The Neuroflare lets out a faint, disappointed chirp as you turn away, the vendor’s amused laugh trailing after you. “Suit yourself, but don’t say I didn’t warn you!” he calls, already shifting his attention to the next potential buyer.

You disappear into the labyrinthine market, weaving through crowds of traders and shoppers. The cacophony grows louder, but you keep your focus sharp. Without the Neuroflare, you’ll need to rely on your own instincts to track down the dimension-unlocking device.

As you pass a stall selling shimmering cloaks, a hooded figure steps into your path. The figure’s voice is a low rasp, barely audible over the din. “You seek the device,” they say, the statement more a declaration than a question.

Your heart skips a beat. “How do you know that?”

The figure tilts their head, revealing a glint of cybernetic implants beneath their hood. “Word travels quickly in the Neon Bazaar. I can guide you to what you seek—for a price.”

Before you can respond, a sudden commotion erupts nearby. Shouts echo as a swarm of drones descends on a stall, their lights scanning for something—or someone. The hooded figure’s voice drops to a hiss. “Choose now. Follow me, or deal with whatever is coming.”

Your options narrow as the drones draw closer.

You dart past the hooded figure, determined to confront the drones and uncover what they’re after, your heart racing with adrenaline. You hesitate for a moment, then follow the hooded figure into the shadows of the market, trusting their promise of knowledge despite the uncertainty. You pull out your communicator and attempt to hack into the drones’ feed, hoping to gather intel on their target while keeping one eye on the mysterious figure. You glance back at the vendor who sold you the Neuroflare, weighing the risk of returning for help against the urgency of your quest.