The Real Deal - Part 1

The Loyanal family was a well-known name throughout Dragoria, not only for their vast trading empire but also for their unparalleled skills in swordsmanship. Their unique sword style was not just admired but officially recognized by the king himself. With both wealth and power at their disposal, few dared to cross them, and their influence spread across multiple kingdoms, allowing their business to flourish without major opposition.

At the head of this illustrious family stood Hugo Loyanal, a man of both wisdom and reputation. Under his leadership, the family had ascended to even greater heights. Years of experience had sharpened his ability to read people—their intentions, their weaknesses, and their desires—all through their body language and manner of speech. It was a skill that had allowed him to master negotiations and dominate the trading world. However, even he was not infallible. There were limits to what he could decipher, and now, faced with the young boy named Ashan, he found himself at an impasse.

No matter how he studied him, he couldn't quite grasp what kind of person Ashan was. His presence was unnatural. Too calm. His expression remained neutral, yet his sharp eyes carried an uncanny depth, as if they had witnessed things far beyond his years. His words, spoken with maturity and precision, only deepened Hugo's intrigue.

Can my sons be compared to this child? he wondered, a small smirk forming at the thought.

Hugo leaned forward, eyes locked onto Ashan with growing interest. 

"Yes, you are absolutely right. A swordsman must strive for those qualities. But achieving them is no simple feat. You speak as if you have already pushed past those boundaries."

Ashan nodded slightly. "It is not easy," he admitted. "But I managed to overcome those obstacles through a special method."

Hugo's interest peaked. "And what method might that be?"

"Meditation," Ashan answered plainly.

Hugo raised a brow. "Meditation? Isn't that primarily used for gathering mana and strengthening one's aura core?"

Ashan shook his head. "Not the kind you're thinking of. This meditation is different—it is based on breath control."

Hugo frowned slightly. "Breath? And how exactly does that help?"

Ashan's voice remained steady. "As you know, breathing is something we do unconsciously, but it follows a rhythm. When you assume a comfortable position, close your eyes, and focus solely on your breath, you take control of it. By calming your breathing, your mind also becomes calm. However, maintaining that state is the most difficult part. It is natural for thoughts to invade your mind. The wall that blocks them is your focus—your unwavering concentration on each breath."

Hugo leaned back in his chair, considering the boy's words. After a moment, he chuckled.

"Interesting… But I have never seen or heard of anyone using such a method. If what you say is true, what benefits does it bring? How does it help a swordsman overcome his weaknesses? Tell me, what did you gain from it?"

Ashan exhaled lightly, as if reflecting on his own journey. 

"I discovered it during my training. I realized that breathing affects endurance, so I experimented with different ways of controlling it. Eventually, I found a method that worked. I practiced it every morning and night. As days passed, I noticed changes—impatience faded, anger weakened, and my ability to concentrate grew. My reflexes became sharper. Even beyond swordsmanship, it shaped who I am today. My memory capacity increased, and I learned to regulate my emotions."

Julia, who had been listening intently, widened her eyes in disbelief. 

Can a simple breathing technique truly achieve something so profound? It sounds almost too good to be true. And yet... if it's real, it would explain his unnerving calmness. But even so, it's hard to believe. Could something so simple hold such power?

Boris, too, was taken aback. 

I understand the importance of breathing in swordsmanship, he thought. But how could it yield such drastic results? I have studied various breathing techniques, yet the only benefits I gained were improved focus and memory retention. How did he manage to master his emotions? Something is missing.

Hugo shared the same skepticism.

This boy… he defies logic. Either he is lying to impress us, or he has truly discovered something profound. Yet, looking at his face, there is no trace of deceit. He spoke as if he had simply stated a fundamental truth.

 "Fascinating," he said with a smile. "I will personally try it later."

Leone, who had remained quiet until now, clapped his hands lightly. 

"Now, now… let's eat first. We can continue this discussion afterward."

"I agree," Hugo said, nodding.

…

After finishing their meal, everyone gathered in the grand living room. They exchanged pleasantries, discussing various matters, but soon the conversation took a more serious turn.

Leone fixed his gaze on Hugo. "Now, let's get to the main point. I assume you didn't come here without a reason. I would like to know what brings you here."

The air in the room grew heavy. All eyes turned toward Hugo, awaiting his answer. Nolan and Lucas hardened their expressions, hiding their emotions. Lina subtly adjusted her fan, concealing more of her face. Julia and Maria exchanged glances, sensing the weight of the moment. Boris narrowed his eyes. Leone and Ashan, however, remained calm, their gazes fixed intently on Hugo.

Hugo, who had been exuding warmth and ease throughout the evening, suddenly changed. His expression turned unreadable, his lips curling into a mysterious smile. He leaned back into his chair, adopting a more composed posture.

