Out on the town

You decide that you’re going out on the town this evening. You somehow ended up ruling a kingdom that you hadn’t really even visited properly! Figuring this was a good opportunity, you also invited Clarissa along, planning on making something of a date of it. She happily accepted, mentioning that she never really got a chance to just relax somewhere outside of the mountain kingdom.

You meet her at the front gate of the castle, and you’re immediately glad that fashion is one of the things that got picked up from being close to the portals here. Clarissa is dressed simply, in a midriff baring red T-shirt, and a pair of black shorts, but the outfit puts her impressive physique on display in an attractive way.

You smile as you watch her walk up to you. “You know, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in anything other than your armor or your under armor outfit.”

Clarissa laughs. “Well, normal clothes get shredded when I put my armor on, so normally I don’t wear normal clothes, unless I’m going somewhere that won’t need my armor. It’s a bit like walking around naked all the time though, so I have regular clothes for social events.”

You chuckle. “Well, I wouldn’t complain about seeing you walk around naked, but you look good in casual clothes too.”

Clarissa blushes. “Thanks...and thanks for bringing me. I don’t normally have time for relaxing.”

You take her hand and start walking outside with her. “We need to remedy that then! We should find a restaurant, or a bar or something. Sound good?”

Clarissa nods. “Of course! I’m happy to spend some time talking. We’ve been on the road pretty much since we met, so yes, let’s find a drink or some food.”

You pause to ask directions from the gate guard, who points you towards a pub he recommends. As you walk, Clarissa looks around. “It’s interesting, how quickly someone gets used to new situations. I spent most of my life underground, and mostly in the forge or training. Now, here I am, holding hands with a human from another world, walking calmly through a human city. And it feels like I belong here.”

You smile. “I’m glad you feel that way, Clarissa. It’s as mind blowing to me as it is to you. A little over a year ago, I lived mostly alone, like a hermit, until Anna gave me a little push. Now, I’m a king, somehow. I am surrounded by beautiful women, several of whom are pregnant with my future children. I’m some kind of chosen one and powerful mage, and I’m destined for a battle with a literal demon god. My life is bizarre, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Clarissa laughs. “I guess my story of ‘I’ve never been to the city before’ is a bit tame compared with that.”

You shake your head. “Everyone’s story is their own, but we’re part of each other’s story now. Besides, I think ‘cutting a demon god’s psycho daughter in half’ is a pretty good story too.”

You both chuckle as you approach the pub the guard recommended. You walk inside to find a quiet place with plenty of tables, and the smell of good food. You find a table and sit, Clarissa smiling as she sits across from you. A barmaid makes her way over to your table.

“Good evening you two! What can...I...get...”

She trails off as she registers who she’s talking to. “Oh! Y-your highness! Lady Clarissa! I’m so sorry, what can I do for you?!”

You chuckle. “Calm down, it’s fine. Treat us like any customer. Tonight I’m just Josh, and this is Clarissa. We’re just having a night out. What do you recommend?”

The barmaid stutters, clearly very nervous. “W-well, our specialty is the venison stew...”

You look at Clarissa, who nods. “Perfect! We’ll have two of those then.”

The barmaid nods, and hurries off to the kitchen. You chuckle. “Maybe I should look into a disguise if I’m going to be out on the town.”

Clarissa smiles and shakes her head. “I think it’s better like this. Your people will appreciate you more if they know you’re out among them, not just some distant ruler in a palace.”

She reaches across the table and takes your hand, her glowing eyes locked on yours. “After all, I don’t think anyone could resist you once they get to know you.”

You chuckle. “Well aren’t you a sweet talker. Are you hitting on me, Clarissa?”

Clarissa laughs. “Well, I was hoping I might get lucky after this date, so...yes?”

You both look up and realize that the barmaid is looking at the two of you, blushing. You can’t help but laugh. “Sorry, miss. I’m still not used to public appearances. You’re not too offended, I hope?”

She shakes her head. “N-not at all! I h-hope it’s not to forward of me to say, s-sir, but you two are cute together...”

You and Clarissa both blush. “Thanks. I don’t mind hearing that at all. Don’t be surprised if I become a regular here, I like this place already.”

The barmaid goes wide eyed. “Oh! My dad...I mean the owner would love that, your majesty! I-I mean, Josh...”

You smile. “Family business? Wonderful, I like this place even more.”

The barmaid nervously sets your food down in front of you. You taste it and nod. “As good as you said. Thank you.”

The barmaid blushes and stammers thanks before leaving you and Clarissa alone. The metallic dwarf grins. “You really are a charmer. I think she’s in love.”

You laugh. “I can barely handle the women in my life now, I don’t need random women falling for me.”

Clarissa winks. “Well, I know at least one woman who needs some handling, so eat up, Josh.”

You practically **** on your stew as you laugh.