Then Arlo decided it was time for him and Link to have some sort of vacation. The recent quests had been grueling, and a break felt long overdue. He reclined on his couch, Link curled at his feet, and began to wonder how a Pioneer could even go on vacation.
"Maybe Aria knows, I should ask her next time we meet" he muttered
For now, though, they improvised. They binged movies from across the multiverse—futuristic thrillers, a heartwarming animated flick from a Parallel Earth. After a few hours of watching movie, Arlo and Link decided to breath a fresh air at at the Ataraxis's Nature Park. At the park, Link bounded after frisbees, his tail wagging furiously, while Arlo enjoyed street food: sizzling meat skewers dipped in savory sauces and sweet alien fruit smoothies that bubbled like soda.
Their days of relaxation culminated in visits to renowned food markets. Arlo sampled delicacies from realms he could barely pronounce—flaky pastries stuffed with starfish-like creatures, grilled fungi emitting a tantalizing aroma of roasted chestnuts, and some spicy noodles that made his eyes water. He couldn't help but laugh as Link devoured his own gourmet treats designed for Pokémon.
One afternoon, as they shared a platter of an exotic dumplings, his BrainLink pinged.
Aria's face appeared in his HUD. "Hey, Arlo!" she greeted cheerfully. "Your celebration party is tomorrow night. I booked a private room at The Nouveau Table."
Arlo blinked, nearly dropping his chopsticks. "Wait, hold up. The Nouveau Table? The super-fancy, five-star place that fuses dishes from different universes?"
"The very same," Aria confirmed with a grin.
"Isn't that, like… insanely expensive?", Arlo ask
She shrugged. "It's tradition. Guides throw a celebration for their trainees when they pass. Don't worry about the cost. It's covered." He sighed.
"Fine. Can I bring Link?"
"Of course!" Aria chuckled. "Bring anyone you want. It's your party. Check your inbox for the details."
As soon as the call ended, a notification appeared.
The email read: [Location] - The Nouveau Table, Northern Commercial District, 21st Finian Street.[Date and Time] - January 14, 7:00 PM
Arlo sat back, rubbing his temples. "Guess I'm going to need decent clothes," he muttered.
Curious, he pulled up reviews of the restaurant on HUBNet. The place had a legendary reputation. Patrons raved about dishes that combined flavors from realities no one else could imagine. One reviewer mentioned tasting a dish that changed temperature with each bite. Another described a dessert that sang melodies as it melted.
The thought of dining there both excited and intimidated him.
"Aria's definitely a top-tier Pioneer,"he murmured, realizing just how far above his league she was. If she could casually book a place like this, her influence was immense.
Shaking his head, Arlo stood and stretched. First things first—clothes. He scanned his wardrobe with a critical eye.
A smirk tugged at his lips. "Like the Great Barney Stinson one said, Time to suit up."
....
The thought of attending a high-profile celebration made Arlo uneasy, but he knew the real challenge was figuring out who to bring as his plus one. He reclined on the couch, tossing a rubber ball toward Link, who caught it mid-air with a triumphant bark.
"Who do we take, buddy?" Arlo muttered, scrolling through his contacts. His thumb hovered over Maria's name. She had been a solid ally since his arrival in the HUB.
"She did help me survive half the insanity here," he reasoned, tapping her name.
The holo-screen blinked to life. Maria's face popped up, her signature messy ponytail framing a mischievous grin. "What's up, Arlo?"
"I need a favor to ask," Arlo said, scratching the back of his neck. "I passed my Pioneer test. Officially one of the gang now."
Her eyes lit up. "No way! That's awesome! Congrats, man. So, what's the deal? A victory lap?"
"Kind of." He rubbed his chin. "There's a celebration. My guide said I can bring a plus one. Thought you might want to come."
"Me?" Maria arched an eyebrow. "Why?"
"You've been there since I started. You're one of the few people I actually know in the Ataraxis,," Arlo said, shrugging.
Maria grinned but leaned closer to the screen. "Where's this celebration at?"
"The Nouveau Table, Northern Commercial District," Arlo replied casually.
Maria froze, her expression morphing from curiosity to disbelief."Wait, WHAT? The Nouveau Table? The crazy-expensive, top-tier restaurant that only Top Pioneers can even dream of?"
"Yeah," Arlo muttered. "Stop yelling."
