Extra's Rise: I Stole All The Women In The Hero's Party-Chapter 20: The Red Light District

She quickly began sorting the tusks, counting them with practiced efficiency before writing down their total in her ledger.

Meanwhile, Tobias simply stood there, hands behind his back like a patient scholar, while Zayn still struggled to keep a straight face.

After what felt like a few minutes, the receptionist finished her tally and looked back up. "This is more than enough to fulfill the request. The reward will be divided evenly among all of you."

Tobias nodded. "Understood."

With that, she handed over a pouch filled with coins — mostly copper, but with a few silvers mixed in. Tobias, being the responsible one, took it and began evenly distributing the shares among the group.

Zayn finally allowed himself a small smirk as he took his share, tossing the coins into his pouch. "Not bad for a morning's work."

The half-elf gave him a pointed look, clearly unimpressed with his smugness. "If you're already done for the day, then try not to cause trouble."

Zayn placed a hand over his heart, feigning offense. "Me? Trouble? Never."

She didn't even dignify that with a response.

Kara, barely suppressing a chuckle, elbowed him lightly. "Come on, let's go. I need food."

---

The sun had long since set, the warm hues of twilight giving way to the soft shimmer of starlight.

Timberstead was alive with nighttime energy — lanterns flickering along the cobbled streets, drunken laughter spilling from taverns, and the distant sound of musicians playing a tune for late-night dancers.

But Zayn wasn't out there enjoying it.

He was lying on his bed, staring at the wooden ceiling of his inn room, utterly and completely bored.

He had already checked his system twice, flicking through his new abilities and analyzing the Dire Boar souls stored in the Soulforge, but there was nothing particularly exciting about looking at glowing text hovering in front of him.

He could try to experiment with the souls — maybe absorb one — but even that didn't seem all that interesting right now.

He groaned, dragging a hand down his face.

It wasn't that he hated quiet moments, but after an entire day of hunting boars, selling their tusks, and dealing with the guild's half-elf receptionist, he had hoped for something a little more thrilling.

As if the gods had heard his internal complaints, a knock sounded at his door.

Knock. Knock.

Zayn sat up immediately.

He wasn't expecting anyone. Pushing himself off the bed, he stretched, cracking his neck before walking over to the door and pulling it open.

Bran stood there, arms crossed, his usual smirk plastered across his face.

"You look like you're dying of boredom," Bran observed, tilting his head.

"Because I am," Zayn replied flatly. "If you've got something interesting to offer, now's the time."

Bran's smirk widened. "How about we go to the Red Light District?"

For a moment, Zayn blinked. Then, a slow grin spread across his lips.

"Now that," he said, grabbing his coat, "is the best idea you've had all day."

---

The Red Light District of Timberstead was alive in a way the rest of the town wasn't.

Unlike the quiet marketplace or the formal adventurer's guild, this place thrived under the cover of night.

Rows of glowing lanterns lined the streets, casting everything in warm, flickering light. The scent of perfume and spiced wine filled the air, mixing with the occasional waft of something more indulgent.

Buildings stood adorned with colorful banners, silk curtains drawn just enough to hint at the pleasures within. Music played in the background — soft, teasing melodies meant to entice and seduce.

Women in elegant, form-fitting silks strolled along the streets, their painted lips curling into flirtatious smiles as they eyed potential customers.

Zayn took it all in, whistling under his breath. "Now this is a real part of town."

Bran laughed, throwing an arm around his shoulders. "Told you. Thought you could use a little fun after today's grind."

Zayn had to admit — he was right.

As they wandered further in, they passed a group of beastkin women, their soft tails swishing playfully as they whispered among themselves, sneaking glances at passing men.

An elven woman, her long silver hair shimmering under the lantern light, leaned against a wooden post, her golden eyes following them with lazy interest.

"Welcome, travelers," a sultry voice purred from their left.

Zayn turned just in time to see a woman approaching them. She had striking emerald eyes, long raven-black hair cascading over her shoulders, and a knowing smile that hinted at mischief.

Dressed in deep red silks, she moved with the kind of confidence that could easily make men weak in the knees.

Her delicate fingers trailed along Bran's shoulder as she passed, her voice low and inviting.

"Looking for a little company tonight?"

Bran grinned. "We might be."

Zayn, meanwhile, watched the interaction with amusement.

"You're awfully quiet," Bran teased, nudging him.

Zayn smirked. "Just taking in the sights. Got a recommendation?"

Bran pretended to think, rubbing his chin dramatically. "Well, if we're talking quality, the Velvet Petal is the most famous house around here. High-end service, exotic ladies, and even private rooms if you want something more... personal."

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Zayn raised an eyebrow. "Expensive?"

"Ridiculously."

"Well, then." Zayn turned toward a more modest-looking establishment with a bright lantern hanging above the entrance. "Guess I'll start with something that won't bankrupt me."

Bran laughed. "Suit yourself."

As they approached, a cheerful-looking bunny-eared hostess greeted them, her ears twitching as she gestured them inside.

"Welcome, gentlemen! Here for a drink? A little company? Or just looking around?"

Zayn exchanged glances with Bran before grinning. "Let's start with drinks and see where the night takes us."

Inside, the establishment had a warm, inviting atmosphere. Unlike the rowdier bars near the marketplace, this place had a softer touch — low lighting, comfortable seating, and a mix of people enjoying themselves in different ways.

Some were engaged in casual conversation with the ladies keeping them company, while others leaned closer, whispering sweet nothings under candlelight.

A waitress — a cat-eared woman with golden eyes — approached their table with a playful smile.

"What can I get for you boys?"

Bran wasted no time. "Something strong."

Zayn, smirking, leaned back in his chair. "Same. Surprise us."

The waitress winked. "Coming right up."

As she walked away, Zayn took a moment to glance around.

Their drinks arrived soon after — deep amber liquid served in fine glasses. Zayn took a sip, raising an eyebrow as the smooth, fiery taste spread through his mouth.

'Damn.'