Chapter 51: A New Kind of Shop

Kael packed the last of his supplies into his satchel and slung it over his shoulder. He turned to Seris, who was adjusting the strap on her scabbard.

"Ready?" he asked.

She nodded once. "Let's go. You said today's the big day."

Kael smiled, fatigue tucked behind it. "Yeah. Shop's supposed to be finished. Let's hope the dwarves didn't blow anything up."

By mid-morning, they reached the southern end of the city, where the main street sloped gently downward toward the outer gate.

The building stood on a prominent corner, its wide storefront angled perfectly to face the steady stream of townsfolk and travelers trickling in through the southern gate.

Kael stopped at the edge of the stone walkway, staring at the shop for a long moment.

"Wow," he said quietly.

The transformation was subtle but unmistakable.