Between Light and Darkness

3

"Madesi!" I called, spotting the Argonian merchant among the throng. His stall was a treasure trove of gems and rare stones, each glimmering like a distant star. He looked up, his eyes brightening at the sight of her.

"Ah, Land-Strider! You bring me good fortune!" he exclaimed, his voice smooth as silk.

"Only the best for you, my friend," I replied, grinning as I rummaged through the satchel to reveal a collection of exquisite gems. "I saved my finest for you."

Madesi's eyes widened as he inspected the stones, picking up a sparkling sapphire. "This one shines like the waters of Lake Honrich! How did you come by it?"

"Stumbled across it in a Dwemer ruin. Thought it was just another rock until it caught the light," I said, leaning in closer. "And this emerald? It's from a bandit who didn't appreciate my skills."

"Very nice, very nice," he nodded, placing the sapphire down and lifting a deep red garnet. "And this? It reminds me of a blood moon. Such beauty!"

"Ah, that one came from a Forsworn camp. They always have the best trinkets, but they can be a bit... aggressive," she chuckled, recalling the encounter.

Madesi laughed softly, shaking his head. "You are lucky to be so charming. This one is not so fortunate; I often have to rely on my wit alone."

"Your wit is your greatest asset, Madesi," she replied, giving him a playful nudge. "Now, what do you think of this flawless amethyst?" She held it up, letting it catch the sunlight. "Perfect for a pendant, don't you think?"

He examined it closely, his tail flicking with excitement. "Oh, indeed! You have an eye for beauty, as always. These will fetch a high price. I will make sure to keep some of your best gems for myself."

Once the transaction was complete, I sauntered over to Grelka's stall, where the atmosphere was decidedly less amiable. Her voice cut through the crowd like a knife, sharp and loud as she harassed customers about their choices.

"What do you want?" Grelka barked, not even bothering to look up as I approached.

"I've got some broken armor to sell," I replied nonchalantly, leaning against the stall. "Claimed it from a giant's hoard. Looks like hide and iron. Just your type."

Grelka finally glanced at her, raising an eyebrow. "Broken armor? What do you expect me to do with that?"

"Fix it up, of course. Or sell it for scrap. Either way, I'm sure it'll earn you a few septims." I shrugged, my tone casual but confident.

Grelka huffed, inspecting the armor with clear disdain. "And how do I know you didn't steal it?"

"Oh, come now, Grelka. You know me better than that. I'd never stoop so low. Besides, it's not like anyone else would appreciate it." I smirked, enjoying the banter.

After a few moments of silence, Grelka relented, setting a fair price on the armor before handing over the septims. I accepted the coins with a flourish, blowing a teasing kiss to Grelka.

"Pleasure doing business with you, love," she said with a wink, reveling in the small victories of the day.