The Prince of the Daemons, watched him with an intensity that could melt steel.
Ethan nodded toward the prince.
His voice was calm and professional despite the cosmic stakes.
"If you just want to study my methods, then there is no problem," Ethan said.
"But you see, these guests are here to fight for that technique."
"I am a man of my word."
"I cannot simply sell the technique to you without giving them the chance to bid as promised."
The rulers in the room, beings who had lived for eons and crushed worlds, felt a sudden and profound surge of respect.
In a universe where power usually dictated morality, Ethan was sticking to the rules of a merchant even when faced with the terrifying Ancients.
They stood up as if moved by a single, invisible thread.
"Thank you, Mr. Hunt," they bowed in unison.
It was a rare sight.
Source Authority level beings showing genuine gratitude to a merchant.
They realized Ethan was not just a supplier.
