Astheria: The Morningstar Family Estate
Inside the magnificent bedroom of Felix, he stood on the balcony, gazing at the three moons suspended in the night sky.
This nightly ritual had become his escape, a moment to reflect before surrendering to sleep.
With his brows furrowed in concentration, Felix mused aloud, "Being low-key, huh?" A self-deprecating smile crossed his face.
Just days ago, he had advised everyone to keep a low profile upon arriving in the Royal Capital of Astheria.
Now, irony loomed over him like a dark cloud; someone was out for his life.
He knew who it was, someone whose plans he had inadvertently disrupted.
Frowning at the thought, he muttered, "Looks like I need to find a way to warn Quill; otherwise, that fat guy might end up dead without even knowing why."
"But I have to tread carefully," he continued. "Fortunately, my would-be assassin seems hesitant to confront me directly.
Perhaps they're afraid of something, or someone, which gives me some breathing room. But I must stay vigilant and alert the others too."
Lost in contemplation, Felix realized how deeply he'd stepped into trouble this time. Saving Quill had unwittingly made him an enemy.
"What a headache," he sighed while rubbing his temples with a bitter smile. "I need to find a way to turn this situation into an advantage; I can't afford losses without gains."
His thoughts shifted back to his family, if that person decided to target them instead of him... well, that would be catastrophic. "Step by step," he whispered resolutely as he climbed onto his king-sized bed and sank into its softness, falling asleep with worry etched across his face.
---
Three Days Later in the Heart of Wulleamp District
In the bustling epicenter of Wulleamp District!
This vibrant area is a hive of activity, where the air buzzes with excitement and opportunity.
The is place brimming with shops selling everything from Magical Weapons to Magic Potions and delectable meals at cozy restaurants.
Whether one is hunting for rare ingredients or just looking to grab a bite, the central area of the district has it all!.
The central area is the most densely packed part of Wulleamp, attracting people from all walks of life and races: adventurers, merchants, nobles, you name it!
Here, land is more precious than gold; every square inch is coveted and only within reach of the wealthiest elite.
If one pockets aren't lined with coins, you might want to think twice before stepping into this bustling hub.
Amidst all these bustling stood the Morningstar Restaurant, a striking six-story purple building adorned with elegant staircases leading up to its grand entrance.
In front of it lay a spacious area featuring a stunning white stone statue surrounded by sparkling blue fountains, a true gem among towering structures.
The restaurant radiated luxury and opulence from every corner; its name boldly displayed on an impressive plaque: Morningstar Restaurant.
"Since everything seems fine and there's nothing major to worry about, I'll be heading out," Felix said as he stood up.
"Oh! And reserve a private room for me. I have a guest coming soon," he added, his mind racing ahead. "And tell Chef Gideon to whip up the most expensive and delicious meals on the menu."
He paused for a moment before adding with a chuckle, "Make sure he prepares extra, my guest has quite an appetite!"
"Got it!" Nixie replied enthusiastically. "But big bro, who's this guest of yours?"
"It's Quill," Felix said casually.
"That fat bro?" Nixie exclaimed in surprise.
"Yep, that's him!" Felix nodded with a grin as he glanced back at her. "Don't forget now!"
With that final reminder, he walked out of the office, leaving Nixie shaking her head and smiling.
-----------------------
On the sixth day of the month, within the opulent confines of Morningstar Restaurant, Felix and Quill found themselves nestled in a spacious private room.
They lounged on elegant couches surrounding a long table, where waiters gracefully placed an array of dishes that exuded rich and enticing aromas.
Quill's face bore an intoxicated expression; his flesh jiggled slightly as he inhaled deeply, savoring the scents that enveloped him.
"Big bro," he exclaimed, his eyes gleaming with delight, "I must say, the dishes here are truly extraordinary! Even with my background, I've never encountered anything quite like them."
Felix held a glass of red wine delicately between his fingers, smiling as he took small sips with an air of sophistication. "To stand out in this industry is essential," he replied thoughtfully. "After all, our customers are akin to deities; they bless us with their patronage."
"Why not consider opening branches in Azgarr District?" Quill suggested eagerly. "Those affluent nobles won't hesitate to spend their wealth!"
Felix shook his head gently. "Rest assured, we plan to expand throughout Astheria soon enough. However, our current focus remains on establishing a solid foundation here in Wulleamp District."
Quill nodded in agreement. "That makes sense! Just let me know when you're ready to venture into Azgarr."
"Of course," Felix replied amicably.
"Ah! Speaking of ventures," Quill interjected as he retrieved a storage ring from his pocket and tossed it to Felix. "Here are the materials you asked me to source."
Felix caught the ring deftly and delved into its contents with his consciousness.
A wave of relief washed over him as he beheld rare and magnificent materials within, his lips curled into a satisfied smirk.
"Now," Felix said enthusiastically, "let's indulge ourselves and try out our new signature dish!" He opened a bowl adorned with delicate white patterns, revealing a clear soup as vivid as freshly spilled blood.
An intoxicating aroma instantly filled the private room, overpowering even those emanating from other dishes.
As mana began to fluctuate around them, white mist enveloped the soup, creating a faint yet beautiful glow reminiscent of stars twinkling in the night sky.
Quill's eyes widened in awe; his large frame trembled slightly as his face turned beet-red, beads of sweats formed rapidly on his brow until he was drenched.
---------------------------