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Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Oct 16, 2023 16:19:12 GMT -5
Sylvari sighed in frustration as she stared hard at the single request on the quest board. 'Mephit Misfits' it proudly proclaimed, without a hint of irony or self-awareness. A gauntleted hand was pressed in exasperation against the black and silver half-veil that covered her eyes as Sylvari rubbed them through the cloth. She hated a few things more than unabashed terrible humor, and two of them were involved in this mission: making light of genuine problems for others and godsdamned potions. For all the powers that her dark bloodline gave her, ones she was just awakening to, Sylvari hadn't yet received any powers of flight, like mephits were known to possess. For all the stories of vampires' kinship with bats, that part of her waking nightmare was pointedly absent. However, there was a need, and Sylvari's oath did not give her the luxury of turning away unsavory requests. She grabbed the missive with a grimace and made her way into the nearby tavern, a local haunt for adventurers. If I don't want to be chasing these mephits for a lunar cycle, I'd better requisition help. As she made her way in, she received a few waves and smiles form the patrons and bartenders. She was well-known in these parts for her earnest hard work and eminent kindness, a reputation she had carefully cultivated to paint her line of justiciars in a positive light. She would frequently spend excess solars she made from jobs to buy rounds for the patrons, endearing her to both staff and customers, after her customary deductions for armament maintenance and charity. It was also not unusual for her to take the stage once the bards had finished a set to request assistance in some quest or another. She was a documented loner, but one that frequently worked with others, one of the few able to seamlessly move between groups for different jobs. She had even received offers of permanent membership from a few of the guilds and private parties, which she politely turned down. Sylvari's range of service was a bit too far to be restricted to certain areas as guilds so often were. Today, as she stepped up to make her request, however, she was met with only silence and averted gazes. It appears the notice was not taken for a reason. Sylvari remained on stage, desperately hoping to gain the attention of a partner, and inwardly resolving herself for a prolonged slog. Quest Name: Honey, someone shrunk the heroes
Participants: Two or more
Location: Anywhere
Post Requirements: 5 post per person, 200 words per post
Reward: +1 Renown
Description: Charon has been plagued with counterfeit potions over the past few months, the Golden Consortium doing its best to put a stop to the production of these fake elixars. However, as one operation is put to an end, three more pop up, making it a gamble to buy potions from any source at this point. You have found yourself the victim of one of these fake potions, thinking it to be a potion or drink of some other kind. Unfortunately, its a fake, made somewhere in a back alley by scoundrels. Instead of the potion having its intended affect, it has instead shrunk you and anyone you shared the drink with, making you the size of an ant. The effects of this potion will only last for four post, making you normal size after its duration, however, you will have to survive in a massive world filled with giant bugs and plants all prepared to kill you. The task is simple, don't die.
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Post by Hadassah on Oct 17, 2023 3:24:18 GMT -5
Hadassah took a deep breath as her eyes wandered around the tavern. Everyone seemed so friendly with each other and she couldn’t help but feel out of her element as laughter and hearty conversation filled the place. It seemed even the bartenders knew most, if not everyone that walked in, except her of course. Hadassah arrived in the city not too long ago, seeking some adventure and knowledge, and maybe even some friends. Upon seeing the quest board, she agreed this might be a good way to be helpful and get her name out there. She reached out her hand to take the notice from the board and hesitated. She realized she didn’t know much about quests, and additionally that she would be doing her first quest alone. Perhaps it would be smarter to ask for more information and maybe some help first, she thought.
That plan went swimmingly.
The moment she stepped into the tavern she could feel eyes on her, whether anyone was looking at her or not. She suddenly felt her height, if not shorter, and almost immediately abandoned her mission to take on her first quest. Heat spread along her cheeks as she quickly shuffled out of the doorway and sat at an empty table near the back. She placed her hot face in her hands and cursed herself. She wasn’t raised this way. She worked hard to be strong, and strong she was, but not when it came to being in a new place apparently.
Now she was just quietly taking in her surroundings. She at least gained the courage to order a drink so she didn’t look too out of place sitting alone. She was enjoying the music very much as well and was beginning to feel more comfortable than when she walked in. Once the music was over, she watched curiously as young, pale-skinned woman took the bards’ place on stage. Hadassah couldn’t help but notice her veil, and began to wonder what hid underneath. She wondered so much so that she almost didn’t hear the woman’s request for assistance.
