When Rinna and Ilsa returned, they brought news that Hargrim's did not have a complete aether distillery or any leads on one, making that avenue a dead end.

Tamsin and Rita had prepared dinner—a hearty stew of root vegetables and salted pork, accompanied by thick slices of brown bread and a pot of herb tea that filled the room with the scent of mint and chamomile. Justin had hardly eaten all day due to his busyness, so it was a relief to finally gather upstairs as twilight settled over Belmora. He must have missed when the cookware was purchased, but perhaps Lila had handled that during her errands.

Since there was still no proper dining table, they ate off clay plates while sitting cross-legged on the dining room floor as the last light faded from the windows. After praising the delicious food, the conversation naturally shifted to reviewing the day's activities, the progress made, and potential roadblocks ahead. This set the stage for everyone to be prepared for action the following morning without needing another lengthy meeting.

"First item," Justin said, setting down his empty bowl, "meetings. We're going to try to keep them to once daily during dinner to make the best use of everyone's time. This room will serve as our planning headquarters."

"I agree," Lila said, wiping her hands on a cloth napkin. "So, let's assign tomorrow's roles clearly. Tamsin and Rita—great job cleaning today. When the furniture merchant comes tomorrow—Rinna, I didn't catch his name?"

"Mr. Laribar," she replied around a mouthful of bread.

"Right, Laribar. Well, when he arrives, Tamsin, you're in charge of that negotiation. Go through every room except the vault and figure out exactly what we need."

Tamsin's eyes widened slightly. Justin recognized that look. She was comfortable with cleaning and organizing, but making purchasing decisions was new territory. "Ms. Fairwind, I'm not sure I could handle something so important—"

"—you absolutely can," Lila assured her firmly. "We're still a small company, so this is valuable experience. Someday, if you stick with us, you won't be doing the cleaning anymore. You won't make the final purchasing decisions either. At least, not yet. Just compile a comprehensive list with Rita's help, then bring it to me for final approval."

"Right," Tamsin said, nodding vigorously. "I can manage that." She paused, her cheeks coloring slightly. "One thing to address first, if I may. I've been a bit bashful about it, but since we're working together... I prefer to go by Tammy, with my friends. I don't mean to presume, given your station, but I'd appreciate it if you could call me Tammy."

"Tammy," Lila said with a warm smile. "Of course. I prefer it too."

"Thank you, Ms. Fairwind. I appreciate your consideration. I'll get started on that furniture list first thing tomorrow."

"Perfect. Now, Ilsa and Rinna—your project is to figure out the aether distillery situation."

"Right," Rinna said, looking embarrassed. "I'm really sorry we failed today. We tried our best."

"No need to apologize," Lila said kindly. "No one could have predicted what happened with that enchantry, and we learned valuable information along the way. I was going to suggest venturing into the Merchant Quarter or even the Golden District if necessary. Don't commit to anything yet, but gather intelligence on distilleries. There was talk of disguising our purchase with false paperwork, but we haven't made a final decision on that. Deception could backfire spectacularly, and we want to avoid serious guild scrutiny while we're still small."

"A good point," Justin agreed.

"And," Lila continued thoughtfully, "we'll inevitably attract attention once we grow larger, and questions will arise about where we acquired our equipment. I want our operation to be legitimate whenever possible."

"I completely agree," Alistair said. "I'm not suggesting we'll never rely on less reputable practices when absolutely necessary. They should simply be our last resort."

"All right," Justin said. "If everyone's agreeable, let's pursue proper quotes. I'm open to used equipment if it means significant savings. Perhaps the main shops selling distilleries have older models available—sufficient for our purposes. After all, what we're planning doesn't require super-advanced enchanting capabilities, correct, Rinna?"

"It shouldn't require anything too sophisticated," she agreed. "Now, those gold chits with fifty-mile ranges that each courier will carry... that might be above my current skill level."

"No problem. You can craft the best versions you're capable of for now, and we'll upgrade when feasible."

"All right," Rinna said, brightening considerably. "Ilsa and I will definitely locate a distillery."

"And purchase a proper ledger," Ilsa added. "I didn't get to that today, but we'll be spending significant money soon. I also need to start tracking our funds meticulously. The numbers mentioned so far have been too vague for my comfort. We need precise accounting if we expect to succeed."

Justin nodded approvingly. "Excellent point." He quickly checked his interface. "I'm currently at about 140 gold crowns."

