Rimelion: The Exploiter

"Thus my offer, build your kingdom and I shall invest into it," said Riker.

"Mister Riker!" I started laughing and shook my head. "Having a kingdom in the game? That's nearly impossible, even for me—at least in the first years. Sure, I have a noble title, but I'd need to grow, build my Right to Rule points, and then, maybe—maybe—I could aim for a count, with final sights on Dukedom," I explained, still chuckling at the thought.

Riker inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment. "I am well aware of the challenges you face, Miss Charlie," he said smoothly. "Nevertheless, my offer remains unwavering. So long as you maintain your independence, my support is yours—whether you rise to rule a grand kingdom or preside over a humble barony."

With that, he rose from his seat and began tinkering with his watch. A faint hum accompanied his actions, the device glowing softly as he adjusted something on its interface.

"Lucas," he said, glancing at my mage. "You've fulfilled your end by arranging this delightful conversation. As such, you may keep the money you arrived with." His tone was casual, as though granting Lucas a reprieve from financial ruin was like holding the door for a woman. "And here is the promised info on the two agents going after you."

Turning to me, he continued, "And as for you, Miss Charlie, here is your Ranker Quantum Key." He extended a small, gleaming device toward me—a metallic object that glowed with faint, pulsating light. "Enjoy the privileges of being a top ranker. I will introduce perks for any ranker, including you, later." His gaze locked onto mine. "You'll also find my direct contact information there."

He stepped back. "Thank you for the chat. That is all for me. Do you wish to add anything?"

I stared at him for a moment, countless questions swirling in my mind like an unrelenting storm.

Why me?

What does he really want?

How far does his influence extend?

My anger and exhaustion outweighed my curiosity for now. I can always call. Instead, I simply shook my head. "No, I do not. Goodbye, mister Riker."

I grabbed Lucas's hand and pulled him into the elevator room, my frustration simmering just beneath the surface.

I need comfort.

I leaned toward him for a hug, but as I saw Lucas's smug grin, as if he won the entire game, was the last straw for my thin nerves. "What were you thinking by coming here?"

Lucas' grin deepened, his typical deflective charm shining through. "Why are you so beautiful?"

I froze mid-step, gaping at him as I felt the heat rush to my face.

What the hell?!

My cheeks burned as I stammered, "I-I-I bought the dress before coming!" My words tumbled out in a flustered mess. "Wait, I don't have to justify myself to you!" Am I... Yes, I am Charlie, but also John.

Damn, this is confusing.

"Neither do I, Charlie," Lucas said back confidently, his grin broadening. "I came for information, and I got it. The money? That's just a bonus."

The elevator jolted softly as it began descending. I turned to him, channeling Irwen's icy presence more naturally than I expected. "Lucas..." My tone was biting. "You're treading a very dangerous bar now. Watch your barrels."

For the first time that night, Lucas's grin faltered. He flinched slightly, and for a fleeting moment, I saw something vulnerable crack through his bravado. "Charlie?"