Ivika had never been seriously concerned about Cayman instigating a rebellion, but now, seated within the militarized heart of his estate, a profound sense of unease took root. At Cayman's invitation, he took the seat of honor at his right hand.
"Governor, your arrival is most timely. The feast has just begun," Cayman remarked as an array of exquisite dishes was presented. "Do indulge in this roasted venison. The fawns from the contested lands are particularly tender." With a wave of his hand, a servant promptly sliced a piece of the glistening meat and placed it before Ivika.
Ivika offered a faint smile and, under Cayman's watchful gaze, cut a small piece and placed it in his mouth. The rich, savory flavors exploded on his palate, and his eyes sparkled with genuine delight. "This is delightful. What spices have been used?" he inquired. The meat was superb, but he was certain a unique, unfamiliar seasoning was the true star.
Noticing his keen interest, Cayman smiled. "It is 'fresh salt powder,' a specially crafted seasoning. Its availability is very scarce and thus quite expensive."
Ivika swallowed hard, his eyes gleaming with unconcealed avarice. He understood the profitability of spices better than anyone. The thought of Cayman controlling yet another river of gold left him deeply restless. If this 'fresh salt powder' were introduced to the market, it would permeate the known world in a remarkably short time, generating an immeasurable fortune.
"Cayman," Ivika began, suddenly pivoting the conversation with practiced ease, "I hear you aspire to run for the governorship of Lys."
"Indeed, that is the case," Cayman acknowledged directly.
"I have held this position for nearly thirty years," Ivika said, stroking his grizzled beard. "I am acutely aware of the challenges. Besides wealth, one must also have made significant contributions. That fellow Anders proposed that the next governor must have participated in the war of the Stepstones. You must have heard about the impending conflict? The navy of Daemon Targaryen, in alliance with the Velaryon fleet, seeks to reclaim the archipelago." He betrayed Anders without a hint of hesitation.
Cayman took a slow sip of his golden wine and looked up, his face a mask of feigned ignorance.
Observing this, Ivika felt a surge of irritation. "Therefore, if you aspire to successfully campaign, you must confront the dragon."
Cayman displayed timely concern. "Confront a dragon? Does the governor have any alternative solutions?"
Seeing the worried expression, Ivika quietly exhaled, a master preparing to bestow his favor. "If you wish to avoid warfare, it is not without recourse. I can stand by your side and vouch for you. This would essentially secure your campaign. Furthermore, I have been old friends with Chiolier and Destin for many years. I can assure your success." Cayman's face lit up with surprise. "Really?"
"Of course, genuinely so. It is even possible for you to directly replace Benick. However, I am a businessman, as you know, and I cannot assist you without recompense."
"Then what must I offer?"
"Salt of fresh essence. We shall partner. As long as we unite, even if others are envious, they shall not dare to challenge us. You, I, together we shall seize the wealth of the entire world." Ivika raised his glass, signaling for Cayman to toast their impending fortune.
Cayman regarded Ivika with a smirk, his own glass held motionless. Ivika's demeanor stiffened. Cayman took a sip on his own, then tilted his head. "Then I suppose I need not run for governor at all. In truth, whether one holds the governorship is of little consequence. Wouldn't you agree, Esteemed Governor Ivika? In a free trade city-state like Lys, the political structure is exceedingly loose. Essentially, those with the might hold the truth."
"Common, you are still young," Ivika retorted, his gaze turning cold and piercing. He silently retracted his glass. "Some matters are not as straightforward as they appear. The beauty you possess has incited envy in many. Do you comprehend the implications if you were to monopolize the salt? The waters run deep and turbulent in Lys. If you do not align yourself, you will be ruthlessly dismembered and devoured." His tone was that of a venerable elder imparting wisdom, but it was laden with threats.
The banquet fell silent, save for the crackling of torches. All present were Cayman's subordinates, their varied gazes fixed on Ivika, who steadfastly awaited Cayman's decision, believing him to be an astute individual who would see reason.
Just as the oppressive atmosphere reached its peak, the wailing of a child broke through. Johanna's impatient voice rang out as she entered, cradling Grace. Reika trailed behind her, holding Diana. Then, a small, lively black dragon burst into the room, emitting a series of sharp hisses as it scampered to Cayman's side.
"Is this a dragon?" Ivika gazed in shock, his composure shattered.
Cayman, nonchalantly sipping his golden wine, replied, "Have you forgotten that I have only been a merchant for a few days, my lord? Am I to fear the depths and the turbulence?"