Ruger carefully inspected the small magic stone by the entrance. Old Lunse was too stingy to install anything expensive, but he still had the basics. Losing anything would pain the old dog-head just as much, after all. Some visitors would quietly examine the shop while browsing, and these little touches at least told them that this tiny shop in the alley had a magic array installed, even if all it could really do was make a noise.
Suddenly, he felt his shoulder lighten, as though a burden had slipped off.
Clack!
He turned and saw Old Lunse's startled eyes. Following his gaze, he spotted the book lying askew on the floor.
"Uncle, you broke my book."
Ruger glanced at him and teased him with a show of seriousness, his hands never stopping as he continued through the steps of closing the Old Lunse Potion Shop's outer door.
"I hadn't even touched it. The strap snapped on its own. Look, the break is right in front of your chest." The old dog-head curled his lip, refusing to play along with this tedious accusation. Then realization struck him. "If I remember correctly, I was the one who gave you that illustrated guide. Learn some gratitude, boy! Besides, it isn't that fragile."
Once the outer door was secured, the inner shop door gave the bell its final ring of the day, bringing the simple closing routine to an end.
Ruger brushed the dust from his hands and turned toward the book on the floor. Old Lunse had already climbed to the third floor to prepare dinner, chuckling eagerly.
Judging by that laughter, the old fellow had done quite well for himself today. That made Ruger look forward to dinner even more. His stomach had long since begun growling.
He glanced at the book