Chapter 19: Chapter 19: Day 2.4 the Price of Curiosity
Buying the Clacton Silk
The elf returned from the back of the shop, carrying a neatly folded bundle of Clacton Silk—smooth, almost shimmering fabric that felt like flowing water in her hands. She placed it on the counter and looked up at me.
> Elf: "12 CP."
I exhaled. Exactly what Nina gave me.
> Me: "Alright, here you go." I handed over my last 12 CP.
She counted the coins with swift, precise fingers before nodding in satisfaction.
> Elf: "Good. Anything else?"
---
The Lovy Clock
I hesitated, then remembered the real reason I was here.
> Me: "Actually, yeah. I need something that tells me when the portal to Ssles will appear."
The elf raised an eyebrow.
> Elf: "Ah. You're looking for a Lovy Clock."
She reached under the counter and pulled out a small pocket watch. Its golden gears clicked softly, and a faint blue glow pulsed from its face. Unlike normal clocks, this one had two extra hands—one that pointed to a location, and one that tracked time until the next portal opening.
> Elf: "This will do exactly what you need. It tracks when and where the portal will appear."
> Me: "Perfect! How much?"
> Elf: "7 CP."
I flinched.
> Me (internally): "Crap. I only have 0 CP left after buying the silk and i only have 7cp in my system.."
> Me: "Uh… that's a bit much, isn't it?"
The elf smirked.
> Elf: "No, it's not. Other shops sell this for 10 to 12 CP. I'm being generous."
I narrowed my eyes.
> Me (internally): "Yeah right. Sounds like a scam."
---
A Special Gift
Before I could refuse, she placed a small jade-like stone on the counter. It was engraved with glowing elven runes, pulsing with a faint green light.
> Elf: "Since you're new here and I think you'll be a regular customer, I'll throw this in as a bonus."
I picked up the [Elven Accord Stone] and inspected its details.
> [Key Item: Elven Accord Stone]
A jade-like stone engraved with glowing elven runes.
Effect: Grants temporary access to elven-protected forests.
Abilities:
Forest Passage – Bypasses magical barriers.
Nature's Acceptance – Prevents hostility from wildlife.
Elven Tongue – Allows basic understanding of elven speech.
Duration: Until the bearer leaves the forest or after 72 hours.
Restriction: Must be gifted by an elf. Loses power if stolen.
My eyes widened.
> Me (internally): "This… lets me enter Laxs Forest. The level 90+ area. For free?"
This wasn't some minor trinket. This was a shortcut to one of the most restricted zones in the game.
I stared at the elf.
> Me: "…You're just giving this to me?"
> Elf: "Consider it a deal if you buy the Lovy Clock."
A one-time opportunity to access Laxs Forest just for 7 CP?
I didn't even hesitate.
> Me: "Deal."
I handed over my remaining 7 CP.
> Me (internally): "I'm now officially broke… but it's worth it."
---
Curiosity Gets Me Kicked Out
After securing my new clock and the elven stone, I casually leaned on the counter.
> Me: "By the way, how old are you?"
The elf's expression instantly darkened.
> Elf: "Excuse me?"
> Me: "Well, you look, uh… kinda small. And, uh… y'know, flat…"
For half a second, I thought I saw a vein pop on her forehead.
Then—
> SMACK!
A handprint burned into my right cheek as I was kicked out of the store.
The door slammed shut behind me.
I stood there, dazed, rubbing my stinging face.
> Me (internally): "I just wanted to know her age…"
---
Returning to Nina
With zero CP left, a red handprint on my face, and Nina's silk secured, I made my way back to the portal location.
As I stepped through, I couldn't help but grin.
> Me (internally): "I may be broke, but I just got a key to Laxs Forest. Beta version, you're the best."
Time to deliver the silk.
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End of Chapter 19
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Next Chapter Preview: Nina's Reaction
Will Nina notice Leo's handprint?
What will she say about Ssles?
How will Leo prepare for the next task?
Stay tuned!