Book 4: Chapter 29: Treasure Pavillion II

Book 4: Chapter 29: Treasure Pavillion II

Can you describe the plant you are looking for, young man?

It has a slender stem with a silver color, and its leaves are a vibrant emerald green. It grows in a cold climate, Zeke explained for the third time today.

The keeper of the treasury fell into deep thought. After a while, he vanished into the warehouse to retrieve something. However, Zeke didnt have high hopes. This wasnt the first time he had described the plant he looked for.

Zeke, Aisha, and Priya were now standing before the third treasury. This was the deepest and last of the storage facilities of the Treasure Pavillion. It held the rarest and most precious pieces in their collection. Accordingly, it was where Zeke had the best chance of finding what he was looking for.

However, the look on the keepers face just now had been anything but confident. It seemed to Zeke that he was merely retrieving something to avoid losing face in front of Priya. This had been the same for the other two keepers as well. The first one hadnt even bothered to hide his ploy, as he presented a herb that had almost nothing in common with Zekes description.

The second keeper had tried his best, bringing out several plants similar to his description. But ultimately, he had to surrender as well, as none were a perfect fit. Even so, Zeke liked the mans honest and diligent nature.

After a while, the third keeper returned. Following behind him were three servants, each carrying a wooden container. The man beckoned the first one forward. The servant approached and delicately placed the box down in front of Zeke and the two women and opened it slowly.

This is a plant called Emerald Leaf, the keeper announced proudly. It only grows in the Elven forests, and its leaves can be brewed into a tea that prolongs the life of any who drinks it by up to a decade.

Zeke stared at the man in disbelief. The plant might have emerald-colored leaves, but that was where the similarities to his description ended. Its stalk was a dark green instead of silver. Also, he had just admitted that it grew in the Elven Forests, a place that was also called the forest of eternal spring.

Instead of responding, Zeke turned to Priya with accusing eyes. She had reassured him that the third treasury would be much more impressive than the others. However, if this was the keepers first pick, he didnt need to see the other two.

Upon noticing his gaze, Priya looked away in shame. She hadnt known that the keeper of the third treasury was such a man, trying to bamboozle them with an expensive plant instead of trying to fulfill the request honestly. Thinking about how highly she had praised him earlier stoked a fire of anger within her. He had thoroughly embarrassed her with his actions.

Her eyes grew sharp when they landed on the keeper. Is this really the best you can do?

The man noticed the displeasure in her eyes and immediately beckoned the other two servants forward. However, they didnt fit the description any better. The only thing the three plants had in common was the incredibly high price tag.

Zeke shook his head and began to walk away without a word, and Aisha followed behind. Priya shot the keeper one last glare before running after them.

Wait, Blood Dragon, she called, its not over yet!

Zeke sighed and continued walking. I am thankful for your assistance, Miss Varun, but you no longer need to pretend. I know this was the last of your treasuries.

Priya caught up and stood before Zeke, blocking his path with her body. You are wrong. There is still one last place.

Zeke looked at her with clear doubt in his eyes. He had lost all enthusiasm and trust after the repeated failures. Priya bit her lip. If you dont find what you are looking for at this place, then I will give up without a complaint. I promise.

Zeke saw the confidence in her eyes. It seemed she wasnt just spouting nonsense in order not to lose the challenge but had actual faith in this last place. Fine. Where to?

Follow me, Priya said, leading the way down a different corridor. This time, they were stopped and inspected along the way. Even Priyas status wasnt enough to make the guards back off. Zeke grew increasingly curious about their destination.

Where are we headed? Zeke asked after they were inspected for the second time.

Are you familiar with the Grand Auction?

Zeke nodded. Its an event hosted by the Treasure Pavillion that occurs every decade.

Thats right, Priya said. And as it happens, the next auction draws near.

Then the place we are going is Zeke murmured as realization dawned on him.

Quick, find that girl, the Dragon urged. She knows the plant!

Shut up! Manish roared, striking the bars of the cage with a rod. The girls backed off in fright, huddling together at the back of the cage.

Zeke quickly motioned for the man to calm down. He stepped before the cage and spoke to the group of terrified women with the softest voice he could muster. Can the one who just spoke please step forward?

None of the girls moved.

Dont worry. I merely want to ask a few questions.

After a moment of silence, a girl emerged from their midst. She had snow-white hair and cat-like ears but appeared fully human otherwise. Zeke was momentarily stunned by the young womans looks. Even though her face still carried slight traces of immaturity, her features seemed to have been sculpted by a master. She would clearly grow up to be a peerless beauty.

Zeke saw the anxiety in her eyes, but even more so, he saw a stubborn determination. She clearly hadnt surrendered herself to despair yet and still held out hope.



How do you know about the plant?

It grows near my home, she said. Her voice was soft and melodic.

And where is your home?

Instead of answering, the girl hesitated. She licked her lips nervously before shaking her head. I wont tell.

Why not? Zeke asked, careful to keep his voice as non-threatening as possible.

Why should I? She asked.

Zeke had to agree. The girl had no reason to help him. However, she wasnt done. but I am willing to show you the way if you get me out of here.

Arent you afraid I will use that knowledge to attack your tribe?

The young woman smirked. My tribe is quite powerful. I would never have been captured if I hadnt wandered off.

Zeke nodded and asked his final question. Whats your name?

The girl hesitated momentarily but still answered in the end. My papa calls me Snow.

Without another word, Zeke turned toward Manish. How much for her?

The man looked at Priya with a troubled expression. Priya also wasnt looking too well. Im afraid we cant sell her like that.

Zeke frowned. What do you mean?

We could sell it to you at a premium if it were a herb or a metal, but slaves are a different story, she explained. If somebody fancies her, there is no telling how high the price would go.

Zekes frown deepened. So, what are you suggesting I do?

Easy, Priya said. You will have to win her in the auction.