The shop came into view, its interior dimmer than the hall, lit by soft crystal lamps. The merchant stood behind the counter, counting yen with careful fingers.
Arthur stepped inside and didn't hesitate.
"Good morning," he said calmly.
The merchant looked up, eyes sharp but curious. Arthur didn't rush. He met the man's gaze openly, shoulders relaxed, posture easy. Not submissive. Not aggressive.
"I won't waste your time," Arthur continued. "I'm heading into a reclamation dungeon run today, and I need a storage device. Small to mid-tier. Reliable."
The merchant raised a brow. "And you have the funds?"
Arthur smiled, just slightly.
"Not yet."
The air shifted.
"I want it on credit," Arthur said smoothly. "Short term. I'll pay back the full price with five percent interest."
The merchant froze.
For a heartbeat, the shop was silent.
Then the merchant let out a short, incredulous laugh. "On credit?"
Arthur didn't flinch.