"And I have 120, after buying that class core," Lila said.

"So that's 260 total," Ilsa said, her eyes brightening with satisfaction. "Yes, an excellent foundation to work with. The gambling den I used to work at had much bigger figures."

Justin thought that was a good sign, at least in a manner of speaking.

"As for tomorrow," Alistair said, "I'll continue my reconnaissance. I might venture into Scaleback Row"—he gestured vaguely westward—"to learn more about the Crimson Scales firsthand. What to expect, how we might deal with the situation."

"Good thinking," Justin said. "Lila and I will meet with Mr. Kilgan to finalize that equipment deal." He frowned in thought. "Speaking of which, was he amenable to that deal we discussed?"

"He was," Lila confirmed. "He says his sons are already packing up."

It was a good sign that the deal would go through. "Good."

Silence settled over the group for a moment as everyone absorbed their assignments. Rinna suppressed a yawn, and Justin noticed the fatigue creeping into everyone's faces.

"It's been a tough day for everyone," Justin observed. "We've been at this since early morning." He reached into his enchanted coin purse, withdrawing four gleaming five-silver pieces. He pressed one into each employee's palm, watching expressions of shock and delight cross their faces.

"A first-day bonus," Justin explained. "Everyone is taking ownership of Summon & Supply's success, and that's how I know we're going to thrive. Right now, we don't have proper bathing facilities set up here, so tomorrow, whenever it's convenient, treat yourselves to new clothing, your own enchanted coin purses, and visits to a local bathhouse. Hopefully, we can get our facilities installed tomorrow, but we've been pushing so hard that I haven't even addressed these basic necessities. For that oversight, I apologize. Everyone working here deserves decent clothes and proper amenities, and most of you are still wearing the same garments we found you in."

Tammy was already wiping away a tear at this simple kindness. "Thank you, Mr. Talemaker. You're too generous."

"No thanks necessary," he said firmly. "While I genuinely want to help, we're also building a professional image. Eventually, we'll need proper uniforms and a more polished appearance. But take your bonuses and purchase the essentials to get established. Regular wages resume tomorrow as normal."

"Sounds wonderful," Rinna said with an enthusiastic smile. "I'm grateful I chose to work with you, Mr. Talemaker. I know this venture is going to be huge!"

Justin couldn't help but smile at her infectious optimism. "Well, we all contribute our part. I've been very pleased with everyone's efforts so far. Now let's see what tomorrow brings."

The next morning, Justin awoke on his mat to the sound of Saint Muriel's bells, already dreading what the Jester had in store for him.

[Goooood morning, Mr. Talemaker! Jester's Roulette has activated for today!]

Fortunately, there were no sound effects today, which seemed purely based on the Jester's whims.

[Jester's Gamble activated! You have gained +6 to your Intellect attribute for the day.]

[Random Enchantment: Ascendant-Tier Warp! You may now warp once to any previously known location within the Aetherion while Jester's Roulette is equipped! You can bring anything or anyone, as long as they are touching your cane!]

The Jester tittered with delight.

[Oh, happy day, Brave Adventurer! Just think of all you can do, all you can see! But, of course, there's a catch. The return journey might not be as easy. Well, bon voyage!]

As the Jester's cackling laughter receded, Justin rolled his eyes, got off his mat, and stood up. The one-time warp was at best a slight advantage and at worst useless. It would have been much better if it worked twice, so he could actually get back from wherever he warped to.

He joined the others for breakfast. With plans set, everyone headed off on their assigned tasks. Justin and Lila walked toward the Merchant Quarter and Mr. Kilgan's shop.

On the way, Lila broke the silence. "So, what is the Jester up to today?"

"I can warp once to anywhere I've visited before."

"Huh," she said thoughtfully. "Well, that cane is always full of surprises."

Justin sighed. "How am I supposed to use it? If I can only warp once, it defeats the purpose of having such a cool power."

"Maybe that's the point."

Yes, that seemed to be the theme of the cane: get something undeniably awesome, but balanced with an annoying drawback. "Well, maybe the idea is more about getting out of a situation. And the cane warping whatever it touches is significant too. You could pull off a major heist with that enchantment."

"Hmm. If an opportunity arises for it to be useful—not for theft, I mean—then you'll have it ready. Until then, enjoy your +6 Intellect boost."