She looked around for a moment to see if anyone else might jump up, but it was completely silent. She couldn’t tell if that was a good thing or not. Hadassah raised her hand.
“I can help,” She said more confidently than she expected. Maybe this would work out after all.
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Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Oct 17, 2023 9:59:25 GMT -5
It appeared that the gods, and this woman, converged in their aims to spare Sylvari the fate of claiming the stage forever. She gave an easy, friendly smile to the bards for allowing her to plead her case, which was met with sympathetic smiles from all of them. Sylvari hopped down and began striding over confidently to the woman who had answered her call.
Sylvari moved with an elegance that betrayed her bulky armor and a force of presence that betrayed her stature. Of course, her darkened full plate was an imposing sight, but even among these hardened adventurers, many of whom were equipped in similar gear, a tide of parting rippled through the crowd. One could feel her gaze everywhere, for the veil had the effect of simultaneously compounding and magnifying her gaze, so it seemed she stared at everyone in the tavern. So it seemed to every soul in the tavern save for the woman who had volunteered, who knew within her heart that Sylvari only had eyes on her.
In her single-minded determination, Sylvari strode quickly, causing her platinum blonde hair to trail after her like silver streaks of stars in the night. Finally, she was upon the table where the woman sat alone, nursing a single drink. Sylvari looked over her would-be companion with an imperious eye, taking in every detail efficiently and quickly. She seemed a paragon of seriousness and war, until a smile broke over her face, and sundered every expectation of her. So radiant was her joyful expression, so childlike in its seeming innocence, that any supposition of her grave demeanor melted away like fresh ice before the heat of the sun.
A silky smooth voice with full-bodied confidence was now directed at the woman, as Sylvari's smile edged ever wider, conspicuously close-lipped. "Sylvari Dawnsage," she proudly proclaimed, extending a gauntleted hand towards the sitting woman. "A most fortuitous pleasure. I am grateful for your aid. Might I know you name?" And can you make us fly? Sylvari refrained from asking the question burning within her breast in the interest of polite etiquette.
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Post by Hadassah on Oct 17, 2023 11:12:59 GMT -5
Hadassah swallowed hard as she watched the woman striding toward her. Something about the way she moved made Hadassah catch her breath. She seemed so intense, especially with that curious veil and bulky armor, yet she moved so gracefully as she grew closer to her and her lonely little table. It was both puzzling and intriguing. Wonder and amazement filled her eyes as she watched the other adventurers split from each other to make a path for her. This woman was obviously well known and respected, something she hoped to be one day.
The woman’s intensity seemed to radiate from her once she finally approached Hadassah’s table. She couldn’t help but feel as if she was being analyzed, but then again, she had been secretly analyzing and admiring her as well since the moment she stepped on stage. It was difficult not to, considering she wanted to learn as much as she could, and with the confidence this woman seemed to have, it might be a good idea to learn a few things from her. She shifted very slightly in her seat, trying to decide if she should say something before the woman finally smiled. Hadassah quickly relaxed at the gesture. Sylvari is a pretty name...”My name is Hadassah. Feel free to call me Addie if you’d like.” Hadassah replied as she calmly stood from her seat. She took Sylvari’s armored hand and shook it smoothly, giving her a warm smile in return.
“A pleasure to make your acquaintance.”
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Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Oct 17, 2023 11:28:53 GMT -5
A slim sliver of ivory could be seen from within Sylvari's mouth as her smile grew exuberant enough to reveal a peek of the teeth within. "Addie. A fine name. You may call me Sylvi if you wish: a favorite of my friends, which I hope we shall become." The ease with which Sylvari initiated such bonds of relationship so quickly spoke to either a supreme confidence and surety of character, or else an eminent naïve idealism that expected the best of everyone.
"I assume you have seen the notice in question. I applaud your bravery in answering the call. It seems this request was blacklisted by our fellows." Sylvari looked around the taproom as she spoke, noting the still pointedly averted gazes of everyone within close vicinity. "Mephits are troublesome creatures, to be sure, but surely this is an outsized reaction to such a posting. There is likely a story underlying this hesitancy, but whatever has spooked the rest cannot impede my oath to administer justice wherever needed. I hope to be able to count on you in this endeavor."
