A Skyward Trip

For the first time, Braxis managed to escape the palace unscathed, secretly savoring this small yet gratifying victory. As he was ushered into the dragon-drawn carriage alongside the likes of Dante and Levant, Braxis couldn't help but marvel at the breathtaking surroundings.

The palace, which had been Braxis's abode, bore a striking resemblance to a formidable castle, its austere architecture a stark contrast to the opulence within. Lacking any lavish embellishments on the exterior, it stood as an imposing, unyielding sentinel.

Encircling the fortress-like palace, a picturesque landscape unfolded: rivers, ponds, and streams meandered, weaving a moat-like tapestry around the stronghold. The verdant haven teemed with intriguing creatures from the game world, each one a potential source of experience points for those bold enough to slay them.

Among these denizens, the Talaki were the most noteworthy, bearing a striking resemblance to alligators, albeit on a grander scale. Their gargantuan size was matched only by their multitude of razor-sharp teeth, evoking a sense of awe and trepidation in those who encountered them.

As the carriage forged ahead, Braxis's eyes drank in the captivating scenery, his spirit brimming with anticipation for the uncharted adventures that lay ahead as the carriage lifted into the air.

"Holy shit! We're flying to class? This is incredible!" Braxis exclaimed, his eyes wide with wonder. Dante stared at him, dumbfounded and more than a little annoyed.

"Seriously? You've flown to class hundreds of times. Is this some twisted form of amusement for you, pretending to be clueless just to get under my skin?" Dante snapped.

"Easy, little brother, I didn't mean to ruffle your feathers," Braxis said, attempting to diffuse the tension. "Let's just enjoy our ride to class, shall we?"

"You have no right to call me your brother, especially not a younger one," Dante shot back, his voice simmering with resentment.

As the dragon carriage soared through the skies, Braxis tried to shift his focus to the enchanting cityscape below. The metropolis resembled a colossal, jeweled crown nestled among verdant, emerald hills, its spires stretching skyward as if attempting to embrace the heavens themselves.

The city was an intricate tapestry of architectural wonders, an orchestra of light and shadow dancing across the rooftops, and a symphony of colors that dazzled the senses. Towering above the skyline, grandiose citadels and majestic temples stood as sentinels, their spires and domes gleaming like the polished tusks of ancient behemoths. They were encircled by sinuous canals, reminiscent of serpents weaving their way through the city, as gondolas laden with passengers glided gracefully over the glimmering waters.

Nestled between the imposing edifices, a labyrinth of winding, cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways played host to an enchanting bazaar, where merchants peddled their exotic wares from stalls that resembled blossoming flowers, each bursting with a cornucopia of treasures. The bustling marketplace was a cacophony of haggling voices and the clatter of coin, as shoppers and traders alike were entwined in a dance of commerce, a ballet of negotiation and barter.

The city was alive with energy, its inhabitants a kaleidoscope of races and cultures, their faces as varied and vibrant as the plumage of a thousand exotic birds. Elves with eyes like twilight skies walked alongside dwarves, their beards woven with precious metals, while the air above hummed with the chatter of winged creatures, their iridescent feathers shimmering like the scales of mythical serpents.

As the dragon carriage descended towards this mesmerizing urban wonderland, Braxis felt a wave of excitement wash over him, anticipation bubbling within his chest like an effervescent potion. The city, a living organism of stone, wood, and magic, seemed to beckon him, whispering tales of adventure and promising a future filled with unimaginable discoveries.

"I bet those elven women are absolutely stunning," Braxis mused, unable to resist envisioning their ethereal beauty.

"Really? You're attracted to those sub-race elven riffraff? Pitiful," Dante scoffed, turning away from Braxis in disdain.

Dante's Impression: -2

Dante's Impression Progress: -202/300

"Dante, hold on. Regardless of their status, we must maintain a sense of decorum," Levant interjected, chiding Dante's behavior.

"Whatever," Dante muttered dismissively.

'Jeez, what an ass,' Braxis thought. Dante's negativity seemed to cast a dark cloud over any sliver of joy he managed to find.

'From what I've seen, though, it looks like I'll only die if the relationship system drops to -5 or lower. The impression system isn't as crucial,' Braxis pondered.

Upon landing at the prestigious school for wealthy youth, a servant from the institution approached to escort them to class. "Young masters, please follow me to your first lesson, which is history," the elfin servant girl said, prompting them to follow. She wore a lovely green dress that resembled a large, delicate leaf.

Determined to play it safe, Braxis resisted the temptation to hold the elf's hand as they walked to class, opting instead to present himself with the poise and grace befitting an individual of his social standing.

'Now that dick Dante won't have anything to complain about.' He thought.

Dante then grabbed the elf's hand and had her lead him to the class.

'What the fuck? It's okay for him to do shit like this?' Braxis internally cursed, turning to Levant who arrived in a separate carriage.

"If he was so offended by elves, why did he take her hand?" Braxis whispered to Levant.

"Well, there's a difference between a servant's duty, and who a servant is. Dante hates her, but he'll put up with her so that she can accomplish her job." Levant responded as he looked at Braxis confused.

"You've seemed off for a bit now. Is everything okay, Braxis? Though, I don't mind as much as you're finally putting effort into yourself and the family." Levant asked as the two walked closely behind Dante.

"Y-Yeah. I'm fine. I've just contemplated a lot and had a few realizations in doing so. I'm more curious about things and how they work now." Braxis said, coming up with an excuse on the spot.

Levant's Impression: +1

Levant's Impression Progress: -1/300

"I see. Just don't wear yourself out or go too far." Levant said with a smile as he continued walking, now in silence.

'Wow, Levant ALMOST doesn't hate me!' Braxis cheered internally as he felt that he had accomplished an impossible task.

Braxis finally made his way to history class ready for his grand lecture.