Making Money (Part 2)
*After walking for what felt like months, Shift finally spotted another village in the distance. As he drew closer though, it became clear that this village was a step up from the last. Not only were its gates well structured, but its guards kept vigilant watch of their surroundings*
*As usual, Shift banished his dark armor to prevent panic, and approached the front gates with a calm air*
Shift: Greetings, guardsmen. I seek passage to sell my wares.
Guard 1: And what wares might that be?
Guard 2: You’ve got nothing but the clothes on your back! Lost your mind on the journey here?
Shift: Well, the clothes are what I’m selling. What’s inside them anyway.
Guard 1: Uhh? *starts to lose his composure* Th-That’s not legal here.
Guard 2: You sick bastard! Shove off before I jail your sorry ass!
Shift: Huh? You haven’t even seen what I’m offering. Allow me a quick demonstratio-
Guard 2: *cocks his rifle* Last warning, punk!
Guard 1: *averting Shift’s gaze and blushing furiously* You really should get going...sir.
*Though confounded by their reactions, Shift resigns himself to his fate - returning to the road and pressing on*
*As the distance between him and the village grows, Shift reflects on what could’ve gone wrong*
Shift: A direct approach failed last time, and now so has a subtle one.
*While different theories race in his head to make sense of it, Shift’s clothing begins to glow. Drawing out fragments of dust, he forms proper crystals, and looks them over with wondering eyes*
Shift: ...was it something I said?