Surprisingly, it didn’t take long for them to find what they were looking for. Lila was the first to catch sight of a shop where the swinging placard declared it “The Elegant Enclave.” Like The Melodic Armory, it also contained a subtitle: “Finery for the Discerning Gentleman.” The storefront was adorned with intricate woodwork and gilded accents, exuding an air of sophistication. In the windows were mannequins dressed in elegant clothing, brandishing canes and wearing accessories that gleamed under the soft glow of enchanted lanterns. Almost all wore top hats, while one wore a white fedora with a purple ribbon and a peacock feather. Rich velvet curtains framed the displays, and a subtle fragrance of polished wood and fine fabric wafted from the open doorway, inviting passersby to step inside and explore the luxurious offerings within.
“Come on,” she said, pulling his arm. “Let’s go inside.”
They entered, the interior of the store was even more opulent than the exterior suggested. Plush carpets in deep burgundy covered the floor, and the walls were lined with dark mahogany shelves displaying an array of finely tailored clothing and gleaming accessories. Chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm, inviting light over the space.
Behind a polished counter stood the shopkeeper, a tall, thin man with impeccably groomed hair and a meticulously trimmed mustache. His clothes were of the highest quality, a tailored suit that spoke of both wealth and taste. He regarded Justin and Lila with a critical eye, his nose slightly upturned as if he were perpetually sniffing something distasteful.
“Welcome to The Elegant Enclave,” he said in a smooth but slightly condescending tone. “I am Reginald Fairfax, the proprietor of this establishment. How might I assist you this evening?”
“We’re looking for some specific items,” Justin began, feeling slightly intimidated by Reginald’s haughty demeanor.
“Of course,” Reginald replied, his tone suggesting that he doubted they could afford anything in the store. “Do let me know if you require any assistance in selecting the finest attire and accessories for a gentleman of taste.”
From the look Reginald gave him, it was quite clear that he believed Justin didn’t have any taste.
As they wandered the store, Justin whispered, “I don’t want to give this blowhard my business.”
“Don’t take it personally. He’s probably trying to stoke your pride, make you feel you can’t afford anything. That way you want to prove him wrong.”
“That…makes no sense.”
“It’s a thing. So, what pieces are you missing? Let’s focus on that.”
“Well, a headpiece and an arm piece for starters, and a leg piece. And maybe a second accessory, since the Amulet…”
He trailed off, realizing he’d already said too much.
“Let’s find a decent head piece first.”
Justin headed for the hat section, where each item was placed on a stand with an enchantment that displayed a brief description and the price, much like The Melodic Armory. His eyes popped at the prices. There was nothing less than ten gold crowns, and items as high as twenty-five.
“I think we’re in the wrong store,” Justin said.
Reginald, who apparently had sharp ears, caught every word. “You find yourselves in the Gold-Tier section. For clothing of…humbler tastes…please make your way to the Bronze-Tier items section in the back.”
“Thank you,” Lila said, turning back to Justin and rolling her eyes. “Let’s see what they have.”
They went to the back of the store, where the prices were more agreeable, but still quite expensive. There were only a couple of hats with a price Justin could afford. One was a fedora of sorts, called the “Sentry’s Fedora” that conferred a +1 to Perception and nothing more, along with a utility enchantment of “Dust Repel,” which kept the hat free from dust and dirt, on sale for 75 Silver Marks.
Also on sale for seventy-five silver marks was a so-called Dandy’s Cap, with a long, red feather.
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Item: Dandy’s Cap
Type: Headgear (Charisma Core)
Price: 75 Silver Marks
Rarity: Bronze-Level
Attribute Bonus: +1 Charisma
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“Is this really all they have?” Justin asked. “It’s kind of sad.”
“Seems like it,” Lila said. “I’d go with the Dandy’s Cap. Charisma is what helps you most, plus the Dust Repel enchantment is not useful at all, especially with your ring.”
He reached out to touch the feathered cap, and as soon as he did so, a sort of alarm went on, high and trilling. Justin took his hands off the hat and it went away.
Reginald came into the back room, turning up his nose. “Please, sir, hands of the merchandise. If you wish to make a purchase, simply tell me.”
“Sorry,” Justin said.
With a derisive sniff, Reginald returned to the front.
“What an infuriating man,” Justin said. “Dandy’s Cap it is. Time to find a leg piece and an arm piece.”
