{Hey guys it's your author here. I am very sorry I haven't been updating recently, I haven't been feeling well and am preparing for college. Thanks for understanding guys}
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[Daily Quest Complete]
[Rewards have been sent to the inventory]
"Phew… That was easier than yesterday," Xandros muttered, wiping a light sheen of sweat from his brow. "Then again, I only cleared five floors today."
With his daily grind out of the way, he got ready for something a bit more leisurely—shopping with Layla and Elyria, and maybe exploring the city they currently resided in. It wasn't often that he let himself enjoy moments like this. His life was mostly about progress, power, and perseverance—but today, he allowed himself to breathe.
He called out, "Elyria, Layla, are you two ready?"
"Coming!""Coming!"
Their voices rang out in perfect harmony from upstairs.
A few seconds later, the two descended the staircase—and Xandros was momentarily stunned.
Layla wore a shimmering sapphire-blue gown that flowed down to her ankles. The dress hugged her form tastefully, accentuating her figure with a grace befitting high nobility. A delicate silver tiara rested on her head, glinting softly beneath the chandelier light, further elevating her elegance.
Elyria, on the other hand, looked like she'd stepped straight out of a fantasy tale. She wore a vibrant purple dress with intricate embroidery that sparkled with stardust-like threads. Her small golden horns glowed faintly, casting a warm, celestial shimmer. A matching silver tiara sat nestled between them, completing her fairytale look.
"Wow…" Xandros murmured, genuinely impressed. "You both look absolutely stunning."
Layla smiled softly. "You look good yourself, Master."
"Papa looks very handsome!" Elyria chimed in, beaming with joy.
Xandros had dressed to match the occasion. His attire—a regal aqua-colored ensemble made from one of the finest materials on the planet—radiated quiet authority. Even without his crown, the cut of the fabric, the way it flowed, the aura it gave off—he could easily pass for a prince or an elite noble.
"Thank you," he said warmly. "Alright, let's go shopping."
"Yay! Shopping!" Elyria squealed excitedly, bouncing on her feet.
Xandros and Layla chuckled at her boundless energy. With smiles on their faces, they boarded their sleek hover vehicle and glided off into the city, ready to enjoy their day. What could possibly go wrong?
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Aurora – Merchant Street
The heart of the city's commerce district pulsed with life.
Merchant Street—known simply as Aurora to locals—was a kaleidoscope of activity. Beings from countless races filled the streets, moving in and out of storefronts like the shifting tides. Stalls brimmed with exotic goods: colorful silks, arcane trinkets, delicacies from distant galaxies. From humble shops to elite luxury outlets, there was something for everyone—if you had the credits.
The hover vehicle came to a gentle stop in front of Lux, one of the most prestigious brands in Aurora. Renowned for its premium goods and exquisite service, Lux catered only to the wealthiest of elites. Entry required nothing less than a Grade 4 citizenship—and even then, few dared to browse without a proper appointment.
As Xandros, Layla, and Elyria stepped out of the hover vehicle, heads turned.
The guards at the entrance instinctively straightened. They were stunned by the trio's presence—not just because of their regal appearance, but the sheer pressure they exuded. Without a second thought, they bowed and opened the gates, not even daring to request identification.
They didn't need to. If they had scanned their credentials, they might've dropped to their knees in fear. Nobles of that level weren't just powerful—they were untouchable.
Inside, the receptionist quickly stood and bowed.
"Welcome, esteemed guests, to Lux. Where your every need, desire, and curiosity is fulfilled. How may I serve you today?"
"Thank you for the warm welcome," Xandros replied with a faint smile. "We're not here for anything specific—just browsing. Any recommendations from you would be appreciated."
The receptionist froze for a moment. A noble speaking politely? And that smile… She quickly snapped out of her daze and composed herself.
"Y-Yes, of course. We have a vast selection of goods and services: apparel, jewelry, hover vehicles, weaponry, gourmet cuisine, and personal care experiences—spa treatments, immersive games, and more. Would you like a full tour or focus on something in particular?"
"We'll take the full tour," Xandros said, his tone pleasant but firm.
