Merrit proposed a continuing exchange before the temporary gates closed.
He placed no contract on the table.
"One gate between public territories." he said. "Limited hours. Registered merchants and invited specialists only. Either side closes it without penalty."
Max noticed the concessions.
Merrit had abandoned the idea of immediate adventurer access, resurrection contracts, and broad ownership of improvements. He still wanted a connection badly enough to narrow the first step.
"What do you gain?" Max asked.
"Customers, material suppliers, and proof that my tools work outside the Thousand Works."
"What does Sanctuary gain?"
"Access to tools your workers cannot produce yet. Training from the people who built them. A market willing to buy materials your merchants consider ordinary."
Hizon wanted examples.
