Merchant Anon

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A one shot based on Anon being a merchant, and traveling the world to trade alongside a partner similar to Spice & Wolf.

Summary: Anon is a trader from Ancient Persia during the time of Alexander the Great. When he arrives to this new land he picks up his one and only career, and continues to live his life according to Zoroastrianism.

Posted in Thread 902
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>What foul has Angra Mainyu, the Zoroastrianism destructive spirit, played on this humble merchant? What strange world have you been thrown into? Was this your Chinvat Peretum, your Path of Judgment, before the temporary afterlife?
>You can remember your past life clearly; a citizen of many empires by no will of your own, and a trader for all of your life. Since your birth the reign over the Achaemenid Empire had been shaky. Coups and assassinations kept rulers lives short, and then the invasion of Alexander threatened your homeland externally.
>Following in your house’s tradition you became a trader. Travel made up the majority of your days, bringing food and goods to the citizens. Your home city of Babylon offered many things; textiles, hides, slaves, bitumen, salt, grain. The far cities of Persepolis and Kandahar needed much of each, and your return trip brought valuable iron and gems.
>Your actions followed the principles of ‘good thoughts, good words, good deeds’ to fight off the druj, the essence of chaos or uncreation. You helped bring food to the armies and towns on the front that had their lands pillaged by the invaders. The iron and gems you brought allowed the craftsmen of the capitol to continue their work, helping keep the war economy stable. The bitumen you traded went into the very walls of Tyre themselves.
>Yet defeat came, and this Alexander took over. Still you did what you were taught to do. Alexander began adopting Persian ideals and his policies mingled the various cultures, opening up many new lands for you to visit. In turn you aided this new empire as you did your old, but it too fell shortly.


>In less years than you have fingers on one hand, Alexander died and his empire was carved between his generals. Seleucus gained the entirety of what was once Persia, and to him you laid your loyalty. You journeyed through the divided realms to trade, an often dangerous yet lucrative prospect. The routes were mostly secure but the other generals eyed your ruler’s land, and the corpse of Alexander.
>Why your shah (king) seized the body you cannot quite say, nor can you guess the outcome of the conflict. For off the coast of Phoenicia, the ship you were on was sunk by Ptolemy’s Egyptian navy. When you awoke on the foreign beach full of colorful beasts capable of sorcery the idea that you had died solidified in your head.
>Regardless, whether a trick or your Chinvat Peretum, you will continue to follow the guiding principles of asha; truth, righteousness, order. With only one skill to rely on, your task is clear. Learn the economy and do your part in the conflict between asha and druj.

“Ahura Mazda, illuminating wisdom, aid me against Angra Mainyu. Give me the strength to follow my duty, and remain on the right path.”
>”Does that mean we’re lost?”
“I was speaking to Ahura Mazda.”
>”I’m the only one here, dear.”
>As you pray to the flames you place the one log of sweet smelling wood on top; your companion finding the practice less than endearing.
>“Oh, you’re talking to the fire again. You know you are literally burning your profits.”
“There would be no profit without asha. To reap the rewards without paying due empowers druj and invites chaos. It would be only a matter of time until it became our ruin.”
>”I’m just looking out for you. You won’t be much of a trader if you have no money.”


>Your ‘partner’ was insistent on helping you learn the markets ever since you arrived in Ponyville. Through the fortune of your faith you were able to acquire some very fine cloth, and rumors led you to an eccentric buyer.
“The sentiment is warming, but misguided Rarity. I have a lifetimes worth of experience, it is only this world that thwarts me.”
>”Suit yourself. I’m sure that experience will come in handy when pulling three wheels.”
>You take a look at your cart, entirely yours. It is a modestly sized wood frame and carriage with a bench seat that could easily sit three. Everything is in good condition save the front right wheel with a growing crack through it. Soon that wheel will break, and you’ll have to buy a replacement. If you had the tools you could just make one over several nights, but you cannot afford those either. Plus they would take up precious cargo space.
>It beats carrying goods over your shoulder, even though you are the one that has to pull it. Rarity offered to buy the wagon for you on the condition she gets to come along and you pull. She refused to let you even entertain the idea of hiring someone else to do so, and purchasing slaves is not a topic you will brooch again.
>Her initial show of generosity and her desire to help you made agreeing to her terms easy. Everything about this world is strange, and sometimes frightens you, but her display of pure goodness; in thought, word, and deed; revived your spirit.