Sylvari then stooped to one knee as she began speaking again. Far from the seeming turned-away onlookers would suggest, there was a ripple of chuckling and good-natured head shaking at Sylvari's motion that seemed to bely the grave nature of her following statement. "In return for this request, I vow to be the shield that defends you, the sword at your hip to strike at your foes, and the warmth in your heart to raise your spirits for as long as our pact shall stand."
Though Sylvari's bowed head was unmoved, there was an unspoken expectation in the following silence for Addie to accept her pledge.
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Post by Hadassah on Oct 17, 2023 12:26:02 GMT -5
Hadassah’s smile grew. Friends. That word made her feel warm inside. Making friends has never been her strong suit and if she did make them, they did not stick around for very long. Whether or not this would be different, Hadassah couldn’t help but feel delighted. It would be quite nice to have someone in her corner at the beginning of her journey at the very least.
Hadassah nodded. “I was going to accept the quest myself, but it seems you beat me to it,” She, of course, strategically left out the fact that she essentially backed out of her own plan to accept the quest and ask for help.
“That is quite noble of you. Of course, I will do what I can to assist.”
Hadassah’s face flushed as Sylvari stooped down suddenly. It felt unnatural considering their obvious difference in power and experience. Hadassah fought the urge to yank her to her feet, but quickly decided against it as she began to speak.
It almost felt too large of a price. Hadassah wasn’t even entirely sure she had very much to offer on this quest, and frankly, it was a leap of faith for her to volunteer. And yet, here this woman was, pledging herself to a practical stranger for help. This must be quite the quest then.
“I..” She stuttered, completely amazed at the grand gesture. Of course, she couldn’t say no to the offer, she needed all the help she could get. At least until she could learn to stand on her own two feet.
“I can accept that,” she said quietly.
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Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Oct 17, 2023 12:51:28 GMT -5
Sylvari rose in a fluid motion, leveling a radiant smile at Addie that chased away any lingering feelings of gravitas from her oath and replaced them with warmth. She placed a hand on Hadassah's shoulder as she spoke. "Most excellent, my dear. I look forward to safeguarding the peace of the common folk in your company.
"To the point, then," Sylvari continued as she took a seat beside her new partner. "I've learned through various contacts of where the mephits might be hiding within the city. For some reason, it appears that there is a group of five of them, varied in their typing, most unusual for their ilk. They are unfortunately evasive as well, if the reports are to be believed, favoring retreating to rooftops or simply flying away from any who try to quell them."
Sylvari threw an inquisitive eye in Hadassah's direction. "I don't suppose you have any magics that enable flight? Our only other option I can see is... potions." There was a venom in Sylvari's voice, notably absent from any of her prior speech. The weight of her displeasure fell squarely on the last word, telling of a great and abiding enmity. She was a far cry from the noble, kind woman from before, and her dark gaze could be felt even from beneath her veil as she stared off.
In truth, Sylvari's question was a bit of a guilty indulgence, [Chaos Touched] as she sensed none of the telltale sky domain arcana that would have made such a feat possible.
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Post by Hadassah on Oct 17, 2023 13:31:30 GMT -5
Hadassah nodded in agreement, finally feeling relief that Sylvari was now standing. “I look forward to that as well Sylvi.”
Hadassah listened attentively, soaking in as much information as she could. Of course, this explains why no one else volunteered. Hadassah couldn’t yet decide if raising her hand was a grave mistake, but either way, she gave her word and would not go back on it. Anyhow, gods willing, everything would most likely work out considering her present company.
As Sylvari spoke, Hadassah realized that this quest was going to take more work than expected. Trying to catch five evasive creatures sounded like a grand time. Even better, they fly and retreat to high places. Fantastic.
Hadassah’s shoulders sank slightly at Sylvi’s request. Of course the one thing that would be of use, Hadassah could not provide, as she had hoped. That was wishful thinking indeed. “I unfortunately do not have anything like that,” Hadassah glanced away shamefully, but quickly brought her gaze back to Sylvi, noting her sudden and dark change in tone. “It doesn’t sound like you are fond of potions,” she said softly, almost to herself, attempting to avoid upsetting her further. She didn’t know much about potions herself, but she figured she would find out very soon. “It seems to me that they are our only option right now, unfortunately.”
