Merchant of The Universe

Ethan's fingers drummed against the counter. The silver-haired stranger watched him, patient but expectant.

"He wants to know about the box... but is it worth giving up that information?"

Ethan didn't know much about the Collector of the Forgotten, but something told him the entity wouldn't appreciate its dealings being freely discussed. On the other hand, the Starlit Essence was an incredibly rare material, and having it could open doors—perhaps even give him an alternative way to pay for the appraiser's service.

He exhaled slowly.

"I got it from a collector," Ethan said carefully. "Someone who deals in rare, forgotten relics. They left it in my hands as part of a trade."

The man raised an eyebrow. "And you don't know what's inside?"

"Not yet."

A thoughtful hum. The stranger examined Ethan for a long moment, then nodded. "A wise answer."

Ethan resisted the urge to sigh in relief. He didn't push for details.

The man placed the Starlit Essence on the counter. "Consider this a fair exchange, then. Not for the box's secrets, but for understanding that not all trades should be made lightly."

Ethan picked up the vial, feeling the faint hum of power within. "I get the feeling you know more than you're letting on."

The stranger smirked. "Perhaps. But knowing too much can be dangerous." He turned toward the door, pausing briefly. "I imagine we'll meet again, Merchant of the Universe."

With that, he stepped through the exit, vanishing into the night.

Ethan stared after him, then looked down at the Starlit Essence.

Now, how do I turn this into an advantage?

His first thought was the system.

Shop Inquiry: Starlit Essence

Market Value: High

Trade Demand: Enchanters, Alchemists, Scholars

Suggested Uses: High-tier enchantments, alchemical refinement, barter material

Ethan narrowed his eyes. If he found the right buyer, he could potentially trade this for more than three Astral Coins—enough to buy the Ethereal Inkstone and still have something left over.

A slow smile formed.

He didn't have to play by anyone else's rules. He was a merchant. He just needed to find the right customer.

And he had two days to do it.