The transition from shabby Mudside to the more prosperous districts was gradual yet noticeable. They passed Saint Muriel's Church, where early morning worshippers gathered for dawn prayers. Foot traffic steadily increased as they walked; the narrow alleys gave way to broader cobblestone streets lined with respectable shops and well-maintained buildings. The sun rose in the east, lighting the red-tiled rooftops and painting the city in warm golden hues. It promised to be another pleasantly warm day, though it was still quite cool.

Justin realized this was the first time he had ventured from headquarters since setting up in the shop. The change in atmosphere was striking. Here, merchants swept their storefronts clean, window displays gleamed with polished goods, and the people moved with the confident stride of those accustomed to prosperity. In the distance, the golden stones of the Aurelian Tower caught the morning light, along with several shorter but equally impressive towers belonging to other prominent families.

"Almost there," Lila said.

They found Mr. Kilgan's shop, its placard removed and windows partially boarded up. The sight was both melancholy and promising—clear evidence of the Alchemist's desperation, but also confirmation that their deal was proceeding as planned.

But as they approached the entrance, Justin noticed something that made his stomach tighten. Through the partially boarded windows, he could see more figures inside than expected—not just Kilgan and perhaps his sons, but at least two other people engaged in animated discussion.

Upon entering, they found the space in considerable disarray, but not solely from packing. Most of the potions had been organized into wooden crates, yet attention in the room was focused on two other individuals examining the equipment with obvious interest.

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"Ms. Fairwind!" Mr. Kilgan called out as they entered, his relief evident but tinged with guilt.

Justin sized him up. He was in his fifties, with graying hair and the careful movements of someone used to working with delicate materials.

"Perfect timing," Mr. Kilgan added nervously. "As you can see, we're nearly ready for transport."

Justin extended his hand, his enhanced Insightful Gaze already processing the situation. "Justin Talemaker. Pleased to meet you."

"Ardabel Kilgan," he said, shaking firmly, though his eyes darted nervously toward the other visitors.

"I thought we had an arrangement," Lila said carefully, her tone neutral but her meaning clear.

Kilgan's cheeks reddened. "Yes, well... I must apologize for the circumstances. After you left yesterday, I reconsidered my approach. My wife pointed out that it would be wise to ensure we're getting the best possible price for our life's work." He gestured helplessly toward the others. "I hope you understand."

Justin glanced up to see Kilgan's wife behind the counter, a woman in her late forties with a shrewd expression. Her smile didn't quite reach her eyes.

Part of him wanted to walk out on principle. They had come here in good faith, expecting a straightforward transaction. But they needed those supplies, and finding another complete alchemy setup would be a lot of work.

Lila looked at him almost helplessly. He met her gaze and understood that she knew nothing about this.

He switched to Elea's Whisper. What do you think?

I don't like it, but we need to try. Maybe you can use Angel's Pitch to negotiate a better deal?

Justin nodded. It would have to do.

"I see," he said evenly. "And who are our competitors?"

The first man stepped forward with the confident stride of someone used to getting his way. He was well-dressed in a burgundy waistcoat and a matching soft-brimmed cap, with calculating eyes that assessed everything in terms of profit margins. Justin's monocle identified him as a Level 14 Merchant.

"Cornelius Galloway," he said with a slight bow that was both proper and condescending. "I represent the Goldleaf Alchemy Consortium. We're always looking to expand our operations, and Mr. Kilgan's equipment would serve us well."

Justin noticed Kilgan's expression sour slightly at the mention of Goldleaf, and his Insightful Gaze detected the subtle tension. Clearly, there was history between these two men.

The second bidder was a stark contrast—a young man in his early twenties, brimming with the eager enthusiasm of someone playing with money he hadn't earned. His expensive yet impractical clothes suggested a lack of experience, and he bounced slightly on his toes as he examined the alchemy tables. Justin's monocle identified him as a Level 4 Socialite.

"Lord Richard Harvelle," he announced proudly. "I've recently taken up alchemy as a hobby, and I simply must have the finest equipment available. Money is no object, naturally."

Justin quickly assessed the threat: Galloway was calculating and experienced, likely to bid strategically. Harvelle was enthusiastic but naive, which could be dangerous given his willingness to overspend.

"And I suppose we're meant to outbid each other?" Justin asked, his tone neutral.

"It seems the fairest approach," the wife replied.

"My wife, Cordelia," Kilgan said quietly, and Justin noticed the tension in his voice—appreciation for her business sense clashing with embarrassment over the duplicity.

"Let's begin," Cordelia said.