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Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Oct 17, 2023 15:36:54 GMT -5
Sylvari felt immediately guilty upon seeing Hadassah's reaction and was quick to try and chase away her worry with a swipe of her hands. "No, no, darling Addie. Think nothing of it. In truth, such possessors are few and far between. I have a... precarious relationship with magical liquids, so I am quick to avoid them whenever possible. However, as I stated, such petty things will not keep me from my oath, and I am glad for the company at least."
Sylvari patiently waited for Hadassah to finish her drink before taking point to lead the two out of the tavern toward the market district to acquire the wretched brew that might allow them to deal with this creature incursion. As she walked, Sylvari seemed to glow in the sunshine, a deep breath accompanying a serene smile and closed eyes as she drank in the light. It was always hard for her to feel prolonged sadness in the radiance of the sun.
She turned to look over her shoulder where Hadassah trailed behind her to explain their current objectives. "We will have to find a potion vendor within the market district. With any luck, they'll have a mixture of flying for each of us to chase down these pests." Sylvari turned a corner and cleared her throat before speaking again.
"In all likelihood, we will be on their trail for a while, even with the potion's aid. In the interest of our budding friendship, and to pass the time, would you mind telling me about yourself: your story, your abilities, anything you'd care to share?"
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Post by Hadassah on Oct 18, 2023 3:00:33 GMT -5
Hadassah felt at ease at Sylvari’s reassuring words and her sweet smile returned. She felt a bit sorry for her and the unfortunate situation they were both in. Whatever the reason for her dislike of potions, Hadassah would not pry. “I am glad as well.”
Not wanting to waste another minute, Hadassah tipped her glass and finished the remainder of her drink, gently setting the glass back down on the table. She cleared her throat before following Sylvari out of the tavern, thanking the gods that she would not have to go about adventuring on her own.
Hadassah’s eyes scanned her surroundings as they walked, trying to take in the scenery and memorize the layout. Every once in a while, her eyes would land on Sylvari leading the way. It was almost as if she’d changed somehow in the sunlight. She appeared somewhat milder to be sure, but she also seemed to emit her own light as the sun shone on them. Perhaps it was an illusion caused by her pale skin, her silver hair, or the armor, but nevertheless, Hadassah’s dark and curious eyes were naturally drawn to the light.
As Sylvari began to explain what they would be looking for, Hadassah quickened her steps so that she and Sylvari were side-by-side as they walked. Naturally, she wondered how the potion might look and taste, how it is made, and how it would make her feel. How would she control her flight once she had the ability? We’ll figure it out. Hadassah assured herself.
Hadassah’s shoulders stiffened to reveal some of the muscle she’d built over time. She was still getting used to being away from her mother, but she had to grow up eventually. “I’m an only child, as far as I know.” What she really meant was, I could have siblings, but I don’t know where my father went. “My mother raised me on her own, but our community helped also. She taught me some sea magic, not very much. My “uncles” taught me how to fight so I could defend myself and others, but I still have much to learn.” Hadassah glanced down at her lightly scarred hands then back to Sylvari. “That’s really why I’m here, I want to learn as much as I can and get stronger to carry my family name well.” Hadassah noted that her tone took a heavy turn and quickly took a breath to lighten the load.
“What about yourself? I imagine you have stories to tell.”
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Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Oct 18, 2023 10:35:19 GMT -5
Sylvari smiled sympathetically as she listened to Hadassah speak about her upbringing, noting with sorrow the pointed lack of mentioning her father. Words seldom could express what companionship did, so as Hadassah came to walk alongside Sylvari, a comforting hand was placed on the former's shoulder, the touch light, despite the armor surrounding it.
As Hadassah asked about Sylvari's past, there was an instant, a mere fragment of a moment, where a fracture could be seen in her carefully crafted façade. A sharp downturn of her smile spoke of a distaste and abiding sorrow that could not be expressed in short form summarization like this. The next moment, however, the insight was gone, as Sylvari's practiced smile resumed its position on her face.