"You're telling me your guide booked a celebration there?" Maria's eyes gleamed with envy. "That place is legendary! You realize this, right?"
"It's just a restaurant," Arlo said, rolling his eyes.Maria's voice dropped to a dramatic whisper.
"Just a restaurant? That's like calling the Sistine Chapel just a church. Do you know how exclusive it is? Your guide must be a beast. Who is it?"
"Aria Hartman," Arlo replied, a bit hesitant now.Maria's jaw dropped. "The Aria Hartman? She's a legend! An A-rank Pioneer in under a decade. How do you not know this? She's practically a walking goddess!"
"Goddess?" Arlo's mind raced, replaying their past interactions. "She can kill me with a flick of her wrist, can't she?"
"Pretty much," Maria said, deadpan. "So, yeah, I'm coming. No way am I missing this."
"Good," Arlo said, relieved. "Do you have a hovercar?"
"Of course I do. I'll pick you up. Email me your place." Arlo quickly sent his address. "We're meeting tomorrow. Don't be late."
"I'll be there with bells on," Maria replied, ending the call with a grin.
Arlo exhaled, slumping back into the couch.
"Link," he said, glancing at his companion, "Now that I have a plus one now's the time to search some clothes."
***
The bustling Western Shopping District radiated energy, filled with throngs of shoppers navigating the maze of neon-lit storefronts and holographic advertisements. Arlo maneuvered through the crowded lanes, Link trotting at his side, ears perked and tail wagging. The district was a labyrinth of luxury, with everything from bespoke tailor shops to specialty fabric stores. The air smelled faintly of synthetic lavender and leather.
He approached Mayfair Street, where the rows of men's tailor shops glimmered with sophisticated elegance. Each display window showcased suits so sharp they could cut through metal. One shop immediately caught Arlo's eye: [Alteration Boutique]. Its sign was a minimalistic brass plaque, and within, soft ambient lighting illuminated racks of finely crafted garments.
As Arlo stepped inside, a bell chimed—a pleasant, old-fashioned sound that seemed to belong to another era. The shop exuded warmth and refinement. Dark oak shelves were lined with fabric swatches, and ornate mannequins donned three-piece suits that would make any fashion aficionado weep with envy.Behind the counter stood a stately old man, his posture impeccable, wearing a perfectly tailored charcoal suit. His silver hair was combed back, and his sharp blue eyes sparkled with quiet confidence. Arlo felt as though he had walked into a conversation between elegance and precision.
"Welcome," the man greeted in a smooth, measured tone. "Julian Hatt, proprietor and tailor." He bowed slightly, a gesture of respect that was somehow both grand and understated.
Arlo smiled, mirroring the bow with an exaggerated flourish. "Arlo Leeroy. Adventurer, style novice, and survivor of questionable fashion choices."
Mr. Hatt raised a curious brow but chuckled softly. "A sharp wit. You are well-suited to this place, Mr. Leeroy."
Thanks to Arlo's Clown's Bodily Control, seamlessly adopting Julian's poised demeanor.
"It's all in the company you keep," he said, voice calm and refined.
Julian's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Remarkable mimicry. Most impressive. Now, tell me—what brings you to my humble establishment?"
"I need two things," Arlo began, stepping closer. "A custom-tailored suit and a normal suit. For pioneering and a celebration party, respectively."
He described the custom suit in detail: black, wide-collared, with contrast buttons, flap pockets, and folded-back cuffs. "It needs to be practical but stylish. Functional, yet durable enough for... the rougher side of my line of work."
Julian nodded thoughtfully. "Ah, a balance of elegance and utility. You've come to the right place. And the suit?"
"Black, with a vest. Formal, but not so stiff I can't breathe." The old tailor considered Arlo's requests.
"The custom coat will take several days," he mused. "The suit, however, I believe I have something suitable in stock. Shall we?"
Arlo spent the next fifteen minutes browsing the shop's immaculate collection. He finally selected a sleek black suit with subtle silver-thread accents running along the lapels.Julian adjusted the fit expertly, stepping back to admire his work.
"A perfect cut," he declared. "Does it meet your approval?" Arlo flexed his arms and nodded. "Fits like a dream."
"Excellent. Now, the coat. You'll need a full fitting." Julian fetched a tape measure and expertly took Arlo's measurements.
