Saintess? Not Anymore! I'd Rather be a Destroyer-Chapter 126 - 112: Orc Express 5
Amidst the vibrant buzz of the market, a man’s excitement filled the air. "I can’t wait to get my hands on their perfumes!" he beamed, his anticipation palpable.
As the market buzzed with contrasting reactions, the atmosphere remained charged with both anticipation and tension. Suddenly, a commanding voice cut through the air, demanding everyone’s attention. All eyes turned to a striking figure—a tall orc woman with spiky black hair and captivating red eyes—as she emerged from one of the long carriages. 𝘧𝓇ℯ𝑒𝓌𝑒𝑏𝓃𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭.𝒸ℴ𝓂
"Attention, everyone!" the goblin host declared with a voice that resonated like a powerful loudspeaker, ensuring his words reached every corner of the market. "Allow me to introduce the esteemed manager of the Orc Express, Helua."
The crowd fell silent, their attention focused on Helua. A hushed murmur rippled through the gathering, a mix of curiosity and intrigue at what she was about to announce.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Helua began, her voice carrying an air of authority and confidence, "as you are all aware, we have always provided a platform for the trade of non-human slaves. Today, we are pleased to announce that we are offering a generous sum of 50 gold coins for every slave you bring to us."
Helua’s words reverberated through the market, stirring up a whirlwind of diverse reactions among the crowd. Uncertainty hung in the air as people exchanged glances, trying to decipher their own emotions in response to the proposition. Some wore expressions of skepticism, not entirely convinced by the offer’s implications. On the other hand, a buzz of excitement permeated the atmosphere as groups huddled together, their animated whispers filled with anticipation.
"Can you believe the price they’re offering? I could probably buy a slave for even less!" chuckled a man with a mischievous grin, his eyes gleaming with cunning.
"I’m going to make a fortune today! Time to get rid of those useless slaves!" cackled a woman, her laughter filled with a mix of greed and delight as she twirled around in a small dance.
Helua observed the varying reactions, her expression growing more solemn. She tightly clenched her fists, taking a deep breath to regain her composure before speaking again.
"But let’s not forget," she continued, her voice steady and firm, "the condition of the slaves will greatly impact their value. The worse their condition, the lower the price they’ll fetch. For the next four hours, we’re offering a premium rate of 100 gold coins for every slave you bring. After that time period, the deal will expire, and the normal price of 50 gold coins will apply."
As the announcement of the slave purchase sent ripples through the market, a flurry of activity ensued. People’s minds raced with ideas and plans on how to seize this opportunity and potentially amass wealth. In a split second, about half of the crowd dashed off, eager to find slaves to sell and capitalize on the offer.
Meanwhile, another group hurried towards the stalls set up by the orc and goblin vendors, curious to explore their unique wares and services.
Aurianna, observing the commotion with a cold smile, pondered the situation. "So, they’re in the business of buying slaves," she mused, recognizing the potential profitability of such a venture. ’Their main goal is probably to acquire orc and goblin slaves. It’s a clever strategy indeed. I wonder if they’re in cahoots with Vatium in this timeline like they were in the past,’ Aurianna speculated, her thoughts drifting towards her enigmatic brother.
’Ah, that annoying brother of mine. I wonder how he is doing these days. He doesn’t even bother to send letters to his dear sister. Also i remember hearing Eva say Vatium remebers the past timeline. I wonder what he’ll do to change his fate in this time,’ Aurianna though with a grin.
"But for now, let me simply enjoy myself," Aurianna muttered to herself, embracing the excitement that enveloped the market.
Intrigued by the new expansion managed by the workers of the Orc Express, she decided to follow the enthusiastic crowd, into the new expansion of the market managed by the workers of the Orc Express.
Aurianna’s eyes scanned the bustling market, taking in the sight of knights in pink armor and the valiant soldiers of Sandeph donning their distinctive green armor.
The knights caught sight of Aurianna and respectfully nodded in acknowledgment before resuming their duties.
With the presence of the vigilant knights, the market’s true purpose came to life. The air buzzed with excitement as customers engaged in lively haggling and spirited negotiations with the orc, goblin, and hobgoblin merchants. Their voices merged with the laughter and animated chatter of the crowd, creating a vibrant sound that filled the air.
As Aurianna made her way through the intricate paths of streets surrounding the Orc Express, she discovered stalls that catered to every interest and desire. Bookshops beckoned with shelves lined with ancient books and enchanting tales.
