They stood up slowly.
"Let's start with someone who looks… safe."
They chose the older woman selling apples first.
Elara approached on unsteady legs. She curtsied—awkward, knees bending, hands clasped in front. The motion made her t-shirt pull tight across her chest again, outlining the full, rounded shape of her breasts.
"We are honored guests in Eldoria," she said, voice trembling just a little. "Please guide us gently."
The woman's eyes crinkled at the corners—kind, but knowing.
"New souls," she said softly. She reached out and patted Elara's arm. Her gaze dipped briefly to the swell under the t-shirt, appreciative but not cruel.
"You've got a gentle face, girl. And a body that'll turn heads whether you like it or not. Stay close to your man there—he'll need to be strong for you."
Elara flushed deep pink, arms crossing again instinctively.
Liam bowed—quick, stiff.
The woman chuckled. "And you, lad… keep your eyes open. She's the prize here."
They moved on.
Second: the futa baker.
Elara curtsied again. The baker set down her ladle, wiped her hands on her apron, and looked Elara up and down slowly—eyes tracing the curve of her neck, the way her hair fell over one shoulder, the generous flare of hips in those jeans.
"Pretty little thing," the futa murmured, voice warm and low. "Those curves are going to make you very popular. Hips like that were built for more than walking, love."
Liam's hands clenched at his sides.
Elara's flush deepened to scarlet. She could feel heat pooling in her chest, her nipples tightening further against the soft cotton—traitorous response to the attention, the strangeness, the low thrum of something she didn't want to name.
Third: a young woman merchant.
She circled Elara once while Elara repeated the words, gaze lingering on the dip of waist, the soft swell of breasts, the way jeans hugged every inch of thigh and ass.
"Exquisite," she said, almost reverent.
Elara's breathing quickened. She felt exposed, even fully clothed—every compliment landing like a touch.
By the fourth greeting—a futa guard who smirked and adjusted her belt while staring openly at Elara's chest—Elara was trembling. Not from cold. From the weight of eyes, the casual brushes of fingers on her arm "by accident," the way compliments felt like evaluations of livestock.
Fifth: a fruit seller who offered Elara a slice of peach, watching intently as juice dripped down her chin when she took a polite bite.
Sixth: the quiet futa florist.
Elara curtsied one last time, knees weak.
The florist stepped close—too close—and tucked a small white flower behind Elara's ear. Her fingers lingered, brushing the shell of Elara's ear, then trailing lightly down to her collarbone for just a second.
"You're going to break hearts here, sweet one," she said softly. "And maybe a few beds, if you let them."
The Ledger chimed—clear, satisfied.
[Devotion complete.]
[Reward deposited: Basic map token. 10 silver coins. Inn voucher (one night at the Gilded Rose).]
A small leather pouch materialized in Liam's palm—heavy, real. A wooden token with glowing runes. A folded parchment.
Elara exhaled like she'd been holding her breath for hours.
Liam pulled her into his side—arm around her waist, feeling the soft warmth of her body, the slight tremble in her frame.
"Let's find that inn," he murmured into her hair. "Right now."
She nodded against his shoulder, face buried there for a moment.
But as they turned to leave, weaving through the crowd, a smooth voice cut through.
"New arrivals? You look like you could use a proper welcome."
A tall woman with silver hair and sharp green eyes stepped forward. Fitted vest, blouse open just enough to show confidence and cleavage. She carried herself like she owned the square.
"Lirael," she said. "I run the Lusty Cauldron—two streets over. Best food, best ale, best company."
Her gaze swept Elara slowly—appreciative, lingering on the way the t-shirt outlined full breasts, the curve of hips in those jeans, the flower still tucked in auburn hair.
"And the view is exceptional today."
She glanced at Liam—brief, almost amused.
"You two look lost. Hungry. Perhaps in need of work?"
The Ledger flickered.
[New devotion unlocked: Assist at the Lusty Cauldron for one evening shift.][Serve drinks. Clear tables. Engage in friendly conversation with patrons.][Reward: Full meal each + 15 silver + basic work apron.]
Lirael tilted her head, smile widening.
"The Ledger doesn't give suggestions. It gives tasks."
Elara looked up at Liam.
Her eyes were wide—scared, overwhelmed—but underneath, a tiny spark of defiance.
They were still in their normal clothes.
Still holding hands.
But this world was already closing in.