They made their way over to that section, but there was only one Bronze-Level Item in Justin’s price range, the Squire's Armlet. Apparently, Socialites were expected to be loaded and go far Silver-Level and higher items. It was a simple armlet of bronze, to be worn on the upper arm.
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Item: Squire's Armlet
Type: Arm Piece (Charisma Core)
Price: 75 Silver Marks
Rarity: Bronze-Level
Attribute Bonus: +1 Power
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“Nice,” Justin said. “Something to help my physical strength, at least. Now if only I could test it out on Reginald…”
Lila gave him a light punch. “Behave yourself. So, that’s the Squire’s Armlet and Dandy’s Cap. That’s a crown and fifty marks. That leaves you how much?”
“After enchanting my coat, I have about a crown and fifty marks left. Damn, being a gentleman is expensive!”
“I already saw their leg pieces,” Lila said. “There’s nothing cheaper than three crowns.”
“Well, I’ll have to stick with my normal pants for now. They’ve served me well so far. What about accessories?”
“All too much. Looks like this is all you can afford.”
Justin sighed. “So be it. Let’s check out.”
They went to the front, where Reginald pretended to not see them until Justin cleared his throat and tapped his cane a few times.
Reginald looked up. “Yes?”
“We’d like the Squire’s Armlet and the Dandy’s Cap,” Lila put in.
Reginald appeared to be bored. “That shall be one crown and fifty marks.”
“Can we negotiate a bit on the price?” Justin asked, trying his best to sound diplomatic.
Reginald raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. “Our prices are quite firm, sir. We pride ourselves on the quality and exclusivity of our merchandise. We are, after all, the only Socialite clothier in Windfall specializing in superior clothes for the gentleman of means. As such, it would be unseemly to offer discounts.”
Justin wasn’t ready to give up. “I understand that, but surely there’s some room for negotiation. We’re buying multiple items, after all. And let’s be honest, the quality of the enchantments leaves a lot to be desired. A little flexibility on the price would go a long way in earning our repeat business.”
Reginald’s expression didn’t change. “As I mentioned, our prices reflect the superior quality and fashion of our items. Any common enchanter can slap an effect on a set of rags, if they so choose, but where’s the style in that? At the Elegant Enclave, you are not just buying the enchantment. You are buying an image. However, if you purchase from us today and return for future needs, perhaps then we can discuss more favorable terms.”
This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it
Justin felt a flicker of frustration but kept his tone even. “How about meeting halfway? I’ll happily pay a crown and twenty-five silvers for the Dandy’s Cap and the Squire’s Armlet. That’s still a substantial sum, and it shows our commitment to quality.”
Reginald’s eyes narrowed slightly. “Your offer is noted, sir, but it does not align with our pricing policies. If we lowered our prices, then we would lose our exclusivity, and we have never been known to give a discount, or indeed, have needed to offer one. The price remains at one crown and fifty silvers. I assure you, it is more than fair for the value provided.”
Justin sighed, feeling the weight of the coins in his pouch. “All right, fine. But this isn’t how I usually do business.”
Reginald gave a curt nod, clearly pleased. “Thank you for understanding. Would you like these items wrapped?”
“No, that’s fine,” Justin replied, handing over the money.
It pained Justin greatly to hand over the coins. Within the minute, Reginald had returned with both items.
“Here you are, sir. Is there anything else I can help you with today?”
“No,” Justin said. “Unless…” He’d been about to ask if they sold patience to deal with snobs, but looking at the display case behind Reginald, he saw another yellow core, this one with a rune that resembled a cane. “How much for that class core?”
Reginald smiled thinly. “One shard.”
Justin frowned. “One what now?”
Lila leaned over. “A platinum shard. Worth a hundred crowns.”
Justin’s eyes widened. “Nobody can afford that!”
“Well, it seems you certainly did,” Reginald observed. “Unless you acquired your Socialite core by…other means?”
“What are you implying?” Justin said with a huff. “Know your place, sir, and this is not how you should treat a paying customer who has asked you a simple question!”
The man actually smiled at that. “Ah, there’s the Socialite in training! Please come back any time. The Elegant Enclave stands ready to serve all the discerning gentlemen of Windfall and its environs.” Then, donning his spectacles and going back to his ledger book, he said, “Good night.”
But suddenly, his head snapped toward Justin’s chest, right at the Amulet he was wearing, or rather, the golden chain that was just clearly visible below his collar. Justin felt his skin go cold.