Aromatherapists offered bottles of scented oils and incense, promising relaxation and serenity. Potion-makers showcased mysterious vials containing elixirs that claimed to heal ailments or grant extraordinary powers.
Artisans showcased their talents, crafting exquisite pottery, intricate jewelry, and breathtaking sculptures. Weavers wove their magic, transforming threads into tapestries that depicted mythical creatures and epic tales. Woodworkers carved intricate designs into furniture and ornaments, each piece a testament to their craftsmanship.
Nestled among the stalls were food vendors orcs, their carts laden with delicacies from all corners of the continent. The sizzle of skewers on the grill and the rich aroma of spices drew hungry crowds. Stalls offered steaming bowls of hearty stews, platters of succulent meats, and an array of desserts that promised to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
Aurianna’s eyes lit up as she caught sight of the mouthwatering food being prepared at one of the stalls. The aroma of sizzling meat filled the air, and her stomach grumbled in response. Ignoring the line of people, she couldn’t contain her excitement and leaped ahead, landing right in front of the goblin managing the stall.
Some of the customers behind her frowned at her impolite behavior, but Aurianna was too captivated by the delicious offerings to care.
The goblin, oblivious to her breach of etiquette, greeted her with a smile. "Would you like to buy some fried janka meat, beautiful lady? For someone as cute as you, I can even give you a discount," he said, winking mischievously. Aurianna’s mouth watered at the thought, and she eagerly nodded, eager to taste the tantalizing meat.
"I’d love to buy some, and there’s no need for a discount. I’ll pay the full price," Aurianna replied, reaching into her ring and pulling out a shining silver coin. The goblin’s eyes widened in surprise as he held the valuable coin in his hand.
"I can’t accept this much! This meat only costs 3 bronze coins!" the goblin exclaimed, trying to hand the coin back to her. But Aurianna was determined.
"Take it!" she insisted, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "I’m buying all the meat here!" Aurianna declared boldly, ready to indulge in a feast fit for a foody.
However, the goblin shook his head apologetically. "I’m sorry, but I can only sell three pieces of meat per customer. I don’t want the other customers to feel left out," he explained.
Aurianna’s smile turned eerie as she responded, "Oh, don’t worry about them. They don’t mind, right?" She glanced at the people around her, and they nodded fervently, not wanting to miss out on the opportunity to deal with Aurianna’s anger.
"Please, Princess, you can buy everything," a woman behind her giggled nervously, followed by the agreement of the surrounding crowd.
"Indeed, indeed! I don’t even mind paying for you, Princess," a middle-aged man chimed in, rubbing his hands together eagerly. The atmosphere around the stall grew tense as the customers eagerly awaited Aurianna’s response.
"Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity," Aurianna expressed with a bright, innocent smile, momentarily warming the hearts of the onlookers. However, the realization of who she truly was quickly brought back a sense of tension and caution among them.
’We just don’t want to end up on her bad side, haha,’ the thought crossed the minds of those waiting in line.
"You’re so mean," a little girl pouted, looking up at Aurianna with a disapproving expression.
Aurianna’s gaze turned sharp as she locked eyes with the young girl. "What did you say, brat?" she demanded, her tone filled with a mix of curiosity and intimidation.
The young girl expressed her dissatisfaction, stating, "My mother and I patiently stood in line for quite a while, but you simply appeared out of nowhere and rudely cut in front of us."
Aurianna, assuming a crouched position to match the girl’s level, responded with a mixture of nonchalance and a smirk. She coolly remarked, "What’s the big deal anyway?"
"Well, you see," Aurianna calmly responded, "Life can sometimes be unfair. But as we grow older, we learn to accept such situations. In my case, I happen to be a princess, while you are not. I might be considered pretty, whereas you may not fit that particular societal standard. Moreover, I possess greater wealth and power. So, it’s essential for you to keep your head low and come to terms with these realities," she added, wearing a smug smile.
The girl, however, stood her ground and replied in a determined tone, "No! My teacher taught me to never accept bullying from anyone!"
Aurianna was taken aback by the girl’s unexpected response, along with those who were present. After a brief moment of contemplation, Aurianna acknowledged, "Hmm, you do have a point."
"However," Aurianna continued with a cautionary tone, "But let me warn you, speaking up like this can sometimes anger the wrong person, and that can lead to dire consequences. They might even go as far as chopping off your head!" Aurianna mimicked a chopping motion near her neck, causing the girl to feel a twinge of fear.
