SBTSML

twenty-seven.

"What is this?"

"Oh, it's called a dragon incubator, which is used to hatch dragon eggs. It shortens the incubation period."

The merchant continued the explanation in an awkward voice.

"Oh! I want to buy it!"

I shouted at the words that said it would shorten the incubation period.

Then the merchant asked, delightedly.

"Are you trying to use it?"

"Yes, I happen to have a dragon egg at home."

"Ah, then you'd better buy this as well."

The merchant took out an additional transparent glass crystal. When I tilted my head, he explained.

"It's a crystal used to operate the incubator."

"Is it rechargeable?"

"No, it's a gem that draws the mana around it, so you don't have to charge it."

"I'll buy that, too!"

After that, the price was negotiated with a quick decision and was bought.

The smile of the visiting merchant who received the money caught my eye.

I asked with the incubator in my arms.

"Are you sure it works?"

"Of course. If it doesn't work, you can ask for a refund when I visit again."

In other words, it meant to call him again. I nodded.

At that time, Cassis picked up a ring from among the relics on the table.

"How much is this?"

"Oh, I'll just give it to you. You already bought a lot, so it's free."

"I understand. I'll pay anyway."

When Cassis readily offered 100 gold, the merchant waved his hand.

"That's too much! Give me only 30 gold, please."

I glanced at Cassis. It was strange to pay for the offered free service.

Cassis managed to give 100 gold to the merchant.

The merchant took very light steps back, as if it was an unexpected windfall.

I asked Cassis.

"Why did you pay him when he gave it to you for free?"

"I won't say anything else later."

Cassis answered plainly and handed the ring over to Paul.

"What do you mean?"

"Don't you know what this is?"

"It's a ring, and it's also awfully old!"

Cassis shook his head as I replied confidently.

"This is a treasure called the Tears of Saint Lena. It's a masterpiece of Master Penesperon. I heard it was lost during the earthquake, but it looks like it was wandering around as a relic. Maybe it's worth the price."

"......"

Cassis grinned as I opened my mouth as if my jaw had fallen off.

I-I thought it was just a piece of junk!

I saw a sudden gleaming illusion of what seemed like a shabby ring.

I gazed at it and asked.

"Can't you sell it to me?"