As Hazuki sulked by the counter, muttering about child labor laws and extortion, Grimmon leaned down, whispering urgently to Ellyn.
"Princess, are you sure?" Grimmon whispered, his voice tense.
"This gown costs thirty gold coins…"
Ellyn smiled sweetly, her golden eyes shining.
"Hmm? Of course I know, Grandpa."
Grimmon wiped sweat from his brow. "B-But, Princess—"
"Grandpa?" Ellyn interrupted, her voice still light, but with a subtle royal weight behind it.
"Y-Yes, Princess?" Grimmon whispered back immediately.
Ellyn leaned closer, her tail swaying like a cat ready to pounce.
"That whole batch of loot Uncle sold you earlier... it's worth more than ten gold coins, right?"
Grimmon hesitated.
"U-Umm..."
Ellyn tilted her head, her smile turning slightly sharper.
"Now… I believe this gown is already… paid for, right? Riiight?" she said sweetly.
Grimmon gulped.
"Y-Yes, Princess." He bowed his head slightly, defeated.
