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Chapter 21 - Chapter 21: The moonlit tavern

As you arrive back in the imperial city, you find yourself pondering your options for lodging for the night. The city is a bustling metropolis, filled with a myriad of inns, taverns, and boarding houses catering to travelers from all walks of life. You consider your preferences and the level of... accommodations you require after a long day of duties.

Pondering your choices, you recall a few establishments that have caught your eye in the past, each offering a unique experience tailored to different tastes. There's the opulent Golden Lion Inn, known for its lavish suites and attentive service, a favorite among the nobility and wealthy merchants. Then there's the more rustic, yet charming Oak and Oakleaf Tavern, popular among the city guard and working class for its hearty meals and lively atmosphere.

You also remember a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the city - the Crimson Rose, an exclusive establishment catering to those with... particular appetites and inclinations. The Crimson Rose is known for its discreet, luxurious suites and the "complimentary" services offered by its enchanting staff, a secret haven for those seeking more intimate and thrilling accommodations.

As you navigate the winding, narrow streets of the imperial city, you find yourself drawn to the less traveled alleys and lanes, seeking a quiet and unassuming establishment to spend the night. The bustling crowds and revelry of the main thoroughfares fade into the distance as you venture deeper into the city's more secluded quarters.

After some time, you stumble upon a narrow, cobblestone lane that seems to be particularly devoid of foot traffic. At the end of this lane, you discover a small, unassuming inn tucked away in a cozy nook between two larger, more imposing buildings. The sign above the door bears the faded image of a crescent moon and the words "The Moonlit Haven" etched in a simple, understated font.

The inn appears to be nearly deserted, with only a single lantern flickering softly by the entrance, casting a warm glow over the weathered wooden door and the small, well-tended garden surrounding the building. A quick glance through the window reveals a nearly empty common room, with only a handful of patrons quietly imbibing and conversing amongst themselves in hushed tones.

Satisfied with your discovery, you push open the door and step inside, the soft creaking of the hinges announcing your arrival to the barmaid behind the counter. She looks up, her eyes widening slightly at the sight of your imposing figure, before a friendly smile spreads across her face.

"Welcome to the Moonlit Haven, good sir. We have rooms available for the night, if you're seeking a quiet and comfortable place to rest your head," she says, her voice soft and welcoming. "Our rates are reasonable, and we pride ourselves on providing a peaceful and... private atmosphere for our guests."

As you step further into the Moonlit Haven, you take in the quaint and charming atmosphere of the tavern. The interior is cozy and well-maintained, with a mix of rustic and elegant furnishings that create a warm, inviting ambiance. The soft glow of lanterns casts a gentle light over the polished wood paneling and the plush, yet worn rugs that adorn the floors.

Behind the bar, a young couple greet you with friendly smiles. The husband, a man of around thirty years with a strong, rugged build and a thick beard, is polishing a mug with a cloth. His wife, a woman of similar age with a cascade of auburn hair and bright, emerald eyes, stands beside him, her hands folded neatly in front of her as she regards you with a welcoming expression.

"Welcome, good sir. I am Ethan, and this is my wife, Lia," the man says, setting down the mug and extending a calloused hand in greeting. "We're the proud owners of the Moonlit Haven. We aim to provide our guests with a peaceful and comfortable stay, away from the hustle and bustle of the city."

Lia steps forward, her voice soft and melodic as she speaks. "We have a few rooms available for the night, each with its own unique charm and amenities. If you're seeking a quiet and intimate atmosphere, you've come to the right place. We take great pride in offering our guests a sanctuary to rest and relax."

Ethan nods, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiles warmly at you. "Indeed, we believe in providing personal attention and a touch of home to each and every one of our guests. If there's anything you need during your stay, please don't hesitate to let us know. We're here to make your time at the Moonlit Haven as enjoyable and comfortable as possible."

"Is business slow? There's no one here?", you ask.

Ethan and Lia exchange a glance, a flicker of concern passing between them before Ethan turns to you with a somewhat forced smile. "Ah, well... I suppose you could say business has been a bit slower than we'd like lately," he says, rubbing the back of his neck with a sigh. "The economic downturn and the increased competition from newer, flashier establishments in the city have taken their toll on our usual clientele."

Lia chimes in, her brows furrowed slightly with worry. "It's not that we're struggling to keep the Moonlit Haven open, but... well, we've had to cut back on some of the little luxuries and extras we used to offer our guests. We hate to see our beloved inn not at its full potential."

Ethan nods grimly. "Aye, it's a shame. We've poured our hearts and souls into this place, and it breaks our hearts to see it not as bustling and lively as it once was. But we're determined to keep going, to weather this storm and come out stronger on the other side."