>As for the wheel, something will come up. Every creature has their part to play in the grand scheme of things, and it is humanity’s job to protect the planet. A broken wheel will not prevent your duty.
 “Come, sit with me. Prayer is a communal event, and it feels strange to do so alone.”
>”Oh, no no, you go ahead. I wouldn’t want to upset your ‘Ahoora’.”
“I only ask for your company, you do not need to take any part in the actual prayer. Ahura would take no offense; men and women are as equals, and animals are just as vital to the success of truth in the cosmic battle.”
>Her hard weary stare notifies you of your folly. The first time you referred to her as an animal she broke down in tears screaming about being ugly. You’re not sure why, you implied nothing about her looks; she simply IS an animal. Such a strange horse.
>”Flattering.”
“I apologize. I have traded in the best of horses, from royal cavalry to chariot steeds, and none had a coat as fine as yours.”
>”Ah…”
>That one sound is the only thing to escape her gaping mouth; her eyes wide in disbelief. What was it this time? Usually flattery works on her.
>”You…you just play with your fire. I’ll be in the wagon, and I SUGGEST you pray for some manners!”
>With a huff she turns her back to you and walks over to the wagon with her head held high. You see her climb in the back and lay down after a little trouble. Strange, strange horse.


“I pay homage to Dadar Ahura Mazda, the Wise Lord, the Master Fashioner (Geush Tasha) of the Universe. I am beholden to Him for my very breath. Who can describe His Wonder, His Glory? He is the Master of all.”
>You start your prayer; one you will repeat many times within each day. To do so alone is queer, even on the road your fellow merchants and servants would all pray as a group.
“I pay homage to my beloved Mother (Maatar), who teaches me Righteousness, and love for all sentient beings. Good thoughts, words and deeds are her gift to me. If I speak the truth, it is because of her.”
>Even if Rarity is an odd and mystical animal, her presence is welcoming. She has a good spirit, and it is only on occasion that she acts to the contrary.
“I pay homage to all Righteous men and women, of all races, of all countries. May Universal good come to be for all such people, this is my wish.”
> Ahura created all and you must cherish all; it is your duty. Humans were given free choice, made so special by Ahura that Angra could not create a wicked counter race to match.
“I pay homage to the Creation of Ahura Mazda, the Pure Waters, the Earth, the Plants, and the Good Animals, the Wind, the Sun, the Moon and the shining Stars in the heavens created by Ahura (Ahura-Dhatam.) May I respect, protect and nourish these creations of the Almighty, never polluting or destroying them.”
>If you hope to achieve heaven before the final confrontation between good and evil, where everyone joins Ahura as one, you must follow the righteous path and outweigh your bad deeds with good.
“May the Kingdom of Ahura Mazda be established at that divine time on the waiting earth, and the evil one expelled and annihilated. Such is the fervent wish of every Aryan, and this I, a common soldier of Ahura Mazda, wish with all my heart.”
>You really need to be careful about offending the one helping you.


