As they approached the weathered stone façade of the shop, Ashura, Edmond, and Jarek exchanged glances, excitement and curiosity glimmering in their eyes. The sign above the entrance read "Momerium Stardust" in flowing, shimmering script that caught the afternoon light.
Edmond stepped up to the door, his confidence evident in the way he walked. "You know, this is one of the branch stores that the Stardust family owns. Unlike us Valentino families, who focus primarily on trade and merchant endeavors, the Stardusts dedicate themselves to magic and artifacts. They deal in treasures that can fetch thousands of gold."
Jarek followed closely behind, adjusting his cloak. "I've heard that both of your families are quite wealthy and maintain a strong relationship. Is that true?"
Edmond chuckled lightly as he pushed the door open, a small bell ringing to announce their arrival. "I wouldn't say 'close,' but we do engage in joint trades whenever we come across something valuable."
Ashura lingered a moment, taking in the enchanting displays of crystalline artifacts and ancient tomes that filled the store. "Edmond, have you heard of a student named Cassian Stardust?" he inquired, curiosity piqued.
Edmond turned to Ashura, his brow furrowing slightly. "I've only heard whispers. People say he has a remarkable talent for trade and possesses numerous assets. He's quite the rising star in the capital."
"Is that right?" Ashura nodded, remembering the hushed conversations he'd overheard from nobles discussing the young merchant's prowess. "I remember some mentioning him at the academy. They say he's incredibly gifted."
Edmond sighed, running a hand through his hair. "As painful as it is to admit, when it comes to trade, he has a talent that surpasses my own. It stings my pride to say it, but it's the truth."
Jarek raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And I heard that His Highness Aurelian himself has taken Cassian under his wing. He's among the prince's inner circle, isn't he?"
"That's right," Edmond replied, nodding gravely. "With his connections and skills, it's safe to say he's as notable as anyone in Leclair's elite class. The path before him is gilded with opportunity."
As they stepped further into Momerium Stardust, the rich scents of herbs and incense surrounded them, enhancing the air of wonder. They moved deeper into the store, each item more captivating than the last.
"Welcome, young ones! What are you all looking for?" The owner of the shop greeted them, his warm voice wrapped around them like a cozy blanket. His white beard, adorned with delicate chain-like accessories, bobbed gently as he spoke, and he held a beautifully crafted cane in his right hand.
Edmond stepped forward, a gentle smile brightening his features. "Do you have a book about Abyss monsters? Preferably one for level 15, if possible?"
"Oh ho ho… so you must be first-years!" the shop owner chuckled, amusement dancing in his twinkling eyes as he stroked his beard thoughtfully.
Jarek blinked in surprise, glancing between the old man and Edmond. "How did you know?"
The old man leaned closer, a knowing grin spreading across his face. "Ho ho ho… I've heard whispers of a test for first-year students, pitting them against level 15 Abyss monsters."
"Ah, I see. Seems the news travels fast," Jarek replied, his curiosity piqued as he began to explore the shop, taking in its delightful clutter.
"There is a book you seek," the owner said, gesturing toward a staircase that spiraled into shadow. "It's on the second floor. You two can search for it there."
"Thank you! Ashura, do you want to come with us to the second floor, or would you prefer to stay here?" Edmond asked, eyeing his friend as he began to ascend the stairs.
"I'll stay here and rest for a bit," Ashura replied, letting out a lazy yawn as he settled comfortably in a nearby chair.
The shop owner turned his gaze toward Ashura, a gentle smile gracing his features. "It's an honor to meet the heir of the Kanon family."
Ashura shrugged, a hint of modesty touching his expression. "No need for that. I'm just… defactus. I'm sure you've heard the rumors about me."
The old man shook his head, his voice soft yet firm. "One cannot judge from appearances alone. It would be foolish to listen only to ears and ignore what the eyes reveal." He walked beside Ashura, their eyes wandering the shelves filled with mysteries.
With a sense of wonder crackling in the dimly lit shop, Ashura's gaze landed on a gleaming light radiating from a pendant hanging on a nearby display. Drawn to it, he stepped closer, captivated.
"Isn't it something?" he murmured to himself, fingers itching to reach for the intriguing piece. Cradling it in his right palm, he felt a strange energy emanating from it.
"This pendant... quite interesting," Ashura remarked, his eyes fixed on its glimmering surface.
"Ho ho ho! You've got good eyes!" the shop owner exclaimed, his voice rich with delight. "That pendant is one of the artifacts found in the old temple of divine."
