[142] Fancy up

The imposing city of Mamoth came into view, a shimmering beacon of debauchery amidst the clear blue skies. We docked the White Phoenix at the bustling sky docks, which were populated by a myriad of airships varying in size, design, and grandeur. The docks were an architectural marvel of complex arches and pillars, serving as the threshold to the world's most lawless city.

Mamoth, the world's only free city, was a unique sight to behold. A sprawling metropolis, unabashedly flaunting its excesses, its towering buildings were adorned with gold and precious gemstones. Vibrant neon lights illuminated the streets day and night, giving the city an eternal, almost otherworldly glow.

From the high-rises, countless colorful streamers hung, fluttering in the wind, while the sky was alive with flying creatures and floating platforms, serving as transportation for its denizens. The city was interspersed with towering statues of demons and otherworldly creatures, a stark reminder of the city's open demonic control.

The city thrummed with an intoxicating energy, fueled by the lawless freedom it granted its citizens and visitors alike. Slavery, drugs, gambling, and prostitution were not only legal but openly flaunted, with marketplaces and establishments catering to these vices at every corner.

The heart of the city was dominated by grand casinos, each more opulent than the last. They were extravagant edifices of gleaming gold, marble, and glass, buzzing with activity, drawing people from across the continent. The sound of laughter, music, and the clatter of coins was almost deafening, while the air was thick with the scent of expensive perfumes, spices, and intoxicating brews.

Indeed, Mamoth was a city of extreme contrasts, a place where the darkest depths of moral ambiguity thrived amidst unparalleled luxury and extravagance.

"You girls up for some shopping?" I asked.

Sera scrunched up her nose, a playful smile on her lips. "You're not seriously suggesting we go shopping in a city like this, are you?" She asked incredulously, crossing her arms over her chest.

Kuroko, however, seemed a lot more enthusiastic about the idea. She cracked her knuckles, her eyes glinting with excitement. "You bet! This place is a treasure trove if you know where to look!" She responded, bouncing on her heels.

Aurelia, still somewhat quiet after their ordeal in the dungeon, merely gave a nonchalant shrug. "As long as we don't linger too long," She commented, a hint of her usual fire returning to her eyes.

Lila, ever the loyal maid, offered a soft smile, her gaze gentle. "As long as you're with us, master, anywhere is fine." She stated simply, her hand resting over her heart.

***

We stepped inside a luxury brand store.

The demon clerk, a slender male with striking crimson eyes and sharp features, perked up at our arrival. His glossy black hair was slicked back, and his sharp teeth revealed themselves in an eager grin.

"Mr. Wang-Yi-Fei!" He exclaimed, his tail flicking excitedly behind him as he stepped forward to greet us. "Such a pleasure to have you in our establishment. It's been quite some time since your last visit."

His eyes flicked over to the girls, a flicker of recognition dancing in his eyes. "And you've brought company as well. Delightful. Welcome, ladies."

He then gestured for us to follow him into the store. "Please, let me show you our latest collections. I assure you they are truly extraordinary."

4 other demons clerks guided the girls away to a different section.

The demon clerk then spoke up: "What type of outfit are you seeking sir?"

"Hmm..." I rubbed my chin for a moment. "I think I will go with a tuxedo."

"Of course, Mr. Wang-Yi-Fei. A man of your stature would look impeccable in a tuxedo." The demon clerk smiled, leading me into a grand room filled with rows of meticulously arranged suits. "Let me show you a few of our most exquisite pieces."

The first one he selected was a classic tuxedo, immaculately crafted. "This is our Monako Black Tie Tuxedo, a timeless piece of art. The fine silk of Penthia spun together with threads of silver to create a fabric that is luxurious and light. It is complemented with a deep cut satin lapel and paired with a white dress shirt and a silk bow tie."

Next, he presented a modern and unconventional suit. "The Midnight Velvet Tuxedo is quite the statement piece. It is made from the finest velvety fabric with an exquisite sapphire-blue sheen. Paired with black satin peak lapels, this tuxedo blurs the line between classic and contemporary."

Lastly, he brought out an incredibly luxurious suit. "And here we have the Regal Gold Brocade Tuxedo. Hand-stitched gold brocade patterns against a dark maroon fabric, this tuxedo is truly fit for royalty. With this, you'd be the center of attention in any event."

The demon clerk paused, allowing me to take in each design before I made my decision. "So, Mr. Wang-Yi-Fei, which of these delightful options appeal to you most?"

"I think I will go with the first one." I said.

"Excellent choice sir!" the demon clerk said, as he handed over the clothes to me. I then stepped into the fitting room.

About a minute later, I remerged from the fitting room. The Monako Black Tie Tuxedo was indeed a perfect fit. It clung to my lean form in just the right places, subtly accentuating the muscles I had honed through countless battles. The color black was sharp against my skin, highlighting my spiky black hair and drawing attention to my intense brown eyes.