Mr. Kilgan cleared his throat. "Yes, of course. We will start the bidding at... forty gold crowns."

Justin's heart sank. Mr. Kilgan already knew Justin was willing to pay that price, so he began the bidding there.

"Now, let's not be hasty, Mr. Kilgan," Galloway said with a dismissive chuckle. "I'm prepared to offer thirty-five gold crowns for the lot. A fair deal."

Lord Harvelle perked up immediately. "Thirty-eight! I must have those preservation chambers—they're essential for my research."

"Forty crowns," Justin said calmly, trying to project confidence he didn't entirely feel. "As previously agreed. A month of consultation services thrown in."

"Forty-two," Galloway countered smoothly. "No need for consultation."

"Forty-five!" Harvelle exclaimed, clearly delighted by the competition. "I will pay extra for consultation if that's what it takes!"

Justin's mind raced. He and Lila had about 260 gold crowns total, but committing too much to this single purchase would leave them dangerously exposed.

They needed to change the nature of the competition.

"Forty-six gold crowns," Justin declared, then added, "paid immediately. Plus..." He paused, meeting Kilgan's gaze. "A month of consultation fees for Mr. Kilgan's expertise for Ms. Fairwind, an additional gold crown. After all, it's not every day you work with a Songbrewer."

At this mention, both Galloway and Harvelle looked up, reassessing Lila entirely. Galloway's blue eyes narrowed, while Harvelle regarded her almost reverently, as if uncertain for the first time.

Kilgan's eyes lit up with genuine interest. "That's true. I've never had the chance to work with a Songbrewer. It would be an enlightening experience."

"If the price is right," Mrs. Kilgan quickly interjected, clearly unimpressed.

"Indeed," Lila said, stepping forward. "I'm hoping to learn from someone with your experience, Mr. Kilgan, while exploring how bardic magic can enhance traditional alchemy."

"It would surely be fascinating," Kilgan murmured, his attention clearly captured.

Galloway's frown deepened. "Fifty gold crowns."

"Fifty-five!" Harvelle called out. "And I'll cover the consultation too!"

Justin realized he was being outbid by those with deeper pockets. It was time to activate his Entrepreneur class skill; he had previously hesitated, worried it might cut off too early. Now, he waited until the last possible moment, when the bidding was spiraling beyond his control.

[Angel's Pitch activated: Prospective patron detected: Ardabel Kilgan, Alchemist. Analyzing optimal persuasion angles...]

Information flooded his mind as the skill provided insight into Kilgan's motivations and those of his competitors. Galloway wasn't just buying equipment—he was eliminating a rival on whom he had already placed crushing pressure while expanding his consortium's reach. Harvelle wasn't pursuing alchemy seriously; it was more about impressing his social circle with an expensive hobby. Cordelia Kilgan wanted financial security above all else, but Ardabel Kilgan was torn between practical necessity and the desire to see his life's work continue meaningfully.

It was time to change tactics.

"Mr. Kilgan," Justin said, "may I ask what your plans are after this sale?"

"I... well, we're relocating to my wife's family in Aetherhold. Starting fresh, you understand. It will be a few months before we can arrange all our affairs, though."

"And your fifteen years of recipes? Your personal formulary? What becomes of that knowledge?"

Kilgan's face grew troubled. "I... I suppose it goes with the equipment. The deal I'm offering is for everything, including that."

"Indeed, that's what you said," Galloway interjected.

"It will be filed away in some Consortium archive," Justin said, his Angel's Pitch guiding him to the merchant's weak point. "Mr. Galloway, I'm sure you'll put Mr. Kilgan's recipes to good use—once your employees determine which ones are profitable enough to mass-produce, of course."

Galloway's expression tightened. "The Consortium makes efficient use of all acquired assets. I am prepared to beat Lord Harvelle's offer: fifty-six crowns, no consultation."

Justin could see it pained him; Galloway had hoped to buy out the operation cheaply, and the price was nearing market rate, thanks to Lord Harvelle's encouragement.

"Lord Harvelle," Justin said, "your enthusiasm for the craft is admirable. What draws a Socialite to alchemy? The prestige of owning such fine equipment, perhaps? The stories you could share at the next ball?"

Harvelle's cheeks colored slightly. "Well, I... it's quite fascinating, actually. The complexity, the precision... it's sure to be the talk of the season at court!"

[Angel's Pitch: Identify optimal angles—appeal to Kilgan's legacy concerns, highlight competitors' true motivations, position yourself as the craftsman's inheritor rather than just another buyer.]

