Inside the Fabled Bazaar and the tailor

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As the Manager left, Misha and Justin took the lead. We entered the elevator.

Misha spoke, “I’ll take Her Excellency to Amber Boutique.”

Following, Justin spoke, “And I’ll take His Excellency to Kingsmen Fine Clothing.”

Well, shopping… that’s nice.

Their voices complemented each other.

As Justin led us towards Kingsmen Fine Clothing, we stepped into the elevator, the doors sliding shut behind us with a soft whoosh. The elevator began its ascent, and I couldn't help but marvel at the magical spectacle unfolding around me.

“Woah!”

The walls of the elevator faded away, giving us a full view of THE BAZAAR, with a cool breeze touching our faces.

“Uncle Sebastian, this?” I asked Uncle Sebastian, confused and excited, as the last time we were here a few years ago, THE BAZAAR was not so grand.

Justin, noticing my curiosity, cleared his throat and began to speak. “Again, I welcome you to the Bazaar Tower, Your Excellency. This towering marvel is not just a marketplace; it's a testament to the wonders of magic and craftsmanship.”

Justin held out his hands in a dramatic manner, his small figure starkly contrasting with his performance. “Each floor holds treasures beyond imagination, curated with care and imbued with the essence of magic.”

“This was done by the old Manager. He believed this place, although there is no distinction in the entry for the people, would eventually make the common people feel out of place,” Uncle Sebastian continued.

“The upper and lower bazaar, separated by the common entry ground, gives majesty and hope to the people.”

I nodded. As the elevator ascended, a loud call resounded, echoing through the spacious chamber.

“Woooh!”

Startled, I turned to Justin, who wore a knowing smile. “That would be the Guardian of the Bazaar, the Wayfarer spirit, the noble spirit of Aqua. There are many names and titles,” he explained, his voice tinged with reverence and love.

That’s a big name…

Curious, I peered through the transparent walls of the elevator and beheld the breathtaking sight above us—the massive water ball, suspended mid-air, was filled with a mesmerizing array of aquatic life. The ball glowed with an ethereal light, casting shimmering reflections across the surrounding area. Within this enchanting sphere, a humongous whale gracefully swam, its majestic form dwarfing the other sea creatures that accompanied it.

Voommm.

Its iridescent scales shimmered in the magical light, and its wise eyes seemed to hold the secrets of the ages.

Justin's voice broke through my reverie, weaving tales of old folklore.

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Legend has it that the Guardian of the Bazaar, known simply as the Whale of Wonders, has watched over this marketplace since time immemorial.

“It is said that the whale possesses ancient wisdom and protects the bazaar from harm, ensuring prosperity and harmony for all who dwell within its magical realm.”

I listen as Justin recounts stories of brave adventurers seeking the whale's counsel, of merchants offering tribute in exchange for its blessings, and of travelers finding solace in its gentle presence.

My eyes meet the gentle titan as it guides what looks like a ball of water toward us.

“Hmmm…”

As soon as the water reaches us, I feel all the weariness and trauma accumulated in yesterday's spar washed away.

“This…”

“The water spirit recognizes your heart and will, Your Excellency,” Justin speaks, his voice tinged with admiration.

‘That really washed away all the dark feelings too, huh?’

I meet the spirit's eyes and bow slightly in respect. ‘Thank you, Noble Whale, for the help. I will do my part, as long as I survive Mom’s beatings.’

“Woooh!”

As if acknowledging the sincerity in my words, it splashes in the water, filling the BAZAAR with a joyous atmosphere. As we reach our destination floor, the doors of the elevator open, revealing the opulent surroundings of Kingsmen Fine Clothing.

“Um, Justin, why are we straight at the Kingsmen and not at a hall or corridor? Shouldn’t there be other stores here too?”

I look at Justin since he is our guide, and ever since we entered the market, I've felt a weird uneasiness whenever I look around.

‘No doubt this is similar to the training zones back at home. Someone, probably the manager has this space under his authority.’

Before I can ponder more needlessly on topics far beyond my reach, Justin's voice sounds again.

“Well, Your Excellency, that's because the entirety of the Market is blessed by the Wayfarer Spirit. Grandfather always says the bazaar leads you to the place you want.”

Justin gestures towards the entrance with a flourish.

“Here we are, Your Excellency. Kingsmen Fine Clothing, renowned for its exquisite attire crafted with the finest materials and magical embellishments.”

Damn, everything here is over the top.

As I stepped out of the elevator, I was greeted by the sight of an old yet robust man standing at the entrance of Kingsmen Fine Clothing. His presence had an air of dignity and the unique pull of an old wise man.

"Your Royal Highness, I offer my deepest respects and extend a most honorable welcome to you,” the old tailor says with a warm smile, bowing deeply. "This old man is Reginald, the TAILOR, and weaver of Kingsmen. It is an honor to have you grace our establishment."

“I’m pleased that you considered my humble shop. I’ll make sure to make your experience memorable.”

‘Again, why are all the old people so badass?’

I return his greeting with a nod, impressed by the sense of tradition and expertise that surrounds him. Master Reginald gestures for me to follow him further into the store, and I comply, eager to experience the renowned craftsmanship of Kingsmen Fine Clothing.

As we walk through the opulent surroundings of the store, Master Reginald leads me to a private fitting area, where a luxurious velvet chair awaits. He motions for me to take a seat, and I do so, feeling a sense of anticipation building within me. With practiced hands, Master Reginald begins taking my measurements, his movements precise and efficient. As he works, he asks questions about the style and design preferences for the garment I desire.

"What sort of attire are you envisioning, Your Excellency?" he inquires, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity.

I ponder his question for a moment. “Well, I would probably want something that reflects my royal status. I’d also like it to be not stiff… a long coat would be nice… please, no fancy, more like combat attire.”

Master Reginald nods thoughtfully, his keen eyes assessing my proportions as he continues to take measurements.

"I understand, Your Excellency. Allow me to present you with a selection of fabrics and designs that I believe will meet your specifications."

With that, he produces an array of swatches and sketches, each more exquisite than the last. We discuss colors, textures, and embellishments, weaving a tapestry of ideas that will culminate in a garment worthy of royalty. After much deliberation, we settled on a design – a dark obsidian-colored long coat adorned with intricate white and gold highlights.

‘Man, he has even better fabrics and leather than what Aunt Nora has in her collection.’

The fabric shimmers with a subtle enchantment, imbuing the garment with an aura of mystique and allure.

“Apart from the basic enchants that would go on and consider your preference, may I go with combat-ready gear?”

“Hmm, yes, please. I would like combat-ready gear rather than being all fancy and caked with makeup.”

Master Reginald nods in satisfaction, grinning amused at my choice, but I could also see approval in his eyes.

"An excellent choice, Your Excellency. With your permission, I shall begin crafting your masterpiece."

I offer my consent with a grateful smile, hearing all about the skilled hands of Master Reginald and the artisans of Kingsmen from Mom, Aunt Nora, and even Uncle Sebastian. I would love to see the results.

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