"I think I should go to the Trade Haven," I stated.

Eleanor's lips curled into a smile that held a touch of mischief. "Ah, Clever girl. What might your name be, Girl?"

"Elara, Elara Frost," I answered.

"The Trade Haven, a safe choice indeed. But you see, my dear, information only comes briefly in these parts. It's a currency all on its own."

I nodded, realizing that Eleanor was a trader through and through. "I understand. What's the price for the information?"

Eleanor leaned in, her voice low and sultry. "In this city, we trade more than just goods, my dear.

Sometimes, we trade secrets, desires, and even... undergarments."

I blinked in surprise, not expecting such a request. "My underwear? Are you serious?"

Eleanor chuckled her laughter like a mischievous melody. "Oh, quite serious. You see, these are the rules of the trade. If you want the information to the Grand Boutiques, you'll have to part with your underwear as payment. It's a matter of trust."

"Why do you need my underwear?" I couldn't help but ask, feeling curious and embarrassed.

Eleanor's response was matter-of-fact, her tone unwavering. "You see, my dear, I was going to ask you for your beautiful teal gown, but then I realized there's not a single stitch where there needs to be your undergarment. That means those undergarments are even higher fabric quality than the gown itself."

I blushed at her astute observation, feeling a bit exposed. It seemed that Eleanor's expertise in trading extended to assessing the value of clothing as well.

With the explanation given, I weighed my options, contemplating whether to part with my undergarments in exchange for the information I sought.

I hesitated, considering the unusual request. It seemed that everything had its price in this city, even one's modesty.

Once the terms were settled, Eleanor continued, "Now, my dear, to reach the Trade Haven, you'll want to head north, keeping to the right path as you pass the Great Building. You'll know you're there when find a old village and the fabrics paint smell. I can't wish you Happy trading, Buts make sure you keep a good profile. The Villages are the first of the people who started to live here."

Once the direction was given, She inserted her hand inside her blouse and removed a small knife from her breast area.

"Of course, Information isn't the only thing you will get for your underwear."

She stood there with that small knife folded in her hands.