บท 9: A Job Offer
In the concealed chamber beneath the basement, Lucian sat with his back against the chair's edge. On the small table, his mysterious revolver lay beside the brown substance he had acquired from the unknown intruder's demise, and a ritual knife he had yet to use, unsure of its purpose.
With his brother Henry's imminent return in mind, Lucian swiftly turned to the book 'Chronicles of Sun,' hoping to glean more about their kingdom's main deity and religion.
"Being able to see in such darkness is a blessing," he mused.
Diving into the book's contents, he concluded.
So, there exists a faction that believes the God of Sun is the creator of the universe. Selena's presence, assuming she has a human body, suggests that the God of Sun, along with other deities, walks the earth. I'm aware of the legend stating that the God of Sun walked the earth 3000 years ago, but now I have evidence that he still roams this realm, his existence beyond doubt.
The slim volume also asserts that the God of Sun embodies purity above all, a force of goodness, a cleanser of evil.
It also recounts that he helped humanity on numerous occasions, creating animals, crops, water sources, and bestowing light and vitality.
Additionally, it states that 'He' created the other gods to uphold peace in the world. Each deity was entrusted with caring for different aspects—some tended to nature, others to water, others to wind and so on... He infused purpose into all.
"Fascinating... It seems there are more religions and Gods than what's stated in the book 'Diverse Devotions'."
He closed the book, exited the hidden chamber, concealed it, and covered it with a carpet. Lucian then made his way to the living room to retrieve a cigarette.
The door creaked open, and Henry trudged into the house, weariness etched across his face.
"Why sit in the dark? How can you see? Haha," he quipped.
Lucian replied, "It sets a certain ambiance. Take a seat, I have something important to discuss."
Henry settled in, and Lucian wasted no time, "I've been giving it a lot of thought, and I've decided it's time for me to find a job. Can you help me with that?"
Henry paused, then flicked on the gas lamp, a trace of joy evident in his voice, "What about your studies?"
"I'll continue studying, but it's high time I start earning my own money."
Henry felt a sense of fulfillment as an older brother and a pillar of the household, "Excellent! I'll ask around tomorrow after work."
"Thank you," Lucian expressed gratefully.
...
The next day...
They fell into their usual routine: Henry departed for work, leaving Lucian once more in solitude.
Strange... I haven't been recalling memories of Lucian or the others lately.
I'm somewhat eager to start working. Perhaps I'll encounter intriguing people and gain friends.
I'm not thrilled about working 'blue-collar jobs'. This world is full of them. I don't want to work break my back for mere 3-5 valka notes a week.
Hmm... I could visit Thomas, Elizabeth's father. He seems to hold me in good regard, and he strikes me as someone with a lot of connections. Yes, even if it doesn't gain any results, I could still consider the job that Henry suggests.
...
Near the Price residence:
Lucian stood before the front door, uncertain if Thomas was at home. There was only one way to find out - a firm knock. He couldn't help but ponder on the limitations of communication in this world.
Knock Knock
The servant who answered the door this time was more polite, evidently still impressed by Lucian's performance.
"Good afternoon, Sir Lucian. Would you care to come in?" She gestured for him to enter.
Lucian replied with a simple, "Yes, please," and stepped into the living room, which was presently unoccupied.
"Please wait a moment, I'll fetch Elizabeth," she informed him.
Lucian gestured to indicate that he wasn't here to see Elizabeth and clarified, "No need. I've come to see Sir Thomas. Could you inform him of my arrival?"
The servant nodded and went off to inform Thomas, who was in his office. He instructed her to bring Lucian directly to him.
Once inside the office, Lucian greeted Thomas with a smile, "Good afternoon, Sir Thomas!"
Thomas, returning the smile, was pleased at Lucian's prompt visit. "Please, call me Thomas," he said, gesturing for Lucian to take a seat.
"So, what brings you here? Ready to take my daughter's hand?" Thomas quipped half-jokingly.
Lucian laughed, then turned serious. "No, Sir - no, Thomas. I'm here to ask for a job.
