The young man asks us if we are okay, and I quickly tell him yes, that we have just traveled a lot and are tired. He looks us up and down with his piercing eyes and instructs us to wait. He goes through a door at the back of the room and returns a few moments later with two chairs. He kindly asks us to sit down and welcomes us again.
Still in shock, I quickly introduce myself and mumble some pleasantries. Minolas does the same, and so does the man. It turns out he is the owner of this mysterious shop.
He explains to us that the store has recently opened and currently sells only three items. He asks us to follow him and takes the opportunity to give us a tour. Floating in the cosmic void, the boutique is enigmatic and mysterious. The most striking feature, aside from the owner, is the breathtaking view of infinite space. The young man suddenly points to a counter that contains three stacks of potions. He asks us to read the descriptions and check the prices. If we are interested, we just need to go to the counter and complete the transaction.
Red Heart Potion (Cost: 1000 gold coins):
An effective remedy for quickly healing all physical wounds.
Exp Potion (Cost: 1000 gold coins):
Fills the experience gauge of the drinker by 33%. Maximum once per day.
Ocean Flame Potion (Cost: 1000 gold coins):
When thrown, it generates a large wave of flames that moves quickly and destroys everything in its path. To be used with caution.
As I read their description, I am at a loss for words. Each one of them could be considered a treasure, if their effects are indeed as described. I have a little less than 2000 gold pieces on me, so I ask the shopkeeper if I can buy two potions and get a discount, but he categorically refuses. I look at Minolas, who smiles at me apologetically. Of course, my servant doesn't have the budget…
I take a Red Heart Potion and transfer 1000 gold pieces to the man. With this potion, I will finally be able to heal my father, I think excitedly. Minolas snaps me out of my reverie when she asks the man his name.
Surprised, I look at her with wide eyes. A being like him might take offense at a mere mortal asking such a question, because according to the teachings of our ancestors, knowing the true name of certain entities would grant us control over them. In my opinion, it's not wise to ask such a question. But to my great astonishment, the young man named himself Heolstor Xel'Mourndor.
Without hesitation, Minolas asks him about the location and method to return to the shop. I silently congratulate her in my mind, as I am equally curious to know if it's possible to come back, as the items for sale would be extremely useful, especially the Exp Potion in the long run.
He leans on the counter and goes into deep thought. After a few seconds, he extends his hand, and an extremely black Key appears in it. He hands it to me and tells me to infuse my mana into it to reveal the portal that leads to the shop.
Incredulous, I thank him and leave with Minolas.