"I think I should try my luck at Culinary Nexus," I replied.

Felix responded with a knowing smile, as if he had anticipated my choice. "Ah, Culinary Nexus, a daring choice indeed. But, I don't see anything valuable that you can offer other than the dress you're wearing and what you have on the inside," he pointed his finger at me, his tone cryptic.

I confessed, "I was hoping I could have a meal for free, as the rumor goes."

Felix's smile widened. "Oh, daring! What did you say your name was?"

"Elara, Elara Frost," I answered.

Felix leaned closer, his voice lowered. "The price at Culinary Nexus is not trade, but in a different currency altogether. Only a few have returned to tell the tale, but they all speak of a strange exchange—a trade of memories."

I gulped, realizing the gravity of what he was implying. "Memories? What kind of memories?"

Felix continued, "It's said that you have to give up a cherished memory in exchange for a meal. It could be a significant event from your past, a treasured moment, or even a deeply held secret. The price is unique for each person."

My hesitation grew, and I considered my options carefully. "I still wish to know."

Felix sighed, almost regretfully. "For the information on the location of the Culinary Nexus, I'll be needing that dress from you," he said, running his hand along the fabric of my teal gown.

"What a lovely color! I've never seen a color like this," he added.

"I cannot give you this. If I did, I'd be left in my underwear. I wouldn't like to go to the marketplace for food in my underwear, would I now?" I confronted him.

"Well, that's barely my problem, dear. As I said, everything has a price," he grinned at me.

"There must be something I can offer other than this dress. How about a hug or a kiss, maybe?" I tried to reason with him.

"Hugs and kisses hold no value here, sweetheart. But since you're a newcomer, and as much as I hate to part with that beautifully colored cloth, there might be one thing you can do to get the information."

"Okay, what is that?"

"So I have a friend, and due to my busy schedule, I last found the time to visit him a few days ago. You see, he's a bit different. He's 40, but his mind is still around 12-13. In exchange for this information, you can visit his place, tidy up his room, and help him if you wish."

"That sounds great. At least I have an option now," I thought.

"Of course, if you do that, I'll also give you 3 aluminum foil balls. But for the dress, I'll give you 5 tin antennas. Both are valuable here, but it depends on how you choose to spend them, of course."

"Okay," I replied.

Felix sighed, realizing he couldn't dissuade me. "So, the exact location of Culinary Nexus is actually unknown to anyone, but if you keep heading straight through the large building and the junction, you will reach an abandoned temple after a long walk. That's where most of the Underground Network seems to be active. Good luck."

"That is not the exact location, which means the information is incomplete," I questioned him.

"Clever girl. Tell you what, I will add an extra aluminum ball or antenna to sweeten the deal for any of your future trades."

Felix held 4 aluminum foils and 6 tin antennas in one hand.

"So, what's it going to be?" He asked.