"Mr. Kilgan," Justin continued, his enhanced Charisma making his words resonate, "what would you prefer? Your life's work becoming a footnote in a corporate ledger, or a conversation piece for social gatherings... or the foundation for something greater?"

Kilgan's eyes widened with interest. "What are you proposing, Mr. Talemaker?"

"Fifty gold crowns," Justin said firmly. "Plus, one month of consulting for another gold crown."

"That's all well and good," Cordelia said, "but that's fifty-one crowns compared to fifty-six." She turned to her husband. "Go with Mr. Galloway. He has an established operation and the expertise, and you won't have to waste your time consulting."

Kilgan was clearly torn, but Justin instinctively knew that pushing harder would not bode well. They may have lost this deal, but he would not overextend himself.

"Very well," Mr. Kilgan said, his shoulders sagging. "Mr. Galloway has it."

"Splendid!" Galloway said. "Now I must admit, due to certain... cash flow issues... I can pay a twenty percent deposit today and secure a note from the Aurelian Bank by tomorrow. If we can come to that understanding, then we're square."

"I see," Mr. Kilgan said. Clearly, he preferred cash. He looked to Lord Harvelle, who was conspicuously silent. Perhaps he now realized he had gotten carried away.

This left Justin and Lila.

"My offer may not be as strong monetarily," Justin said, "but I will pay in pure gold. Moreover, my skill and the Gentleman's Agreement ensure fair dealing by all parties. My word is backed by the power of the Aether itself."

"Mr. Galloway's word is good too," Cordelia said. "He runs a successful business."

"Ah," Justin said, "but unlike me, he is not willing to pay full price today due to so-called 'cash flow issues.' Can you be sure he's not trying to drive off his competition and offer you a worse deal tomorrow while he stands alone?"

From the reddening of Galloway's face, Justin realized he had struck a nerve.

"A preposterous accusation! This is not fair dealing, Mr. Talemaker! Most businesses don't just have fifty-six crowns lying around in a slush fund!"

"We wouldn't expect you to, Mr. Galloway," Mrs. Kilgan said apologetically. "Of course, that would be fine."

Lila's voice entered his mind. Justin, we're going to lose this. I have an idea, but I don't have time to explain it.

Go for it.

Lila cleared her throat. "Mrs. Kilgan, I recognize your concern," she said. "There will be the consultation, of course, but you want the best possible deal financially."

"Of course," she replied, looking pointedly at her husband. "Sentiment has no place in business."

"With that in mind, how about this? We establish a permanent arrangement where Mr. Kilgan receives a percentage of profits from any recipes based on his formulations. Does 10% of gross proceeds sound fair? Anything truly unique to him. That way, his knowledge becomes a living legacy, not just a one-time sale."

"Sixty gold crowns," Galloway interrupted tersely. "Final offer. Paid tomorrow!"

A full ten crowns above their offer. Lila had been clever to add that stipulation, but would it be enough?

"Mr. Kilgan," Justin said quietly, his words laced with genuine respect, "Mr. Galloway will dismantle your operation, distributing your recipes among anonymous brewers in his consortium, and you will receive none of the proceeds if they use them. Lord Harvelle will eventually lose interest when alchemy proves more challenging than his other pursuits. We're offering you the chance to see your life's work not just continue, but evolve. Our business is growing; while your shop is closing, we opened a new one just this week. More importantly, Lila is a Songbrewer eager to learn from a craftsman like you. Imagine the innovations possible when bardic magic meets fifteen years of alchemical expertise, with a 10% share of the proceeds from your recipes ensuring passive income for life."

Kilgan's expression grew thoughtful, caught between practical concerns and the allure of legacy. "You would... you would truly do that?"

"Your expertise is worth more than just your equipment," Justin continued, his Angel's Pitch skill ensuring he struck every resonant note. "We're not merely buying your tools; we're inviting you to be part of something revolutionary."

"What shop opened?" Mr. Galloway blustered. "I'm with the Guild, and I have never heard of you, Mr. Talemaker!"

That posed a complication. Perhaps they had overextended, but now the dice had been cast.

"Well, Mr. Galloway," Justin said with a smile, "you'll be hearing about us soon enough."

Kilgan appeared deep in thought. Cordelia watched in silence, also weighing the options. Lila's offer of ten percent seemed to have won her over, at least enough to consider it.

