76. Preparations

Jason visits the trade hall after a tip from clothier Gilbert, joking with Janice at Jory’s stall before suffering more public rumors that he “controls monsters.” He proceeds to Filbert’s Fine Leather Emporium, where Filbert offers a rare dimensional bag and specialised desert boots.

Jason purchases the mirage-hound leather dimensional bag, learning it expands his inventory via a bag slot. Filbert then presents Sand-Cutter Boots, crafted with chitin that improves movement on sand, boosts jumps, and enhances kicks against earth-affinity foes. Jason buys them, ignoring Filbert’s teasing about monster control.

Elsewhere, Belinda finalizes a theft plan with Sophie. The operation relies on aura-masking pills: a first green pill to fake Sophie’s aura, no mana use to avoid detection, a blue pill to purge it at a shielded change point, then a second green pill and a disguise change before Sophie rides to Marina South, leaving the goods behind.

Belinda warns that Ventress may have compromised sources and that targets may have tracking on valuables. Their safety depends on Adventure Society restrictions limiting pursuit to iron rank, though opportunistic bronze could still chase. Sophie worries about exposure and Belinda’s alchemist contact; Belinda asserts his competence and institutional protection. They close on a tight timetable and proceed.