Black market

After a few minutes, Ethan stepped out of the room, Lia trailing closely behind. The streets of the city had grown busier, the chatter of merchants and customers blending with the clatter of wagons and footsteps.

"So, where exactly are we headed?" Ethan asked, his voice low as they maneuvered through the bustling streets.

"There's a market in the eastern district," Lia explained. "If you ask the right questions—or slip a few coins to the right people—you can find some… less-than-official vendors."

"Less-than-official," Ethan repeated with a smile. What the hell was he getting himself into? Perhaps he should stick to leveling up his summons and leveling up himself?

"Master, we are here." Lia whispered to him, breaking him out of his thoughts. 

Ethan blinked and looked up, realizing they'd entered a part of the city that felt distinctly different from the rest.