"That's all for today's trades," Luciel announced, setting down his chopsticks. "Tomorrow morning, bring your goods if you wish to exchange for cabbages or seedlings."
It was a clean ending to the night's business—exactly as he had planned. Everything had unfolded according to his calculations. The others were cautious, skeptical, unwilling to commit to large transactions until they saw results. That was fine. Patience, after all, was the currency of those who built empires.
"Yes," Waldo said, nodding respectfully.
"Mino, clean up. We're heading back," Luciel ordered.
"Yes, sir."
Minuo and Sophia immediately began packing the dishes and chopsticks with practiced efficiency. Within moments, everything was stacked neatly into wooden lunch boxes.
Luciel rose, leading the group out of the tent. Alec and the others followed closely behind, each carrying a box or basket.
