Merchant of The Universe

Ethan sat behind the counter, staring at the Fireborne Shards left behind by the warrior. They glowed faintly, still warm to the touch, pulsing with a quiet, contained heat.

His first two transactions had gone smoothly—somehow.

But now that the rush had passed, reality set in.

He wasn't just playing shopkeeper. He was managing an interdimensional business. A store where magic, technology, and who-knew-what-else collided.

I need to get ahead of this before something crazy happens.

Right on cue, the system responded.

[Shop Owner Progression Unlocked.]

[You have completed two transactions. Shop expansion options are now available.]

A glowing interface materialized in front of him, listing several options:

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[Shop Expansion Options]

1. Storage Upgrade (5 Astral Coins):

Increases shop storage capacity. More items will be stocked at once.

2. Personal Quarters (8 Astral Coins):

A private room for the shop owner. Includes a bed, bathroom, and basic amenities.

3. Security Enhancement (10 Astral Coins):

Basic defensive wards will be placed around the shop to deter aggressive customers.

4. Advertising Beacon (15 Astral Coins):

Attracts more customers from higher-tier worlds, increasing potential profits but also risks.

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Ethan rubbed his chin.

He had 6 Astral Coins—the 1 from his first sale and the 5 from the Fireborne Shards.

That meant he couldn't afford the Personal Quarters yet.

"…So where do I sleep?" he muttered.

As if in response, a new notification popped up.

[Leaving the shop while it is active will temporarily suspend operations. The door will disappear from all worlds until reopened.]

Ethan sighed. "So I can leave, but that means no business while I'm gone…"

Sleeping outside was an option, but it meant closing the shop every time he needed to rest.

His only affordable option right now was the Storage Upgrade, but that wasn't urgent.

I just need two more Astral Coins…

He leaned back, staring at the shop ceiling.

The next sale would be important. If he could make a high-value trade, he could afford Personal Quarters and keep the shop running without ever closing it.

With that thought in mind, he straightened up and took a deep breath.

Alright. Time to get back to business.