“My, what a fine piece that is! I mean, it’s not often one sees a Platinum-Level artifact on the streets of Windfall. And not core-bound!”
The man seemed to take in Justin anew, as if looking at his next meal, but Justin was over it. “You had your chance, Reggie. Come on, Lila. Let’s go.”
“Wait!” the man said, the please in his voice stopping them short. “At least hear me out. Are you in the market to sell it? I can offer a very good price.” He gave a devious smile. “Or perhaps you’d prefer to trade? How would like an outfit composed of all Silver-Level Items, hmm? A complete set? And perhaps a Gold-Level cane of your choosing?”
Now, that was a tempting offer. Justin had been dead set of refusing the man whatever he asked, but he just had to consider this one. From what Justin had seen of Silver-Level items so far, they all came with at least two Attribute Points and an enchantment that was almost always useful. And as for a Gold-Level Cane of his choosing, it would certainly be better than the one he currently had, which was Silver-Level.
Justin’s mind raced as he considered the offer. Silver-Level gear would be a significant upgrade, making him far more effective in almost every situation. The Gold-Level cane would likely enhance his abilities even further, giving him an edge that could make a real difference. The practical side of him screamed to take the deal; after all, the Amulet was powerful, but there was no guarantee he would ever get to use it, at least, not soon.
But then he thought about the Amulet’s true value. It was more than just an item. It held boundless potential for the way he was building his character. Trading it away felt wrong, like giving up a part of himself for short-term gain.
Besides…how had Reginald known about the Amulet and its value, anyway?
“And here I was, thinking I was hiding it well,” Justin said.
Reginald smiled. “I must admit, I didn’t notice it at first. But it’s difficult for something like that to escape the eye of an experienced Merchant like me.”
“A Merchant?” Lila asked. “And you run a shop for Socialites?”
“It’s my niche, you might say. But the item you carry, sir, holds great value. I made a costly mistake; I underestimated your means, something I don’t do often. If you prefer money, well, it can be arranged. I can give you an enchanted promissory note to take with you to the bank tomorrow morning, and they’ll pay you in cold hard coin. I know you aren’t from here; I know all my customers, and my reputation is impeccable. But perhaps we can come to an agreement, one gentleman to another.”
“How much are you thinking?” Justin asked.
“That…must be decided. I think one platinum shard is a reasonable starting point.” He nodded toward the display case behind him. “Or, if you prefer, I can trade you for the core.”
Lila’s eyes widened at that. Justin only felt sick. The Snow Goblin back at the Frosty Mug had been willing to break his kneecaps over his Silver-Level cane and twenty crowns.
What resources did a Merchant like Reginald Fairfax have?
“I’ll consider it, Reginald. But you have insulted me greatly.”
The shopkeeper’s smile faded slightly. “The offer stands, should you change your mind. If the number is disagreeable, I’m sure we can—”
“You forget that being a gentleman is not just about style or money, but manners. You made a big mistake, Reginald. Huge! Count yourself lucky if I ever return. Good day.”
“Sir, if I might be so bold—”
“I said good day!”
In a huff, Justin ushered Lila out the door and slammed it behind them, the merry jingle of the bell almost frantic.
As they walked, Lila glanced at Justin. He remained quiet, deeply disturbed by the exchange. He was wondering if he had made the huge mistake. If Reginald was good for it, then that kind of money was game-changing. Even a Level 15 Vault had only gotten him 2.5 gold crowns. He’d have to run forty of those to reach a hundred crowns. Or rather, a platinum shard.
“Justin…” Lila finally managed. “Why did you do that?”
He shook his head. “I…I don’t know. He just made me so mad!”
“I know. He made me mad, too. But assuming this is a legitimate number, that kind of money, if used wisely, can set someone up for life.”
“I…think I’ve had my fill for the evening,” he finally said. “Last thing we need is for Reggie to send some goons after us.”
Lila nodded. “I understand. Maybe we can talk about it. When things have cooled off.”
“You want me to sell it, don’t you?”
Lila looked as if she wanted to respond but decided not to. “We can talk about it later.”
Justin wanted to talk about it now, but he knew that was the anger inside him. “You’re right, Lila. I’m sorry.”
“It’s natural,” she said. “Let’s get some rest. We’ll feel better for it.”
First, Justin decided to don his new gear. He placed the Dandy’s Cap on his head while also slipping also slipping on the Squire’s Armlet, binding both items to his core.