The tuxedo had an air of effortless elegance. The satin lapels were sharply cut, adding an extra touch of sophistication. The white dress shirt I wore beneath it was just as luxurious, its pure white color offering a stark contrast to the tuxedo's black silk. The shirt's collar was crisp, framing my face nicely, and the top button was left undone, adding a casual element to the otherwise formal ensemble.

The addition of the tiger necktie was a masterstroke. It was a vibrant piece, imbued with bold colors and an intricate pattern that gave the ensemble a unique personal touch. The tie served as an interesting conversation piece, a testament to my adventures and daring personality.

As I stood before the mirror, I had to admit - I looked nothing short of splendid. Dressed in the impeccably tailored tuxedo, I seemed to embody a perfect balance of elegance and power.

A few minutes later, the girls stepped out of the dressing rooms, and I was momentarily stunned by their transformation. Each of them wore a stunning evening gown, tailored to accentuate their unique personalities.

Sera was clad in a rich crimson gown, reflecting her fiery and spirited persona. The dress was fitted at the top, hugging her slender frame before flaring out in a cascade of tulle from the waist down. The neckline was a tasteful off-shoulder, drawing attention to the elegance of her neck. A single ruby pendant rested there, perfectly matching her gown and adding a touch of extravagance.

Kuroko, with her daring personality, chose a black backless gown, as sleek and mysterious as the night itself. The dress hugged her curves, tracing her lithe figure before pooling at her feet. It featured a high slit on one side, revealing just the right amount of leg. Silver embellishments glimmered here and there, giving a sparkling contrast against the darkness of the gown.

Aurelia, the proud dragonborne, wore a royal blue gown, befitting her regal lineage. The gown, encrusted with sapphires, was a brilliant display of her power and grace. Its fitted bodice accentuated her figure, flaring out at the waist into a voluminous skirt that shimmered with each step she took.

Lila, the gentle and kindhearted maid, was draped in an ethereal white gown that captured her essence beautifully. The gown was made of delicate lace, interspersed with small pearls that glowed subtly against the soft white fabric. It was a simple A-line cut, hugging her slender waist before flowing out gracefully to her feet, moving like a dream with each step she took.

The neckline was a classic sweetheart, subtly accentuating her delicate collarbones. Long lace sleeves, partially sheer, added an air of innocence and elegance to her attire. A silver pendant with a sparkling diamond at its center hung around her neck, complementing her pure and serene appearance.

The overall effect was angelic and pure, as if she'd stepped right out of a painting. The white of her dress stood out vividly against her gentle features and her soft, brown hair, adding to her overall soft and ethereal aura. She looked up at me, her eyes filled with anticipation and a touch of nervousness, as she awaited my reaction.

I couldn't help but let a wide grin spread across my face as I admired their transformed appearances. I looked at each of them in turn, a sense of pride swelling within me.

"Sera," I started, my eyes meeting the blood mage's fiery ones. "You look fierce, just like the fiery spirit you possess. The black and red ensemble is truly befitting of your powerful magic."

I then turned to Kuroko, the daring rogue, a smirk playing on my lips. "And Kuroko, you've always been a force to be reckoned with. That emerald dress of yours only accentuates your dauntless character and agility."

My gaze softened as it landed on Aurelia, the proud and fiery dragonborne. "Aurelia, your dress is as royal as your heritage. The golden accents perfectly mirror your dragon flames. It's like they were made for you."

Finally, I looked at Lila, my gentle and kind maid. "And Lila...you're breathtaking. You look like an angel descended from heaven. That dress couldn't have been more perfect for you."

The room fell silent for a moment, and I cleared my throat, trying to dissipate the sentimentality. "In short, you all look amazing. I feel fortunate to have you all by my side."

Sera, the tsundere blood mage, flushed a deep red, her eyes avoiding mine. "Hmph, it's not like I dressed up for you or anything," she mumbled under her breath, her words belying her pleased expression.

Kuroko, the daring rogue, let out a carefree laugh, spinning around in her emerald dress. "Well, I do look amazing, don't I?" she grinned, her eyes sparkling with mirth and challenge. "Try to keep up with me, boss."

Aurelia, the dragonborne, lifted her chin in acknowledgment, her fiery eyes reflecting her pride. "It's only fitting for a dragon to look this good," she stated matter-of-factly, a glint of arrogance in her tone. But the slight softening of her gaze revealed her appreciation.

Lila, the kind and submissive maid, blushed a delicate pink at my words. She looked at me, her gentle eyes filled with warmth and gratitude. "Th-thank you, master," she said softly. "I... I'm glad you like it. I just hope I can meet the expectations of tomorrow's event."

I lifted Lila's chin with one finger and looked into her eyes and said:

"Trust me Lila, you are already exceeding expectations."

Q: What do you think about luxury clothes?