Chapter 110: Uncover Higher-Quality Raw Stones

Hayley’s POV: +8 Pearls

The following day, I accompanied Benjamin back to the rock betting establishment, choosing a different, narrower street this time. This area lacked the numerous raw stone shops that crowded the main street; instead, only a few scattered workshops were situated along the path.

Curiosity bubbled within me, prompting me to ask, “Why have we come to this place?”

Benjamin responded, “Fewer people frequent this area, which means we might uncover higher-quality raw stones.”

I nodded, understanding his point, and stepped into one of the raw stone shops. It was at that moment he added, “Select the pieces you think are the best. Consider this a chance to practice.”

I wasn’t entirely clear on Benjamin’s intention, but since I was eager to learn about rock betting from him, I focused intently on his words. I began to examine the shop’s inventory and ultimately chose two rocks that seemed promising.

“How much for these two?” I inquired.

The shopkeeper glanced at me and promptly replied, “The piece on the left is priced at 200,000, while the one on the right costs 350,000.”

I was taken aback by the hefty price tag. “That’s so expensive!”

The shopkeeper shot me a condescending look and retorted, “The raw stones we sell are of superior quality. The likelihood of finding emeralds is quite high. If you’re merely browsing, I suggest you visit other shops instead of wasting my time.”

His words made it clear that he doubted my seriousness as a buyer. I had initially considered following Benjamin’s advice and purchasing the rocks for practice, but now I was resolved not to buy anything.

“Forget it! I’ll check somewhere else!” I declared, turning to Benjamin and pulling him toward a shop across the street. The rock shop owner, likely realizing I was no longer interested in purchasing, sneered as we left, “You never know who might walk through these doors these days.”

My inner voice, Hera, was seething and urged me to confront him, but I kept her in check. Ignoring the shopkeeper’s remarks, I reminded myself of the need to hide my Alpha identity and dismissed the idea of engaging in a petty dispute with someone of lower status. I led Benjamin to the adjacent raw stone shop.

However, this new store was noticeably quiet; there were no other customers, just the owner.

“Mr. Benjamin, what do you think of the rocks here?” I asked, seeking his insight.

To my surprise, Benjamin looked around the shop and said, “Take a look for yourself. You can choose two to test out.”

The owner greeted us enthusiastically. “Feel free to explore! We have the finest rocks available. Choose anything that catches your eye!”

I engaged the shopkeeper in a conversation about various types of raw stones on display and eventually settled on two pieces. “Could you cut these two for me?” I asked.

The owner appeared surprised by my sudden decisiveness. “Are you certain you want these? We require payment upfront here.”

Without hesitation, I pulled out my card and swiped it for 100,000.

Seeing my readiness to buy, the shopkeeper beamed. “In that case, let my cutter handle the preparation for you.”

I felt a sense of satisfaction; it meant I didn’t have to cover the cutter’s fee. Before long, the owner called for the rock cutter, who took my selected pieces away.

“You have a keen eye, miss; these rocks seem quite promising,” the owner praised, lifting the rocks I had chosen.

I gazed at the two pieces, and despite my neutral expression, a flicker of hope ignited within me. As the rock cutter meticulously polished the raw rocks, it soon became clear that neither contained a hint of green.

I glanced at the owner, who looked increasingly uncomfortable, sweat forming on his brow. “Perhaps we should try another piece?” he suggested, attempting to salvage the situation.

I was fine with the outcome. After all, rock betting was about taking risks, and acknowledging losses was part of the experience.

“Alright, let’s proceed with opening the next one,” I agreed.

The owner quickly called for the rock cutter again, reminding him to be particularly careful. To my dismay, the result was just as disappointing—a worthless rock.

I let out a soft sigh; that 100,000 had vanished into thin air. I turned my gaze to Benjamin. He offered me a reassuring look. “It’s just a rock; it’s not a big deal. Why not take another look around?”

Feeling disheartened, I replied, “Forget it. I’d prefer not to waste money. There are more enjoyable pursuits.” I inwardly lamented how many supplies and books for children in need that hundred thousand could have purchased!

But Benjamin was serious as he admonished me.