But then Sylvaris slipped the gemstone back into his storage.
The merchant nearly collapsed. His knees buckled, his mouth opened like he'd just watched a god toss heaven into a ditch.
"Maybe it's too little," Sylvaris said, voice smooth, eyes gleaming with mock thoughtfulness. "Might not be worth much after all..."
"N-Not at all! Not at all!" the merchant stammered, practically shaking. "How about this—I'll give you that woman for the gem. Just her. No tricks. We use gems here, after all. It's what we base our currency on... and that one..."
He swallowed hard, sweat dripping past his ears.
"That much... yeah... that would be more than enough for her." Honestly, I'd sell the whole damn cage for a block like that.
The smile on the merchant's face couldn't hide the fire in his eyes. He looked like he was moments away from selling his soul, just for the chance to see that gem one more time.
"I'll give you half," Sylvaris said sheepishly, playing the fool with innocent eyes.
