Chapter 1217: Anthony On Tour - Silver Scrapes

Chapter 1217: Anthony On Tour - Silver Scrapes

Enid enjoyed spending time with Eran Thouris, though the brathian negotiator was often busy, such as now. But the retired merchant was content merely to be present and soak up the energy of frenzied trading. It reminded her heavily of the old days, a young Enid fighting for every scrap of gold she could get her hands on.

The secret to the brathian conglomerate's success seemed to be: they always brought that level of energy. No matter how much wealth they amassed, they were as hungry for the next sale as they were for their first.

"Have the table dressings arrived? I wanted to see the samples two hours ago!" Eran demanded.

"Not yet. There have been issues with the supplier."

"Inform them we will be cutting their payment by twenty percent as per our contract. Timing of the delivery was stipulated very clearly."

"They may not like that. What if they drag their feet even further?"

"That's what the second, thirty percent delay penalty is for. Have the ants approved the proposed layout for the market?"

"They have."

Eran made a humming noise of approval.

"It's wonderful to work with people who understand the importance of a prompt response."

Enid smiled. The Colony loved being organised. They were likely just as appreciative of the brathian obsession with logistics.

"You seem to be putting more attention into this stop than the others," Enid observed.

Eran turned to her.

"The other cities were important, and we made some good deals, but they were just rehearsals for the Silver City. As much as it pains me to admit it, this is the richest city in the world. Even a small slice of the market here will be as profitable as the rest of the trip."

"Let's not count our gold before it's in the vault," Eran cautioned. "There is still much to be done. How is Anthony, by the way? I heard you went to visit him earlier in the day."

"I think he's struggling with isolation somewhat," Enid replied after a moment of thought. "He doesn't cope well when he can't move around, in my experience."

Eran nodded.

"That's my sense as well. I hope he can hold on a little longer. One more day, then our stalls will open, and of course I want him present. A visible sign of the Colony's strength and majesty."

"Don't describe him like that when he can hear you," Enid warned her. "He's puffed up about his appearance enough already."

The brathian laughed.

"Yes, well it can't be helped. He is a very impressive monster, no matter how we slice it. The people here aren't easily impressed, but even they will flock to take a look at the strongest ant monster in the history of Pangera."

"And hopefully buy some tea and furniture while they're there."

"Of course," the Eran flashed a grin.

"Are there any concerns about security?" Enid asked quietly. "I had a discussion with some of my people earlier, and they warned that some in the city would be hostile towards the Colony."

"There are always those who are hostile towards monsters," Eran replied. "Not that we aren't cognizant of the danger. With Anthony lying low, the risks of an incident are greatly reduced, but we are doing our best to ensure all members of the Colony are escorted whenever they leave the compound. So far, there haven't been any issues, but we will continue to be cautious."

"Good. I think I will go and let Anthony know. It will put his mind at ease."

"Please do so. Remind him to be on his best behaviour tomorrow. One day of trading will make or break this partnership. I want everything to be perfect."

"I'll let him know. I'm sure he didn't come all this way to ruin things at the last moment."

The moment she said the words, Enid felt a chill run down her spine. She should know better than to make such proclamations where that particular ant was concerned.