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Elsewhere – Ronald (aka Khronos)
Far from the laughter and comfort of Lux, Ronald lounged inside his private hovercraft, an expression of boredom etched on his face.
"System," he drawled lazily, "scan this entire street. Find me the person with the highest luck. I could use a little plundering."
"What the fu—"
His eyes widened in alarm.
Before he could even blink—
RUMBLE!
The sky turned an unnatural shade of black.
"Oh sh— STOP THE VEHICLE!" Ronald screamed in sheer panic.
CRACKLE!!
A blinding bolt of purple lightning tore through the heavens and slammed directly into his vehicle. It exploded with a BOOM!
"ARGHHH!!!" Ronald cried out, using every ounce of his power to block the impact. Flames licked his limbs, and pain scorched his nerves before his vision went dark.
Oddly, only the car was obliterated. The surrounding area and even the driver remained untouched, as though the lightning had precision beyond mortal comprehension.
Onlookers gasped.
"What the actual hell?"
"Damn, that guy got roasted…"
"Hmph, clearly offended the heavens. He doesn't know the immensity of Mount Tai!"
"Mummy, I smell grilled chicken."
"Strange… the explosion didn't affect anyone else. Must've been a bad person."
An aero-kit and med-ambulance quickly arrived, medics rushing in.
As Ronald lost consciousness, the last thing he remembered was a single vow:
I will never scan carelessly again. And if I ever find whoever did this… I'll run. As far away as possible.
Back at Lux
Xandros narrowed his eyes briefly, sensing the disturbance.
"Tch. Arrogant fool," he muttered under his breath.
"Yes, Master," Layla said, her tone serious. "He should've known better than to try probing you."
"At least he got his answer," Xandros said, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Curiosity really did kill the cat."
"Yay! Papa smite the bad guy!" Elyria cheered, clapping her tiny hands in approval.
Layla chuckled softly, then leaned in. "Yes, my beloved. Your papa is very strong."
Xandros ruffled Elyria's hair fondly as she giggled.
"Well," Layla said cheerfully, her eyes gleaming, "Master, we've got a whole day ahead of us. Let's make the most of it!"
"Couldn't agree more," Xandros replied with a smile, leading them further into the store, ready to indulge in the pleasures of the day.
The receptionist laughed softly, her nerves easing in the presence of their warmth.
"In that case, allow me to assign a personal concierge (A concierge is a guide that helps customers with tours at big establishments) to guide you through our flagship departments. Would that be acceptable?"
"That would be perfect," Xandros said, his tone smooth and appreciative.
"Please, follow me to the private lounge. Your concierge will meet you shortly with refreshments."
As they followed her, the staff discreetly exchanged glances. Whispers passed between them.
"Who are they…?"
"I've never seen them before, but did you feel that aura?"
"They must be nobility from off-world…"
"Shh, don't speak too loudly. Just be on your best behavior."
The receptionist led them to a private sky-glass elevator, which shimmered with shifting constellations as it ascended. Inside, Elyria spun in delight, mesmerized by the floating star patterns.
"Waaah~ This place is so sparkly!" she giggled.
"It suits you," Xandros said, smiling at her through the reflection in the elevator walls.
Layla leaned close to him, whispering, "You're in a good mood today."
"I have my moments," he replied, a touch of warmth in his voice.
The elevator opened to a serene lounge. Plush velvet seating, ambient lighting, and a panoramic view of Aurora's merchant skyline greeted them. A steward arrived seconds later, presenting crystal glasses of fruit elixirs on a hovering tray.
"Please enjoy these while you wait. Your concierge will arrive shortly."
Xandros accepted the drink with a courteous nod. "Thank you."
The staff bowed and exited, leaving the three to soak in the view.
Layla took a sip of her drink and sighed in contentment. "It's rare to have days like this."
Elyria swung her legs cheerfully from her seat. "Papa~ can we try the sparky dress section next? The one that makes you float?"
"Of course," Xandros said with a grin. "We'll try everything."
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Power stones guys!!!!!!! Help this poor author 🤧