>Prayer clears your mind, and soothes your soul. Every day since your arrival on the beach has been a trial, but Ahura will see you through. Curiosity whether the creatures of this world follow such practices does play on your mind, but you remain respectful and avoidant. It is forbidden to proselytize, to attempt to convert others, in your religion.
>You’ve never seen Rarity perform any ceremonies, but everything about this place is more than it appears. The one true standard is trade, which you need to get back to.
>Despite the earlier threat, you return to the cart as soon as you put out the fire. Even if she is upset you both need to get moving, and the necessity of making enough to eat outweighs whatever emotion.
>Rarity takes one look at you as you approach before throwing her head back around. She is laying on top of the pile of rugs you purchased in Saddle Arabia. They are of modest quality for a decent price, and worth a nice profit in Vanhoover. Hopefully you can make it before the cold season, but you’re not even half way to Canterlot yet.
>Leaving Rarity to her own devices, you pull down the handles and start to pull. The turning wooden wheels sing a song of home, a familiar joy pricking your skin. Creaking wood rattles with every bump and divot, recalling the sunny roads of the past.

>The quiet is calm, yet the feeling of Rarity’s stewing presence makes things a little uneasy. Normally you would pay it no mind, but back in those days you were in caravans of hundreds; not alone. Perhaps you can break the tension with light conversation. Knowing how to put strangers at ease was a very vital skill for your craft, and a buyer you convince is your friend is more willing to part with their money.
>Of course, that is how you ended up in this partnership in the first place.


“Those rugs were a good bargain, and the seller was friendly. We’ll have to go to him again next time, and hopefully we can afford the more expensive ones.”
>Your passenger in the back remains quiet, not even so much as a dismissive gesture.
“Not to say the ones we bought are of poor quality. Such vibrant colors and intricate designs; they’ll be sure to warm up whatever home they end up in.”
>”Hmph.”
 “It is utterly amazing that there are ‘machines’ aiding the creation of the rug. Not even the Greeks or Egyptians have such contraptions, and if you didn’t point out the differences in the fringe we would have ended up buying inferior ones.”
>”It’s good you realize how fortunate you are to have me along.”
>There she is.

>Rarity slowly climbs out of the back and onto the bench up front, directly behind you. Her clattering hooves on the wooden frame give away the difficulty of moving while you pull. You slow down a little to help her, but only a bit; there’s still a long road ahead of you.
“Maybe next visit we can even buy a few silk rugs.”
>A high pitched noise echoes out of her, bouncing off the hills and your ears.
>”Oh their silk rugs are absolutely wonderful. Such care and thought in the patterns, and the texture, oh it is simply divine.”
“Yes, yes, they are quite nice. Explains why they cost so much. Even if we sell these at double the price we still couldn’t afford even one.”
>Her cheerful tone remains as her enthusiasm wanes. She was already well aware of the situation, and that’s one of the parts of her you liked most; always grounded in reality despite her passion.
>“I know. What are you planning to buy in Vanhoover for the next route?’
“Depends on the market when we get there. You told me their specialty is wood, but that wasn’t selling well in the towns we’ve been through. Plus I am the one that has to haul it around. I was thinking something light, but expensive, like salt.”


>”Salt? Are you sure? You wouldn’t be able to afford more than a small pouch. Sea salt is very pricey, and you would have trouble finding anypony willing to sell such a small amount.”
“But it sells well. If we find a seller, turning a solid profit would be practically guaranteed.”
>Rarity goes quiet for the second time, the wheels of the wagon turning in tandem with her thoughts.

>”Let’s stop in Canterlot; it’s on the way.”
“I’d like to get to Vanhoover as quickly as possible.”
>”You have to eat at some point, and Canterlot has such an amazing selection. They may even have those pomegranates you are fond of.”
>Dare she tempt you with such a fruit; the jewel of your homeland? With just a handful you could create many different soups and salads. If only your cooking servants were here to properly prepare such a meal. Money is also tight after buying the rugs.
“We can visit when we come back with the salt. Bread is fine for now.”
>Her playful voice urges to convince you.
>”Just for dinner? My treat.”
>And her words are ever so sweet. To turn down such a kind notion would be a crime.
“I see no way to refuse.”
>”Fantastic. Take a left at the next fork, darling.”

