Ethan left the inn after a hearty breakfast the next morning, and strolled through the awakening city. Although his clothes were now clean, he had decided it was time for a new wardrobe. Oldrik had recommended several places, but had explained that if he wanted quality at a fair price, he should visit a shop called 'Stitch and Style.'

Locating the shop was easy; it stood out, and was just a few streets away from the inn. The elegant sign above the entrance read "Stitch & Style Boutique" in ornate lettering. The large display window showcased an array of garments, meticulously tailored and expertly designed, not that Ethan was an expert on such things.

As Ethan pushed open the door, a small bell chimed overhead. The interior welcomed him with a blend of warm hues and soft lighting, creating an inviting ambiance. Racks of beautifully arranged clothing adorned the walls, displaying a diverse collection of fabrics, colors, and patterns.

Greta, as he remembered her name, exuded confidence and competence. With her sturdy frame, robust arms, and nimble fingers, she expertly arranged fabrics and adjusted mannequins.

Ethan couldn't help but be calmed a little by Greta's presence. Her warm smile, framed by rosy cheeks and a round face, invited visitors with open arms.

Their eyes met, and Greta's smile enveloped Ethan, instantly making him feel welcome. Her high-pitched voice filled the shop, "Ah, here we have someone new! Good to see you and welcome to my humble store!"

Ethan smiled. "Hello, Oldrik mentioned your shop. I'm in need of a few sets of clothes."

Greta beamed up at him brimming with energy. "I see. Oldrik knows his business, and fortunately, he knows mine too. Hah! Now, I'm thinking bright colors to make that interesting complexion of yours pop, eh?"

Ethan shook his head gently, but grinned a little. "No popping for me, please. I prefer a more conservative style, perhaps some simple robes. I want something comfortable to wear, and since I am not expecting to run around in the woods..."

Greta scoffed. "Robes... They're fine, but they can be so dull, not to mention impractical. Allow me to add some colors, at least."

Ethan smiled. "Alright, colors it is, but nothing too extravagant, please."

Greta herself was dressed impeccably in her own creations. Her attire showcased a kaleidoscope of colors and textures, revealing her passion for bold combinations and artistic flair. She had blended patterns and fabrics, creating an outfit that was somehow both eye-catching and harmonious.

Waving her hand dismissively, Greta exclaimed, "Leave it to me. I believe I have just the thing..."

Greta returned with two exquisite robes, carefully laying them out on the counter. The first robe was made of deep indigo silk, adorned with intricate golden embroidery along the edges. Its flowing silhouette accentuated Ethan's stature, with long sleeves that tapered elegantly at the wrists. The front of the robe was open, revealing the soft and comfortable clothing underneath. The ensemble included a matching set of loose-fitting pants and a lightweight tunic.

The second robe Greta presented was made from a luxurious crimson velvet, exuding an air of regality. Delicate silver threadwork adorned the collar and cuffs, adding a touch of sophistication. Like the first robe, it featured an open front, allowing for easy wear and showcasing the layered ensemble underneath.

Ethan gaped at the two outfits, and Greta grinned widely. "Um, Lady Greta... I think these might be a bit much for me. I don’t mind a smart-looking outfit, but could we perhaps find something a bit less..." He waved his hand, searching for the word. "...gaudy?"

Greta sniffed but nodded. "Worth a try, wasn't it?" she said, grinning. She put the colorful outfits away and returned with two new sets of robes that were in a more conservative style.

The first set consisted of a charcoal grey robe, crafted from what seemed like high-quality wool. The robe had a simple yet elegant design, with minimalistic silver trim along the collar and cuffs. The front remained open, allowing for ease of wear, but the overall aesthetic felt sophisticated to Ethan. Underneath the robe, a matching set of layered comfortable clothing provided the ensemble with a bit of practicality aswell.

For the second set, Greta showed him was a rich forest green robe made from a looking linen fabric. Its design showcased meticulous craftsmanship, featuring subtle earth-toned embroidery along the edges. The robe had a slightly more tailored fit, accentuating Ethan's figure while maintaining a modest appearance. It too had a complementary set of clothing to go with it.

This time Ethan nodded happily. "This will do nicely, I think. How much for both?"

Greta seemed to do a few calculations in her head and then smiled. "1 gold coin and 5 silvers."

Ethan considered the amount he had left, which was still plenty for this purchase, but he decided to haggle a bit. "That seems a bit steep. What do you say to 60 silver coins?"

Greta scoffed. "Hah, 60, he says! Have you lost your marbles? These clothes are worth at least a gold coin!"

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Ethan gave her a look of mock hurt. "Dear Greta, you wound me. Let's say 80 silver coins!"

Greta rolled her eyes. "90, and not a copper less!"

Ethan smiled. "90 it is then. And if you know a good cobbler, I might throw in a few extra coins."

The deal was struck, and Ethan walked out of the shop in his new charcoal grey outfit. The other set would be delivered to the inn. He felt quite stylish in his new robes and received quite a few appreciative looks along the way. He smiled, first impressions were important after all.

Greta had given him directions to a cobbler, but since he had his boots in good condition, it was a lower priority at the moment. Instead he decided to explore a few other shops, in particular, he wanted to visit an enchanter’s shop. He knew there was one on the other side of town, so he set off, strolling through the bustling streets of Bilgrad.

