a long time to come back down to the South. But... hmm."
Though he wasn't particularly curious, Ian immediately understood the reason for his hesitation. There were other merchants traveling with him. The deal with Erenos was solely for the Lighthouse Trading Company; if he were to turn around and leave his companions behind, his reputation would plummet. It was also clear that he would lose the most important virtue of a merchant: trust.
Of course, that wasn’t Ian’s problem to solve.
"May I tell the other merchants outside about the situation of the inner sea that I have heard in this place?" Jamal asked cautiously after a moment.
As Ian glanced at him, he quickly added, "Of course, I plan to tell them that the Elder of Erenos has received a message from His Excellency the Duke. I will take special care to ensure that your identity is not revealed."
"Well, if that’s the case..." Reluctantly nodding, Ian looked back at Thesaya. As long as she agreed, it didn't matter to him. In fact, it was more convenient for him to part ways with the merchants here.
"You may convey my proposal as well," Thesaya said suggestively then. "The condition is that I purchase them at cost, and the Lighthouse Trading Company must broker the deal. And you will be the only one who can cross the family gates."
Her tone was as if she were doing him a great favor. She likely thought so herself. In any case, she had just given Jamal a choice.