>Of all the geographical features to forget, how did you not remember Canterlot was on top of a mountain!
>”You’re almost there. I’d help, but I don’t want to ruin my fine coat.”
>There’s a hint of insinuation in her message. Is this her way of holding a grudge? The weight of the cart aims to pull you back down a third time, taunting you as the climb forces you to take the place of Sisyphus.
“You could at least get out and walk.”
>”Ah ah ah, that was not part of the deal.”
>Right, you pull she rides. A merchant’s true value is his word, and you will not forsake yours, despite the growing urge to release the cart and let it sail downwards. The sweat builds on your brow with each step. Thank Ahura these rugs are not logs.


>A resounding wooden crack from behind snaps your deepest fears to attention. Instantly you know the source, long familiar with such things, but turn to make sure. The cart slumps forward and to the right; the cracked wheel split down to where it meets the axle.
>Rarity makes a startled whoop as she is thrown to one side, and you curse your luck.
“Wretched Angra!”
>You can’t let go, the three remaining wheels still enough to allow the wagon to roll in reverse if you do. Without the equal support, keeping the cart upright becomes an even greater challenge.
>Rarity climbs down from the bench and joins you on the trail. Her horn glows a light blue, and a matching illumination overcomes the empty axel beam.
>Without a word, the two of you push onwards until you reach the flat roads of the city. The entire exercise leaves you exhausted. Rarity is still relaxed and in high spirits.

>”Well this is less than ideal.”
>Already your brain is calculating the value of the rugs. There is no shortage of exotic suppliers and fine warehouses within the capitol. To sell here would be a huge loss in potential profit.
>But what choice do you have? All of your money is tied up in the goods save for your travelling allowance. You could not afford a new wheel even if you learned how to eat air and drink sunshine. Some, if not all, of the rugs will have to be sold.
>This also changes your whole route. Without the rugs, what will you trade in Vanhoover? This little detour has turned into a full stop. You are going to have to check the local market.
>Remaining calm, you let the building frustration be cleansed by your inner fire. Ahura guide you.
“Which way to the bazaar? We’ll have to sell here.”
>She is quick to reply; her thoughts reaching the same conclusion.
>”Only a little further. We can leave the wagon here for now and come back for it after we find a buyer.”


>Is she crazy?!
“Not happening!”
>They can tell you how trustful they are until the camels get thirsty, but there is one rule above all others for a merchant. NEVER leave goods unprotected.
>With renewed vigor you grab the handle bars and raise the cart off the empty axle. Rarity rolls her eyes as her horn adopts the same glow from a moment ago; her aid again replacing the missing wheel.

>”Really dear, you’re being paranoid. Even if someone did want to steal a rug, there are so many guards around that they would surely be caught.“
“We will stay with the cart until we find a buyer or trade house we can store it at.”
>”You’ll have to pay rent at a trade house, you know? Not to sound crass, but the frequency you spend your bits unnecessarily does have me worried.”
>Better safe than sorry. A docking fee is recoverable; to lose all of your cargo is damning.
>”Lucky for you I have quite the repertoire.  Just continue to follow my lead.”
>The whole reason she is tagging along is to help guide you through these strange lands, and so you obey the calls coming from behind telling you where to turn. Her directions lead you to a modest house near the market streets. The size is not impressive, but given the location it no doubt had a high price tag.
>Rarity releases her grip and the cart slants to the right along the side of the road. Taking the silent cue, you let go as well and watch as she walks up to the door. With a small shout she waves you over.

>”Come along now, you’re the one that has to make the sale.”
“Are you going to stay with the cart?”
>”Of course not, dear. I’ll be with you to make the introductions and to keep you out of trouble. Bringing some cheer and class is another perk of my presence, but that goes without saying.”
Hmmm.


