PERFECT REINCARNATION : Being Invincible in Another World-Chapter 70: The Cloaked Merchant

Silvercurrent City always looked different at evening Sky. From afar, the river reflected the lanterns lining the docks, the water shimmering like scattered silver coins beneath the moonlight. Ships rested quietly along the piers, and the low murmur of late-night traders drifted faintly across the wind.

The cool night breeze of Silvercurrent City greeted them instantly as the world snapped back into shape. The river glimmered beside the platform, lanterns swayed gently along the docks, and the distant hum of the city filled the air once more. Their journey had brought them back to the same gateway where it had begun, this time with a difference though.

A Caravan of 2-3 Cargo wagons and multiple servants greeted them with a cloaked figure in the middle bowing straight to Aurelion. The cloaked figure came in front, the stature was much much smaller, just a few inches taller than Aurelion.

"...This small merchant has heard praises of you from a far and requests little bit of your time." The cloaked person said. "...I was one of the lucky ones to witness your grandeur myself, I would love if you can spare some time for this humble merchant." The person added.

Then, Stefan came forward and shielded Aurelion behind him. "... You dare approach the Crown Prince while hiding your identity, State your intentions or appropriate action will be taken against you." He turned to Aurelion. "...Your highness this person is suspicious, we should not go closer towards him."

The Cloaked person came more closer despite Stefan’s stern warning. "... Oh my, how did I cause such a misunderstanding. My heart aches at your statement when I am just a little Ten year old girl." She said and removed her cloak.

She was small for her age, her slender frame giving her an almost delicate appearance at first glance. Dark chestnut hair was gathered into a loose braid that rested over one shoulder, a few stray strands escaping whenever she moved too quickly. Her emerald green eyes stood out the most, bright and lively, constantly observing everything around her as if calculating and gauging her surroundings. Her fair skin carried a faint warmth from spending long hours outdoors rather than inside grand halls. A soft smile rested on her lips, which looked polite and friendly, but there was some quiet sharpness behind it that hinted she was not what she seemed. She dressed in practical merchant clothing rather than noble fabrics, neat layers suited for travel and work, though small gold accents on the cuffs and belt suggested success in her trade. At her side hung a small leather pouch that held her ledger, something she carried everywhere as naturally as swordsman carried a weapon.

She reached her hand out "... My name is Serin Vale, I am the leader of Golden Ledger Consortium." She said, while politely greeting Aurelion. "... I have no intentions other than borrowing a little bit of your time." She added. 𝕗𝐫𝚎𝗲𝘄𝐞𝕓𝐧𝕠𝘃𝕖𝐥.𝐜𝚘𝚖

Lyra and the others did not show much reactions as they could not comprehend what was going on in front of their eyes but, Stefan feeling suspicious of her, tried to divert the topic. "... Your highness, the Evening has turned to Dark sky now. The Empress would be waiting for you too. Aurelion looked above, the evening in Silvercurrent had already begun slipping quietly toward night. The last traces of sunset had faded from the river, leaving the water reflecting rows of lanterns that lined the docks and bridges. Shops were closing their shutters one by one while food stalls lit brighter lamps to welcome the late crowd. The air carried a mix of river breeze and the warm smell of cooked spices drifting through the market streets. Conversations softened into a slower rhythm, footsteps echoing more clearly on the stone paths as the city settled into its night life, where merchants counted their earnings and travelers searched for a place to rest before the next journey.

Aurelion moved towards the girl, shook her hand and said "... It seems, it is too late for us to discuss anything. I do not think it will be possible for us to have a meeting soon." She shook her head side ways. "... That is such a shame, especially when I happens to be one of those who witnessed your decision making skills at the Market." She said.

HUH, AT THE MARKET? WAIT, WAS SHE PRESENT WHILE I RESCUED ROWAN AND MIRA.

Aurelion took a closer look at her, then pondered for a little. "... It really is a little late in the day, but if you share your contact information, I will make my attendant write to you the time and date when schedule will be free for a meeting." He said. "... That would be delightful, your highness. This humble merchant will be waiting for your letter." The cloaked merchant bended forward with a respectful bow. From within her sleeve she took out a small velvet pouch and placed it carefully into Aurelion’s hands. "...A humble token, Your Highness," she said in a low, steady voice.

Inside the pouch was a palm-sized compass crafted from polished silver, its needle floating above a faintly glowing rune instead of ordinary magnetism. The rim was engraved with delicate symbols of the four winds, and the center crystal shimmered with a pale blue light that pulsed gently like a heartbeat. "...It always points toward the strongest mana current nearby," the merchant explained softly. "...Useful for travelers... and for those who prefer not to lose their way." She bowed once more, then stepped back into the flow of the evening crowd. And then left the scenery with her Caravan of Cargos.

"... Well, That was something unexpected and unique," Aurelion said smilingly, then turned to Stefan, "... Let’s go now. Mother would be waiting for me. She might have not eaten yet let’s reach early so, I can join her in dinner." Stefan bowed, "... As you wish, your highness." And then left for the parking spot where the Carriage was waiting for him.

[To be Continued]