Ashura's brows knitted in curiosity. "Artifact? If it's truly an artifact, why is it here? There's no way the Stardust families would let go of something this valuable."
The shopkeeper leaned in closer, eyes narrowing with intrigue. "You see, this artifact is quite mysterious. The Stardust families have poured resources into analyzing it, but unfortunately, their efforts yielded nothing of value. They deemed it broken and decided to sell it off."
"Broken, huh?" Ashura echoed, his mind racing with possibilities. Despite its status, the pendant seemed to draw him in like a moth to a flame. *There's definitely something more here…*
His resolve firm, Ashura glanced back at the shopkeeper, determination threading through his voice. "How much are you selling this for?"
The owner raised an eyebrow, surprise flickering across his face. "Ho! Are you sure you want to buy it? It's broken, as I told you."
"It's fine. I want it," Ashura replied, his heartbeat quickening with excitement and trepidation.
The shopkeeper chuckled softly, clearly enjoying the spirited conversation. "Since you've given this old man some time to chat, I'll sell it to you for 44 silver coins."
"Deal!" Ashura said, steadying himself despite the fluttering in his chest. *I don't even know if that's expensive or not, but courage doesn't come cheap.*
He nodded, sealing the agreement as the shopkeeper's laughter swirled warmly around them.
Just then, Edmond called out, "Ashura, we found it!" He clutched a thick book between both hands, triumph lighting his eyes.
"That fast for you both?" Ashura replied, sliding the pendant he had just purchased into his pocket.
"Well, unexpectedly, that raccoon is quite good at finding things," Edmond said, grinning as he walked over to Ashura.
"Who are you calling a raccoon?" Jarek shouted, his voice brimming with indignation as he joined them.
"Gentlemen, please! How much is this, if I may inquire?" Edmond asked the shop owner, the earlier jest forgotten.
"For you, it's 10 silver coins," the shopkeeper replied, nodding amicably.
Edmond countered, "How about 8 since this book has a bit of a tear on its cover?"
"Hohoho... You know how to negotiate!" the old man chuckled, his warm smile making it clear he was impressed. "Well, since this is our first time meeting, I will accept it."
"You have my thanks," Edmond said, his tone earnest, as he completed the transaction with a smile.
As the deal wrapped up, Jarek ambled over, glancing at his friends with a sense of urgency. "It seems we're done. Let's return to the academy before it turns dark." He draped an arm over Ashura's shoulder, pulling him closer as they prepared to leave the enchanting shop behind.
As the door swung shut behind them, the shopkeeper's jovial voice echoed, "Do come again if you need anything... hohohoh!"
Jarek raised an eyebrow, glancing at his companions. "The shop owner was unexpectedly sociable," he remarked, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips as he began to walk down the street.
Edmond's nose twitched, drawn by the appetizing aroma wafting from the nearby food stalls. "Hey! How about we stop by the food store? The smell is absolutely tantalizing!" He turned to Ashura, his eyes gleaming with excitement.
Ashura chuckled, brushing a strand of hair back from his face. "Well, since we're here already, it would be a waste not to enjoy ourselves a little bit."
Jarek's enthusiasm bubbled over. "Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!" He shouted, grabbing both Edmond and Ashura by the hands. With laughter trailing behind them, they rushed into the vibrant street bursting with food stalls.
"Look at all this! I can't decide between the grilled skewers or the sweet pastries," Edmond said, his eyes darting from one delicious option to another.
"Why choose?" Ashura teased, nudging him playfully. "Let's get a little of everything!"
Jarek nodded vigorously. "Yes! Today, we feast like kings! Who knows when we'll get to come back here again?"
As they made their way through the bustling market, the trio's laughter mingled with the sizzling sounds of the grills and the chatter of other customers, creating a symphony of joy that filled the air. Each stall they passed was more inviting than the last, the vibrant colors of the food making it nearly impossible to resist.
Jarek stopped in front of a stall selling vibrant, spicy tacos. "These look incredible! Who's brave enough to try the extra spicy salsa?"
Edmond raised an eyebrow, a challenge sparking in his gaze. "I'll take my chances! But if I spontaneously combust, you two are helping me put out the flames."
Ashura burst into laughter. "Deal, but only if you promise to buy us ice cream afterward as a reward for our bravery."
"How can I refuse that?" Edmond grinned, already reaching for a taco. The sounds of their banter layered over the lively market, pulling them deeper into a day filled with good food and even better company.