Leone, Boris, and Ashan smirked subtly. They had anticipated this shift.

Ashan's eyes half-closed. 

Finally, he's revealing his true colors. Let's see how this unfolds.

Hugo's voice deepened. "I believe you are already aware of the sudden rise in value of the medicinal herb, Lunaris. Am I correct?"

Leone nodded. "Of course. Its scarcity has put us in a difficult position. The alternative herb available is far less effective. From what we've gathered, your family has control over it, correct?"

Hugo nodded without hesitation. "Yes. We currently hold a monopoly over it. We acquired it from the Margus family."

Leone leaned forward. "Then tell me—why have you continued to raise the price? It seems excessive and unreasonable."

Hugo chuckled. "Unreasonable? No, it's not. It is perfectly reasonable."

"Then explain."

Hugo folded his hands. "Lunaris does not grow easily. It thrives naturally, but I must use plant growth substances to ensure its development."

Ashan inwardly smirked. 

A lie. Lunaris requires only nitrogen, oxygen, and water. It actively rejects foreign substances. He's manipulating the facts because he assumes we don't know better.

Hugo continued. "Moreover, its production has been affected by a disease spreading through its leaves, making it even harder to acquire. Given its rising demand and limited supply, we had no choice but to increase the price."

Ashan's smirk deepened. 

Another lie. Lunaris has an excellent immune system. Even if infected, it heals itself over time.

Leone, however, kept his composure. "But this increase is far from reasonable. People can't afford it. The herb has become an essential part of their lives, and now, they suffer because of this sudden rise."

Hugo leaned back with an air of indifference. 

"We don't concern ourselves with such matters, First Lord. Do you not remember how Lunaris was initially rejected? It was thanks to the relentless efforts of the Margus family that it gained its current popularity. Neither they nor we ever forced anyone to buy it. The market dictated the demand, and we simply provided the supply. If we were to halt production altogether, no one could object. Correct?"

Leone narrowed his eyes. "That may be true, but Lunaris has become integral to many. Its absence would create a void. Can we not reach a compromise?"

Hugo shook his head, a smirk playing on his lips. "I'm afraid that's not an option. I'm a businessman, not a philanthropist. Our priority is profit. The demand for Lunaris has already begun to wane, yet Dragoria is still willing to purchase it at our current prices. If this continues, we will shift our supply there instead. I trust you understand."

A heavy silence settled over the room as Leone fell into deep thought. The tension thickened, each person processing the weight of Hugo's words.

Finally, Leone exhaled. "So, there's nothing we can do to alter this outcome?"

Hugo's smirk widened as if he had been waiting for this very moment. 

"There is a way."

All eyes turned toward him.

"And what would that be?" Leone asked.

Hugo leaned forward, fingers interlaced. 

"As I mentioned before, my interest lies in profit. So here's my proposal. I wish to purchase shares in the main market center of your territory. As you well know, those shares are exclusively owned by you, other lords, and select individuals. If you grant me the right to acquire one-tenth of those shares, I will lower the Lunaris prices for your region."

Boris let out a short, humorless chuckle. "So this was your true objective all along."

Hugo gave a small, unapologetic shrug. "There's no need for hostility, sir. My proposal is fair. I simply seek to balance my losses."

Leone's expression darkened. "Fair? You expect us to exchange silver for gold? You and I both know that those shares hold far greater value. The reason we restrict external parties from obtaining them is to protect the stability of our trade network. Surely you can see that."

Hugo sighed dramatically. "Then I suppose there's nothing more to discuss. That was my only offer."

Boris' voice was like steel. "Are you planning to make this same offer to the other lords as well?"

"Of course," Hugo replied smoothly. "I believe in fairness. The same opportunity will be extended to all."

Leone's gaze remained fixed on Hugo. "And if none of us accept?"

Hugo's smile was polite, but his eyes carried a veiled threat. "Then it would be unfortunate, but business is business. If an alternative cannot be reached, I will be left with no choice but to divert our entire Lunaris supply to Dragoria."

Leone clenched his jaw. "Must it truly come to that? Consider another course of action."

Hugo gave an exaggerated sigh. "I'm afraid not."

He turned his gaze to the window, watching the sun sink below the horizon. 

"Well," Hugo said, standing up. "It seems our time here has come to an end. It was a pleasure to meet with you all. Despite the... unfortunate conclusion of our talks, I look forward to maintaining a cordial relationship."

Leone, Maria, and Boris rose to their feet, their expressions unreadable. "Safe travels, Hugo," Leone said, his voice neutral but firm.

Hugo turned to leave, his family following suit. Just as he stepped toward the door, a voice cut through the air.

"Sir, may I have a moment?"

To be continued...