The city buzzed with life as Vani and Beatrice walked side by side through the crowded streets. Merchants called out from their stalls, eagerly bargaining with customers, while the tantalizing scent of roasted meats and freshly baked bread filled the air. The sound of carriage wheels clattering against the cobblestone roads mixed with the rhythmic footsteps of armored guards patrolling the city, their steady presence a reassurance to the bustling crowd.
Stone and timber buildings lined the streets, their facades adorned with banners displaying noble insignias or signs for various shops and taverns. Street performers, some playing lively tunes on lutes or flutes, others showcasing their acrobatic skills, added to the city's ever-present hum of energy. Laughter and the sounds of lively conversations echoed from every corner.
Beatrice glanced at him, a slight smile on her lips. "Are you satisfied now?"
Vani looked down at the sword strapped to his waist, his fingers resting lightly on its hilt. After a brief moment, he met her eyes. "Yes, I think it's a good sword."
Beatrice smiled wider, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "I'm glad you liked it."
Vani took a moment to inspect the weapon again, his thoughts drifting.
The sword seems pretty good, considering I've never used one before. Even I can tell it's of high quality. And it only cost me 50 gold! I was ready to pay more, but this is actually a great deal.
"Thanks for helping me pick it out," Vani said with a nod of appreciation.
"It was my pleasure," Beatrice replied. But then her tone shifted slightly, a trace of curiosity creeping into her voice. "Can I ask you something, Vani?"
He raised an eyebrow but nodded. "Sure."
"Why did you buy a sword?" she asked, her gaze searching. "To be honest, you don't seem like someone who knows how to use one."
Vani's was surprised by her question
Is it that obvious? But still, I used a sword while training with Darius. I thought I was getting better… maybe not.
"Well, I started using one just recently," Vani replied, trying to sound confident. "I always borrowed a sword while training, so I figured it was time to get my own."
Beatrice observed him with a knowing look, but her next question was unexpected. "What happened to you in the past, Vani?"
Vani hesitated, his breath catching in his throat. "What do you mean?"
She regarded him with soft curiosity, her eyes patient but probing. But she didn't press the matter further; she knew that even if she asked again, he wouldn't answer honestly—or he'd lie outright.
What a strange maid… I can't figure out what she's trying to accomplish by accompanying me. Is she genuinely curious, or is there something else?
"We're here," Beatrice said, interrupting his thoughts.
Vani snapped out of his reverie as they stopped in front of a grand building. It stood tall, its stone façade adorned with intricate carvings and decorative arches. Large glass windows displayed finely crafted garments, inviting passersby to peer inside. A wide wooden door, reinforced with iron, served as the entrance, flanked by elegant lanterns that cast a soft, golden glow over the entranceway. The steeply sloped roof, adorned with ornate trim, completed its prestigious look, making it stand out against the other buildings.
Vani's voice was filled with disbelief. "Are we really going to buy clothes from here?"
Beatrice nodded, her smile unwavering. "Yes. Do you not like it?"
"No, it's not that," Vani replied, his eyes scanning the building with some wariness. "It just looks... expensive."
Beatrice's expression softened, reassuring him. "Don't worry, there's all kinds of clothes here. You don't need to worry about the price."
Though Vani wasn't entirely convinced by her words, he decided to trust her. Just as he was about to step through the door, he noticed a figure outside the building staring through the window. A child, staring in with wide eyes, murmuring to herself. Vani's gaze sharpened, and he instantly recognized the figure. It was Tessa.
He approached her and spoke, "What are you doing here, Tessa?"
Tessa jumped at the sound of her name and turned, startled. When her eyes met his, she visibly relaxed. "Vani! What are you doing here?"
"I'm here to buy clothes," Vani replied casually, then raised an eyebrow. "What about you?"
Tessa hesitated for a moment, her eyes flicking to Beatrice standing beside him. Vani noticed the brief uncertainty in her gaze. Tessa then looked back at the window, her face flushing slightly.
Vani followed her gaze and saw a gown displayed in the window. It was a vision of dark elegance, its high turtleneck and fitted bodice traced with subtle embroidery, like whispers of ancient sigils. Long sleeves framed the off-shoulder cut, a quiet defiance against tradition, while silver accents adorned the cuffs. Gold clasps and leather straps cinched the waist, and the layered skirt, trimmed with lace, swayed with a shadowy grace.
Vani glanced at Tessa and asked, "Do you want to buy that?"
Tessa's face turned red, and she quickly waved her hands in denial. "N-no! I don't want that."
Is she embarrassed to admit it?
Vani smiled slightly and repeated, "If you want it, I can buy it for you."
Tessa's eyes widened in shock. "W-why do you want to buy it for me?"
Vani shrugged, trying to sound casual. "No reason. I just want to."
I can't tell her it's because I took all her money last night... Amd that I feel bad for taking money from a kid. Besides, the dress only costs 12 silvers. I can afford it.
"Are you sure?" Tessa asked, still uncertain.
Vani nodded firmly. "Yes."
Tessa's face softened, and she murmured to herself, "I guess I have no choice then, since you insist."
Vani let out a quiet sigh. "Let's go."
Stepping inside the clothing emporium, Vani was struck by its opulence. The grand, two-story building boasted a stone façade and large arched windows displaying luxurious garments. Inside, racks were neatly arranged with clothing, ranging from simple tunics to finely embroidered noble attire. Velvet curtains separated different sections, and the chandeliers overhead cast a soft, warm glow on the polished wooden floors. Tailors and attendants moved swiftly, assisting customers with fabric selections and fittings, creating a lively yet refined atmosphere.