>While searching the streets you jingle the bag of coins kept on your person. The soft clinking here and there matches the light weight of your pouch. You’re going to be stuck eating nothing but bread for months if this doesn’t go well.
>Your eyes find what they are looking for; a young but adult stallion with a chip on his shoulder. Just like the young adults loitering the market back home he seems to have something to prove, and you have just the opportunity for him.
>Giving a sharp whistle you catch his attention and call him over.
“Hey there, looking to make a few bits?”
>His face lights up at the prospect, and he makes himself stand as tall as possible while puffing out his chest.
>”Yes-sir, what’s the job?”
>He’s got spunk. Good.
“Guard this cart for me, and don’t let anyone near the back. We shouldn’t be long; I’ll pay you three bits for a half hour, and double your pay every hour.”
>Offering to pay double the current rate each hour would be worth a small fortune if you were planning to stay overnight, but since this should be quick you can promise untold riches to sweeten the deal.
>As expected, you can see the inexperienced lad counting in his head how much he could potentially make. He’ll never see that kind of money from you.
>”Will do, sir. Your goods are safe with me.”
“Glad to hear it.”
>Walking up to the door, you catch Rarity’s inconvenienced stare. Even if she doesn’t know the exact amount, she can tell you were spending money on ‘something foolish’ again. One day she’ll learn the value of insurance.
>”Do behave yourself. Tuft Mane is a very lively fellow who might be offended by your…level of skepticism.”
>A merchant without a healthy dose of suspicion? Who is helping him succeed?
“Does he run the business himself?”


>”Tuft Mane is very talented at finding clients and opening social circles. He is very easy to get along with and I have a feeling you will like him just as easily. His wife, Felt Mane, deals with most of the actual business part. She’s sharp, but a little rough around the edges. That’s not to say she isn’t nice, but she takes some getting used to. The two really complement each other.”
>Noted. That information should give you a good read on the developing transaction.
“Old friends of yours?”
>”You could say that. Tuft and I have talked at a number of dinner socials, and he holds a soiree here every year. Felt is a little harder to talk to.”
>Adopting a hushed tone, Rarity tries to raise her head as close to your ear as possible. She still only makes it to your belly.
>”We’re hoping she’s busy right now.”
>Curious. Sounds like Felt may be the better one to talk to for figuring out what the market is doing.

“I’m ready when you are.”
>With a nod, your partner takes her position beside you and knocks on the door. In but a few moments a stallion is at the door.
>His portly frame gives him a slight plump appearance, though he stands a head above Rarity. A quilted cover lays across his back similar to a robe, its bright colors warm and welcoming. The mix of red, orange, and yellow remind you of a nestled flame that roars with the cheerful bellows of his greeting.
>”Rarity, what a pleasant surprise! It has been too long, too long. Oh, and you have brought a friend!”
>”Yes, this is my business partner Anonymous.”
>His sky blue eyes endlessly travel over you, their softness rounded by his beige coat. Even his brown mane and tail meld effortlessly with his autumn demeanor despite the dark contrast.
>”Hello there, hello. I’m Tuft Mane, so happy to meet you. I never would have guessed Rarity to let anyone join her business or I would have tried myself.”


>The fire rolls with Tuft’s hearty laugh. With equal energy Rarity is quick to jump in.
>”Oh, no. The Carousal Boutique remains solely mine. Anonymous here is a travelling merchant, and I am his advisor.”
“A pleasure to meet you.”
>Tuft’s interest in you rises even higher upon hearing that.
>”You really must be something for Rarity to pause her craft. Please, come in, come in.”

>As you enter the shop you notice the interior shares the same warm welcoming atmosphere as his clothes. Numerous large windows allow the sun’s rays to brighten the place, and the wood itself is of a light color. The smell of burning incense and butter milk makes the place feel smooth and safe; more like a home than a shop.
>Tuft leads the two of you to the back where a pair of sofas and several seats circles around an ashen table with a tray of delicacies. He offers the two of you a seat on one of the sofas, and sits on the other.
>”I take it you are here on business then. Before we get into the details, can I ask how the two of you met?”
 “Actually, I was wondering if your wife would be joining us.”
>A sharp pain climbs up your side as Rarity jabs you with a heavy, yet subtle, nudge. Tuft fails to notice, and rises off the sofa.
>”Ho ho ho, yes, she would be excited to see you two as well! Let me go find her.”
>Rarity wastes no time scolding you when he leaves.