"Thomas was a bit surprised; he hadn't expected that request from Lucian.
"Hmm... What kind of work are you interested in? I have some connections," Thomas said, exuding confidence in his networking abilities.
Lucian paused, momentarily taken aback by Thomas's assurance that he could find a job in any field. After some thought, Lucian responded, "I would like to play the piano professionally."
Thomas, not surprised due to his prior knowledge of Lucian's exceptional talent, somewhat anticipated this request.
"Excellent. Just as I expected! I'll recommend your services to my friends. It won't be a conventional job, but rather offering your talents to nobles and wealthy patrons. You'll play at events, balls, and such, upon request. This way, you'll have a degree of freedom. You can charge 5 valka notes per performance, and you may receive tips if they're pleased with your playing."
Lucian eagerly absorbed Thomas's words, thinking,
I can play the piano and earn a good income! It's perfect. I'll also have more free time and freedom.
He gratefully responded to Thomas, "Thank you, Thomas. But how will they contact me if they need my services?"
Anticipating the question, Thomas explained, "They will likely send a servant with a letter to your mailbox a day before the event. So be sure to check it daily."
Lucian mentally noted to be diligent about checking his mailbox, realizing its importance in this world.
"Thank you once again. Feel free to call on me anytime for a performance, free of charge, haha."
"I certainly will. Would you like to join us for dinner?" Thomas offered.
"Sure, I'm a bit hungry."
The living room was filled with the delightful aroma of various dishes being prepared by the skilled cooks – a true culinary haven.
The servants arrived, each carrying a plate adorned with a culinary masterpiece.
Among Lucian and Thomas sat Elizabeth, her heart brimming with happiness at Lucian's unexpected visit, unaware of his purpose in coming.
Lucian sampled a bit of every dish presented before him, complimenting, "Each dish is prepared to perfection."
"I'm delighted you find it to your liking," Thomas replied.
After the satisfying meal, Thomas turned to Lucian with a request, "Would you do us the honor of another piano performance?"
"Of course! This one is dedicated to Elizabeth," Lucian responded promptly. He settled onto the stool and began to play 'Yiruma - River flows in you'.
His head swayed with the rhythm, at times lifting, at times lowering, his eyes closed, completely immersed in the music.
As the final notes resounded, Elizabeth's eyes glistened with emotion. "This is simply marvelous! The emotions in this piece are so vivid. Thank you for playing it for me."
"I'll always be here to play for you," Lucian said, a playful glint in his eyes.
Thomas observed the exchange, unable to contain his smile.
...
Lucian walked home, a lingering sense of unease making him feel as if he were being followed.
"Must've been the wind," he remarked, chuckling to himself, fully aware of the empty street around him.
"I guess I'm still a bit on edge after everything. But that's all in the past now."
Reaching home, he glanced at his pocket watch, the hands indicating 15:02.
"Hmm... Henry won't be back for another 2 hours. Maybe I'll relax a little. After all, I've earned it. Big money's on the way!",
He said, ultimately spending the time idly, smoking his cigarettes until there were none left, and then resting until his brother's return.
"Uhh... What's that smell? Have you been chain-smoking in here?" Henry exclaimed, pinching his nose.
"Just a few," Lucian admitted.
Lucian prepared two cups of coffee, albeit with an acquired taste. They sat down, and Henry began, "I've found a job for you. It's a bit demanding, but the pay is decent. It off-"
Lucian cut in, "Actually, I got a job today. I visited Elizabeth's father, and he arranged something for me. It pays between 5 to 10 valka notes a week! And I only work on request."
Henry shot up from his chair, hands planted on the table, "WHAT?"
He settled back down, inquiring, "What kind of job?"
"It's a secret, I can't disclose it," Lucian replied, amused by his brother's reaction.
"Hmm... Alright, just make sure you're not getting into any trouble," Henry admonished in his usual parental manner.
"Don't worry, it's all legal," Lucian reassured, emphasizing the legitimacy of the job.
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