"I see. Growing in strength and mastery over oneself is a worthy goal, Addie, and one I am happy to aid in however I can." Sylvari paused to take stock of her companion as she moved, noting her physicality with a small smile and a nod. "You have a solid foundation and good potential, better than many I have trained. As for my stories... the life of a justiciar is wide ranging and varied. I doubt I could do my journey justice in such a short time, but I can highlight the key bits, at least.
"I was born to a wandering tribe of justiciars in the Crescent Isles. I had both parents for a time, until my mother was taken by a winter sickness that didn't release her. My father raised me, with help from the other members of my people, in the ways of justice, combat, and helping others. Much of my life was spent in training, both outwardly and inwardly, to hone my body and soul into a vessel for the goodwill of the common person. During my... coming-of-age ritual, to establish myself as a full member of the People, I failed. I was exiled, and I have wandered the lands since doing what good I can, as one who has been ousted from the path. No doubt a true justiciar could do better, but inadequacy does not excuse a failed oath."
Sylvari's words were matter-of-fact, and her face was purposefully set in a neutral expression for the entirety of her little speech. However, a careful listener would hear small indications of sorrow, shame, and longing creep into her tone. Still too weak. I can't even talk about my past without cracking. At least the veil hides my eyes.
The crimson orbs in question were swirling with the obscuring water of encroaching tears.
She quickly tried to divert her attention by changing the subject with Addie. "I'm practiced in the sea domain myself, though I only really have a knack for ice magic. I'd be happy to share my knowledge with you."
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Post by Hadassah on Oct 18, 2023 12:06:36 GMT -5
Hadassah became suddenly aware of the tightness in her shoulders and quickly relaxed at Sylvari’s comforting touch. She could only think of how grateful she was to have someone listen to her, even for just for a moment. Is this what friendship feels like? She wouldn’t think about that now, they had only just met after all. As all of her failed friendships had taught her, like anything good, it takes time and work.
As Hadassah awaited her companion’s story, she noticed for a fleeting moment that Sylvari’s expression had fallen deeply. Though the veil covered her eyes, it was clear that Hadassah’s question produced some negative feelings or memories for her. Hadassah’s eyebrows knitted together in a worried frown. Just as Hadassah opened her mouth to clarify her question, Sylvari’s smile returned as if it never left. Hadassah couldn’t fight the nagging feeling in her chest that something was still wrong, but she matched Sylvari’s smile nonetheless as she continued.
“I am..sorry to hear about your mother,” Hadassah responded sorrowfully, thinking of her own mother. “It’s absolutely awful that you were exiled, but I can see that you are very noble and true to your cause despite that. I’m sure the good you are doing will make an incredible impact as a result.” Hadassah bit her bottom lip, hoping she chose her words carefully enough. Perhaps it wasn’t my place, I can’t imagine what that feels like.
Hadassah slowly exhaled after noticing she had been holding her breath for a minute. “I would be eternally grateful to learn from you if you are willing to teach me.”
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Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Oct 18, 2023 12:53:35 GMT -5
"Think nothing of it, dear Addie. I am honor-bound to help anyone who needs it, and my heart is especially filled with joy to assist a friend." The tight grin that was plastered on Sylvari's face eased into a more gentle, easy smile as she spoke, reflecting her true heart of genuinely wanting to help. "As soon as we've dealt with these pests, we can share our arcana with one another to learn. I'm particularly adept at seeing the arcane potential in others." She motioned with a finger to her concealing veil, which waved mysteriously in the light breeze.
The pair had finally come upon the marketplace proper, and the bustle of the early afternoon buying and selling made such continued private conversation next to impossible. Sylvari motioned over to a stand that proudly proclaimed itself to be 'Pan's Potions'. The small tent and table was set in an alley, adjacent to the marketplace proper, a fact that was notable for any newcomer, but for one as Sylvari, who had endured the travails of the selling quarter before, hardly warranting special concern.
Sylvari walked towards the destination, her hand wrapping softly but securely around Hadassah's to safeguard against being separated in the tide of people. As the pair approached the tent, a man in brown robes with an immaculately maintained mustache came out of the tent to greet them.
"Ah, new customers! A most fortuitous blessing from the gods this day! Welcome to Pan's Potions. Can I assume you're in the market for arcane assistance?" A wide smirk was planted on the man's face as he delivered his opening spiel to the women, winking for effect.
