Merchant of The Universe

Ethan kept his expression neutral as he met Sorren's gaze. The Celestial Binding Stone was tempting, but he had no intention of making a bad trade.

He placed the Starlit Essence on the counter between them. "This is rare. Useful for enchanting, alchemy, and more. Your Binding Stone is valuable, but it's not enough."

Sorren chuckled, tapping a gloved finger against the counter. "You're a sharp one. Fine, let's sweeten the deal."

He reached into his robe again and produced a small, translucent crystal. It shimmered faintly, shifting colors under the lantern's glow.

"Echo Shard," Sorren said. "It records residual magical imprints. If you have a sealed artifact with unknown origins, this could reveal who or what left the enchantment."

Ethan's thoughts turned to the Sealed Relic Box. Between the Binding Stone and the Echo Shard, he might actually get some answers about what was inside before unlocking it.

Still, he had to be sure. "I need more than just identification tools," he said. "Give me something with direct value."

Sorren smirked. "I do enjoy a challenge."

After a brief pause, he pulled out a final item—a small vial of liquid silver.

"This is Mercurial Ink," he said. "Used for transcribing high-level contracts. Binding agreements, magical pacts—it makes deals far more enforceable."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. That had potential.

Now, he just had to decide.

Final Offer:

1. Celestial Binding Stone – Helps analyze and break magical seals.

2. Echo Shard – Reveals past magical imprints on objects.

3. Mercurial Ink – Used for creating unbreakable magical contracts.

In exchange for: Starlit Essence.

Ethan glanced at the system, which confirmed the trade was favorable. He extended his hand. "You've got yourself a deal."

Sorren grinned and shook his hand. "Pleasure doing business."

The system chimed as the trade was finalized, and Sorren tucked the vial of Starlit Essence away before nodding in satisfaction.

Ethan, meanwhile, examined his new items. With the Binding Stone and Echo Shard, he had what he needed to analyze the Sealed Relic Box before taking the risk of opening it.

And the Mercurial Ink? That might come in handy in ways he hadn't even considered yet.

As Sorren turned to leave, he paused at the door. "A word of advice, merchant—some seals exist for a reason. Make sure you want to know the truth before you pry it open."

With that, he stepped into the night.

Ethan exhaled, staring at the Sealed Relic Box on the counter.

Soon, he'd have his answers.