SSS Talent: From Trash to Tyrant Chapter 553: Augusto's Shop

Trafalgar made a small gesture with his hand.

"That one is the shop."

Even from the outside, the distinction was evident.

Augusto's establishment had seen significant expansion. While the previous location was adequate, this new storefront exuded a palpable presence. It was broader, constructed with fresher timber, its windows gleamed, and the decorative metalwork surrounding the sign was an ostentatious display of wealth.

Though not the largest establishment in Mariven Port, its luxurious appearance was undeniable. Two sentries stood guard at the entrance, precisely as Augusto had informed them. He had enlarged the premises and bolstered security because, at some point, the attention drawn to Trafalgar had evolved from mere curiosity into something potentially perilous.

Zafira's pace slackened as she observed the shop.

"I had envisioned something more modest."

"My initial impression was similar."

They traversed the street and entered the premises.

A gentle chime resonated from the bell above the door. The distinct aroma of metal and mana, underscored by that familiar subtle sweetness, greeted them, though the interior itself had undergone a transformation. The former abundance of raw mythril was no longer the dominant feature of the space.

While remnants of ore, with deep violet veins shimmering in the lamplight, were still arranged along one wall, the shop now presented a more sophisticated ambiance. It featured glass display cases, secured shelving, and meticulously arranged accessories. Weapons were displayed further back, and multiple polished counters replaced the singular one of before. Augusto had not simply expanded the space; he had elevated its entire aesthetic to one of opulence.

Patrons were present within the shop.

A vampire lingered near a display table, his demeanor suggesting a lifetime steeped in irritation. Before the main counter, a dwarf was engaged in what appeared to be a vigorous debate regarding the concept of pricing itself.

Before Trafalgar and Zafira could advance more than a few steps, one of the guards stationed inside approached them.

His sheer size made the doorway seem constricted in his wake; he possessed broad shoulders and the hardened aura of a man whose profession involved resolving disputes through physical means. Despite his imposing presence, his voice was courteous.

"For the safety of the establishment, I must request that you both remove your hoods. It helps prevent any unpleasantness."

Trafalgar drew nearer, his voice lowered.

"Inform Augusto that Trafalgar has arrived."

The guard's eyes widened slightly.

The utterance of the name alone shifted his bearing. A flicker of surprise crossed his features before his training reasserted control. He gave a curt nod and promptly proceeded toward the counter.

Augusto was occupied in what could only be described as the masterful manipulation of the dwarf.

This was the most accurate description. The dwarf was attempting to negotiate a price, and Augusto was treating his efforts as a private source of amusement. To challenge him on price was a strategic misstep that appeared plausible only from a distance. Up close, the disparity between someone negotiating for necessity and someone bargaining with optimism and a deep).-purse became glaringly apparent.

Augusto stood behind the counter, exuding his characteristic air of amused shrewdness, his amber eyes sharp, wolf ears occasionally twitching, and his tail swaying languidly as he listened to the dwarf with the patient, calculating demeanor of a predator observing a smaller creature believe it had the upper hand.

Upon the guard's arrival, Augusto displayed a trace of annoyance.

"Can't you see I'm engaged?" he inquired. "What is it you require?"

The guard leaned in and conveyed a brief message.

While the exact words were lost to Trafalgar amidst the shop's ambient noise, Augusto's reaction was unmistakable. A swift transformation occurred. His ears perked up, the amusement in his eyes sharpened into keen alertness, and he turned his head toward the two figures cloaked near the entrance.

He then stood to his full height.

"The establishment is temporarily closed."

The dwarf's jaw dropped. "What?"

Augusto offered him little in the way of sympathy.

"Take the item. At your price." He slid the object across the counter with evident reluctance. "You fortunate dog."

The dwarf promptly seized it, the item dematerializing into light as it was absorbed into his inventory.

"Hah! I knew I'd wear you down eventually."

A faint vein pulsed on Augusto's temple.

The vampire by the side table appeared even more displeased. It was clear he had no intention of departing voluntarily, prompting Augusto to glance at the guard and give a subtle nod of his head.

That was sufficient.

The guard took two deliberate steps forward.

Seen up close, he seemed even more imposing than before, easily surpassing two meters in height and built like a fortress upon a foundation. The vampire immediately reevaluated his situation, clicked his tongue in acknowledgment, and departed without a word.

"Ensure no one else enters," Augusto instructed.

The guard acknowledged the command with a nod and assumed his position at the door.

Only after the shop was entirely void of customers did Trafalgar lower his hood. Zafira followed suit moments later.

Augusto's grin reappeared instantly.

"What a delightful surprise. Trafalgar, it brings me great pleasure to see you." His sharp canines flashed subtly as he smiled. "And Lady Zafira du Zar'khael as well. You are both most welcome here."

"Thanks," Trafalgar said, his gaze sweeping over the shop once more. "It seems your words were true. You have indeed improved this place. And your guard

appears to be quite dependable."

Augusto let out a snort. "He ought to be. His fee is as if he were divinely blessed. He's Flow Rank, too, so most fools lose their nerve before they even dare to make a move." His tail gave a single flick. "Even so, inquiries about you persist. Daily. From nobles, merchants, guards, and idle busybodies." A grin spread across his face. "Being associated with you has certainly become a hassle."

"I'm deeply touched."

"You shouldn't be." Augusto crossed his arms over his chest. "Now, what is it you require?"

Trafalgar wasted no preamble.

"Show me everything of value. I have coin to spend and I seek useful provisions. Items capable of preserving food and water effectively. Navigation instruments. Practical accessories. Anything of sufficient quality to be worth bringing along."

Augusto's amber eyes sparkled with interest.

"Excellent. You've arrived ready to dispense funds like a discerning patron." He raised a finger. "Just a moment, please."

He vanished into the storeroom.

Moments later, the shop was punctuated by a series of distinct noises.

A clatter of metal.

A thud against wood.

"Ouch."

Trafalgar tilted his head slightly towards the back.

Augusto reappeared, bearing a wide crate laden with various articles, nestled within dark fabric. He placed it on the counter with a show of care that would have been more believable had the preceding sounds not occurred.

Trafalgar arched an eyebrow. "Are you unharmed? It sounded as though the back room attempted to crush you."

Augusto winced. "Something heavy landed on my foot. The pain is quite demonic."

His gaze then fell upon Zafira.

"Ah, yes. My apologies. My expression."

Zafira emitted a soft laugh, her tone lighter than before. "It is quite alright."

She moved nearer the counter, her eyes briefly scanning the box's contents, but her subsequent words were directed at Augusto.

"Do you also possess anything suitable for delicate work? Something small, perhaps a ring, a bracelet, or even gloves. I require something that aids in fine mana control and maintains its stability after projection."

This caused Augusto to pause, though only momentarily.

His ears twitched, a flicker of curiosity crossing his features before he masked it with his customary businesslike smile.

"I might have something," he stated deliberately. "That would depend entirely on the sophistication of your discerning taste, Lady Zafira."