The warmth of the meal lingered, but Nile's thoughts drifted back to the contents of the Contract Stone. Managing the inn required a constant powerhouse presence, which wasn't difficult since Mama naturally liked spending her time there. She could serve as the figurehead, stepping in only when intimidation or strategic intervention was necessary. However, he needed a proper organization as a cover to hide her identity.
More importantly, the inn couldn't rely on Veena alone. He needed to gather at least a few cultivators at Level 1 or Level 2 to maintain security and handle daily issues. Mama couldn't be expected to step in every time something happened—her role was to cast a long shadow, not fight petty battles.
But where could he find capable people? And more importantly—where would the money come from?
His gaze shifted toward Jessica, who was finishing her meal while casually chatting with Lyra. Arin, ever observant, silently watched Nile, as if sensing the shift in his demeanor.
James stretched, leaning back in his chair. "Alright, kids, we have a free day before the instructor returns. Any plans?"
Jessica grinned. "Exploring the town, obviously!"
Veena chuckled. "Not a bad idea. You three need to get familiar with the town's layout. It'll be useful later."
Jennifer wiped her hands. "Just don't cause trouble, especially you, Jessica."
Jessica feigned innocence. "Me? Cause trouble? Never!"
Nile sighed but nodded. Exploring the town might be useful—especially if it helped him clear his mind. Later in the evening, Uncle James had other plans. They would be heading to the Black Market.
The town's main market stretched across several streets, filled with merchants advertising everything from exotic herbs to enchanted artifacts. The air buzzed with chatter, and the scent of spices, roasted meats, and fresh parchment filled the surroundings.
Jessica led the way, practically bouncing between stalls. Arin followed closely, ensuring she didn't wander too far, while Lyra stuck by Nile's side.
"Do you know how to bargain?" Lyra suddenly asked, tilting her head at Nile.
Nile raised an eyebrow. "I've never needed to."
Lyra grinned mischievously. "Perfect. Let's fix that."
She pulled him toward a stall selling enchanted accessories. A burly merchant greeted them with a practiced smile.
"Ah, young ones! Looking for something special? I have mana-conducting rings, defensive amulets—"
Lyra cut him off. "We're interested in this," she pointed to a small silver bracelet inlaid with a faintly glowing stone.
The merchant's eyes gleamed. "Ah, excellent choice! That's a Tier 1 Mana-Stabilizing Bracelet. It enhances mana flow and prevents instability during spellcasting. Only 12 silver coins!"
Lyra scoffed. "12? That's daylight robbery! The mana flow on this is barely stable. 4 silver."
The merchant gasped theatrically. "Miss, you're cutting my heart in half! 10 silver at least!"
Lyra turned to Nile. "What do you think?"
Nile studied the bracelet using his white sphere. Through its analysis, he could tell the enchantment was weak and slightly cracked. "It's not worth more than 5 silver."
The merchant groaned. "You kids drive a hard bargain… fine, 5 silver."
As Lyra handed over the coins, she smirked at Nile. "See? That's how you deal with merchants. Never take the first price."
Nile chuckled. "Noted."
As they continued exploring, a strange sensation crept over Nile. It was subtle—like the feeling of being watched. His instincts sharpened, and he subtly glanced around.
Nothing seemed out of place. Merchants called out deals, children ran past them, and adventurers discussed their next quests.
Yet, the feeling remained.
"Something wrong?" Arin asked quietly, noticing Nile's change in demeanor.
Nile hesitated before answering, "I think… someone's watching us."
Arin's expression hardened slightly. "Where?"
"I don't know. It's just a feeling."
Jessica, catching the exchange, immediately tensed. "Want me to start a scene to flush them out?"
Lyra rolled her eyes. "We're not causing chaos in the middle of the market."
Arin glanced around discreetly. "We should move. If someone's watching, they'll have to follow."
Nile nodded. "Let's head toward the fortune establishment—one of the three national-level trading houses. Fewer crowds there, and with more security, I doubt we will be targeted."
As they made their way toward the market center, where the Trade Hall's subsidiary oversaw everything, Nile kept his senses sharp. Whoever was watching them—if they were even real—would have to think twice before making a move here.
The grand Trade Hall stood tall, its marble pillars reflecting the sunlight. As Nile and the others stepped inside, the air shifted—colder, heavier.
They approached the main counter, where a bored-looking attendant barely glanced at them before sneering. "Children? This is no place for playing around. Go browse the market."
Jessica's expression darkened, but before she could retort, Lyra held her back.
Nile remained calm. "We need an appraisal."
The worker scoffed. "Do you even have anything worth appraising?"
Before Nile could respond, a voice cut through the room.
"Enough."
A well-dressed man stepped forward, his robe embroidered with the insignia of the Trade Hall's management. His tone was firm but polite. "Apologies, young masters. Some of our newer hires still need proper training."
The worker paled and stepped back.
The manager offered a respectful nod. "Please, follow me. A private room has been prepared."
They were led into a secure chamber where the manager summoned an appraiser. While waiting, he casually engaged in conversation.
When the appraiser arrived, Nile wasted no time. "I need a secure transaction. No leaks, no risks."
Hearing this, both the manager and appraiser exchanged a glance. There was a moment of silence before the manager nodded solemnly.
"Understood. We will activate a Dao-Bound Monitoring Stone. If any trickery or post-transaction hostility occurs within 24 hours, a recording will be transmitted to all five Protectorates and the ten-member Town Island Assembly. A copy will also be sent to the National Capital Island. This cannot be interrupted or tampered with once activated."
Nile exhaled slowly. "That will do."
As the stone's glow filled the room, a sense of finality settled in. This wasn't just a routine appraisal—this was the start of something far bigger.