As Ethan navigated the lively streets, the city enveloped him in its energy. The sights, sounds, and smells assaulted his senses, creating an exciting yet overwhelming experience.

His journey took him through the heart of the city, where he stumbled upon a sprawling food market. The air was thick with an enticing blend of aromas: the earthy scent of freshly harvested vegetables, the tantalizing aroma of spices being roasted, and the sweet fragrance of ripe fruits. The market itself was a full off colors, with stalls brimming with an assortment of fresh produce, neatly arranged to draw in buyers.

As he meandered past the food market, the aroma of street food permeated the air, tempting his taste buds. His eyes caught sight of vendors skillfully preparing kebabs, steaming dumplings, and tasty looking falafel-like treats, making it difficult to resist giving it all a try.

Soon enough, Ethan found himself indulging in a kebab as he continued his stroll. The type of meat was a mystery to him, but its tenderness, succulence, and smoky charcoal taste was delightful

The city itself was a mishmash of architectural styles, showcasing the cultural influences that had shaped Bilgrad over the years. Majestic towers and domed structures coexisted with charming narrow buildings, each adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals. It was clear that the people of Bilgrad came from diverse backgrounds, their voices intermingling in a symphony of languages and accents.

This made Ethan ponder how he had managed to communicate with the locals thus far. Was English a common language here, or had he been unknowingly speaking another language? It was a thought that lingered in his mind, though not one he could dwell on at that moment.

After at least an hour of constant walking, he arrived at a bustling area known as Artisan's Corner, and it felt like he had found his haven. The air buzzed with creative energy, and the atmosphere resonated with the sounds of tools being wielded by skilled craftsmen. This was a place where dreams took shape, where artisans of various trades gathered to showcase their mastery and craftsmanship. Ethan smiled, ‘’this is my kind of place,’’ he muttered.

The narrow cobblestone streets bustled with a mix of workshops and storefronts, each bearing the unique stamp of its owner. Colorful awnings stretched overhead, casting shadows on the passersby below. The facades of the buildings were adorned with intricate details, showcasing the artistic spirit that permeated the entire area.

Ethan's eyes eagerly took in the scene, observing skilled artisans honing their crafts. He saw blacksmiths forging metal with precision, jewelers intricately crafting their wares, and potters molding clay into beautiful forms. The air was filled with the scent of freshly cut wood, wafts of burning incense, and the subtle smells of paints and dyes.

Standing at the heart of Artisan's Corner, surrounded by the ingenuity and passion of fellow craftsmen, Ethan felt a deep sense of belonging.

His gaze landed upon the enchanter's shop he had been seeking. The storefront exuded an air of mystery, with a sign above the entrance adorned with intricate symbols and magical motifs. The windows showcased an array of items, some even shimmering with an otherworldly allure that ignited Ethan's curiosity.

Stepping into the shop called "Mystique Arcana," Ethan saw shelves lined with mystical objects covering the walls, displaying enchanted trinkets and spellbound artifacts. Soft, ethereal lighting bathed the space, casting a gentle glow upon the shelves and adding to the sense of mystery of the room.

As Ethan entered, his gaze met the tall figure standing behind the counter. The man emanated an air of wisdom and authority, with flowing silver hair cascading down his back and a well-groomed beard framing his face.

Their eyes locked, and the man's gaze held a combination of warmth and shrewdness. A distinct aura of knowledge and experience surrounded him.

Valerius, the enchanter, welcomed Ethan with a smile, his voice carrying a soothing tone as he approached. "Welcome, young man. I am Valerius Magnus. How may I assist you today?"

Ethan bowed politely. "I'm Ethan Okamura, and I am just here to look around today. I'm not looking for anything specific at the moment. Only if you don’t mind of course"

Valerius scanned Ethan up and down, seemingly satisfied, and smiled. "Certainly, feel free to browse. Just remember not to touch anything. Enchanting is a delicate art, not to be meddled with by the uninitiated."

Ethan couldn't help but smile at the man's blend of kindness and arrogance, as if it came naturally to him. He took his time perusing the shop, captivated by the array of intriguing objects. Each item featured a brief description of its enchantment, but some remained mysterious, lacking any explanation. When he inquired about them, Valerius smiled.

"Ah, yes. I didn't create every item here, my dear boy. I am a collector, you see, and I source items from far and wide. Some artifacts are discovered in dungeons, ruins, or other places, and their true nature remains unknown. That's why they're displayed behind enchanted glass, out of reach from anyone who might unwittingly unleash a disaster."

Ethan nodded thoughtfully. "That's truly fascinating. So, how do you determine the value of such items?"

Valerius smiled. "Those pieces are meant for collectors like myself. The price is simply what someone is willing to pay, and whether I am willing to accept that price. As long as they remain enigmatic, they remain nothing more than curiosities, and not many are willing to pay a premium for such things."

Ethan nodded in understanding, rarity and mystery commanded higher prices, but the unknown factor could push it down. While he found it intriguing, he himself was less drawn to such artifacts. He thanked Valerius, promising to return another time. Valerius bid him farewell with a polite wave, already lost in his own world as Ethan exited the shop.