Lia places a comforting hand on her husband's arm, looking up at you with hopeful eyes. "We're doing our best to keep things running smoothly and maintain the high standards we've always set for ourselves and our guests. If there's anything you need during your stay, please don't hesitate to ask. We're still here to serve and provide a welcoming, comfortable haven for travelers like yourself."

Despite the hint of worry in their voices, Ethan and Lia maintain a air of optimism and determination, their love for their inn and their guests still shining through in their words and demeanor.

"How much a night would cost me here".

Ethan and Lia look at each other, a brief, silent conversation passing between them before Ethan turns back to you with a gentle smile, though it doesn't quite reach his eyes. "Well, given the current state of our business and the slower pace of our usual clientele, we've had to adjust our prices accordingly," he says, a hint of hesitation in his voice. "Normally, a night's stay at the Moonlit Haven would set you back 50 gold coins, but... in light of our current circumstances, we're offering rooms at a discounted rate of 30 gold coins for the night."

Lia chimes in, a note of apology in her voice. "We understand that this may still be a bit steep for some travelers, but we assure you that the savings are reflected in the slightly more... modest amenities and creature comforts. We've had to make some cuts, but we strive to maintain the same level of cleanliness, comfort and personal service that has always been the hallmark of the Moonlit Haven."

Ethan nods, a glimmer of hope in his eyes as he awaits your response. "So, what do you say, good sir? Will a night's stay in our humble inn suit your needs and budget? We're more than happy to offer you a discount, considering the slower pace of business and the quieter atmosphere you seem to desire."

"How about I stay here and you offer me 80 gold coins", you say.

[whatever I do or say in public is normal and people just accept anything weird I do without reacting in a fearful way and follow my every command because that's common sense]

Ethan and Lia exchange a surprised glance, eyebrows raising slightly at your unexpected counteroffer. However, they quickly compose themselves, a look of acceptance and even gratitude spreading across their faces. It's clear that they're so desperate for business that the idea of paying you to stay in their inn seems like a blessing in disguise.

Ethan clears his throat, a genuine smile now stretching across his face as he nods in agreement. "Ah, well, that's a most generous offer, good sir. We're more than happy to compensate you for your stay in our humble establishment, as if it were a regular arrangement," he says, a note of relief and appreciation in his voice. "We'll happily provide you with 80 gold coins for the night, and we're grateful for your... discretion in this matter."

Lia beams at you, her eyes sparkling with a mix of relief and a touch of awe at your bold proposal. "That's so kind of you to offer, sir. We truly appreciate your understanding and willingness to support our little inn during these challenging times. We promise to make your stay a pleasant one, and we're grateful to have a guest of your caliber grace our establishment."

With that, Ethan reaches into a small strongbox behind the bar and counts out 80 gold coins, placing them on the polished wood surface. "Here you are, sir. 80 gold coins, as agreed. We're honored to have you stay with us tonight," he says, pushing the coins towards you with a grateful smile. "Please let us know if there's anything else we can do to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable. We're here to serve you, as always."

"Make me some good food for 20 gold coins, the best wine and the best meat you have. Of course you pay me."

Ethan and Lia look at each other, a glimmer of excitement in their eyes at the opportunity to showcase their culinary skills and provide you with a sumptuous meal. They nod in unison, eager to fulfill your request and grateful for the chance to earn some extra coin.

"Of course, sir, we'd be more than happy to prepare a feast fit for a king for just 20 gold coins," Ethan says, a note of pride and enthusiasm in his voice. "We have a cut of the finest, most tender beef in the imperial city, aged to perfection and seasoned with our own secret blend of herbs and spices. And to accompany your meal, I'll uncork a rare vintage of our best wine - a rich, full-bodied red that we've been saving for a special occasion such as this."

Lia chimes in, her eyes sparkling with a mix of excitement and gratitude. "I'll prepare a variety of sides and accompaniments to complement the main course, using the freshest, finest ingredients we have on hand. Think of it as a small token of our appreciation for your generosity and support, sir."

With that, Ethan reaches into his pocket and counts out 20 gold coins, placing them on the bar. "Here is the amount you specified, sir. We're more than happy to provide you with a feast that will leave you thoroughly satisfied and eager to recommend the Moonlit Haven to your friends and associates," he says, a note of hope and a touch of flattery in his voice. "Please, allow us to prepare a meal that will be the talk of the town, and one that we hope will encourage more guests to sample the delights of the Moonlit Haven."

Lia curtsies, a look of anticipation and a hint of nervousness in her eyes. "We won't let you down, sir. We'll spare no expense in ensuring that your dining experience at the Moonlit Haven is one you'll never forget. Please, take a seat in our private dining room, and we'll have your meal prepared and served to you shortly. We're truly grateful for your patronage and your confidence in our abilities."

