The shop owner glanced over at the neighboring store and replied, "That shop? It's been closed for business for quite a while now."

Right after saying this, her face seemed to brighten with recollection, and she sighed, “Its owner, Lilyana Rayne, had remarkable skills, but it's a shame this place is so remote. Running a business here is already challenging, and handmade clothing like Lilyana's, which lacks the appeal of big-name brands, doesn't attract young people. The costs involved make it almost impossible to sustain the business in this Location."

Listening attentively to her Lament, Ariana realized that Lilyana must be the owner of the closed shop, and the woman in front of her knew Lilyana. Seizing the opportunity, she quickly inquired, “Could you tell me where Lilyana resides?"

Hearing Ariana's request, the woman scrutinized her with a mix of suspicion and caution.

“Why do you want to know the old lady's address?" she asked warily.

Ariana swiftly comprehended the misunderstanding and hastened to explain, "I happened to come across a gorgeous dress someone bought from here online, and I'm interested in having one custom-made as well.”

The woman appeared slightly reassured and nodded.

“Alright, you seem like a nice young Lady, not someone with ill intentions. However, I'm afraid I can't assist you."

“Why not?" Ariana pondered as she stood in the quaint little shop, her gaze fixed on the woman. Thinking that the woman still had doubts about her, she was ready to present the evidence from the blog post that would justify this air of mistrust.

“I simply desire a custom-made skirt."

However, the woman merely shook her head, a melancholic expression etched on her face.

“It's not that I lack faith in your words," she began, her voice carrying a tinge of sympathy.

“Lilyana, the skilled seamstress, used to reside at 101 Stone House, adjacent to South Park. However, she relocated to the bustling city with her children last year. I am unaware of her current address or contact information."

"Oh... I see. Thank you," Ariana replied, a tinge of disappointment evident in her voice. Yet, she was determined not to surrender so easily to this setback.

Perhaps a visit to the Stone House would be worth a try? Ariana pondered.

What if she happened to meet Lilyana there?

With newfound hope flickering within, Ariana set forth on her journey towards the Stone House, her steps carrying a mix of anticipation and uncertainty.

As she took only a few strides, Ariana was startled by the woman's hushed murmurs that reached her ears.

"It seems there are quite a few people who appreciate Lilyana's skills. This is already the second person who's come asking. Why couldn‘t she keep the shop going? After all, it was doing well."

Intrigued, Ariana halted her progress, turned around, and inquired, “Pardon me, but did you just mention someone else looking for Lilyana recently?"