The sounds of commerce filled the air as transactions flowed with mechanical precision.
Octavia handled the high-value customers with diplomatic grace, while Annabelle managed the rapid-fire sales that characterized the general rush.
Lady Genevieve moved through the crowd like a queen holding court, her presence commanding respect while she fielded questions about exclusive distribution agreements and bulk purchase arrangements.
"The Duchess of Cordelia wants territorial exclusivity," she reported to Jack as they met near the store's center. "Offering fifty thousand gold for rights to the entire eastern kingdom."
Jack's eyes widened at the sum. Fifty thousand gold was enough to fund a small army or purchase a significant city. "Just for distribution rights?"
"Just for the knowledge that she'll be the only source of our products in her territory," Lady Genevieve confirmed with obvious satisfaction. "Scarcity breeds desperation, and desperation breeds profit."
