****(POV)

Yesterday something big happened.

There was a duel between two rankers with one dying.

Then later came another one making the previous victor run for his life.

Well, he flew.

On a sword at that.

At that point, we remained on the site to discuss the events.

It's not every day that we have this chance.

That was a mistake.

A horrible one.

Came a lunatic.

One that was bold enough to challenge the Moon Keep.

Publicly at that.

Something no one ever dares to.

Maybe he was a complete idiot that could endanger us by coming close.

Maybe he was a powerhouse that we shouldn't mess with.

We all realized that we couldn't afford to offend such a madman.

He started asking questions.

The guy in front answered to the best of his abilities.

Then came the strange part.

He started advertising a bakery.

Even offering us discounts.

He wouldn't accept our refusal either and kept insisting.

When he said that he'd remember our faces, we all understood.

It was a threat.

Should we try and run, he would come after us.

He probably wanted us to keep our mouth shut.

About the whole public challenge thing.

That night was restless for me.

Then when morning came, I kissed my wife and daughter goodbye.

Knowing I might never see them ever again.

Right now I am walking.

I wish the city system would keep me safe.

I know it's not infallible.

I've heard the rumors.

People here die all the time.

Especially recently.

The crime investigation squad has been seen roaming around a lot.

As I make my way there, I can hear a commotion.

I attentively listen to some passerby's conversation.

The biggest slaver's house has had a breach.

All the slaves escaping and now hiding.

As I was saying, the times are crazy.

That crazy baker, this, and also the church of Gluto making a move.

Ah, there are also rumors of a legendary sword getting auctioned.

I'd bet this will somehow end up in bloodshed.

I am a small-time merchant.

Monitoring the situation is in my habits.

Still, I can just hope for the better.

I am in no position to change anything to it.

I could always leave the city.

Except, if the interior is already that chaotic outside will be worse.

Finally, I reach my destination.

A small bakery where people are crowding.

In front is a golden magnificent-looking door.

A work of beauty.

One that a kid is in the process of painting brown.

What a waste!

Then again, a lavish style doesn't fit with the rustic building.

As I enter, I can't help but observe my surroundings.

So far everything seems relatively normal.

There are many customers, a wolf sleeping on the side and...

Sitting at a small table two people enjoying tea.

One of them should be the old man that owns this place.

The other I have seen before.

He is someone from city hall.

What the hell is someone like him doing in such a small shop?!

"Hello there, how can I help you?!"

Comes a clear voice.

A young lady working as an assistant here.

Then I recognize her face.

Oh god.

This one is no commoner.

She hails from a powerful family.

One that specializes in the trade of magical gems.

They own many mines and supply the city directly.

People that merchants like me know not to anger.

At all costs.

Yet here she is helping customers.

"I-I came to buy some pie. I have a discount from watching the duel."

"How many?"

Is this a trick question? What should I …

"How about one to start with?"

"T-that I'll take three!"

Better be safe.

Now what?

Where is the crazy guy?

Will he make me do an oath?

Will he…

"Here you go! It will be 30 coppers!"

Wait, isn't that the usual price?

As I thought there is a hidden meaning behind this.

I quickly hand the coins over and grab the food.

I want to leave as soon as possible and …

*THUD*

Before I know it the small wolf trips me.

The animal is giving a slight smile.

Even the pet is a bully!

Fine whatever I'll just leave.

As I pass by the door, I notice something.

The kid is painting the bottom part now.

There is an emblem there.

One I recognize.

That one slaving business.

The one that got attacked.

What is one of their door doing here?!

No, I think I know.

Is there anything he doesn't dare to do?!

Yep, it's decided I am never coming back here.

Too much of a madman for me.

I hurry up home.

For once I decide to take a shortcut.

I head to an alley.

Not the shady kind.

Nearby are many 2 floor houses.

This place is well off.

I quickly progress until…

*OUCH*

I stop in place.

A sudden surge of pain coursing through my leg.

The one that that beast targeted.

I can't believe that….

*COLLAPSE*

*CRASH*

Right in front, an entire house goes down.

Debris getting launched everywhere.

One passing right in front of my nose.

Exactly where my head would have been...

If I kept walking that is.

I see the projectile hit a wall with extreme velocity.

*BANG*

I would have died for sure!

Wait, don't tell me!

I stopped because of the pain.

I stopped because of the wolf.

Is it only a coincidence?

Somehow, I doubt it.

There is something surreal about all this.

If this was all voluntary…

It would be insane.

This is one hell of a discount.

Is it because I bought the pies that I got the warning?

I am still alive.

No matter what, I am staying home from now on.

The city is becoming way too tumultuous for me.

I get the feeling there are secret alliances forming.

From what I've seen.

The city itself is starting a cleanup.

Hence why that guy was in that shop.

Chances are anyone that doesn't conform to their ideals will get wiped out.

This is probably what happened to the slave traders.

They were probably becoming arrogant.

After all who wouldn't be considering their backing outside the city.

Still, when giants fight the ants are the first ones getting crushed.

I need to stay out of it for sure.