The Neuroflare chirps again, this time in a tone that sounds almost grateful, as you hand over the credits. The vendor swipes your payment chip with a practiced motion, and the transaction is complete.

“Good choice,” the vendor says, attaching a small glowing tag to the Neuroflare’s collar. “It’s yours now. Just tap this tag to sync it with your neural interface. It’ll understand your thoughts—well, most of them.”

You reach out cautiously, and the Neuroflare bounds onto your shoulder with surprising agility. Its feathered tail curls around your neck, surprisingly warm to the touch. The creature emits a quiet hum as the tag activates, and suddenly, its voice fills your mind.

“Hello, friend. How may I assist you?”

The market noise fades slightly as you try to focus on the connection. “We’re looking for a device,” you think, unsure if the Neuroflare can hear you. “It’s said to unlock dimensions.”

The Neuroflare’s gem-like eyes flash with light, and its voice is almost playful. “Fascinating. I will help you, but beware—many eyes watch in the Neon Bazaar. Trust sparingly.”

As you leave the stall, the Neuroflare points its scaled paw toward a narrow, dimly lit corridor between two towering vendor booths. “That way. The whispers say it begins there.”

You take a deep breath and follow its lead, the hum of the Neon Bazaar growing distant as you step into the shadows.