Howard's Bounty
Indeed, upon seeing the badge, the middle-aged shopkeeper's irritation at being interrupted by Howard instantly vanished.
A level 3 magus, while not the most distinguished figure in Rodel City, held enough clout to deal decisively with a small clothing store owner without fear of repercussion.
Such is the nature of power and authority.
Without them, one is forever condemned to struggle at the bottom, searching for a way out.
With the badge's influence, Howard quickly obtained the information he sought and, without wasting a moment, hurried out of the clothing store with Vivia in tow.
Every moment of delay now meant potentially dozens of gold coins subtracted from his bounty.
Although Vivia didn't understand Howard's sudden urgency, her trust in him prevented her from asking questions.
Instead, she silently increased her pace, carefully noting any information Howard might miss, ready to fill him in when the opportunity arose.