Although he was aware of Orion's strength from the rumours circulating about him, which would likely render most of the attires' effects useless, he also knew there was no harm in displaying or using one's status occasionally.
Orion nodded, "Yes. Compared to the others, I like the effect of this one, so I don't think I'll be changing my mind," he responded, unaware of the thoughts going through Prince Alden's mind.
Prince Alden nodded in understanding, sighing lightly. "How much do I need to give in exchange for it?" he asked, his eyes fixed on the shopkeeper.
The shopkeeper shook his head decisively with an honest expression. "Though this costs about two medium crystal pieces, considering that my shop has been blessed by the revered Mr Orion and Fourth Prince Alden, I am willing to give it out for free, along with anything else you choose to purchase," he responded with a light smile.
After today, he'd have the opportunity to boast to other shopkeepers in the market about being the first to host the revered Mr Orion's visit to the Market Square. This would increase the influx of potential wealthy buyers to his shop, allowing him to dominate the other popular stores in the Market Square.
Of course, he was aware of Orion's terrible reputation among others of their race. However, this reputation was limited to the Gardeners, Guards, and others who possessed significant power and authority in the kingdom.
As such, it didn't concern him. In front of absolute power, he could only bow his head and focus on ensuring the growth of his wealth and shop.
Prince Alden snorted. He could already guess that the attire cost no more than one medium crystal piece or less and that the shopkeeper was merely showing generosity by offering it for free. Nonetheless, he saw no need to argue and shifted his attention towards Orion.
"Why don't you go and try it out in the fitting room and see if it's to your liking before we head to our next location," Prince Alden suggested.
Orion nodded. Though he was curious about their next location, since Prince Alden remained silent, he decided to change first so they could proceed rather than pressing for details.
"Show, Mr Orion, the fitting room is this way," Prince Alden said, his eyes fixed on the shopkeeper.
"Okay. Please follow me, Mr. Orion," the shopkeeper responded, nodding fiercely as he wiped away the sweat from his forehead, leftover from Prince Alden's previous stare, before proceeding to lead Orion forward.
"I'll wait outside here until you're done," Prince Alden said with a slight smile as he quickly headed towards the waiting section.
Orion nodded. He followed behind the shopkeeper with the attire in his hand until they finally arrived at their destination.
"Here you go, Mr Orion," the shopkeeper said, opening the door to the fitting room, a slightly wide wood space that seemed to have a viewing area.
At this point, Orion could speculate that the Pixies might have learned a few innovations from the Prismerions or perhaps were influenced by the humans just like them upon arriving in this world.
Orion nodded, then entered the dressing room. Just as he was about to close the door, he noticed the shopkeeper standing outside, watching the fitting room closely.
"You can leave; I'll come out when I'm done," Orion said firmly. The last thing he wanted was an old man staring at him while he changed clothes.
The shopkeeper nodded awkwardly, flashing a tight smile, before turning around and leaving.
Orion closed the door behind him and removed his tulga, storing it away in his miniature mountain before changing into his new attire.
…....….
Prince Alden couldn't help but smile brightly as he entered the waiting area, his gaze sweeping over the many women who outnumbered the few men in the wide waiting area.
Bringing Orion to this shop wasn't solely because it was frequented by nobles and the wealthy of all ages but also for the chance to converse with a few beautiful ladies.
"Ahem! I couldn't help but be blinded by your beauty as I passed by. Can I know your name? It's the healer's prescription," Prince Alden said, swiftly approaching a group of women with a smile.
The women chuckled collectively at his words, and just as the one he was addressing was about to respond, a voice suddenly thundered from behind them.
"ALDEN!!"
Prince Alden's body tensed as a familiar voice echoed behind him. Slowly, he turned his head to see none other than Princess Morgana standing there.
The sixth princess, and last child of the royal family.
Prince Alden couldn't suppress a sigh as he turned fully to face her, mustering a smile. "Sixth, younger sister, what are you doing here?" he asked, lightly smiling.
Glancing past her, he noticed three more figures he recognized. Two were nobles from the royal family's extended circle, and another was the daughter of an elder.
Upon hearing her fourth brother's words, Princess Morgana's face was etched with a deep frown. "What do you mean, 'What am I doing here?' Shouldn't I be the one asking you such a question, especially since you aren't supposed to be here? Or do you want to be kicked out and punished again, just like last time?" she retorted, narrowing her eyes at him.
Listening to his sister's sharp retort, Prince Alden felt a knot of nerves tighten in his stomach. He remained silent, unsure how to respond.
Princess Morgana snorted in response to his silence. "My friends and I came here to get new attires for Mr Orion's departure. So, it would be best to leave this shop immediately before ruining the atmosphere. Also, I'll keep my mouth shut and not report whatever you were doing to Dysis, saving you from whatever punishment you'll receive for coming here again," she said, her tone firm and resolute.
She remembered when Alden had been caught peeping into one of the women's fitting rooms. Unfortunately, the one he had been spying on was the wife of one of the King's younger brothers.
News of this scandal had spread throughout the kingdom, resulting in Alden receiving severe punishment and being banned from ever setting foot into this shop again.
