Star's Salvation: Lost Echoes

Volume I - Chapter II

The shop exuded an air of opulence, with intricately carved wooden shelves displaying an assortment of gemstones, each one gleaming with an inner fire. Behind the counter, the man's hands moved with practiced precision, deftly handling instruments of various sizes and shapes; his brow furrowed in concentration, his cheeks slightly flushed in embarrassment as he inspected each gemstone under the bright light of a magnifying lens. The focused scrutiny revealed the depth and clarity of the various stones laid upon the table, his keen eye distinguishing even the most minute flaws.

She stood nearby, a picture of serene composure, her gaze unwavering as she observed the meticulous process — her lips curved into a patient smile, recognizing the diligence required in such an endeavor; the man's proficiency was evident, his knowledge of the trade apparent in the way he manipulated the tools of trade.

As he worked, Shizuna allowed her eyes to wander the elegant confines of the shop. It was a space adorned with craftsmanship; delicate chandeliers bathed the room in a warm, golden glow, casting dancing reflections upon the polished marble floors; the shelves, carved with intricate patterns, held gemstones of various sizes and colors, arranged in meticulous order. A few patrons moved about, their hushed conversations blending with the tinkling of fine crystal.

Among them, a paltry few emanated an aura that betrayed their divine lineage; Gods and Goddesses, distinguished by their ethereal aura, regarded the gems with discerning eyes — their presence subtly commanding respect from the other customers. Shizuna's own appearance and noble bearing did not go unnoticed, earning her a few sidelong glances from those aware of the refined air that clung to her every move; her demeanor exuded a quiet confidence — a regal grace that drew fleeting interest from both mortals and divinities alike.

Of course, not all of those glances held the same measure of decorum; a handful were tinged with an undertone of impertinence, eyes lingering just a shade too long — their appraisal of both her weapons and her form bordering on insolence. Shizuna, however, navigated the sea of gazes with practiced ease; her posture remained unruffled, her gaze never faltering, a testament to the composed poise she wore as if it were an impenetrable suit of armor. She maintained her serene facade, choosing to subtly shift her stance, angling herself towards a section of the display. It was a calculated movement, executed with the grace of one accustomed to navigating similar situations. Her eyes — sharp as the edge of her blade — never wavered from the merchandise as she proceeded to conceal her weapon from view, yet the corners of her senses remained attuned to the more prying stares.

'Hmm... shouldn't have taken the hood down.'

'Did you say something, Commander?'

'No, it's nothing,' the Guardian's responded with an inner voice that resonated with a touch of self-chiding. 'Just a passing thought...'

A soft clearing of the man's throat drew Shizuna's attention back to the examination; his eyes, still fixed on the gemstones, flickered towards her momentarily, a slight blush dusting his cheeks as he met her gaze. It was a fleeting moment of self-consciousness, one that was quickly masked by the confidence of a seasoned merchant.

"Apologies for the wait, my Lady; I have concluded my assessment." He began, his voice respectful yet tinged with a hint of trepidation, "These gemstones are truly exceptional. The quality, the brilliance... they are truly a rarity even in this city. I dare say that they are unlike anything I've ever seen!"

A polite nod from Shizuna acknowledged his observation. She appreciated the merchant's willingness to accommodate her, yet she knew the true value of these stones; the jewels she possessed were not mere trinkets plucked from the earth. They hailed from the far reaches of the universe, each one a unique testament to the myriad of worlds she had traversed in the past; every single one of them held a story — unique in its hue and composition — their rarity far exceeded the usual fare found in a realm such as this one.