Chapter 312: The New Morning Routine (4) Different Jobs
Grafen was undergoing a remarkable transformation. The once-struggling town, marred by neglect and disrepair, was blossoming into a vibrant and bustling community. The improvements were happening at an unprecedented pace, largely thanks to the tireless efforts of Lyan’s skeleton labor force, cleverly disguised to blend in with the townsfolk. Their unseen hands worked day and night, laying new roads, repairing buildings, and installing much-needed infrastructure. The town’s residents marveled at the swift changes, their spirits lifted by the visible progress around them.
Lyan watched these developments with a mix of satisfaction and amusement. His unique position allowed him to enjoy the benefits of a noble title without the usual burden of responsibility. The girls—his companions—were working diligently alongside him, each contributing to the town’s revitalization in their own way. The maids and cooks from the House of Roses had undergone rigorous training, quickly adapting to their new roles. Under Abraham’s stern yet kind guidance, they had become proficient in managing the household and preparing exquisite meals. To Lyan’s surprise, the training extended beyond domestic duties.
Abraham had taken it upon himself to instruct the maids and cooks in basic combat techniques, a precautionary measure that seemed oddly fitting in this unpredictable world. Lyan often found himself watching their sessions, marveling at the discipline and resilience they displayed. The sight brought back memories of his own training and battles, reminding him of the strength hidden in unexpected places. It also gave him a rough idea of where the women from the House of Roses had learned to defend themselves—skills honed in the shadows of a courtesan’s life, now repurposed for the safety of Grafen.
Josephine took on the role of overseeing the town’s reconstruction efforts. She walked the streets with a critical eye, ensuring that the work met the high standards they had set. Her commanding presence and sharp wit made her a natural leader, and the townsfolk respected her. Wilhelmina, on the other hand, focused on recruiting new domestic officials to support the town’s burgeoning administration. Her background in strategy and governance proved invaluable, helping to streamline the recruitment process and select candidates with the right skills and temperament.
In the meantime, Lyan’s monsters had made themselves comfortable in the castle’s vast private garden. The garden, previously a neglected patch of overgrown weeds, had been transformed into a thriving ecosystem, each species of monster establishing its own territory. The Acid Ants had created an intricate network of tunnels beneath the garden, while the Galewing Butterfly and Moonlight Butterfly fluttered among the newly planted flowers. The Magma Bear and Fey Mammoth lounged in the shade, enjoying the peace and security of their new home. It was a peculiar sight—a menagerie of magical creatures coexisting in harmony, under the watchful eye of their summoner.
As Lyan walked through the garden, he couldn’t help but marvel at his good fortune. "A baron with a castle, a beautiful garden, and a harem of incredible women," he mused to himself. "Not bad for a former mercenary from another world." He chuckled, shaking his head. The ease with which he had slipped into this new life was almost surreal. Wealth, power, and pleasure—all had come to him with a seemingly effortless grace. The goblin king quest had provided him with more wealth than he could spend, and the hidden treasures they had uncovered added even more to his coffers. He was living a life of luxury and indulgence, far removed from the hardships he had once known.
Yet, even in the midst of this contentment, Lyan remained vigilant. He knew better than to take his good fortune for granted. Grafen’s rapid improvement had not gone unnoticed, and rumors about the new lord were spreading far and wide. People spoke of Lyan as a bringer of hope, a war hero who had single-handedly turned the town’s fortunes around. Tales of his exploits against the goblin king and his mercenary past had made their way into the songs of bards and the gossip of taverns. He was hailed as a powerful figure, a rising noble whose story captivated the imagination of many.
However, not all the rumors were flattering. Some spoke of Lyan’s reputation as a womanizer, pointing to the many women who surrounded him. It was said that he had a harem of unofficial wives, each more beautiful than the last. The townspeople speculated about the nature of his relationships, some whispering that he was using his position and power to seduce and control these women. Despite these rumors, there was a curious undercurrent of admiration. Many saw his ability to attract such remarkable companions as a testament to his charisma and strength.
In the marketplace and taverns, the townspeople discussed these rumors with a mix of awe and envy. "They say the lord has more women than he knows what to do with," one man commented, his tone half-joking. "Must be something special about him."
Another nodded in agreement. "Well, he’s done more for this town in a few months than the old lord did in years. If he’s got a few unofficial wives, who can blame him? Besides, look at the town! It’s thriving!"
A woman nearby chimed in, her voice tinged with a hint of wistfulness. "I’ve heard some of the girls are hoping to catch his eye, maybe become his concubine or mistress. They say he treats his women well, that they live in luxury."