The Distinguished Mr. Rose Chapter 95: Chapter 94: Water and Gold Below

Read chapter 95 of The Distinguished Mr. Rose by QuiteTheSlacker on NovelPedia.

Chapter 94: Water and Gold Below After following the good Mister Ibn-al-Arabi farther into the city, the group arrived at a large villa decorated with white murals and colorful patterned carpets. It looked like an inn for wealthy travelers, but oddly enough Lucius didn’t see any people around them—no passersby or even staff members to welcome them. The Saracen guide merely stood in front of the entrance and bid everyone to head inside. “This shall be your accommodation for the duration of your stay in our fair Arabia,” the man said with a sleazy smile. “We have prepared only the best for our Frankish friends.” Roland nodded and took a step forward. The moment he passed through the doors, however, Mister Arabi suddenly extended his hand and grabbed the Peer’s shoulder. “Oh dear, where are my manners? It must be quite hot under all those layers of metal. I understand such attire is the Franks’ regalia, but the desert heat is not one to be underestimated: especially when the sun blazes as it does today. Allow me to prepare more fitting garments for you. Meanwhile, I shall store the rest in the villa’s storage.” It was certainly a considerate gesture at first glance, but the tone of his voice implied a more nefarious intention. “I am thankful for the thought, but there shall be no need,” Roland said. “The armors of the Peers are naturally engraved with cooling inscriptions for hotter climates. My companions, however, are more than welcome to accept your offer.” Mister Ibn-al-Arabi narrowed his eyes. “I… see. Well then, if that is your wish.” The man turned toward the players and donned his friendly guise once more. “How about you, my friends? While our tunics may not be as flamboyant as your curious outfits, I am sure that our tailors can weave you a fitting piece to your liking.” Most of them firmly declined, although it wasn’t out of rudeness. Their clothes simply had a wide array of benefits that either increased their stats or comfortability - similar to how Lucius’s tophat and monocle functioned - and they were not willing to forfeit such things while in uncertain territory. One particular gentleman on the other hand was more than happy to try the local styles. “Your proposition is most enticing, my good man,” Lucius said, walking up to the guide and bidding him an elegant bow. “I would be delighted to accept your generosity. It is not everyday that I am given the opportunity to be in the graces of such a fascinating culture. And those colorful robes! Oh, just darling. I can see the passion and craftsmanship in each silken veil.” Mister Ibn-al-Arabi stepped back in surprise, as if he hadn’t expected anyone to actually take the bait, but nonetheless he quickly recovered and soon strode to Lucius’s side. “Of course, of course! Hoho, you have a marvelous eye if I do say so myself. To have a foreigner take such interest in our humble fashion is a great honor. Leave your clothes by the entrance, and come morning, I will have a servant bring a beautiful selection of our finest fabrics.” “That sounds positively thrilling. I shan’t need to store my suit, however.” With a snap of his finger, Lucius switched to a more casual outfit thanks to his tophat’s skill. Mister Arabi’s eyes practically bulged out of their sockets at the sight. “Oh! Oh, I have… never witnessed such sorcery before.” Lucius smiled. “My kind are capable of many things thought unusual, Mister Arabi.” “So I see.” The man rubbed his long beard thoughtfully, and perhaps a bit cautious. “I have heard stories of the ones known as otherworlders, but to personally meet your ilk in person is quite the enlightening experience.” There was a sharp look in his expression now unlike before. Whatever that meant, Lucius had not the chance to find out before Mister Arabi clapped his hands together and let out a jolly laugh. “Well now, I feel the night’s approach soon upon us. Do not let me keep you waiting; I am sure your group would like nothing more than some rest after a long jou