The days in the city were beginning to feel like a whirlwind. Amidst political machinations, personal growth, and rapidly shifting fortunes, Rahul found himself getting increasingly close to Revati. The tension between them had transformed from hesitant affection to a steady comfort. They moved like two pieces that finally fit—a growing intimacy that danced between warmth and temptation, like an unending prelude to something deeper.
But every climb came with its storms.
One such storm was brewing in the marketplace, and at its epicenter stood none other than Rahul.
The contract of acquisition—an ominous document of immense power—had finally come into play. The event was public, deliberate, and theatrical. The entire bazaar seemed to pause for this moment. Traders, citizens, and bystanders crowded the square. The kotwal chief, Kalidas, the auctioneer, security heads, and even curious nobles had gathered. Revati stood quietly beside Rahul, a subtle symbol of his shift in status.
Facing them was the once-arrogant hotel and restaurant owner—Mr. Haripada Banik.
Rahul's voice rang clear through the marketplace.
"Mr. Haripada Banik, by the power vested in this royal contract of acquisition, I now demand transfer of your entire business enterprise. As the future owner, name your price."
The crowd buzzed with whispers. Haripada, red-faced and trembling, looked ready to collapse under the weight of his own fury and helplessness. He gritted his teeth, eyes brimming with unshed tears, before replying in a hoarse voice:
"I can't defy the crown's will. But I name my price—75,000 gold coins."
It was staggering. A number that could purchase estates. The murmurs in the crowd intensified. Even Kalidas raised an eyebrow.
Kalidas and the auctioneer sprang into action, quickly negotiating with Haripada under the public eye. Their joint credibility—and perhaps fear of losing Rahul—compelled them to assist. With the pressure building, the price was finally brought down to 65,000 gold coins.
Still a hefty sum, but it was a deal Rahul could no longer delay.
Revati, though quiet, looked stunned. She pulled Rahul aside for a moment and asked, her voice low but frantic:
"Rahul, how will you pay this much? And how did you even get such a contract?"
He smiled gently, squeezed her hand, and whispered:
"I'll tell you everything… once we're back. Trust me a little longer."
Revati, still confused, nodded and turned to head back to the hotel, her fingers lingering in his hand a moment longer.
Later, Rahul found himself in the auction house's private chambers, joined by Kalidas, the auctioneer, and a rugged man introduced as the amethyst dealer. The man bore scars that told stories of past battles, and his presence exuded caution and cunning.
"I'll give you 1,200 gold coins per amethyst," the dealer said.
Rahul raised an eyebrow.
"That's more than their actual value. What's the catch?"
The man smiled, sharp and knowing.
"No catch. I sell them higher. My profit lies elsewhere. You keep quiet, I keep quiet—we both walk away richer."
Rahul brought out thirteen amethyst coins, along with jewels and rare items he had acquired earlier. The room fell into silence as everyone watched the items appear—seemingly out of thin air. The usual wide-eyed awe spread through the room. Magic or not, the mystery added to his legend.
The total earnings? A remarkable 62,300 gold coins.
Still short of the full amount.
Before leaving, the dealer slipped Rahul a tip.
"There's a place in the central bazaar near your lord's estate. A bar called Pyaasa. Speak to a man named Rehmat Ali—bartender by day, connections by blood. He'll guide you to a new dealer for these coins... for a price."
Rahul made a mental note. Every lead was now precious.
Just as he stepped out of the auction house, another visitor approached—a man of sharp features and sturdy build, with a saber strapped to his waist.
Kalidas stepped up quickly.
"Sir Rahul, meet Batukeshwar Khah, the city's kotwal."
The man nodded respectfully, though still awkward in presence.
"I heard you recently acquired a war-grade horse. I wish to purchase it—if you're willing."
Rahul paused, raising an eyebrow.
"That's a Tier-3 War Breed Horse. It's not ordinary."
Batukeshwar didn't flinch.
"5,000 gold coins. I need it. Consider it a good deal."
Rahul could've pressed for more—but time was against him. He agreed, and the sale was made.
With the final sum in hand, Rahul returned to the heart of the marketplace. There, under the watchful eyes of traders and commoners alike, he handed the payment to Haripada Banik.
In that moment, Rahul Shikder became the owner of one of the city's most prestigious hotel and restaurant chains.
As the sun dipped behind the city skyline, a tired but triumphant Rahul returned to the hotel room—knowing full well that this was just the beginning.
He had entered the game as a nobody.
Now, the board had changed.
And the city had started whispering his name.
-----------------------------
🔮 Next Up: "Through Her Eyes, Through the Gate"
As Rahul prepares to part ways with Revati, emotions run high—but there's no time to look back. A royal summons pulls him toward the heart of a powerful domain, where whispers of politics and danger intertwine. New alliances wait beyond iron gates, but so do unseen eyes and uncertain intentions.
Will Rahul's ascent take him closer to glory—or into the lion's den?
💬 If you've been gripped by the journey so far, don't forget to vote, comment, and share. Your support fuels the fire! 🔥