After parting with his friends, Chuck headed to an apothecary stationed at an inconspicuous part of the city.
The potions for sale here were just as effective as those sold in the main marketplace, but they were cheaper.
Also, Chuck and the owner had developed a good relationship with each other, with the young man being one of the apothecary's regulars.
His shopping session didn't take long, and he managed to buy twenty-four potions at a discounted price. But when he left the establishment, he came face to face with a person he didn't expect to see in a narrow alley.
"Do you have time, Chuck?" Duke Marius asked, blocking the only path to the exit.
"I guess I have free time now," Chuck replied. The earlier joy he had after getting a discount dissipated instantly as soon as he saw his father's face.
"Come with me," Duke Marius turned around and walked toward the exit of the alley.
