The market district buzzed like a neon hive. Lanterns of drifting light floated above the cobblestone paths. Merchants lined the streets, their stalls flashing animated signs, each yelling louder than the last for attention. Oliver led Xavier through a narrow street that opened up into a sleek-looking shop embedded into the wall—its design less medieval, more futuristic, all glass and shimmering chrome panels with pulsating blue veins running through the walls like glowing roots.
Inside, it was quieter. Smooth jazz played in the background—some fantasy remix with flutes and synths—and an animated merchant NPC stood behind a long, hovering counter. His robes glowed with currency symbols, and his white beard flickered like glitch particles.
"Welcome, dear adventurers! Come, come! I am Gurven, your financial alchemist! Gold, silver, Rift Coins—I process them all!"
