As they wandered around, Susan's curiosity got the better of her as she approached a stall laden with intricate jewelry and ornamental trinkets. "Excuse me," she ventured tentatively to the merchant, whose exotic appearance and elaborate attire seemed to defy conventional reality. "Can you tell us more about this place? How did we come to be here?"
The merchant, a wise-looking elder with twinkling eyes, regarded Susan with a knowing smile. "Ah, travelers from afar," he replied cryptically. "The island holds many mysteries, and you are now part of its tale."
Sophie, who had been observing from a distance, joined the conversation with a furrowed brow. "But how do we return home?" she pressed, her voice tinged with urgency.
The elder's smile widened, his demeanor kind yet enigmatic. "Patience, young ones," he counseled. "The answers you seek will reveal themselves in due time. For now, embrace the journey and let the island guide you."
