Maid

Xenon's fiery horses came to a halt before lining up at the city gates.

As they arrived, countless eyes were drawn to Xenon's group, captivated by the sheer number of Fiery horses.

Gustav and the rest of Xenon's subordinates immediately released their auras—except for Tarra, who chose to remain low-key.

The crowd quickly bowed their heads, and conversations ceased. No one dared to look at Xenon's group again, out of both respect and fear.

"Should I tell Gustav to clear the way so we can enter the city immediately?" Xenon asked.

Iris's heart trembled, and she quickly responded in a small voice, "Can you not do that?"

"Alright," Xenon shrugged. "As long as they don't cause trouble, it's fine."

Hearing this, Iris let out a sigh of relief. Although Tazar City wasn't under the jurisdiction of the Blue Water Empire or any major temples, it remained independent thanks to a mysterious group of martial warriors who protected it.

Because of their presence, no one dared to act recklessly in Tazar City. But for Iris, that was only a secondary concern—her main worry was avoiding any unnecessary violence.

Instead of forcing their way through, they patiently joined the line with the other travelers. After about 15 minutes, their turn finally came, and they reached the front of the gate.

The guards, upon seeing the fiery horses and sensing the powerful auras of Gustav and the Venom Fang members, immediately granted them entry without demanding any toll. While Martial Apprentices at stage 9 weren't rare in Tazar City, they still commanded a level of respect. But what truly startled the guards was that Gustav and the Venom Fang warriors were merely subordinates—mere servants to whoever was inside the carriage. Whoever that person was, they were no ordinary figure.

Inside the city, the streets bustled with life. Crowds of people moved about, and the establishments were impressive. Shops lined the roads, selling all kinds of items—scholarly equipment, talismans, herbs, and more.

Among the crowd, many individuals in white robes could be seen. They were students of Tazar Academy.

Xenon glanced at Iris, who was marveling at the city's grandeur.

"So, what's your decision?" Xenon asked. "If you agree to become my maid, we'll find a luxurious place to stay. If not, I'll be on my way—and I'll take my fiery horse with me. I have no idea how you'll move your carriage, but I suggest carrying it on your back."

Iris was stunned. She looked at Xenon, took a deep breath, and finally answered, "Alright, I accept. I'll become your maid."

Then, in a shy voice, she added, "But… what exactly am I supposed to do? I don't know how to cook or wash clothes."

Xenon clicked his tongue. "Eh… so you're useless. Tsk, tsk. But I suppose that's fine. Skills can be learned. And having a beautiful maid by my side—helping me change clothes, bathing me—is still worthwhile."

Iris's face turned red. "W-what?!"

"Alright, let's go find a place to stay," Xenon said casually.

Before leaving, Xenon organized his subordinates. Tarra would remain by his side. Gustav, Venom Fang, and Chain would stay nearby but in the shadows—if Xenon was in one room, they'd occupy the adjacent one; if he walked through the streets, they would blend into the crowd and follow discreetly.

The Shadow Legion was assigned various tasks, including gathering information and scouting shops.

Xenon then distributed gold coins to his subordinates for their expenses.

Moments later, they arrived at the Silver Crane Inn, the most famous and prestigious inn in Tazar City.

"Welcome to the Silver Crane, esteemed guests. How can I assist you?" the receptionist asked politely.

"I need a room—the best one you have," Xenon replied.

Beside him, Iris was lost in thought, still flustered over the idea of bathing Xenon. Behind them, Tarra remained expressionless.

"The finest suite costs 500 gold coins per month," the receptionist explained. "It includes meals prepared from Tier 2 magical beast meat, and the room is equipped with a magical array that enhances spiritual energy gathering by three times."

She paused before adding, "If that's too expensive, we also offer elite rooms for 100 gold per month, and standard rooms for 10 gold per month."

"I'll take the finest suite," Xenon said. Then, tossing a pouch onto the counter, he added, "Here's 2,500 gold coins. I'll be staying for five months."