Volume 1 – The Ruins Of Lza.

Chapter 2 – A Silly Man.

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Alcis looked at Hancs, lost in thoughts. His memories went back to when Hancs picked him up from a mountain of garbage. People passed by. But no one pitied the little fellow. He could still remember how Hancs cried while cradling his small and soft self.

It’s magical how I have that memory from infancy.

“Hancs-”

*Ting-ling*

Everyone looked at the door. The bell was diligent in its job; an arrival was announced. Strangely, instead of cheers welcoming the guests, silence greeted them. Eyes stared without blinking, and food fell from mouths. Drinkers choked, while the rest gasped. Five gorgeous ladies!

“An ordinary place... But I can't tell if it's the atmosphere or the secrets it holds that surprises me.”, said one of the ladies. Silky black hair, curled with elegance, fell down to her waist, framing her face and accentuating her smooth cheeks. Her captivating green eyes shimmered like emeralds, reflecting her intelligence. With a tight black gown, graceful curves exuded confidence and allure. The lady looked around, her eyes looking for someone.

The silence remained. Until, a companion of the lady moved. “Hey you. Call the manager.”, she pointed at a waiter. A striking figure. Her magenta hair cascaded down with waves, catching the light in a vibrant display. It gave off a fiery appearance, matching her explosive personality. Her face was expressive. Sharp features, a slightly upturned nose, full lips that curled into a scowl, and her fierce demeanor.

Seeing a cracker aiming at him, the waiter slipped and fell.

“Threats won't work well here, ladies. We are all ignorant citizens.” A large and imposing figure stood, his hair reminiscent of lush forests, braided with small charms and trinkets that suggested a connection to the mystical. His eyes, sparkling with mischief and wisdom, while his nose was strong and slightly aquiline. His face was weathered but kind, with laugh lines that reveal a sense of humor despite his otherwise build. Hancs had come to rescue.

It's him! Hancs Rudes!

The shaken eyes of the five ladies almost screamed.

“Ignorant, you say? How amusing!”, the lady with black hair said.

Hancs bowed as he continued, “I have received your letter. Let’s talk in private. I am afraid my customers would kick the bucket. See? They have even forgotten to breath!”

“Hmph! Dirty mongrels! Lead the way.”, the blazing lady ordered. Her eyes refused to look at the unsightly fools.

“Please.”, Hancs nodded and led them to the bottom floor.

Soon, they entered a room that seemed private enough to hold their conversation. But ironic as it was, the privacy was broken. There was a young man kneeling behind the door, his hands spread wide.

“Welcome, beauties! A good morning hug if you would, please!”, with a wide smile and eyes closed, Alcis went straight for the attack.

“This person is...”

“He is the subject of your request. Shall we?”, Hancs answered.

“An uneducated fell-”

“Oh dear! Rasila, you are judging too much today. You know that you sound extremely rude, right?”, another among the ladies said. She had a warm and inviting presence. Her hair was a golden hue, expertly tied back in a loose bun at the back of her head. Gentle, expressive golden eyes that seemed to sparkle with kindness and wisdom. Her lips full, and a reassuring smile, revealing a sense of comfort to those around her. It added to her approachable demeanor. Her figure was graceful, reflecting her affectionate aura.

“I don't care!”, Rasila snorted. She walked ahead, and took a seat on a chair.

The rest followed and sat around the table.

Why can't I hear a word of praise? Neither a touch? Did my divine face fail in luring the beauties?

Alcis opened his eyes. The absence of a shadow before him said that he had been ignored. But as soon as he turned back, he was left speechless. Blinks stopped; breaths halted. Mouth gapped; eyes widened. He couldn’t move.

An alluring enchantress, a feisty lass, a gentle Goddess.

That was not enough!

Beautiful with long, flowing purple-black hair like a waterfall of midnight. It shimmered subtly, revealing hints of deep dark and violet hues. She possessed a seductive and tempting figure, with graceful curves that drew attention dangerously. Her eyes were a mesmerizing light red, resembling sparkling rubies, which seem to glow with an otherworldly charm. Lips adorned with a glossy crimson, enhancing her captivating smile. She was a bewitching temptress.

Furthermore.

