The merchant grinned. "For stamina! Keeps you from getting tired. Expensive, though."
Puddle whispered, "Master, buy it so you don't get sleepy."
Rhys flicked her forehead gently. "I'm not buying random rings."
She puffed up like a tiny bubble. "But shiny…"
He smiled as they moved on.
Further down, he saw Caria talking to a crafter about special gathering tools—stronger picks, enchanted bags that preserved ingredients longer, small mana-infused lanterns.
Sophia tested a few practice weapons made from sea-crystal.
Meanwhile, Aria was negotiating aggressively with a jewelry vendor.
"I'll take three rings if you add that bracelet."
"That bracelet alone is worth two rings."
Aria slammed her hand down. "Then three rings AND a smile!"
Lyra calmly placed a hand on her shoulder. "Aria. Stop."
Aria froze. "Yes ma'am…"
Lyra smiled politely at the merchant. "We'll think about it."
Eventually, they regrouped near a large fountain made of pearl-stone.
