Having awakened well before the other two, Aldar rises and takes a moment to appreciate the sight of Trixie using Zendia as a pillow while he prepares to leave. He chuckles briefly, contemplating the absurd situation he's found himself in. Lightly admonishing himself, Aldar casts spells to conceal his presence as he prepares to return to his own chambers.

A short while after Aldar leaves the room, Zendia starts laughing and playfully smacks Trixie on the butt. "I told you the plan would work," she says. "Though who would've thought he'd actually come to my room himself?"

In response to Zendia, Trixie playfully pinches Zendia's nipples and retorts, "Last night's action didn't unfold according to any of your so-called plans. It seems Goddess Xalena granted us a taste of her future saint, especially since we share a squad with him. We're indebted to you for your blessings, Xalena."

After finishing her prayers, Trixie feels a playful slap on her butt from Zendia, signaling her to move aside. Shifting her position, Trixie can't help but chuckle slyly as she teases, “Who would have ever guessed? The indomitable and ever-so-arrogant Zendia reached her climax with just one push from Aldar. And here I was, under the illusion that you had some kind of seasoned experience. Was all your grandiose boasting just a web of lies?” As she finishes her sentence, Trixie bursts into derisive laughter, clearly relishing the opportunity to taunt Zendia.

Flushed with embarrassment from the prior evening's action, Zendia stammers out a reply, “I—I was simply caught off guard, but what about you? What happened to that innocent and shy act you initiated? You took the 'creep mode' up several notches. I can understand slowly unveiling your quirks so he can grow accustomed to them, but you went from zero to full-throttle almost instantly. And that bit about wanting to be choked between a man's thighs? I always assumed you were joking... I clearly underestimated you.”

Chuckling to herself, Trixie responds, “I did tell you, didn’t I?, I had one experience with Aldar before… though I got punished for it. Aldar himself hasn’t severed any ties with me… Which can only mean he’s willing to tolerate my kinks, at the very least.” Her eyes sparkle as her smile stretches from ear to ear, exuding a sense of triumph. She glances downward, as if contemplating a secret, and then continues, “Honestly, I never imagined I’d cross paths with a man capable of treating a woman in such an intoxicating way, let alone one who could touch me without revulsion for my kinks.”

The edges of Trixie’s lips curl up into a somewhat unsettling grin, a stark contrast to her previous thrilled expression. Relishing her advantage over Zendia, she adds mischievously, “You’ve always found my kinks amusing, but the moment you dipped into them, you turned into a proper sislimp. Maybe a proper sislimp mamsy fetish on the way?

Unaccustomed to Trixie's newfound assertiveness, Zendia emits a dismissive harrumph before offering a subdued retort. "There's absolutely nothing amiss with exploring diverse cravings and allowing Aldar the freedom to express his own. At least I didn't resort to pleading for intimacy, nor did I need to emerge from someone's closet to have some fun.”

Recalling her earlier predicament, a surge of ire floods through Trixie. She thrusts an accusing finger in Zendia's direction and snarls, “Why did you even hide me? You could've sabotaged an irreplaceable chance, but thankfully, Aldar is too naive and benevolent to react aggressively. Be assured, I have every intention of settling this score.” Flashing a sly grin, she goes on to add, “Should Aldar ever establish a harem, rest assured, I'll pull out all the stops to ensure you remain subordinate to me in the pecking order.”

With a partial admission of her fault, Zendia attempts to defuse the palpable tension, “Ultimately, things turned out for the best, didn't they? There's no reason to harbor a grudge any longer. After all, we were sislinked to the same man just last night, and that's partly my doing. As the adage goes, 'a new dawn brings a new beginning.'So, how about I whip up a sumptuous breakfast as a gesture of apology?”

With a skeptical scowl and her arms folded tightly across her chest, Trixie retorts, "Very well, but let this be a warning: If you ever pull a stunt like that again, I'll stealthily plant a dagger up your butt hole during your sleep, so that no man would ever desire to lay eyes on you while you are naked."

Laughing at Trixie's unusual threat, Zendia says, "You and your anal fetish–why do you always have to make everything about either thighs or butt-related issues?
———

As the days rolled on, Aldar remained dedicated to his training alongside his squad, per Rin's insistence. Who sensed Aldar's need for refinement, particularly focused on honing his weapon-handling skills, ensuring there was no room for a repeat of his past mistake.

Meanwhile, Trixie and Zendia were making no effort to hide a shift in their demeanor. Every time Aldar was within their line of sight, both women couldn't help but wear almost eerie grins that radiated a kind of over-the-top joy. The rest of the squad quickly picked up on this unmistakable change, finding it impossible to ignore. It was as though Trixie and Zendia were channeling the kind of unsettling smiles one might see on elderly women who take an oddly keen interest in passing young boys.