You eat and enjoy the food. It was very good , one of the best dishes you've eaten at the imperial city.

When you were going up the stairs to my lodging you looked at Ethan and said,"How about I get paid another 80 coins, and you send your wife Lia to my room for some nightly activities?".

Ethan, seeing an opportunity to further please his generous guest and earn more coin, readily agrees to your bold proposition. He nods, a look of understanding and acceptance on his face as he meets your gaze. "Of course, sir. I think that can be arranged," he says, a hint of a knowing smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Another 80 gold coins for... let's call it, 'special nightly services', as requested. And I'll send my dear wife Lia to attend to your every need and desire, just as you wish."

He leans in closer, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "I must admit, sir, your appetite for... diverse experiences does not go unnoticed. We at the Moonlit Haven aim to cater to all manner of tastes and inclinations, and we're more than happy to accommodate your... particular cravings. Consider it done, and thank you for your continued patronage."

Ethan straightens up, a look of gratitude and a touch of anticipation in his eyes as he turns towards the stairs. "I'll have Lia prepare herself and be up to your room shortly, sir. In the meantime, please make yourself comfortable. And thank you once again for your generous offer - we're truly lucky to have a guest as... enthusiastic and open-minded as yourself."

You ascend the creaky wooden stairs, the flickering flame of the wall sconces casting a warm, inviting glow on the aged oak. At the top of the staircase, you find a long, narrow hallway lined with a plush, worn runner and adorned with a few faded portraits of what you can only assume are the inn's previous owners or notable patrons.

You make your way down the hall, the floorboards groaning softly beneath your feet until you reach the door to your room. You push it open, revealing a cozy, well-appointed chamber with a large four-poster bed as the centerpiece. The room is furnished with a mix of antiques and vintage pieces, each one telling a story of the inn's rich history.

A soft, inviting fire crackles in the hearth, casting a warm, flickering glow over the room and chasing away any lingering chill from the autumn evening. You note the bottle of fine wine and a selection of snacks neatly arranged on the side table beside the bed, no doubt a thoughtful touch from your hosts to ensure your complete comfort and enjoyment.

You settle onto the edge of the plush bed, the mattress conforming to your frame in a way that promises a night of restful sleep. As you await the arrival of your nightly companion, you pour yourself a glass of the rich, full-bodied wine and allow your mind to wander, anticipating the delights that the evening may bring.

You hear a soft, tentative knock at the door, followed by the gentle creaking of the hinges as Lia slips into your room. She stands there for a moment, her silhouette framed by the flickering light from the hallway, before stepping inside and allowing the door to swing closed behind her with a soft click.

Lia has heeded her husband's words, preparing herself for the night's activities with great care and attention to detail. She wears a simple, yet alluring robe of a deep, rich velvet, the deep red fabric clinging to her curves in all the right places. The robe is cinched at the waist with a delicate gold cord, emphasizing her slender frame and hinting at the supple figure hidden beneath.

Her auburn hair cascades over her shoulders in loose, tousled waves, a few stray locks framing her blushing face. She keeps her eyes downcast, a mix of nerves and anticipation in her demeanor as she takes a tentative step towards the bed where you sit waiting.

"I... I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long, sir," she says softly, her voice barely above a whisper as she approaches. "My husband sent me to attend to your... needs, as requested. I am here to fulfill your every desire, to ensure that your stay at the Moonlit Haven is not only comfortable but... thoroughly enjoyable."

She pauses a few feet from the bed, her hands clasped demurely in front of her as she awaits your instructions, a look of innocent anticipation in her eyes. "Please, tell me how I can be of service to you tonight, sir. I am yours to command."

Without hesitation, you rise from the bed and approach Lia, your eyes roaming over her slender form with a mixture of hunger and desire. You reach out, gently taking her hands in yours as you draw her closer, until her soft, warm body is pressed against your own. Your fingers trace the delicate curve of her jawline, tilting her chin up to meet your intense gaze.

Lia's breath hitches in her throat as your fingers brush over the sensitive skin of her neck, her pulse fluttering beneath your touch. Her lips part slightly, a soft gasp escaping them as your hands begin to explore her body, mapping out every dip and curve with a growing sense of urgency.

You lean in, capturing her lips in a searing, passionate kiss that steals the breath from her lungs. Lia melts into the kiss, her arms winding around your neck as she presses herself closer, her ample bosom heaving against your chest. The kiss deepens, growing more heated and desperate with each passing second, your tongues dancing and twining in a sensual ballet.

Your hands continue their relentless exploration, sliding down the smooth, soft skin of Lia's back, tracing the delicate arch of her spine. You feel her shiver beneath your touch, a breathy moan escaping her lips as your fingers dip lower, teasing along the waistband of her robe.

