Chapter 12
766words
"Of course! They say he moves like a ghost—his power unfathomable. Single-handedly took down dozens of bandits!"
"That's not all! He guards a secret trade route—anyone with ill intent faces his 'judgment'! Dorn Trading Company was first to benefit—their business is booming there now!"
In Dragon's Gullet, Aruba's largest tavern, mercenaries and merchants eagerly discussed this mysterious figure.
Within days, the Shadow Arbiter legend had spread throughout Aruba. Some claimed he was a reclusive master, others said he represented a secret organization, while some whispered he might be a human resistance hero.
Countless embellishments enhanced the growing legend.
Meanwhile, I sat in an inconspicuous corner of the tavern's second floor, hooded to conceal my face, enjoying Aruba's specialty Flame Beer while savoring these tales about myself.
"The effect exceeds expectations," I thought with satisfaction. "Kanon and Emily have been busy behind the scenes."
I'd come today because of Kanon's urgent message.
Though our "Golden Road" was established, it had attracted "sharks." She needed me to appear as the Shadow Arbiter to intimidate some troublemakers.
"Knock, knock, knock."
Someone rapped on the private room door.
"Enter."
The visitor surprised me.
Neither Kanon nor Emily, but a voluptuous cat-woman with cascading red hair. Her boldly cut leather armor accentuated her flawless figure. A lazy, seductive smile played on her lips, while fluffy ears and a swaying tail added wild charm.
"Pleased to meet you, Arbiter," she casually took a seat across from me, poured herself a drink, and downed it in one go. "I'm Red Tail, information broker from Aruba's black market."
"Information broker? Like Kanon?"
I remained silent, watching her while projecting cold aloofness.
Red Tail seemed unfazed by my demeanor. She licked her lips and continued: "Your reputation has spread like wildfire, sir. I've come to propose a mutually beneficial arrangement."
"Speak." I uttered a single word, my voice magically altered to sound deep and raspy.
"Simple." Red Tail slid a scroll toward me. "Our black market can provide comprehensive intelligence for your trade route—early warnings, route planning, even dirt on competitors. In exchange, we request ten percent of your 'Golden Road' profits."
I laughed inwardly.
"Coming for a slice of the pie already. Starting at ten percent—quite ambitious."
I ignored the scroll, merely swirling my wine glass contemplatively.
"I have one rule," I began slowly. "Protect this road. Nothing more."
My meaning was clear: zero interest in her "deal."
Red Tail's expression shifted slightly. She hadn't expected such immediate rejection. Clearly, she'd thought her organization's reputation and personal charm would at least pique my interest.
"Won't you reconsider?" She emphasized her tone. "Aruba's waters run deeper than you imagine. Without our black market's protection, 'minnows' like Dorn Trading Company will soon be devoured."
A thinly veiled threat.
"Is that so?"
I set down my glass and leaned forward slightly.
Pure, overwhelming killing intent—like a tangible glacier—instantly filled the room!
Red Tail's smile froze as genuine fear flashed in her eyes. The air seemed to solidify into blades, each breath like swallowing glass. Cold sweat beaded on her temples, soaking through her tight leather armor as she trembled uncontrollably.
She had no doubt I could end her life instantly.
"You threaten me?" My voice carried zero emotion. "You are the first. You will be the last."
"I—I didn't—I just—" Red Tail stammered, composure shattered.
Just as tension peaked, another knock sounded.
"Well, Sister Red Tail, here you are! You're hard to track down."
Kanon pushed open the door with a grin, munching candied hawthorns. Seeing the atmosphere, she blinked in feigned surprise. "Oh my, did I interrupt something?"
At her entrance, I immediately withdrew my killing intent.
Red Tail gasped for breath like a drowning person finding air, staring at Kanon with shock and confusion.
"They know each other?"
"Since you have company, I'll take my leave," I stood, adjusted my hood, and moved to exit. "Remember my words. There won't be a second warning."
As I passed Red Tail, I whispered for her ears alone:
"Keep your tail in check. Don't let my people discover anything they shouldn't."
I vanished through the doorway.
In the private room, Red Tail remained frozen, face ashen.
Meanwhile, Kanon sat down smiling, taking another bite of candy. "Told you the Arbiter has a temper, Sister Red Tail. Believe me now?"
Red Tail stared at the seemingly innocent girl, genuine apprehension in her eyes.
She realized she'd kicked a steel plate.
And this little girl called Kanon was far more dangerous than she'd imagined.
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