Gaia's Champion Ch. 54 - Teaser (Patreon)

They drove through the city, the urban landscape gradually shifting from bustling shops and cafes to taller, more modern buildings. Eventually, they pulled up to a new high-rise condo, its glass facade gleaming in the midday sun. Jilraya’s eyes widened, taking in the sleek lines, the well-maintained landscaping, and the meticulously polished lobby entrance.

Several well-dressed people milled about outside, chatting quietly or making their way to waiting cars. Security guards stood near the entrance, their uniforms crisp and their presence more than just a formality. A discreet but visible security checkpoint was placed just inside the lobby doors. Zaryna let out a low whistle, eyeing the building with both surprise and curiosity.

“Damn... this place is ritzy,” she muttered. “I knew Soraya wasn’t a pauper, but this? This is high-class living. Places like this don’t come cheap.”

Jilraya glanced at her, sipping on her root beer. “How cheap are we talking?”

Zaryna snorted. “Places like this? Super exclusive. Usually means either connections out the wazoo or piles of money at your disposal. Given how young your body is... I’m betting it’s the second option. She either came from money, made a hell of a lot of it herself, or has someone bankrolling her.”

Jilraya arched an eyebrow. “So... I’m rich?”

“Seems like it,” Zaryna replied, a hint of amusement in her tone. “Just don’t go blowing it all at once. And remember — people who live here? They’ll notice if you suddenly act like a wild animal. You’ve got to play the part.”

Jilraya rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah. I’ll behave... mostly.”

Zaryna just smirked, parking the car in a visitor spot and eyeing the building one more time. “Let’s head inside and get the lay of the land. We’ll need to figure out who your neighbors are and how to handle your ‘return from the hospital’ story. Places like this... people notice when someone’s gone for too long.”

“Alright,” Jilraya said, gathering her resolve. “Let’s go see how the other half lives.”

Zaryna nodded, smirking again as they made their way to the entrance. As they approached, one of the security guards gave them a once-over, clearly recognizing Soraya’s face but still giving a polite nod. Jilraya gave him a quick, confident smile, mentally reminding herself to act like she belonged here.

Jilraya strode confidently past the security guards at the entrance, not even slowing down as they gave her a quick nod of recognition. One of them even tipped his hat slightly, murmuring, “Good to see you back, Miss Soraya.”

Jilraya just flashed him a quick, casual smile, her gait smooth and unbothered. Zaryna followed a step behind, barely containing her amusement at how effortlessly Jilraya had slipped into Soraya’s role. Once inside the grand lobby, Jilraya sauntered up to the concierge desk, where a tall, middle-aged man in a sharp suit was sorting through some mail. As soon as he looked up and caught sight of her, his face broke into a wide smile.

“Miss Soraya! You’re back!” he greeted warmly, his tone genuinely relieved. “We were a bit worried when we didn’t see you around for a while. Are you alright?”

Jilraya dug through Soraya’s memories, recalling this man’s name — Charles. He was always polite and attentive, one of those diligent types who took pride in his job. Adopting Soraya’s usual tone, she gave him a gracious smile.

“I’m fine, Charles,” she replied smoothly, her voice carrying just the right amount of warmth. “I had a bit of a health scare, but I’m back on my feet now. Thank you for checking in — it’s nice to know people here care.”

Charles nodded, looking genuinely pleased. “Of course, ma’am. You gave us quite a fright. Welcome back.”

He then looked over at Zaryna, raising an inquisitive eyebrow.

“Oh,” Jilraya said with a light laugh. “This is Zaryna, an old friend of mine. She’ll be staying with me for a while to help me get back on my feet.”

Charles gave a polite nod. “Of course, Miss Soraya. I’ll make a note for the staff. If you need anything, just let us know.”

“Thanks, Charles,” Jilraya said, flashing him a bright smile before continuing towards the elevators, with Zaryna trailing behind. As they stepped into the elevator, Zaryna let out a low chuckle.

“Look at you, playing the part like a pro.”

Jilraya smirked, leaning back against the elevator wall. “Takes one to know one. Besides, I remembered his name. That was half the battle.”

Zaryna just shook her head, clearly impressed despite herself. “You’re lucky that Soraya’s face is familiar around here. Makes blending in a lot easier.”

“Twenty-fifth floor,” she murmured, remembering from Soraya’s memories.

Jilraya shrugged, glancing at the button panel before pressing twenty-five. As the elevator began its smooth ascent, she rummaged through the Coach bag she was carrying, fingers brushing past makeup, a wallet, and other essentials. Finally, she found the familiar jingling of keys and pulled them out triumphantly.

When the elevator dinged and the doors slid open, Jilraya led the way out, navigating the elegantly decorated hallway with confidence. The plush carpet underfoot muffled their footsteps as they made their way to the door marked 2503.