>”What are you doing? I told you we want to just talk with Tuft.”
“I’d just like to know who I am dealing with.”
>”Do you actively go out of your way to make things harder?”
“From what you said earlier, it sounds like she could be helpful.”
>”I also said she’s hard to talk to, and for good reason.”
>Tuft comes back sooner than expected; the heavy steps and jolly banter announcing his return. At his side is the mare you suspect to be his wife half listening to as she keeps her focus forwards.


>”Anonymous, allow me to introduce you to my wife, Felt.”
>Felt lacked all manner of dress, instead letting her glossy grey coat and chalky mane flow freely. Her faded white mane frizzled and sparked where the quick brush down had failed. The stare of her brown eyes showed little concern for her appearance, as her sight fixated solely on you.
“It’s nice to meet you.”
>Rarity forces a smile and peppy attitude.
>”Hello Felt, it’s good to see you again.”
>Felt’s glare only breaks when she gives a small bow of her head.
>”Hello. Anonymous is it? Tell me, have you ever been here before?”
“I have not. I’ve visited Canterlot a few times, but never for long.”
>”I see. Why don’t you come with me and I’ll give you the tour? My husband and Rarity can catch up in the mean time.”
“I’d like that.”

>Rarity and Tuft exchange well practiced smiles, though Rarity lets out a nervous titter and fidgets a little next to you. As you stand from the sofa she mouths a silent word of warning to you.
>Tuft takes his seat while Felt waits for you to join her side before heading out to the work area.
“After you.”
>As you and her leave the musings of gossip begins behind you.
>”My, I haven’t seen you since the last Winter Ball. Are you planning to go again this year?”
>”That depends on where we are at the time. I would like to, but who knows where the road leads?”
>”Who is watching your store, by the way? Is it little Sweetie Belle?”
>”Oh, heavens no! Some of my friends are helping keep things in order while I’m away.”
>The chatter fades out completely as you travel down the hall; from the main show room down to the work area. A few workers are running about getting things in order, each busy with something or other. Items are being valued, papers are being shuffled, bits are being weighed and counted; all while the steady grey mare walks calmly alongside you.


>”Let’s get straight down to business. You’re here to sell some rugs; seven to be exact.”
>That was sudden, but correct.
“Yes. We bring hoof made rugs from Saddle Arabia; each stitch and weave carefully made without the assistance of a machine. The designs themselves were carefully considered to bring comfort to their owner’s home, and I think you’ll find they match the kind essence your shop has.”
>She continues onward and you follow her lead while giving your sales pitch. It is not until you are in the warehouse that she stops. Various tables, rugs, curtains, and all other types of furniture surround you.

>”And the trip has cost you a wheel.”
>Your purse catches in your throat, and clattering coins rattle your bones. She wasn’t saying it directly, but she was making it very clear she knows you are in a tight spot. This is going to hurt you in naming a price.
>”And there are really only two of you. The third outside was just a recent hire.”
>True, but what is she trying to imply with that one? How is she planning to use that against you in the sale?
>”You look surprised, Anonymous. Do you expect me to not know the full story of those who park outside my store? You may be able to swindle my husband with fancy words and half-truths, but not me.”
“I assure you I have no such intention.”
>A cocky smirk crosses her face and her knowing eyes assure you that you have lost.
>”There’s a saying I am quite fond of. ‘Foolish men prefer weaker women.’ ”
>So there are sane traders in this land; ones with a sense of caution and on the lookout for crooks.
>You’ve been put on the defensive and she has her guard up. Rarity and Felt may have some history, and she’s reading something from the colt outside. However, she has also given you the means to chip away at that wall.
“Then your husband is one of the wisest I’ve met.”


