Danmachi: Strongest Familia

Renata had yet to come up with a solid plan, so she drifted around the marketplace, quietly eavesdropping on the nearby chatter of townsfolk.

Among the gossip was news that Ares was preparing to launch another war against Orario. The locals, however, seemed more amused than concerned, chatting and laughing as they discussed the upcoming conflict. In their eyes, Ares was a fool, providing Orario's familias with regular opportunities for profit.

For Orario's gods, these yearly skirmishes were little more than exercises for their low-level adventurers, a relatively safe way to let them gain experience, as the soldiers of Rakia posed little real threat. Over time, what was supposed to be a war had turned into an almost ceremonial clash between Orario and Rakia. After all, Ares was a god of war, not a god of victory, and his troops lacked the spirit to truly strive for triumph.

"I heard Ares is buying up war supplies again," an older man said to his friend, who nodded enthusiastically.

"Yeah! Old Jack over there made a fortune selling potions to them."

"And the nearby blacksmith has been swamped with orders," another chimed in.

What should have been a somber discussion about war had become a game for these townsfolk—a chance to brag about who had the most insider information. Each piece of news was a badge of honor, and they shared details in a competitive spirit. It made it easier for Renata to confirm the validity of what she heard, as false claims were quickly dismissed by others.

"Old man, do you know where the army is purchasing these supplies?" Renata asked, lowering her voice.

The elderly man turned, taken aback at the sight of Renata. Her imposing stature, masked face, and mysterious attire left him momentarily stunned. His friends, meanwhile, quickly scattered, leaving the old man to face this stranger alone.

"Old man, I heard the quartermaster is gathering supplies for the war effort. Is that true?" she repeated, seeing his hesitation.

"Of course, I wouldn't lie, especially not at my age!" he huffed, insulted by the implication.

"I believe you," Renata replied gently. "But could you tell me where I might find this quartermaster?"

The old man eyed her suspiciously, but when Renata slipped a handful of Valiss into his hand, his expression softened. Suddenly, she seemed much more agreeable.

"You must be one of those merchants looking to make a quick profit off the war effort," he mused, eyeing her with new respect.

"Indeed. Could you introduce me to him?" Renata smiled, her tone polite.

The lure of money proved too tempting for the old man to resist. He nodded eagerly and, as they walked together, began describing Rakia's layout to Renata. Before long, they reached a building resembling a warehouse, where the quartermaster was stationed. He was easily identifiable by his uniform, which differed from the soldiers', and he was busy at a desk, scribbling notes.

[Note: Quartermaster is a military officer responsible for providing quarters, rations, clothing, and other supplies.]

"Are you still accepting supplies?" Renata asked as she approached, her voice calm but purposeful.

The quartermaster looked up, startled by the masked figure before him. Renata's imposing presence was difficult to ignore, and he felt a twinge of apprehension.

"Are you...an adventurer?"

"No, I'm a merchant. I heard Rakia is purchasing supplies," she answered smoothly, tossing a small bag of Valiss to his feet.

The quartermaster's suspicion remained. "A merchant, you say? Where are your goods?" He eyed her cautiously, noting the aura of danger around her.

Renata felt the challenge in his tone. Although he was only a level 2 adventurer, he seemed wary of her motives.

"Lift your cloak and show me your back," he demanded, his hand subtly moving to the hilt of his sword.

Renata crossed her arms. "Isn't it a bit impolite to ask a lady to lift her clothes in broad daylight?"

The quartermaster narrowed his eyes, suspicion growing. "I have reason to suspect you're a spy. Please comply."

Unfazed by the sword now inches from her face, Renata held her ground. She wasn't worried; after all, Kayn, her level 5 bodyguard, lurked unseen in her shadow, ready to step in if needed. This quartermaster, despite his bravado, was hardly a match for her.

The quartermaster seemed to realize this too. He relaxed, lowering his sword slightly. "I may have acted too hastily. My apologies." He backed down, unnerved by her calm confidence.

For a moment, he wondered if his senses had deceived him, but he couldn't shake the feeling that the shadow around her had moved.