By noon, Jack had left with a full stomach and a drunkard’s swagger, patting Vivian on the back with a laugh as she nibbled on slices of buttered bread. She now had her journal open, with Mr. Riley sitting across from her, enjoying his own drink and stew while bartering with her over the various goods he kept tucked away.
“Now Vivian, you know that Shard is worth a good deal to me,” Mr. Riley said condescendingly, “and I know you want it. But really, a paltry handful of silver coins? You’ll have to make a better offer than that.”
“Then let’s check out what other supplies you have!” She exclaimed. “I’m running low on crystals, and could use some Elhim paint for tracing runes. I know you have plenty of Koto venom, and I need at least an ounce of powdered Sand Lily for a ritual I plan on tr