"How much?" Arlo asked.
"The suit—200 credits. The custom coat will range between 1,000 and 1,500 credits, depending on additional reinforcements and enchantments." Mr. Hatt said
Arlo winced but shrugged. "I'll take both."
The Arlo paid Mr. Hatt through brainLink for the suit and the custom made suit and his black suit which cost him 1700 Credit, Arlo sighed but he is still have 20025 credits left.
After completing the transaction, Julian bowed once more. "It has been a pleasure. May your journeys be as bold as your wardrobe."
With a grin, Arlo waved goodbye, Link trotting proudly beside him. They headed out into the bustling street, prepared for what came next.
***
The next day arrived with a faint golden hue filtering through Arlo's window.
Evening came quicker than he expected.Evening descended with a crimson-orange hue draped over the city skyline as Arlo stood in his apartment, adjusting the crisp black tie of his three-piece suit. The reflection staring back at him from the polished mirror made him smirk.
"Not bad, Leeroy. Not bad at all," he muttered.
His Clown's Bodily Control allowed his posture to flow with effortless grace, a touch of refinement that he didn't naturally possess. The suit hugged his frame perfectly, the sharp lapels and sleek vest complementing his lean build.
Link sat beside him, fur meticulously brushed, with a bow tie, his eyes shining with excitement. "You clean up well too," Arlo said, ruffling the Link's fur one last time.
His HUD pinged with an incoming call.
Arlo tapped accept, and Maria's beaming face filled his view. Her excitement radiated through the screen. "Hello! Are you ready? I don't want to be late!"
Arlo groaned, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Is it too late to swap partners for this thing?"
"Not a chance," she shot back with a grin. "I'm ten minutes out. Don't make me wait."
"Fine," Arlo sighed, half-smiling. "Email me when you're here."
He cut the call, shaking his head as he finished grooming Link. The Rockruff barked playfully, pawing at his shoes.
"You're not the one who has to wear a suit," Arlo muttered. He carefully recalled Link into his Luxury Ball before stepping into the shower.
A half-hour later, he stood in front of the full-length mirror, adjusting the lapel of his three-piece black suit. The tailored fit sharpened his slim build, the rich fabric catching the subtle light.
"Looking good," he murmured, his reflection smirking back. The suit made him feel like he belonged on the cover of a vintage spy novel.
A notification pinged. Maria had arrived.Taking the elevator down, he stepped outside, squinting against the evening glow as a silver hovercar descended. A figure stepped out—tall, confident. Arlo's eyes widened as the familiar voice called his name.
"Maria?" he asked, incredulous.She looked different without her signature glasses. Her dark hair fell in smooth waves, and a red dress hugged her figure.
"Yeah, it's me. Why are you staring?" she teased."You—"
Arlo stopped, then smirked. "You look amazing. Seriously."
"Nice try, but flattery will get you nowhere." She glanced at him, her eyes sparkling. "Well, maybe a little. Thanks."
He held the door open as she climbed back into the hovercar, and they zipped toward 21st Finian Street. As they approached The Nouveau Table, its facade loomed—a monument of glass and light, glowing glyphs twisting along marble pillars.
"Fancy," Arlo muttered.
"You think?" Maria handed the car off to the valet, smoothing the front of her dress.
Inside, the restaurant's opulence defied belief. Chandeliers floated unaided, casting prismatic rainbows across tables set with utensils from worlds he couldn't name. A living mural danced along the walls, galaxies shifting with each glance.
At the reception, Arlo stated, "Good Evening my name is Arlo Leeroy. Reservation under Aria Hartman."
The hostess smiled, her expression a mix of intrigue and formality. "Ah, the guest of honor. Please follow me."
Maria nudged Arlo as they walked. "A private room? Your guide really went all out."
"Apparently, this is tradition," he muttered, absorbing the grandeur. His eyes flicked to the towering ceilings and whispering holographic servers. "Still feels like a final boss arena."
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Hey everyone! It's been a 5 - 6 months since I last posted a new chapter, and I just wanted to apologize for the delay. School activities have kept me pretty busy, and I haven't had the time to write or update. But don't worry, I'm not dropping this fan-fiction! I'll be posting new chapters, though it might take me a little longer than usual.
From now on, I plan to update 1 chapter once a week. Thank you so much for your continued support, I really appreciate it!