He briefly recalled his character screen to get a sense of what the new gear had done for him:
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Justin Talemaker
Class: Socialite
Level: 7
Experience to Level 8: 309/940
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Attributes:
Power: 11 (10 + 1)
Coordination: 11 (10 +1)
Endurance: 12 (10 +2)
Intellect: 10
Perception: 11 (10 +1)
Charisma: 21 (18 +3)
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Equipment:
(Weapon) The Cane of Valoria: +1 to Charisma and Perception. Confers hidden skill “Gentleman’s Rebuff.”
(Chest Piece) The Coat of Highcliff’s Elegance: + 1 to Endurance and Coordination. Enchantment of Featherweight.
(Headpiece) Dandy’s Cap: +1 to Charisma.
(Arm Piece) Squire’s Armlet: +1 to Power.
(Leg Piece): Common Traveler’s Pants.
(Foot Piece) Invari Ambassador Boots: +1 to Endurance. Enchantment of Dry Stride.
(Accessory 1) The Ring of Hygiene: Once per day, become perfectly clean and groomed to your exact specifications.
(Accessory 2) The Amulet of Equilibrium: Divides your highest Attribute by six, then applies the result to all other Attributes. Attribute cap lifted. Nullified: Death Affinity Detected.
----------------------------------------
That just left one clothing slot, a leg piece, and with one and a half crowns to his name, there was probably somewhere in this city he could buy something suitable.
But as they were walking down the street, Justin couldn’t help but notice another person approaching, exuding an air of pompous confidence. The man, tall and lean with brown hair falling to his shoulders, with upward twirling mustachios, was impeccably dressed in a dark, tailored suit with silver embroidery along the cuffs and collar. His headwear, a tall top hat, sat at a jaunty angle. He twirled an ornate cane with a ruby head shaped like a fire-breathing dragon, the gem gleaming under the streetlights. A beautiful woman hung on his arm, dressed in a flowing, green gown that accentuated her graceful figure. Her blonde hair was styled in intricate curls, and she wore a delicate pendant around her neck that sparkled with enchantment. The man’s eyes, sharp and calculating, locked onto Justin with a mixture of curiosity and challenge.
The stranger halted in front of Justin, raising an eyebrow. “Well, well, what do we have here? A fellow Socialite, I presume?” His voice was smooth but carried an undercurrent of condescension. He flourished his cane in a grand gesture, the weapon so tall that it could almost be called a staff. “I must say, your ensemble is quite…quaint.”
Justin felt a spark of annoyance but kept his composure, his voice dripping with sarcasm and boredom. “Justin Talemaker. And to whom do I owe the pleasure of this…grand introduction?”
“Lord Percival Harrington, of the same house. Talemaker is not a house I’m familiar with, I’m afraid. Mayhap there’s some obscure reference to it in some forgotten tome in the city library.”
Justin smiled. Apparently, he wasn’t the only one who had access to Poison Barb, but his Charisma was too high to take the hit. “You seem quite proud of that cane, Lord Harrington. You know what they say. The bigger the cane…”
Percival smirked, tapping his cane on the ground. “Indeed. It’s Gold-Tier; not everyone can have one.” He gave a haughty laugh. “But I see you’ve managed to acquire a few items of note yourself, if items they can be so-called.” His aristocratic nose, wrinkling in disgust, told Justin just what Lord Percival thought of those items. “Tell me, are you familiar with the art of the ‘Social Duel’, Mr. Talemaker? It’s a sophisticated contest, not for the faint of heart or the…” He cleared his throat. “Poorly dressed.”
Before Justin could respond, Percival activated what had to be his Dandy’s Swagger skill. The air around him shimmered yellow as he took a step back, exaggerating his bow while holding the brim of his top hat.
Then, Percival spun, his blue eyes thunderous. “I challenge you to a duel of wits and charm, good sir! Let’s see who among us truly embodies the essence of a gentleman.”
“Beat his ass, Justin,” Lila said, her voice dangerous.
Percival’s lady companion crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes at Lila, clearly not liking her words.
Justin felt the familiar surge of confidence as he activated his own Dandy’s Swagger skill in response. He twirled his cane and began a breakdancing routine, drawing shocked gasps from the crowd. Justin twirled on his back, controlled by a force outside himself. At last, he flipped off the ground and landed lightly on his feet, performing a low bow to the delight of the gathering crowd, most of whom were applauding. Percival’s lips curled downward in distaste.
“Challenge accepted, Lord Harrington. Let’s see who outshines whom.”