"Ardabel," Cordelia said, "I leave this decision to you. If you believe these people can sell your potions better than we did, then I support it. But the wiser choice might be to take the extra ten crowns and build a life from that."

"You must decide within the next minute," Mr. Galloway urged, clearly growing impatient. "Otherwise, I rescind my offer."

Mr. Kilgan nodded, still pondering. The relaxation of his body language and the way his eyes focused on Lila and Justin indicated he was about to go with them, against all odds.

That was until Lord Harvelle spoke, his voice tight. "Sixty-five crowns. Pure gold. My final offer."

Justin resisted the urge to curse as Cordelia's expression became practically exultant. "Oh, praise Arion. What do you think, Ardabel, dear? That settles it, right?"

They had done all they could. There was no point in bidding against an idiot. At this point, Harvelle simply didn't want to lose.

"Mr. Kilgan," Justin said quietly, "what do you prefer? The highest bidder or the person who will honor what you've built?"

The room fell silent as Galloway and Harvelle waited expectantly. Kilgan looked around his shop—at the equipment he'd maintained for fifteen years, at the recipes he'd perfected through countless experiments, at the life's work he was about to abandon.

"I..." Kilgan began, then stopped. He looked at his wife, the other bidders, and finally at Justin and Lila. "I need to think about this more."

"Think about what?" Cordelia snapped. "Lord Harvelle is offering sixty crowns on the spot!"

"But what happens to everything I've built when he moves on to his next fascination?"

"That's not your problem," she replied sharply. "Your problem is securing our future."

Tension filled the room. Justin realized this was about more than just money. It was about legacy, meaning, and what happens to a lifetime of work when its creator is forced to walk away.

Cordelia, sadly, didn't seem to understand that—or worse, didn't care. It clearly weighed heavily on Mr. Kilgan. The animosity this business had caused between the two spouses was more bitter than Grimroot extract.

Kilgan closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them with newfound resolve. "Mr. Talemaker, Ms. Fairwind... I accept your offer. Fifty crowns, plus the partnership arrangement."

"Ardabel!" Cordelia's voice cracked like a whip. "Have you lost your mind? That's fifteen crowns less than—"

"It's not about the crowns, Cordelia," Kilgan said quietly but firmly. "It's about what happens after we leave."

His wife's face flushed red with fury. "For fifteen years, I've supported this business, scrimped and saved while you played with your potions. And now you're throwing away our best chance at security for some romantic notion about legacy?"

"I'm ensuring my work means something," Kilgan replied steadily.

Cordelia stared at him for a moment, then grabbed her shawl from a nearby hook. "Fine. Make your sentimental bargain. But don't expect me to applaud when we're eating thin soup in Aetherhold because you chose pride over practicality." She stormed toward the door, pausing only to add, "I'll be at my sister's until this foolishness is concluded."

The door slammed behind her, leaving an uncomfortable silence.

Lord Harvelle was the first to speak, his enthusiasm deflated. "Well, congratulations, I suppose." He adjusted his ornate doublet and headed for the exit. "Do let me know if you ever need a patron for your innovations. You clearly have a way with words, Mr. Talemaker. And you too, Ms. Fairwind. Good day."

Galloway, however, lingered. He adjusted his soft-brimmed cap and fixed Justin with a calculating stare. "Interesting approach, Mr. Talemaker. Are you registered with the Merchants' Guild or the Alchemists' Guild? It's wise to ensure proper documentation when entering Belmora's markets."

Justin met his gaze steadily. "We're thorough in our business practices, Mr. Galloway. I trust you understand the importance of fair competition."

"Oh, absolutely," Galloway replied with a thin smile. "Perhaps we should have tea sometime soon. I enjoy meeting new business owners, especially those who could benefit from understanding the business landscape in this city." He tipped his cap slightly. "Good day. I'm sure I'm certain I'll see you at the Guild Hall."

As Galloway's footsteps faded down the street, Kilgan let out a long breath. "I apologize for the drama, Mr. Talemaker. This wasn't how I intended things to go."

"You made the right choice," Justin said sincerely. "For yourself and your craft."

Kilgan's weathered face creased into the first genuine smile Justin had seen from him. He called toward the back of the shop, "Garrett! Willem! Come help finish the packing, lads. We have a deal to complete."

As his sons emerged from the storage room, Kilgan turned back to Justin and Lila. "Now then, let's formalize this arrangement properly, shall we?"

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