The pleasant breeze of the evening tousled Erik's hair as he walked out of elegance, momentarily pushing away the weight of his mission.
He summoned a cab, and the sleek vehicle discreetly approached him. Before entering the vehicle, he took a moment to admire the restaurant's stunning exterior before leaving, thinking about what he had found there.
"Head to the Haven Market," he urged the driver. The driver's brow lifted slightly in surprise, giving Erik a brief glance in the rearview mirror.
Haven Market was different from your typical tourist attraction. According to what he knew, the creme de la creme of Testrovsc's Rest frequented it. Celebrities, business moguls, and politicians - people with clout and the means to gratify their every whim. It would be an understatement to say it was elite.
Erik chose not to play any more charades. Going under an alias had served its purpose in the restaurant. Still, it could have been more helpful at the Haven Market.
It was a place where identities and status were crucial, where genuine power and influence reigned supreme. Erik fit the description with his growing reputation and accomplishments in the mercenary guild.
The skyline began to alter as the cab passed through the busy streets of Testrovsc's Rest. Towering constructions gave rise to larger ones, each grander than the previous, as the taxi went further inside the rich part of the city.
Haven Market suddenly materialized before him as if emerging from a surreal dream. A towering edifice, it gleamed in the evening light, its intricate patterns dancing and shimmering on its majestic exterior.
"Don't pull close to the building." Erik said to the driver as they approached the building, "Leave me there." The young man was left on the ground when the cab arrived.
Erik's senses kicked in just as he approached the entrance to Haven Market, informing him that prudence could be required. He looked around and noticed a narrow alleyway off to the side.
He swiftly turned his course and stepped into its gloomy embrace, briefly disappearing from the prying eyes of the people gathered outside.
The young man took a deep breath and reached into his leather bag to retrieve the mask he had prepared earlier.
It was a modest item with a mysterious and enticing style, but not really ideal for a location like Haven Market. However, he needed to wear it since, otherwise, people wouldn't recognize him.
His features were hidden as soon as he wore them, changing him into an intriguing figure, a seeker of truths concealed beneath layers of deceit.
He took a moment to settle himself after adjusting the mask for a snug fit. He felt safer with the mask on, an added layer of protection from the prying eyes and ears that would be everywhere in the market.
Emerging from the alley, the masked Erik stood in stark contrast to the well-dressed crowd. While many people in the area used masks as status symbols or fashion statements, Erik's had a more serious purpose.
The young man arrived at the entryway, where a queue of luxury vehicles awaited him. Valets in uniform rushed around, opening car doors and greeting the city's affluent.
As Erik approached the entryway, a few heads turned. He was a new face among the regulars, but his confident stride and demeanor indicated he belonged to that place. A few murmurs and whispers followed him, but he paid little attention.
Two guards in sharp suits nodded to him as he reached the entrance. His exploits had made headlines in some circles, and the guards plainly knew them. "Welcome to Haven Market, Mr. Kay," one stated with a slight smirk playing on his lips.
Erik nodded in appreciation. "Thank you so much. I'm here for business."
"We are glad to hear this, sir," said the other guard. "Please let us know if you want any support."
Erik entered the Haven Market's building with a sense of excitement and anticipation. This was a different playground, with bigger stakes but also higher rewards.
He knew he was entering a place that could provide information about Doran's whereabouts and relationships. But it was also a world where every move was analyzed, and every intention was scrutinized.
As soon as Erik entered Haven Market, he was struck by its magnificence. The atmosphere was buzzing with conversations, and the high ceilings were adorned with crystal chandeliers, creating a pleasant ambiance.
Clearly, this was not an average place; it was a luxurious destination for the affluent and discerning.
As he stood there taking in his surroundings, an incredibly poised and regal-looking woman caught his eye. She had chestnut brown hair that cascaded down her back in perfect waves, and her every movement exuded an air of elegance and grace.
The woman's demeanor exuded an air of professionalism, yet her countenance was warm and inviting, displaying a genuine smile. Her magnificent gown cascaded softly around her, the lustrous blue fabric reflecting the light in a subtle shimmer.
"Good morning, sir," she greeted softly and pleasantly. "I'm Olivia, and I'm here to assist you during your visit to Haven Market. I'm at your service if you'd like something to drink, inquire about our range of products, or need help with pricing and transactions. Please feel free to ask me anything."
Erik nodded, pleased with the amount of service and attention he was getting. It wasn't every day that he was treated so respectfully, especially while wearing his mask.
"Thank you, Olivia," he said, his voice tinged with curiosity. "I'd like to look around, but perhaps a drink to refresh myself first would be better."
Olivia nodded, her smile broadening slightly. "Certainly, sir. We have an exceptional selection of beverages. How about a glass of our unique tea, prepared with rare herbs from the eastern provinces, or a glass of vintage wine?"
"The tea. I don't really like alcohol," Erik replied.
Erik studied the surroundings, taking in the wealth, and wondered where his inquiry may lead next as Olivia used a device to obtain it.
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