2-93 - How Could the Villainous Young Master Be a Saintess?

**Volume Two, Chapter 93 ~ Pretentiousness (4800 Characters)** "Welcome to Waowei Clothing, dear visitors from afar. Are you looking to select some suitable attire for yourselves? If I may, as you've just arrived, allow me to guide you," said a young lady dressed in an elegant uniform, her hair neatly coiled, as she approached the pair. Her demeanor was friendly and enthusiastic, without a hint of contempt despite the somewhat disheveled appearance of their clothes. In her view, isn't needing new clothes the point of visiting a clothing store? "Thank you, but shopping for clothes is more of a secondary purpose. Could I trouble this beautiful miss to pass something on for me?" Aesphyra elegantly tucked a lock of hair behind her ear with a smile. "Pass something on?" The store attendant was a bit puzzled until she saw Aesphyra retrieve a badge from her bosom and hand it over. "Please deliver this badge to your store manager. He will understand," Aesphyra said politely in a soft voice. "This is...?" The attendant, newly employed at the store, did not recognize the badge. However, even without recognizing it, its opulence and the presence of the Galeratus family crest revealed it to be extraordinary. "Please wait a moment." As someone from a minor noble family, the attendant had seen a bit of the world. After arranging seats for Wenny and Aesphyra, she swiftly retreated to the store's rear. Seated at an opulent mahogany table, Wenny and Aesphyra sampled the delicately aromatic tea served in exquisite white porcelain cups, pondering the value of its leaves. The soothing aroma indicated that the tea was incredibly expensive, befitting a high-end fashion brand where exclusivity and luxury were marketed. It was no ordinary drink meant for guests. The other attendants, unaware of the pair's identities, curiously observed the unfolding events after serving the tea. Soon after, Wenny heard brisk footsteps approaching from the backyard. A middle-aged man in black leather shoes and a uniform entered the villa. His clean-shaven face reflected a bit of hurriedness, trailed by the aforementioned attendant. "I apologize for not welcoming you properly, Lady Aesphyra. Please forgive the oversight," the tall man humbly said, bowing to the silver-haired girl with deference. Seeing this, the surrounding attendants quickly followed suit, bowing alongside the manager. If even their manager behaved so respectfully, how could they stand idly by? Moreover, witnessing their manager—usually so strict and stern—show such deference and address the strikingly beautiful and ethereal silver-haired girl as ‘Lady’ was astonishing. Receiving such respect from their efficient and meticulous manager meant Aesphyra must be the indeed successor to this prestigious brand, the one from the influential family that operates behind the scenes across nations. This realization caused anxiety among several attendants, fearing they might have inadvertently offended Aesphyra, who wielded the power to alter their fates with a mere word. Such a display of respect was truly remarkable. Wenny observed it all with silent astonishment. "It’s no matter, Manager. I wasn't here to socialize. As you know, I am a student at Carilliman Academy. My presence here results from a field assignment given by the academy. Unfortunately, this task brought some unexpected 'surprises,' causing my companion and me to lose our luggage. Since we passed by, I thought to stop by one of our family stores," Aesphyra explained, sipping her tea gracefully, her black-stockinged legs crossed, a hint of jest in her tone. "My unscheduled visit didn’t disturb you, I hope?" "Not at all, Lady Aesphyra. Everything here is your property. I am merely your loyal subordinate. To even meet you is my great honor," said the middle-aged man nervously, thankful Aesphyra's words were friendly yet left him feeling nervous. Indeed, Aesphyra was a likely future head of the Galeratus family, and for the sake of one's future, showing her the utmost respect was simply prudent. The man's ears had been filled with tales of her brilliance, her top scores at Carilliman Academy, and her significant role in many of the family’s fashion design inspirations. Terms like 'talented' or 'prodigy' failed to capture the full extent of her capabilities. Without a doubt, she was destined to lead the Galeratus family. "There's no need to be so anxious, Manager. Besides, speaking this way isn’t very elegant." Aesphyra fiddled with a strand of her hair. "I'm deeply sorry. I made a miscalculation. Quickly, have Lady Aesphyra and this esteemed gentleman taken to bathe and change," the middle-aged man directed his staff. The attendants snapped to attention, dutifully escorting Wenny and Aesphyra to the villa's bathing