Planning the next bit of our home campaign. The party has reached a town after a long stretch on the road and I have prepared a few shopkeepers. Then I remembered that what I call a charming little scene can easily become forty minutes of haggling over something nobody cares about.

I enjoy one memorable interaction. I do not particularly enjoy making the quiet player wait while two people negotiate a discount for sport. But skipping straight to a list can make the town feel like a menu.

If you were at the table, would you want one scene with the useful shopping handled quickly around it, or the freedom to spend the whole session wandering?

I want to buy one ridiculous object and explain its importance much later when everyone has forgotten it.

List first, scenes optional. If somebody needs ordinary supplies, let them buy ordinary supplies.

I like wandering. Some of our best character conversations happened because there was no urgent plot thing forcing us along.

That is great if everyone is involved. I have sat through someone buying a rope as if it were a courtroom drama.

Give the group a pause after the first scene. Ask whether they want to keep exploring or move on. You do not have to choose the entire evening in advance.

That is probably my answer. Quick list for essentials, one scene, then check the room. I can save unused shopkeepers for another town.

The rope should absolutely have a lawyer though.