80: Whispers in the City- Part 2

Carol exhaled softly but said nothing more, knowing it was pointless to argue when Auriel had already made up her mind.

Auriel stepped toward a small street stall that sold trinkets and jewelry.

The merchant, an older woman with wary eyes, barely looked up at first. Her hands moved methodically, arranging her wares—delicate rings, polished stones, and small pendants of various designs.

Auriel's fingers brushed over a locket that stood out among the items. It was an intricate silver piece, slightly worn with age but undeniably beautiful. 

Something about it called to her, though she could not say why. Her instincts wanted her to talk to this lady and Auriel complied.

The shopkeeper immediately noticed her interest and straightened up, her expression shifting from weary to eager. 

"That's a fine piece, miss. A rare find. Are you interested in buying it?"