The genetically modified pet stares at you with an unnerving intensity, its large, gem-like eyes reflecting the flickering neon lights. The creature is small—no bigger than a house cat—but its sleek, scaled body and feathered tail suggest it was engineered for more than companionship. As you approach the stall, the vendor, a towering figure with cybernetic arms and a glowing visor, leans in.

"Ah, you've got a good eye," the vendor says, his voice modulating in and out of static. "This one’s a Neuroflare. Smart enough to solve puzzles, loyal enough to guard you with its life. And..."—he taps a control panel on his wrist—"it speaks."

The creature tilts its head and emits a soft, melodic chirp. Through a hidden speaker, a voice emerges, smooth and curious:
"Will you be my friend?"

The vendor grins. "What do you say? Only 500 credits—and it could be the difference between success and failure in the Neon Bazaar."

You hesitate, your mind racing. This Neuroflare could be an asset, but its price is steep, and credits are finite. You glance back at the chaotic market. Somewhere out there is the dimension-unlocking device, waiting for you to find it.

You negotiate with the vendor, offering to trade a rare item from your inventory in exchange for the Neuroflare, risking everything for a chance at an ally. You ask the Neuroflare a series of questions to test its intelligence, curious to see if it can provide any insights about the device you seek. You hand over the 500 credits, eager to see what secrets the Neuroflare can unlock, hoping it will lead you closer to the dimension-unlocking device. You turn away from the stall, determined to search for clues among the market's shadows, knowing that the Neuroflare might not be the only way to achieve your goal.