Chapter 161.2 - Market

The competition's rules were simple: one would haggle first while the other observed from a discreet distance, then they'd switch, each attempting to get a better price for the same item. At the end of three rounds, they'd compare receipts to declare the victor. 

Irina, her hazel eyes blazing with determination, volunteered to go first. She stepped up to the first stall—a vibrant display of handwoven scarves, each shimmering faintly with mana-infused thread. Astron lingered just out of earshot, his posture relaxed but his sharp gray eyes clearly watching. 

****** 

The first haggle was about a scarf. 

Irina picked up a pale blue scarf, running her fingers over the delicate fabric as the vendor beamed at her. 

"Ah, a fine choice," the vendor said, clasping his hands. "Mana-woven silk, perfect for warding off the chill while enhancing your magical resonance. 3000 Valer."