As the day's rigorous training draws to a close, the squad finds themselves greeted by a messenger, who promptly steps in front of Aldar. With an air of solemnity, the messenger announces, “Greetings, Saint Candidate. The Pontificia has once again commissioned a mission for your esteemed squad. You are directed to proceed to Desnir Village in three days' time. Your assignment involves investigating the vicinity for the potential emergence of a new dungeon. Ensure you and your team are well-prepared for the journey ahead.”

Pausing to collect herself, and perhaps muster a bit of courage, the messenger adds, “If you find yourself in need of assistance or require any further clarifications, don't hesitate to summon me. My name is Purin.” She hesitates for an instant, her eyes meeting Aldar's then adds, “And, even if you don't specifically need anything, you're still welcome to call for me, i would be...”

Bristling with irritation, White Imyun quickly steps in between Purin and Aldar, effectively cutting off further conversation. At the same time, Black Imyun, clearly annoyed but keeping it together, says, “Thanks for the info. We'll get ready for the mission, so you can go now. Have a good day.”

Already simmering with jealousy over Trixie and Zendia's newfound closeness to Aldar, Imyun can't bear the thought of yet another individual ingratiating themselves with him. Hastily steering Purin away from the scene, Black Imyun refocuses her attention on Aldar, her tone carrying a subtle but unmistakable note of exclusivity.

“Aldar, be aware that one of my forms is always conscious. Should you require any assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. I'll ensure you're provided with whatever support you may need.”

Unwilling to be cruel, Aldar gently nudges Black Imyun aside to address Purin directly. “Thank you for delivering the mission details. If I need anything, I'll certainly reach out. Have a wonderful day.”

Stung by the subtle rebuff, both forms of Imyun sink to their knees, deeply introspective as they ponder the implications of their actions.

Seizing the moment, Rin, Trixie, and Zendia burst into irrepressible laughter, thoroughly amused by Aldar's deft sidestepping of Imyun's possessive maneuvers.

With a teasing smirk, Rin chimes in, “By this stage in life, you ought to realize that few men have the patience for a woman who's too controlling.”

Engrossed in her introspection, Imyun's eyes dart to Trixie and Zendia, catching their self-satisfied smirks. Her internal turmoil spills over in a soft, incredulous murmur: “How is it that Trixie and Zendia, the outcasts of the cathedral, have succeeded in captivating a young man's heart? Meanwhile, here I am—a prodigious talent with the unique advantage of two bodies, adored by everyone—yet facing rejection from that very same young man!”

Uniting in a calculated alliance, Trixie and Zendia stride up to Black Imyun, reveling in her moment of vulnerability. Leaning in close, Trixie whispers with a sly grin, “Loved by all? Don't flatter yourself. Even the cathedral mentors find you too much to handle.”

Not to be outdone, Zendia adds her own jab, “And now that Aldar has distanced himself from you, you're officially the biggest loser of the cathedral.”

Locking eyes for a brief second, Trixie and Zendia share a knowing nod. Trixie then leans in once more to deliver her ultimatum, “If you agree to be our loyal underling, our 'pet,' if you will, for a while, we might consider helping you out.”

Zendia, sensing an opportunity, chimes in, “Stick with it for at least a month, and we'll put in a good word for you.”

The duo towers over Black Imyun, relishing in their psychological upper hand, entirely oblivious to the fact that Purin had already departed. Even more, they remain unaware that Aldar himself stands behind them, witnessing the entire scene unfold.

Aldar forcefully clears his throat to announce his presence, interrupting the two women's malicious glee. “So you think you can pimp me out?” he fumes, his voice tinged with anger. Slowly, he brandishes his mace as if revealing an instrument of divine retribution. “It seems we're in need of some disciplinary measures. Rin, would you do the honors?”

“With utmost pleasure,” Rin responds, a gleam in her eyes.

Desperate to avoid what they know will be a grim fate, Trixie and Zendia make a frantic dash for freedom. Though their hearts cling to the faint hope that one of them might escape, their efforts prove to be in vain against Rin's formidable skills.

As Rin skillfully captures and restrains them, Trixie and Zendia hastily muster their defense. Zendia is the first to speak, her voice tinged with a forced casualness. “Aldar, our intentions were innocent enough. We merely wanted to make our squadmate feel included. No harm, no foul, right?”
Recognizing that Aldar's ire remains unabated, Trixie picks up the mantle of defense, her tone tinged with earnestness. “Aldar, can't you see that Imyun was visibly disheartened? What kind of squadmates would we be if we didn't try to lift her spirits, even if it meant giving her a sliver of false hope?”

