Book 6: Chapter 158
Lindyss squinted at the crowd of people. Judging by the clothes some of them wore, it was clear everyone knew about the new freedom within the tower. People dressed like complete beginners were browsing the wares of the markets targeted at explorers. The fifty-first floor of the tower, when one first became an explorer, theyd be greeted by a large selection of the finest items they had ever seen up to that point, and theyd be happily swindled out of their geums while thinking they got the better end of the bargain.
Lindyss frowned at the gazes coming her way, and she took in a deep breath before exhaling while channeling her mana. The people who were looking at her stiffened and shifted their gazes at the same time. Lindyss made her way through the crowd, the people avoiding her path as if she were a shark swimming through a school of fish.
The goods on the fifty-first floor were overpriced, but the marketplace was one of the largest in the tower where items from every floor could be found. A faint smile appeared on Lindyss face as she looked around. It was always fun going shopping in a new place, and without having to worry about babysitting Vur and Tafel, she could take some time off for herself.
What are you looking for? Erin asked, the fairy queen poking her head out of Lindyss hair. Weapons? Armor? Food for Vur?
Im looking for some peace and quiet, Lindyss said, her eyes shifting to look at the fairy queen, who was now settling down on the cursed elfs shoulder.
Well, you sure came to the wrong place, Erin said and nodded. Look at how bustling it is, wow. I, Erin Koller, have seen a lot, but even this is a first for me. I thought there werent supposed to be that many explorers, but this place can accommodate a lot of people, huh?
Lindyss nodded. Yeah, the cursed elf said and looked around as she walked down the street. There were buildings selling goods and stalls set up between the entrances selling goods as well. People were crowding around, and it felt more like a fair than it did a place to equip oneself for the dangers lying ahead. It mustve been the influx of non-explorers that influenced the atmosphere because in the information the lords had given the cursed elf, the fifty-first floor had been described as a more stoic place.
Excuse me! a melodious voice called out.
Lindyss turned her head and raised an eyebrow at the person who still dared to address her after she had casted an intimidation spell.
Malvies eyes shifted to the side of the table, where Erin was placing a metal straw into a goblet of reddish liquid. The fairy queen noticed the beautiful elfs gaze. Oh, dont mind me, Erin said. The great Erin Koller isnt a gossiper.
Malvie glanced up at Lindyss, and the cursed elf nodded. If she blabs, Lindyss said, eyeing the fairy queen, she knows whatll happen to her.
Shivers ran down Erins spine, and she looked in Lindyss direction. I do? the fairy queen asked. She was pretty sure she didnt know.
Its just a joke, Lindyss said in a flat voice. Did you really think Id do something to you?
Erin kept her mouth shut.
Well, since you trust her, Malvie said and shrugged. Im curious about your soul. She narrowed her eyes, trying to read Lindyss reaction. Youre a phoenix, arent you?
Lindyss raised an eyebrow. What makes you think that?
A smile appeared on Malvies lips. Dont worry, she said. Im here to help. Ill take you to Great Canopy, the heartland of phoenixes. She reached forward across the table and placed her hand on top of Lindyss. You wont have to disguise yourself like this ever again.
One thought ran through Lindyss mind, but she didnt let it show on her face: this was going to be troublesome. So much for her personal break.