As I thanked her, Wenzhi stared dubiously at the shells strewn around us. “Why would anyone want to buy one of those here?”

“Not everyone can do what he does.”

Away from the palace, the streets widened, lined by undulating fronds of jade-green seaweed, interspersed with coral in jeweled tones. The walls of the buildings shimmered with a pearlescent hue, their arched rooftops adorned with delicate sculptures of sea creatures in turquoise, gold, and silver. Circular gateways opened into lush courtyards, though a few remained locked behind gates of lacquered wood. As a soft rush of water drifted through the air, we followed its trail to find a fountain formed of azure and lilac coral.

An elegant building was situated beside it, its mahogany pillars carved with a pattern of shells. The latticed windows were shut as was the door, but I rapped on it, my nerves frayed. When there was no response, I pushed against the wooden panel that swung open smoothly. At the entrance, I hesitated—reluctant to enter without an invitation, yet I had little time to waste. It was dark within, a damp heaviness clinging to the air, clogging my lungs with each breath. Glittering flecks darted through the air like fireflies, and red lacquered chests of drawers were pushed against the walls. Glancing down, my eyes widened to find the floor submerged beneath a layer of luminous seawater. Its glowing tendrils crept up the sides of the drawers, seeping into the wood like shining veins. Bracing myself, I stepped into the room, the ice-cold water sloshing around my ankles. At once, a brightness suffused the chamber, the lanterns hanging from the ceiling flaring to life.

“The store is closed. Who are you?” an irate voice demanded.

An immortal strode in from a doorway at the far end, the broad-faced merchant from the Celestial market. As he caught sight of me, his forehead furrowed like he was trying to recall something.

“The musician!” A smile broke across his face as he came forward, wading easily through the water. “I never forget a face. Especially not someone I made a good trade with.”

I had met him only once, years ago. Yet his features were etched in my memory too—one of those encounters that left a mark, no matter how fleeting. I raised my cupped hands to him in greeting. “Master Bingwen, I hope you will excuse our intrusion.”

“Customers are always welcome.” He waved at the water lapping around us. “I apologize for the inconvenience. It is necessary for the enchantment to take root, how the shells retain their sound. This was why the store was shut today.” He paused. “Now, tell me, how may I help you?”

“I have urgent need of a few shells.”

His eyes twinkled beneath raised brows. “Urgent need? I can’t recall anyone ever requiring my wares so pressingly. What do you have to exchange today?”