Golden Leiden boutique stood three stories tall, its Yorn-style pointed roof supported by eight intricately carved marble pillars gleaming under the sun. The gilded exterior and signage screamed opulence, prioritizing the "golden" theme—smaller than the opposite Blue Oak Emporium, but exuding regal elegance.It was just past 3 PM, prime shopping hour for nobles seeking afternoon diversions, yet Golden Leiden's door bore a "Temporarily Closed" sign. Passing nobles paused, some sighing at the loss of a luxury staple, others smirking at the abrupt closure.
Sean's carriage pulled up, and he stepped out, waving Monica to guard the vehicle as he led his retinue inside. The portly shopkeeper, overseeing movers, rushed to intercept:"Noble sir, we're closed—" His eyes landed on the Violet crest, and he froze. "Lord Sean Violet?""Indeed." Sean nodded, clapping the man's fleshy shoulder. "You're closing because I've leased the shop. It's mine now. If you need work later, come find me."The shopkeeper gaped as Sean swept past, exploring the lavish interior—marble floors, aromatic incense, and racks of leather and woolen garments priced 10-15 gold, with two 100 gold centerpieces labeled "Imported from the East." Sean recognized them instantly: cotton, a rarity in Laine, explaining the exorbitant cost.
"Lodin," Sean said, "this shop needs a new name: Golden Legend. Fits the gilded aesthetic—no need for costly renovations.""Understood, My Lord. I'll commission a new sign immediately."They toured the space, mapping shelf placements, storage rooms, and display areas, pausing to discuss Brody's looming threat. Upstairs, Sean convened his fourth Yorn meeting, minus Monica (guarding the carriage).
"Decision: Grand opening tomorrow morning," Sean announced, silencing startled murmurs.Lodin protested, "My Lord, renovations alone—""We can't wait. Tonight's banquet and Lucas's ascension celebration are perfect opportunities. Windsor?"The knight frowned, "Stock, shelves, staff—all need time. Delay until after the celebration?""Nope. I'll oversee the opening myself. Henry will handle supplies; we'll soft-launch with perfume and dwarven spirits. Five barrels of Holy Flame Spirit on display, sold via auction. Focus on Golden Legend perfume—other goods can wait."He turned to Lodin, "Can Divine Realm Shoes and your novels be ready?"