Sylvari stepped forward a step, taking lead in a no-nonsense tone. "Good day, Pan. We are looking to purchase a pair of-"
Sylvari's statement was cut short as the man leaned forward to place a hand on her upper arm, interrupting her. Unknown to Hadassah, [Chaos Touched] Sylvari could sense the swelling of magic within the man as he began space casting. Reluctant to cause a scene in the marketplace, and sensing no hostile intent from the vendor, Sylvari allowed the intrusion, but still frowned all the same.
"My, my! What an interesting customer! Please my dear, it's part of the service. The magnificent Pan knows all your needs at first meeting, no words required! You two are looking for potions of flight, yes?" His knowing smile was smug, but still endearing.
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Post by Hadassah on Oct 18, 2023 14:13:22 GMT -5
Hadassah beamed happily, unable to contain her excitement. A friend and a tutor, how much more luck could I have on this day? As Sylvari motioned to her veil, Hadassah’s curiosity rekindled as she tried to imagine what eyes with such abilities looked like. Perhaps once this is over she might ask how such a thing is possible. Maybe she would ask about the purpose of the veil as well, but she decided it would be best to get through this troublesome task first.
Once they arrived at the marketplace, Hadassah began to look around for anything that indicated the selling of potions. She was quickly distracted of course as a multitude of items, old and new, caught her interest throughout the market. Focus Addie.
Hadassah looked toward the stand Sylvari motioned to and wrinkled her nose in uncertainty. Before she could even think to question it, she felt her hand in Sylvari’s armored one as she led the way confidently to the stand. It made her feel like a child again, but in a good way. As if at this moment, she had nothing at all to worry about.
As they approached, Hadassah made a point to relax her face so as to not appear rude. She unwrinkled her nose and smiled politely at the man as he greeted them. Hadassah very quickly accepted her dislike of Pan once he reached out and touched Sylvari. Her hands twitched as if preparing to defend, but she kept them calmly to her sides. Is this a normal occurrence? It must be, Hadassah thought, considering Sylvari made no visible reaction to the vendor.
Hadassah’s eyes squinted at Pan’s correct assumption. Was that magic of some kind? She nodded slowly at the man, her eyes shifting to Sylvari for any clues that would help her understand this odd interaction. “Flight, yes..”
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Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Oct 18, 2023 15:22:01 GMT -5
"But of course! And it seems the gods have seen fit not only to bless me with two endearing new customers, but also the means to serve them! You see, one of my prominent buyers within the just happened to order a large order of such mixtures, and in my eminent mercantile wisdom, I had the foresight to order a few extra. I assume by your asking, Miss, you know of their rarity."
Sylvari simply nodded her head. For all the vendor's grandstanding, Pan was right. Flight potions were exceedingly rare, notoriously difficult to make for practical use, with a price tag to match. This knowledge prompted Sylvari to ask the million-solar question, hoping the answer wouldn't be anywhere near so close. "How much?"
Pan slowly and methodically stroked his mustache, looking at the pair of them, appearing to wrestle internally for an answer. More showmanship, Sylvari thought. No merchant worth his salt went to market without every detail meticulously calculated.
"Considering the circumstances, I'm willing to part with a pair for you lovely ladies for a mere 80 solars. A generous price to reflect our budding friendship," Pan finished, with a flourish and a bow.
Sylvari moved a gauntleted hand to her chin. In truth, the price was generous, more than generous, in fact. She had heard from other adventurers of potions of flight costing 50, 60, even up to 70 solars each, depending on the scarcity of the available stock. To offer a pair of only 40 solars each was a kindness bordering on suspicious.
"Why such a discount?"
Pan flashed a knowing smile at Sylvari. "A discerning and shrewd customer, you are. But there is no nefarious purpose I assure you. I simply pass along my sourcing costs with a small profit margin to bring you the best deals I can stomach. Worse than my wife can stomach, I might add." He flashed a shining smirk at his own joke.
It's unlikely that we'll even find another pair of flight potions in the market, let alone ones for such a good price. Sylvari still didn't care for such unexpected savings, so she cocked her head questioningly at Hadassah, endeavoring to get her input on the situation.
"This is likely the best deal we'll find," Sylvari whispered to her companion, knowing full well Pan could and probably was listening in. "If we even find another pair at all. What do you think?"
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