Aldar retorts, his voice tinged with disgust, "So, pimping me out was your best solution? Perhaps some time spent hanging upside down will redirect enough blood to your brains to improve your decision-making skills. Rin, would you be so kind as to assist me in this educational endeavor?"

As a true gentlewoman, Rin obliges Aldar without hesitation, securing both Trixie and Zendia in an upside-down position. With a sense of grim satisfaction, Aldar and Rin take their leave, completely overlooking Imyun who remains on her knees, lost in her thoughts. Their oversight just deepens Imyun's expanding emotional turmoil.

———

Eager to prepare for his upcoming quest, Aldar dedicates his day to exploring the city—an activity he has longed to engage in but never had the opportunity. Donning a robe to conceal both his physique and visage, he slips into anonymity. To ensure his departure from the cathedral goes unnoticed, he casts the 'Cloak of Shadows' spell to ensure that his departure from the cathedral goes unnoticed.

Having discreetly navigated the cathedral's labyrinthine corridors for some time, Aldar ponders the best way to exit through the gates without raising any suspicions. Just as he's lost in thought, a fortuitous moment arrives: the guards on duty dash towards the cathedral, leaving the gates momentarily open and unattended. Seizing this golden opportunity, Aldar swiftly slips out of the cathedral, making the most of the brief window when the gates are both open and unguarded.

Overwhelmed with a newfound sense of freedom, Aldar is elated at the chance to finally explore the bustling city for himself. Mindful of the numerous warnings he's received over the years, he meticulously ensures his robe is properly fastened to hide his identity. Choosing to play it safe, he invokes an illusion spell to further disguise his appearance, guaranteeing his anonymity as he ventures out.

Gleam of Deception: “In Xer's radiance, in Xiras' dream, Weave the falsehood, let illusion gleam. I, [Aldar], invoke this enchanting scheme, By Xer's dance, by Xiras' stream, let the mirage rise supreme.”

Once satisfied with his meticulously crafted disguise, Aldar ventures deeper into streets of Illun—the bustling capital of Eryndor.

Not long into his exploration, he comes across a busy bakery. It's not just any bakery; this one seems to operate as a communal kitchen where people deposit their dough to be baked and sold afterwards. A lively group of adventurers has gathered there, enjoying what appears to be a hearty breakfast. Feeling his own stomach rumble, Aldar chooses a spot near a band of adventurers and signals a server to bring him the morning fare.

The breakfast menu is a straightforward but inviting spread of cooked beans, scrambled eggs, and freshly baked bread. As he glances back at the adventurers, he observes them devouring their meal with an enthusiasm that's contagious, making it evident that to them, this simple breakfast might as well be a feast for the gods. Their palpable enthusiasm for the meal only amplifies his own growing appetite.
As Aldar tucks into his meal, he feels the gaze of an adventurers upon him. The leader of a group, a red-haired woman, briefly confers with her squad through a series of eye contacts and nods. Seeming to get the green light, she directs her attention to Aldar as she energetically licks her plate clean.

“Never thought I'd see noble blood in a place like this,” she begins, her voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. “Lost your way, sweetheart? Need some hired muscle or perhaps a seasoned guide? My squad—the Blendwood Protectors—were born and bred in this city. For the right price, we've got you covered all day. Isn't that right, girls?”

A chorus of assent rises from her team, but Aldar doesn't react the way she'd anticipated. Undeterred, she tries another tack: “If it sets your mind at ease, we're all quarter-elves crossbreeds.”

Aldar takes a moment to assess the situation. He scrutinizes the leader, her petite frame and short body does not matching her vibe, he finds it amusing. He feels a chuckle rising within him. With a courteous tone, he turns down her offer, internally noting that he has no desire to trade one form of guardianship for another.

The redhead swiftly retorts, “If you change your mind, you'll know where to find us—just ask for the 'Blendwood Protectors' at the guild.”

Aldar nods appreciatively, “I'll keep that in mind. If I ever require assistance, you'll be the first I seek out. Thank you for the generous offer.”

Satisfied with his first meal of the day, Aldar signals for the server and hands her a silver coin, expressing his gratitude for the service.

As he continues his stroll, various establishments begin to open their doors for business. Aldar's focus remains on locating a store that stocks rations and other essential gear for his upcoming adventure. He doesn't have to wander long before his attention is diverted by the commotion of children darting past him and into a dimly lit alley. They're hotly pursued by an elderly woman, hurling profanities into the air.

Concerned for the children's welfare, Aldar feels compelled to investigate and heads down the shadowy alley.
———