Tall, her presence commanding yet mysterious. She wore an intricately crafted armor that glimmered with a silver sheen, showing her ethereal nature. Her silver-white hair reached her feet in soft waves, contrasting sharply with the dark, formidable armor. Striking blue eyes held a depth of prowess and a hint of melancholy, appearing distant as if she was lost in thought. Her lips were a pale pink, pressed into a thin line, suggesting her aloof countenance. A straight, elegant nose gave her a regal appearance, while her sharp jawline added to her warrior-like features. She was a divine beauty.

Alcis gulped.

You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.

I-I can't decide. Who do I approach first? Where do I look?

“Ahem!”, Hancs cleared his throat. And disturbed by the noise, Alcis’ eyes gained clarity.

He came closer to the table and bowed like a gentleman. “Ladies from beyond yonder, I am Alcis. May I have the grace of knowing your gorgeous selves?”, he smiled.

His subtle smile was lethal. The ladies found it difficult to look away. Standing at an impressive height, a perfectly sculpted physique. His short, stylish black hair glistened like the night sky, expertly styled to heighten his chiseled jawline. Celestial blue eyes seemed to hold the depths of the ocean, captivating anyone who dared to meet his gaze. He had a straight, noble nose and a confident, charming smile.

“Another mongrel, drooling at beauty. Unsightly!”, shouted Rasila as he stomped her foot.

Still, the smile never left Alcis’ face, “Ah! Sure, my dear. Beauty is merely a reflection of the heart. And I assure you, my heart is full of adventure and mischief!” He winked at her.

“Hahaha, what a silly man! Look at him go at not even one but five of us. Hello, dear~ I am Nasriana.”, the temptress spoke. Her voice fell like a whisper in Alcis’ ears, and he felt his legs lose strength. He gulped again.

Is she a devil out to get me?

Nasriana’s smile grew, “I am not a devil, dear~”

His body jerked. He tried to hide it with his clumsy movements but seeing the Goddess and enchantress chuckle, he had a bad feeling.

Ah... I am in trouble!

“You aren’t, dear~ We don't eat.”, she winked at him.

My grass be on fire... Is she reading my mind?

“I am. I won't want that it on fire though.”

Done. I am done! What should I-right! I won't think anything.

“I can still tell that you are dreaming of doing this and that to us sisters-”

“Stop! I get it.”, he raised his hands in surrender.

“Oh my! See how you scared him. You shouldn’t tell him about that. Of course, he will be disturbed knowing someone can read his mind. Alcis, I am Sheila, the eldest of us sisters. It is a pleasure to meet you.”, the gentle Goddess spoke. At the same time, she caressed the back of her palm.

It feels comfortable. My Goddess is so gentle-wait! Why do I feel that I am getting patted?

Of course, he had noticed Sheila’s movements, but took some time to realize it. It was another shock for him.

“Alright. Enough time has been wasted. Alcis, I am Evansia.”, the black-haired lady informed and continued, “She is Silvia.”, she pointed at the armored beauty. “And this is-”

“Rasila, is it? She is quite memorable.”, Alcis nodded.

“Now that we are done with the introductions, I will take my leave.”, Hancs got up. His heavy hands slapped Alcis on his back. “Enjoy your time, boy.”

“Hancs, wait! You are the one-”

“Just go for it. I am busy.”

Alcis was left speechless again. He watched the large man turn back and left, with a dumb look.

Evansia took the chance and said, “I will get to the point. We are looking for a man-servant who can take care of our house. The conditions are, as long as you do as you are ordered, and keep decent behavior, we will pay you any amount. But it should be reasonable.”

Alcis raised his eyebrows, “Just that? A full-day serving?”

“That is all. It will be mostly labor work.”

“As for the price-”

“How about three-hundred Yegrids a day?”

“When do I start?!”, there was a haste in Alcis’ voice.

“Start tomorrow.”, Evansia said.

Alcis noticed that her expression had changed. Since he introduced himself, her soft tone had become sharp. Also, she was looking away often when she spoke to him.

She is afraid of being affected by my looks. Her eyes speak it all.

“I understand. Give me your address; I will be there before sunrise.”

