Cedric leaned in, his face almost touching Nolan's, a sharp frown carved across his features. Instinctively, Nolan drew his head back, wary of the sudden intensity.
Then Cedric burst into laughter. "Hah! I really got you! I really did. Forgive me, I couldn't resist teasing you. I don't care about how strong my customers are, or what powers they wield. What matters to me is the gem they bring—the beauty they carry into my shop. I will make them shine."
He plucked at the fabric on Nolan's shoulder before turning sharply to Linda, his eyes scanning her skin. "Tsk… dirty. There's dust and grime on her. She needs a proper bath."
Moving to Celia, he nodded with the same critical gaze. "This one too. The demi-human is no different."
With a dramatic clap of his hands, Cedric called out. Four women in maid uniforms stepped briskly from a side room.
Nolan's eyes widened. Maids? In this world? How…? The sight felt too modern, too out of place.