>The sincere and confident tone throws her sense of victory out of whack, granting you the opportunity to press further.
“The stallion I hired outside is watching over our cart to make sure no one tries to take one of our rugs while we are busy negotiating. I would have left it at a trade house, but Rarity was quite insistent that coming straight here was a good idea.”
>A stab at Felt’s mistrust is hidden inside your message. Rarity didn’t actually have to argue or plea for you to come, but Felt didn’t need to know that. Implying Rarity was in their corner was just the opening you needed.

>Felt’s shaken guard shifts to fierce scrutiny as she searches for any tells of deceit. You remain solid and relaxed, offering nothing of the sort. Her hard narrow eyes soon soften to a wide gaze.
>”You mean to tell me you were worried about being robbed in broad daylight, on one of the busiest streets, IN the capitol with guards nearby?”
>Have these ponies never been pick-pocketed before? Crowds are great for thieves; a light bump and a quick slip of the hand can make off with a heavy pouch.
“Should I not be?”
>For whatever reason the question causes the hard driven mare to chuckle in earnest. It’s a rough and dry laugh which she quickly reigns in.
>Ahem. “Forgive me. So how much are you selling the rugs for?”
>Good, the wall is down and she seems to be in high spirits. However, she still knows about the wheel which you have only partially addressed. The fact remains you are in a weakened position, and if she goes too low you’ll have to try somewhere else.
“40 bits each.”
>You bought all 7 for 20, and considering travel expenses each one costs you about 25. If it comes to it, you can settle for 25 and be able to make a fresh trade run with little loss. Hopefully you can get around 30, but that depends on how well you haggle.


>”I’ll buy the lot.”
>At 40? What about the wheel?
>”Can’t have any of those fine rugs going to our competitors.”
> She gives you a smile and a wink, ceasing your silent panic. You just made 280 bits, on top of the 30 in your wallet you set aside for food and lodging. You can afford a new wheel at about 60, and have enough left over to afford a good amount of cargo.

>The only thing left is to pick a new run. The surprise success may prove to be just the start of some good fortune. Let’s see what else Felt is willing to offer.
“How’s the textile market doing?”
>”Well, these rugs will turn a small profit; about enough to cover the stocking fee. Clothes, curtains and blankets are selling around normal. No huge demand, unlike furniture, but you can still make an okay mark up.”
“Furniture is the big thing now?”
>”Yes. With the recent settlement of Appleloosa and the new Crystal Kingdom market: dressers, beds, tables and chairs are selling fast.”
>Appleloosa is nearby but it has one of those ‘trains’ running into town, and you hate competing with those. They are so strong and fast that even Gilgamesh would be envious. The idea of hauling large furniture around is not very tempting, either.
>When it comes to food, Canterlot is an importer not an exporter. Only a fool would try to make money trading food out of Canterlot.
>”Do you have any plans for your next trip?”
“Hopefully someplace warm. Any good values on spices nearby?”
>”Not unless you already have some to sell.”
>Sounds like the best bet is sticking with textiles and making only a slight profit.

>Felt turns her attention to the back of the storage room for a second while making a thoughtful hum.
>”I have a proposition for you.”
“By all means.”


>”The buffalo tribe down south often has Thyme to trade. They do not have a standard currency like us, instead bartering one item for another. Blankets are a common demand and I have pile of 20 I could sell you. Normally I charge 15 bits each, but I’m willing to lower that to 10. I will also guarantee a payment of 20 bits per bundle of Thyme you come back with.”
>She’s losing a potential 100 bits there, and she’s calculated your exact position. 200 bits for the blankets leaves you with 80, which will cover the new wheel and leave you with some funds for travelling expenses. You should keep your eye on the Thyme market.
>The guaranteed price is modest; a little higher than the average. In theory you could make a sizeable profit both trips. While the proposition is win-win, there is no doubt she is aiming to make the larger cut. You can haggle for a better share, but she did purchase the rugs at asking price. To scorn her good will for a few more coins would not be acting righteously.
“You have a deal, but allow me to ask a foolish question. Why not send one of your own merchants?”
>”You’re a safe bet.”