“It seems we have a deal, silly dear~ I look forward to the next day!”, another wave of seductive voice attacked his ears. Alcis gulped yet again.

“Y-yes! I will also prepare.”

Prepare to sweep you all with my magic, hehe.

“Hahaha, silly man, really~”

After all formalities, the ladies left. Alcis slumped down, all his energy lost. He was worried about what would happen tomorrow.

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The sun had set. The city was glimmering with night-lights. People moved as busily as ever, and the streets were noisier than the day.

Alcis had to report to his mother-in-law... soon to be, at least. However, his legs moved elsewhere. Having walked quite a distance from the Atil city, Alcis arrived before a large building. It was built to be sturdy. At the entrance, he was greeted by a thin man. He stood there emotionless, only to bow to the guests.

After entering, Alcis was greeted by a bustling crowd. People were scattered everywhere. Some checking the weapons on the walls; some feeling the armors. Some just running their tongues; and some observing colorful bottles of potions. The hall was decorated with various objects that attracted someone or other. Flags hung from the ceilings. Treasure chests carefully placed. And guards armored to teeth, their sights constantly on the guests.

Alcis tried. And he reached the reception, to see a young girl. She had green hair tied into braids. A tired smile hung on her face as she arranged a stack of papers.

“Jilly, it was a hard day.”, Alcis said.

“Alcis! Where were you? Your rewards have been growing in the chests. By the way, it is too hectic today.”, her frown died; her eyes became alive. A light blush and a bright smile appeared.

“I can already see that.”, he shrugged. “And I am here to collect everything. How much is it?”

“Ten thousand Yegrid. You are rich now.”

“......”, Alcis’ lips stayed shut, but his eyes squinted.

“Ahem! You are a tiny bit rich.”

“It’s not even a fifth of that you earn in a month. Stop showing your roles and bring me my babies.”

Jilly did just that.

While she was away in the treasury, Alcis relaxed on the chair.

“Alcis!”

Which custard is it now? Everyone has got a thing for my grass now-a-days.

A muscular man, fairly young, waved at him. He was in a light leather jacket and short pants.

“Gust?”

“Alcis, you remember our promise, right? Next week, you will guide us through the ruin.”, Gust sat beside Alcis.

“I haven’t forgotten.”

“That’s good. I am giving a massive amount to you here. Don't make any mistakes.”

Alcis jerked.

This blocker... This is why I hate dealing with men. At least, the beauties are pleasing to eyes.

He pulled out a ruby tablet and shoved it towards Gust.

“Hm? Is it your treasure house card?”

The card said:

Alcis – 22 years old.

Occupation – Guide

Experience – Master

Rating – 100%

“Any doubts now?”

“Haha, none at all! You are the best here. Anyways, we will wait for you at the old market. Don't be late.”, there was tension in Gust’s voice. He left soon.

“Alcis, here you go.”, Jilly gave a bundle of golden notes to Alcis.

“Then, see you later, cutie~”

“Mhm. Come by often.”

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Back at the Atil city, little away from the noise, a group of old women sat around a stone table.

“Somala, I heard you found a son-in-law.”, said an old lady.

“Really? Old hag, it’s surprising you get a dog in your old age. Mine came by ages ago.”

Somala simply snorted.

You vixens are just jealous of my young looks.

“Hag, I have done everything you said.”, Alcis popped up from nowhere. The group was startled for a moment, but soon, blushes adorned their wrinkled cheeks.

“What have you done?”, Somala questioned.

“The tea leaves, collected. The house, cleaned. Your pets, fed. Grocery, bought. Garden, cleared. Your glasses, changed......”

“Alright, stop. Custard, you didn't try any tricks, right?”

“How can I trick my mother-in-law? By the way, when will Diana come back? You said she was searching for something. Has she still not found it?”

“Why? Aren't you having fun with your chicks elsewhere, custard?”

“What?! He has affairs?”, the old ladies were dumb-founded. Who was this man to have the cranky old hag allow a harem for his son-in-law?

Hag! Just because you let me have my Goddesses... I swear one day!

“I give up. It’s pointless-I mean, I am too tired. I will get my beauty sleep. Bye.”

As long as he could flee, it was better.

Who knows what she will order again? But... it’s party for me from tomorrow!

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