Run: 2026-02-22-01KJ399VYSQDYSK3MM1WQB8P81

I emerged into the bustling market square, alive with the chatter of countless voices. Navigating through the crowd, I kept my satchel securely held to my chest. I was well aware that the merchant wouldn't wait—he never did, especially not for someone from the outer ring like me. Gregor's voice interrupted, "You're late," without even glancing up from his ledger. His thick finger traced down a column of numbers, his frown deepening. Placing the package on the counter, I explained, "The bridge was out, so I had to take the longer route." "Not my problem," he replied dismissively. Unwrapping the cloth, he held the crystal up to the light, which danced with tiny rainbows across the stall's canvas roof. Gregor's frown intensified. "This isn't what I ordered." I anticipated his complaint. He always found fault, regardless of the quality. Crossing my arms, I stood my ground. "It's exactly what you wanted," I assured him. "Blue quartz, untouched, fresh from the northern mines. I witnessed its extraction myself." Gregor turned the crystal over, examining every angle carefully. He brought it close to his eye, then held it at arm's length, resembling a jeweler inspecting a valuable diamond, although Gregor dealt in far more peculiar items than jewelry. He placed the crystal down and sighed. "Alright. But next time, ensure better wrapping. The edges are exposed." Reaching beneath the counter, he produced a small leather pouch, its contents clinking as he slid it towards me. I took the pouch, feeling its lightness as I weighed it in my hand. I loosened the drawstring and counted: only eight silver crowns, two short of what we'd agreed upon. "We agreed on ten," I reminded him, my tone flat. "The bridge fee increased since then," Gregor responded with a calculated smile that never reached his eyes. "Take it or leave it." As always, I took it. Life in the outer ring left little room for negotiation, a fact Gregor knew all too well. Exiting the market, I ventured into the narrow lanes beyond. The sun hovered low above the rooftops, casting long shadows across the cobblestones. I slipped the pouch into my satchel, quickening my stride. If I hurried, I could make it to the bridge before nightfall.