>Felt motions for you to join her and takes you back towards the main hall. Stopping at one of the worker’s desks, she grabs one of the pouches and says something to the present mare. She runs off, and Felt gives you the bag. Its heavy weight and deep clatter makes you feel as light as feathers.
>“Here is the money for the rugs, and my boys will pick them up right away. I’ll have the contract drawn up within the hour, and you can come back for the blankets and to sign at anytime. Now, I suggest you go and get your new wheel before you owe Tatters any more money.”
>Is that his name? Is he the one that tipped her off?
>”I need to get back to running this place; I’ll let you break up the two chatterboxes. It was a pleasure doing business with you.”
“Likewise. Thanks for the support.”


>Felt leaves you with a bounce in her step; that is until her employees notice. After a few choice words the racket of the busy room matches Felt’s own hectic yet organized commands.
>Returning to where you left your partner, you find both Tuft and Rarity settled into their respective seats; chatting carelessly. Tuft is the first to notice you enter.
>”Ah, Anonymous, you’re back. How did you enjoy the tour?”
“It was enlightening. Quite the set up you have here.”
>”Yes, well I couldn’t do it without my wife. Where is she by the way?”
“She had to get back to work.”
>”Of course, of course. Please have a seat. Rarity and I were just going over the fine cuisine at the palace.”
>”And it turns out one of the chefs moonlights at a nearby restaurant.”
>So Rarity has been doing her research this whole time as well.
“I would love to stay, but we do need to get our wagon fixed. We’ll visit again after dinner.”
>A suspicious glare casts down on you from your horned counterpart. Wait until she hears about this.
>”Anonymous, did you—“
“Yup. Sold the lot, and have a new route all set up. We’re going to trade with the buffalo, and then come back here.”
>Rarity’s gaze hardens as her brow lowers; her miffed expression empowering her inquisition.
>”How much did you sell them for?”
“40 each.”
>”Fa-fa-forty? Each? What’s the catch?”
“No catch, but Felt did sell me 20 blankets for 10 bits, and guaranteed a payment of 20 bits per bushel of Thyme.”
>The tick tock of her pupils bouncing from side to side rings along with the calculations running in her head. She nearly faints when she finds the total. Tuft, on the other hand, just laughs at the revelation.
>”I knew you two would get along. Extraordinary mare. Winning her over was the best investment of my life.”


“You’re a lucky man, Tuft. She also suggested we use the time to get our other business out of the way, so if you’ll excuse us…”
>”Absolutely. I look forward to seeing you again soon, and feel free to stop by at any time. Our door is always open.”
“Coming Rarity?”
>Her head pops up from behind the sofa, snapping to attention.
>”Right. It’s been fun Tuft. See you later.”
>”Enjoy the meal.”
>As Rarity and you head out the door, her urge to know the details can no longer be contained.
>”I can’t believe you were able to get that much out of her. You have to tell me positively everything.”
“To be fair, it was mostly Felt’s idea. Tuft probably has some idea what she’s up to, and we need to keep an eye on herbs.”
>The stallion guarding your cart catches sight of you. He watches with dismay as you hand him three bits.
“Don’t spend it all in one place, Tatters.”
>Confusion adorns his face as you use his name, but he heads off without questioning it. For once your associate is too perplexed to nag you about spending more money.
>”There has to be something more to it; she’s never been so charitable.”
“Sometimes all it takes is clearing up a misunderstanding. I’ll tell you all about it over a celebratory dinner; your treat.”
>”With a sale like that, you should be treating me. But I did propose the offer, and I know just the place.”
>The two of you lift up the empty cart, and head into the main square for repairs and a well deserved meal.