facilities. Accompanying Aesphyra even earned Wenny the title of 'esteemed gentleman' from the manager. "Apologies for my earlier ignorance of your identities. This way, please," the attendant said regretfully to Wenny, leading him along with several attendants. "Ah, no problem," Wenny replied, feeling overwhelmed. Though he often bragged as a 'young master,' this marked the first instance he truly experienced such treatment. Wenny and Aesphyra parted ways, each going to separate parts of the villa. Aesphyra likely headed to a private bath designated for the family members. As for Wenny, being regarded as Aesphyra’s friend earned him premium treatment as well. Lavish marble baths, ornate lion-headed fountains, velvet red carpets, and a spread of fresh fruits and desserts at the spring's edge for guests’ leisure were his to indulge. From a state of rough living, Wenny sank into utter bliss. In this world, both fruits and desserts were luxuries. Galeratus’s reputation for wealth was evident, offering such treats freely at the springside was utterly indulgent! Soaking in a hot spring while feasting on free watermelon and cantaloupe – what could possibly be more enjoyable? With this thought, Wenny relaxed, sprawling across the waterbed. Ah, the comfort, so deep he never wished to leave. What’s that? Call him unambitious? Ha! Having fought battles all his life as the 'King of Camellia,' surely he could enjoy himself? He relished, nibbled, and lounged, a piece of watermelon in hand, thoroughly blissful. He soon found juice in a corner of the spring. Wow, when did wealth start bringing such surprises everywhere? Wenny gleefully returned with a glass of juice. Having such a large bath to himself was sheer decadence. This was all thanks to Aesphyra, though it was rightfully her family’s empire. Moreover, he had risked his life to save hers. Earning a reward wasn't too much to ask, was it? In his mind, Aesphyra's belongings were his to enjoy, Wenny mused with a touch of inflated pride. By the time he finished his leisurely soak, he had nearly devoured half the fruit laid out, entering the bath hungry and leaving with a satisfied burp. After his bath, Wenny donned the attire prepared by the attendants: an aristocratic suit whose quality spoke volumes of its worth even at a mere glance. Wow, though he owned suits, they were always of the lowest quality. This suit was far above anything he’d ever slipped into. The number of accessories on the attire was overwhelming for the inexperienced, but fortunately, Wenny had some practice with formal wear. Whoa, even a casually provided outfit for a guest boasted such high quality! But, considering it was a clothing store specializing in aristocratic attire, perhaps it wasn’t too surprising after all. "Your Excellency, after such a journey, you must be hungry. Please proceed this way for your meal." Once Wenny had changed into his new outfit, the attendant gestured politely. Oh, there’s more to eat here? Even though he had already stuffed himself with fruit at the bathhouse, the mention of a full meal instantly gave Wenny a "second stomach." Led by the attendant, Wenny entered a grand dining hall adorned with crystal chandeliers. A long table, draped with a pale yellow cloth, was set with red candles, and various art oil paintings lined the walls, all contributing to a refined dining ambiance. He noticed that Aesphyra, dressed elegantly, had already begun her meal. Though women typically took their time with bathing, Wenny’s delay compared to Aesphyra was because he spent most of his time indulging in fruit, as if he were at the bath not to bathe but to devour fruit salad. The instant he entered, his attention was drawn to Aesphyra's attire. Her black, lace-up off-shoulder gown contrasted strikingly with her brilliant silver hair, reminiscent of the radiant moon against a dark night—an alluring spectacle stealing the attention of anyone entering the banquet room. This revelation of her impeccable taste in fashion wasn’t surprising, given her background tied to a prestigious clothing dynasty. She's not only donned the finest styles but also designed popular attire cherished among young nobility. Anything less would truly be shocking. "Wenny, you still hungry?" Aesphyra asked, her gaze meaningful as she elegantly cut her steak. "Huh? What do you mean by that?" Wenny responded, aware this was Aesphyra's territory, surrounded by her family’s staff. He was not as free to speak as he might usually. "You didn’t skimp on the fruit at the bathhouse, did you?" Aesphyra remarked teasingly, as if reading his thoughts. "Did you install a surveillance stone in the bathhouse or something? How do you know that?" Wenny retorted, realizing his actions had been guessed. "Because you’re just as predictable as ever, Wenny," Aesphyra