Upon parting the curtain, the darkness within offered no immediate visibility. Yet, the shopkeeper sported a smile, unfazed by the obscure surroundings.
"Why don't we introduce ourselves first?" the shopkeeper suggested.
"Well, I'm not against it. But it depends on what you're talking about. You know, my identity is quite important," Lucas responded in a relaxed tone.
The shopkeeper, curious, raised his eyebrow. Lucas seemed to emphasize the significance of his identity, aware of its weight.
In the realm of cultivation, judgments based on outer appearances were unreliable. It was the inner essence that held the true measure of an individual.
"Peak of the Master Spirit Realm? Yet you call yourself important?" the shopkeeper's tone shifted to a more serious one.
Attempting to delve into a serious conversation, the shopkeeper's approach left Felicity observing with skepticism. Something felt off about this seemingly ordinary tailor shop – it was starting to sound more like the clandestine hideout of an organization.
Moreover, the ease with which the shopkeeper assessed Lucas's cultivation hinted at a potentially higher or comparable cultivation level.
"You... peeked at my cultivation base? You're no simple individual, shopkeeper. But... I've lost interest in your modeling offer. I'll find another shop," Lucas declared in a slightly irritated tone, turning away.
The shopkeeper paused, quickly realizing he had crossed a line.
"Wait! I'm sorry, young boy... Okay, I won't tease you again. Here," the shopkeeper pressed a button, illuminating the room and revealing an array of different styled robes. While not strikingly different in appearance, the opulence of these garments shouted wealth.
Lucas, initially speechless, noted that the robes weren't merely about outer appearance. The real wealth lay in the intricate formations woven into the fabric, indicating these were indeed special products, as the shopkeeper claimed.
"What do you think of these products? Seeing a talented and handsome guy like you is rare in Morning Sun because of the habits of businessmen to focus on their wealth," the shopkeeper remarked, his demeanor taking a different turn.
As the shopkeeper's appearance transformed into a more feminine figure with pronounced features, including two mountains on the chest, Lucas muttered in disbelief, "You're not he but she?"
Felicity, dumbfounded by the sudden revelation, realized her failure to see through the shopkeeper's facade. This implied that the shopkeeper's abilities might rival her own prowess.
Instinctively, Felicity covered Lucas, reverting her appearance to its normal state, revealing her unparalleled beauty.
Surprised by Felicity's reaction, Lucas understood her wariness towards the shopkeeper. Despite being in potential danger, he couldn't blame her, considering his own reservations about the shopkeeper. Perhaps the allure of the words 'special' or 'free' had led him to follow the shopkeeper, knowing that purchasing cultivation methods could be an expensive endeavor.
However, dwelling on this was not a priority at the moment.
"Felicity?" Lucas questioned.
Felicity glanced at him, explaining, "Forgive me, Lucas. But this shopkeeper isn't a normal being."
Lucas fell silent for a moment, then redirected his attention to the shopkeeper, now appearing in a different form.
"I see," he mumbled, understanding the situation. "Don't worry, Felicity. She is not dangerous," he reassured.
Felicity objected, "What did you say? Since she changed her appearance, it could mean that she also has the same cultivation base as me. And her... err, her purpose is a mystery."
The shopkeeper, in response to Felicity's concerns, raised her left eyebrow and chuckled softly. "You are such a worried brat. I clearly said that I offered him modeling. Since I am just leisurely living my life, I want to recruit him to endorse my products. And you surprised me with your potential."
For a moment, the shopkeeper pulled another curtain, revealing three different robes inside a display glass, comparable to those worn by royals. The robes exhibited vibrant primary colors—red, blue, and yellow.
"These robes... They are exceptional enough to be sold. Why would you need a model?" Lucas inquired.
"At first, I thought of selling this, but I can't. So, these three garments will be my reward for you after I sell the special products," the shopkeeper explained.
Lucas remained silent, captivated by the intricate details of the robes within the glass display. The execution skills, linings, and weaving techniques showcased a majestic craftsmanship that left him in awe.
The robes in the display commanded Lucas's attention, particularly the aura they emitted. In comparison to the special products, these robes seemed to harbor more intricate formations, making them even more extraordinary for those who understood their purpose.
"Do you mean what you said?" Lucas inquired, unable to ignore the significance of the robes before him.
"I mean all of it. So, what's your answer?" the shopkeeper asked.
"I accept your offer."
Lucas's acceptance surprised Felicity, who widened her eyes in disbelief. Despite the evident suspicions surrounding this person, Lucas had agreed to her offer.
The anomalies weren't just limited to the shopkeeper's ability to change appearance but extended to the peculiar nature of her shop. Why hide these remarkable products and showcase the ordinary ones? It seemed counterintuitive.
"Why are you doing this? You are suspicious, you know that? If you don't answer my question, I will destroy this shop," Felicity threatened.
The shopkeeper laughed, dismissing Felicity's threat. "Hahaha. Don't be too reckless, little missy. I am just here to offer him modeling. What's wrong with it?"
"That bullshit again?"
"Bullshit? Don't worry, I will tell you everything after the deal. What Lucas needs to do is wear one of the special clothes and assist me in selling it. If they see his handsome face and the beautiful robes I have, the job is done," the shopkeeper explained.
Lucas remained silent, contemplating the situation.
'This is quite tempting. I already agreed, and the offer was amazing. Right now, I don't have to worry about my defensive wardrobe. I can just save my money for techniques,' he thought.
Sighing, Lucas felt a sense of powerlessness in that moment. However, he recalled his desire to enjoy life in this world.
"Then it's a deal," Lucas declared, surprising Felicity, who stood frozen in disbelief.
"Good. I am Ruby Sun. Nice to meet you."
"Lucas. Nice to meet you."
While Felicity refrained from speaking, she shook her head in disbelief at Lucas's calm acceptance of this messy and shady encounter.