The group moved forward quickly, and in just a few minutes, it was Leilin Farell's turn.
Leilin took out the ring he had just obtained. The guard glanced at it and respectfully stepped aside to let him pass.
The second level was clearly much larger than the outermost ring, and the shops were arranged in an orderly fashion, without the chaotic congestion found outside.
Thud! Thud!
Cowhide boots stepped onto the marble floor, producing a hard, resonant sound.
Following Shien's lead, Leilin made his way to the central area of the second level.
The so-called Public Center was located right in the heart of the second level. It was a massive building that, from the outside, looked like a giant palm pressed flat against the ground.
Each of its "fingers" served as a broad entrance.
Wizards formed long queues, shuttling through the various entrances like ants.
"The Public Center is the administrative hub of Sleepless City. All sorts of routine business are handled here: renting apartments, applying for shops, posting tasks, and so on..."
Shien led Leilin into the passage formed by the index finger.
"This is Passage Number Two. It's dedicated to serving wizards who wish to rent apartments. Of course, we also offer some housing agency services, though the prices are quite steep, and the available properties aren't great..."
"Sir, looking for a place? Come check out Old Hawk's place! Fully equipped, and you get snake-woman and fox-woman attendants!"
"No! Come to mine—cheapest rates around, and I'll throw in ten mortal servants for free!"
The moment Leilin entered, he was swarmed by numerous intermediaries whose eyes lit up at the sight of him. They looked as if they might tear him apart with their eagerness.
"This is my client! Make way! Make way!"
Shien guided Leilin through, pushing aside the enthusiastic hands trying to grab them, and squeezed their way into a side passage.
Inside was a spiral staircase. Upon reaching the second floor, Leilin suddenly felt a hush fall over the area.
Passing through a doorway marked "Hall 762," Leilin found himself in a vast, domed chamber.
Above the hall hung an enormous crystal chandelier. Multicolored light poured down from it, casting strange, shifting shadows on the floor.
Alongside the domed hall were numerous service windows, flanked by waiting chairs. A few wizards sat there, eyelids drooping, looking ready to fall asleep.
On the right wall, a dark screen displayed red text that refreshed continuously.
"332 Western Horol Avenue, Small Unit, Price: 6,700 Magic Stones!"
"893 Firebird Avenue, Medium Apartment, Price: 85,000 Magic Stones!"
"These are all second-hand properties for sale. Because they're a bit cheaper than other places, many people wait here, hoping to snag a bargain..." Seeing the interest flicker across Leilin's face, Shien explained.
Leilin felt a bit speechless, experiencing a strange sense of déjà vu to real estate agencies from his past life.
"As for apartment rental services, you can handle that at Windows 1 through 15. Would you like me to queue for you?"
"That would be great!" Leilin nodded.
Although he possessed considerable wealth, he had no intention of spending such a large sum to buy property here before he fully understood Sleepless City.
Truth be told, seeing such exorbitant prices after all those apprentices back at the Academy who would try to stretch a single Magic Stone into two, Leilin felt a sudden, amused pang of helplessness.
The hall had many windows. After Shien went up to queue, Leilin casually found a seat, picked up a magazine lying on a small table, and began flipping through it.
"Tensions flare between Treasure Rose and Bone Blood factions, currently clashing near Magrath City. Casualties unknown..."
"It has been revealed that the cause of the recent massive tsunami in the eastern seas has been identified by wizards as an ancient dragon whale. The Nine-Ring White Tower is currently in emergency deliberation..."
"Purification gems wanted. Name your price..."
The magazine was full of news items, but they seemed a bit outdated. Moreover, the majority of the content consisted of various advertisements and sponsor listings.
"Sir, it's your turn!"
Shien's voice came again. Leilin set down the magazine and walked over to Window 13, where Shien was waiting.
"Hello! How may I assist you today?"
Behind the counter sat a very cute young woman, dressed in attire similar to lace, with a professional smile on her face. She didn't look very old—Leilin guessed she was eighteen or nineteen at most.
Leilin's gaze drifted past her, catching a glimpse of a white sphere flashing behind the curve of her ample backside.
"A rabbit-folk from the beast-kin?" Leilin chuckled to himself. He hadn't expected the Center's attendants to actually use bunny girls.
"I'd like to rent a property. Fully equipped, preferably with its own laboratory, and the defensive magical array needs to be at least standard-grade..."
Leilin stated his requirements.
"One moment, please..." The bunny girl quickly shuffled through a stack of parchment in front of her, occasionally closing her eyes and placing a hand on a crystal ball mounted on a metal base, as if communicating with something.
"There are many such properties, but renting in Sleepless City requires proof of standing. May I see your—" Her previously somewhat bored expression changed completely when she saw the silver ring Leilin held out. "Oh! My lord! My apologies!"