mused, tilting her head playfully. "Tsk," Wenny scoffed, his pride pricked slightly. Was there any single thing that she hadn’t guessed about him? With delicious food right before him, Wenny chose to drop any disputes with Aesphyra and began to enjoy his steak. He recalled the gourmet steak he'd had with Mirexia at a fancy restaurant before. This time, being served at a family-owned establishment with a private top-tier chef, the carefully selected ingredients and masterful skill offered a unique taste, making it difficult for Wenny to decide which he preferred. Each had its distinctive charm; it was an even draw. "Dressed like this, Wenny, you almost look respectable. Barely passable," Aesphyra commented from the side. "What do you mean 'almost respectable' and 'barely passable'? I've always been handsome, alright? Like a majestic, handsome prince! I don't need clothes to make me look good—they rely on me to enhance them. If you throw in a bit of endorsement fee, I wouldn't mind representing your family’s clothes," Wenny boasted, patting his chest confidently. "The endorsement fee is indeed high, but given our relationship, I might give you a 20% discount!" Wenny waved his hand grandly. "Endorsement? Is Wenny suggesting our clothes sell too well, and you're here to slow down our sales?" Aesphyra quipped back. "Tsk, what’s this about? Got nothing better to do than praise how handsome this 'young master' is?" Wenny grumbled, continuing to devour his steak with gusto. In contrast to Aesphyra's graceful and refined style, Wenny’s devouring enthusiasm and casual demeanor felt uninhibited, even making a nearby attendant stifle a smile. "Wenny, the clothes you’re wearing—selected by me," Aesphyra chuckled gently. "Picked to match your hair color, features, and typical fashion sense. Seeing as you lack any real fashion sense, I had to judge for myself." "What do you mean I have no fashion sense? I could have it if I wanted—or rather, I simply choose not to have it just yet. Fashion sense is easy, you know?" Wenny pouted, slipping into his daily stubbornness. "So, am I supposed to wear this set again tomorrow?" Wenny asked between bites, implying Aesphyra intended to lend him the outfit for a few days. "Wenny, my apologies. Perhaps the customs differ, but we don't allow anyone to walk around without clothing here. It would severely impact our store's reputation," Aesphyra jested, feigning surprise. "Hey, that’s not what I meant!" "Then what do you mean, Wenny? Your previous outfit’s unsalvageable. If you don’t wear this one, what else would you wear?" Aesphyra remarked with amusement, propping her chin on her hand. "But these clothes belong to your family," Wenny muttered softly. "Yes, but you've worn them already," Aesphyra raised her elegant brow. "Our store doesn’t resell clothes that have been worn as merchandise. So how about this, Wenny, you cover the cost—68 gold coins with a friendly discount, waiving the three silver coins. Thank you for your patronage~" Aesphyra teased, playfully tilting her head. "So little?!" Wenny exclaimed in shock. "68 gold coins, are you robbing me?! Even for expensive clothes, could they cost that much?" "You can't measure it that way, Wenny. While materials may not justify the cost, the design concept and inspiration are priceless, don’t you think?" Aesphyra explained with a bright, mischievous smile. "Your smile reeks of a cunning merchant!" Wenny countered. "So, can’t afford it, Wenny?" "What do you think?? For someone like you, it might not even cover a meal’s cost, but for me, it could buy my life!" Wenny responded exasperatedly. "Oh? Then why did Wenny choose to wear these clothes in the first place?" Aesphyra raised a brow. "How should I have known?? You handed them to me, so I wore them. I thought they were on loan." "Couldn’t see their value before putting them on? Didn't know large chains separate try-on samples from items for sale and don’t resell worn garments?" Aesphyra’s barrage left Wenny speechless for a moment. "If you couldn’t afford it, why wear it first, then act as if you’d foot the bill?" Aesphyra tilted her head slyly. "Pretentious." "Ugh!" Though flustered by Aesphyra's retort, Wenny understood her underlying meaning. Aesphyra never intended to retrieve the clothes. To her, his insistence on not wanting to owe anyone anything by asking, "How long can I borrow these clothes?" was almost amusingly absurd. In other words, how could you, Wenny, underestimate her, the Galeratus family, thinking they wouldn’t cover a set of clothing costs or that you, a person who’d saved her life, would end up paying for it? (Looks like getting back to the original schedule is a bit challenging.) 2025/07/09/23/25 [Bookmark for convenient reading] Previous Chapter Home Next Chapter Bottom Ads Floating Ads Enter Book Title • Author