The wooden door creaked as you stepped inside, the warm glow of lanterns illuminating rows of neatly arranged shelves. The air carried a mix of aged parchment, dried herbs, and something sweet—like honey and lavender. Potions of every color gleamed in glass vials, weapons and trinkets hung from the walls, and a small counter stood at the back, where coins had been stacked with almost obsessive precision.

And behind that counter... stood her.

Stella.

Her long brown ponytail swayed slightly as she turned to face you, bright blue eyes lighting up with recognition. She was stunning—white silk skin, fit yet delicate, her curves accentuated by the navy-blue dress that barely clung to her body. A gold choker gleamed at her throat, and her long legs carried her forward with effortless grace as she leaned onto the counter.

“Well, well... look who finally made it back in one piece.”Her lips curled into a playful smirk, tapping a finger against her chin.“You look awful. Ran out of potions again, didn’t you?”

Her eyes flicked down, scanning your worn-out armor and empty satchel, before her expression turned mischievous.

“Lucky for you, I’ve got everything you need... for a price, of course.”She winked, her voice dripping with amusement.