Up in the sky, a plump-looking mouse with tawny fur was piloting a contraption that appeared to be a kind of airship.
Its fur streamed in the wind, giving it a surprisingly graceful look. Even its chubby body seemed less bulky, lending it an air of carefree elegance.
"Is that..."
"A Burrowing Mouse?"
The two Elves exchanged glances.
As far as Elves understood, mice were creatures that lived underground. Yet here they were, watching one fly through the sky...
In a flying magic artifact, no less.
Even the two of them could not help being astonished.
"What a marvelous little creature."
Aili asked eagerly, "Can I take it home?"
"Oh, and can I buy its airship?"
Nina blinked.
She remembered what Kroya had taught them: for some wealthy people, price was no obstacle. The only obstacle was whether something was too commonplace.
That was why unique pieces and rare treasures cost so much.
She understood that all too well. Back when she had worked in the circus, the rich and powerful had behaved exactly like that. They would even spend a fortune on a deformed magical beast-in gold coins, of course.
Magic crystals were not something minor rural lords could casually throw around.
So she put on a slightly troubled expression. "Honored guests, this Burrowing Mouse is the only mouse in our shop that can pilot Living Weapons."
"The only one?"
"Living Weapons?"
Aili and Maine had each picked up on a different point. They exchanged a glance, a spark of eagerness appearing in their eyes.
Before either could speak, however, Nina suddenly looked to the side and smiled. "Welcome, Lady Archmage Celesty."
Neither of them was unfamiliar with the name Celesty.
Human Archmages might have little influence over the Elves, but in a world where the highest level was