The narrator tells the shop owner that the price of the mermaid's tears is too high, but that it's still reasonable. He also warns the owner not to show the tears to outsiders, since they belong in the "mortal realm" . The narrator then turns his attention to the dog food that the dog is eating. The dog is clearly enjoying his food, and the narrator is convinced that the food is "very rare and precious." The narrator is so impressed by the sight of the royal palace that he decides to stay and visit.