Edward Bloodmoor.

Ethan's vision blurred, and his consciousness shifted. When he opened his eyes again, he found himself standing in a grand, bustling marketplace, a luxurious coat draped over his shoulders.

The King was likely already aware of the Lord's Territory Challenge issued by an Elite Realm Lord from the outer world. The time spent in the Battle Dimension flowed differently, five months here equaled just one day in the real world. Ethan needed to act swiftly. He had to meet the King immediately and try to manipulate him as much as possible.

The city around him was alive with activity mercenaries bartered for weapons, mages enchanted scrolls, and traders loudly advertised their wares. Towering fortress walls encircled the marketplace, with banners bearing the crest of Bloodmoor fluttering in the wind.

Ethan adjusted his robes, a confident smirk forming on his lips. His disguise as an influential merchant had been seamlessly integrated by his Universal NPC skill. He even got favorablity boost with the people of the kingdom.

He tapped his fingers against his sleeve, summoning an invisible system overlay that only he could see.

[Identity: Ethan Storme (Undetected)]

[Alias: John Miller]

[Current Role: President of Scarlet Trade Association]

[Location: Bloodmoor Capital – Market District]

Two mercenaries flanked him, their armor polished and their stance rigid. He wasted no time.

"Take me to the Bloodmoor Royal Palace immediately. I want to have an audience with the King."

Without hesitation, the mercenaries escorted him to a horse-drawn carriage bearing the insignia of the Scarlet Trade Association.

Ethan stepped inside, and the carriage lurched forward without delay.

___

The Royal Palace of Bloodmoor

Ethan sat comfortably in the plush carriage as it rolled through the cobbled streets of Bloodmoor Capital, drawn by two black stallions. The Scarlet Trade Association's insignia ensured smooth passage guards saluted at every checkpoint.

Through the window, he observed the city's medieval-fantasy architecture: towering blackstone buildings, spiked battlements, and crimson banners displaying the Bloodmoor sigil a bleeding sword over a black sun.

Within minutes, the carriage halted before the grand Bloodmoor Royal Palace, an imposing structure of dark marble with towering spires, lined with crimson glass windows that reflected the eerie glow of the evening sun.

Two mercenary guards stepped forward, flanking Ethan as he exited the carriage. A palace attendant, dressed in noble garb, bowed deeply.

"President Miller, welcome to the Bloodmoor Royal Palace. His Majesty, King Edward Bloodmoor, is currently in a meeting with the three Dukes. However, if your business is urgent, I will relay your request immediately."

Ethan nodded with an air of authority. A merchant does not demand; a merchant persuades.

"Inform His Majesty that the Scarlet Trade Association has urgent intelligence. Information that could prove vital to the Kingdom's security."

The attendant's expression tightened, clearly weighing the importance of the message. Without hesitation, he gestured for Ethan to follow.

"This way, sir. Please follow me."

The palace attendant guided me deep into the palace. We somehow travelled the large maze of passageways and came before a huge luxurious wooden door.

The attendant gently knocked on the door and informed of my arrival to the people inside. Soon a authoritative and calm vaice came from inside "Enter". The door open slowly after which I entered.

The Royal War Chamber was a vast hall lined with banners of Bloodmoor's conquered enemies their crests torn and burnt. At the center stood a luxurious throne, encrusted with jewels that glowed in the dim torchlight, a silent testament to the kingdom's vast riches.

Three ornate chairs were positioned before it, occupied by the Dukes of Bloodmoor.

Seated upon the throne was King Edward Bloodmoor.

A tall, broad-shouldered man clad in crimson war armor, his black hair streaked with silver, and his piercing golden eyes scanned the war map before him. He was not a pampered noble, he was a battle-hardened ruler.

Surrounding him were generals, strategists, and high-ranking knights, all deeply engrossed in discussion.

As Ethan approached, Edward's sharp gaze lifted, narrowing slightly.

"President Miller," he rumbled, his deep voice commanding authority. "I assume your arrival means you have something worth my time?"

Ethan bowed slightly, exuding calm confidence.

"Your Majesty, the Scarlet Trade Association has intercepted intelligence regarding an unidentified invasion force within your kingdom's territory. Their forces remain unknown, but their rapid expansion tactics suggest they are far more than mere raiders."

The war room fell into tense silence. Several strategists exchanged uneasy glances.

Edward leaned forward, his golden eyes gleaming with interest. "And why do you bring this information to me?"

Ethan smirked inwardly. Hook, line, and sinker.

"Because war is bad for business, Your Majesty." He spread his hands. "A full-scale invasion could destabilize trade routes, disrupt supply chains, and weaken Bloodmoor's economy. As an ally of this Kingdom's prosperity, the Scarlet Trade Association is prepared to provide material support weapons, rations, enchanted artifacts at highly favorable rates, of course."

A low murmur spread across the war room. Several generals nodded approvingly.

Edward stroked his beard thoughtfully before chuckling.

"A merchant who thinks like a king. I like that."

[King Edward's Favorability +10 (10/100)]

Ethan smiled. "I only seek mutual prosperity, Your Majesty. Bloodmoor stands to gain much from a strengthened trade alliance."

Edward motioned for a servant, who quickly poured two goblets of Bloodwine. He handed one to Ethan.

"Then let's drink to a potential partnership."

Ethan accepted, raising his glass.

[King Edward's Favorability +5 (15/100)]

Favorability wasn't just about grand gestures it was about calculated moves.

I subtly and slowly praised Bloodmoor's military strength, offering insightful strategic suggestions that appealed to Edward's pride.

I acknowledged the hardships of war, earning the generals' sympathy. I complimented the palace's architecture, charming the nobility present.

I drank Bloodwine in the warrior's fashion, showing respect for Bloodmoor's traditions. Each small action chipped away at Edward's wariness.

[King Edward's Favorability +20 (35/100)]

By the end of the discussion, Ethan had secured his first goal- planting himself as an essential ally in Bloodmoor's war efforts. Edward leaned back, eyeing him with newfound interest.

"You intrigue me, Miller. Most merchants flee from war, yet you offer to profit from it without greed clouding your judgment. You remind me of an old friend."

[King Edward's Favorability +25 (60/100)]

Ethan gave a modest chuckle. Old friend? I'll be your closest confidant soon enough. "Prosperity comes not just from wealth, but from strong alliances, Your Majesty."

Edward smirked. "Well said. Very well, the Scarlet Trade Association shall have priority contracts for our war supplies. In return, you will keep me informed of any further intelligence."

[King Edward's Favorability +20 (80/100) – Trust Established!]

Ethan took a deep breath. He had done it. King Edward now saw him not just as a merchant but as a trusted informant and ally.

And with favorability at 80, Ethan had the King's ear. Which meant manipulating him from here on would be much, much easier.

Ethan raised his goblet, finishing the last sip of Bloodwine. "It's a pleasure doing business with you, Your Majesty," he said smoothly.