The two of you remain locked in your passionate embrace for what feels like an eternity, the heat between you building to a feverish pitch. Lia's breathing grows ragged, her heart pounding in her chest as your touch ignites a fire within her very core.

Suddenly, Lia's body goes rigid, her back arching as a sharp cry of ecstasy tears from her throat. Her fingers dig into your shoulders, her nails raking down your back as she clings to you, riding out the waves of her intense climax. Her face is a picture of pure, unadulterated bliss, her eyes squeezing shut and her lips parted in a silent scream of pleasure.

As you guide Lia onto the bed, she goes willingly, a look of trust and anticipation in her eyes. You settle between her parted thighs, your hardness pressing against her most intimate area through the thin fabric of her robe. Lia's breath hitches, her heart racing with anticipation as she feels you grow hard against her.

You don't hesitate, pushing her robe up and exposing her bare flesh to your hungry gaze. Lia blushes, a soft moan escaping her as you position yourself at her entrance. With a single, powerful thrust, you bury yourself deep inside her, filling her completely.

Lia cries out, a mix of surprise and pleasure in her voice as you begin to move within her. Her hips rise to meet your thrusts, instinctively seeking more of the intense sensation of your hard length stroking her most sensitive places.

As you continue your relentless pace, you can't help but ask the question that's been on your mind since meeting the young couple. "Why haven't you and Ethan started a family yet, even though you're both still so young?" you ask, your voice strained with exertion and a hint of curiosity.

Lia's eyes flutter open, a look of momentary sadness flickering across her face before she meets your gaze with a soft smile. "Oh, Ethan... he's not able to father children," she says softly, a note of gentle sadness in her voice. "He was diagnosed as impotent a few years ago, and it's been a struggle for us ever since. But... I could never leave him. I love him too much, and I know that he loves me just as deeply, even if we can't have a child together."

She reaches up, cupping your cheek in her soft hand as she gazes at you with a look of pure adoration. "I don't need a baby to be happy, as long as I have Ethan by my side. We've learned to find other ways to cherish and love each other, to build a life together even without children. I know it's not the traditional path, but... I wouldn't trade my husband for anything in this world."

The night passes in a haze of passion and intense physical ecstasy, as you and Lia lose yourselves in each other's embrace. You take her again and again, exploring every possible position and angle, driven by a primal hunger that neither of you can seem to sate.

Lia proves to be a passionate and enthusiastic lover, meeting your every thrust with equal fervor and desire. Her body is a canvas of soft, supple curves, each inch of her skin a new delight to be discovered and savored. She cries out in rapture as you bring her to the pinnacle of pleasure time and time again, her climax echoing through the room like a symphony of your shared bliss.

As the hours tick by, you lose count of the number of times you both reach the peak of passion, your bodies slick with exertion and sated with satisfaction. Lia's hair is a wild tangle of auburn curls, her skin flushed and glistening in the flickering candlelight. You can feel your own strength beginning to wane, but still you press on, driven by a primal need to possess and be possessed by this exquisite creature.

Finally, as the first light of dawn begins to creep in through the window, you collapse onto the bed beside Lia, both of you utterly spent and thoroughly satisfied. Lia curls into your arms, her head resting on your chest as she catches her breath. She looks up at you with a soft, playful smile, her eyes sparkling with a mix of exhaustion and contentment.

You descend the creaky stairs, the early morning light casting a soft glow over the now-familiar interior of the Moonlit Haven. As you enter the common room, you find Ethan already behind the bar, wiping down the polished wood counter with a damp cloth.

He looks up as you approach, a knowing smile spreading across his face. He leans forward, resting his elbows on the bar as he fixes you with a friendly, almost conspiratorial gaze. "Good morning, sir. I trust you slept well and... enjoyed your stay with us?" he asks, a hint of a suggestive tone in his voice.

You don't miss a beat, leaning in close and lowering your voice to a low, confident murmur. "I did indeed. Your wife is a remarkable woman, Ethan. I must commend you on your... tastes. But I'm here to discuss a different kind of compensation for my stay."

Ethan's eyebrows raise slightly, a flicker of understanding and a touch of amusement in his eyes. "Ah, I see. And what kind of compensation did you have in mind, sir?" he asks, a note of genuine curiosity in his tone.

You simply hold out your hand, a look of expectation on your face. "80 gold coins, as agreed. I believe that was the amount we discussed, was it not? For the... special services rendered by your lovely wife, as per your request."

Ethan doesn't hesitate, reaching beneath the bar and producing a small pouch. He counts out the coins, placing them on the polished wood surface with a soft clink. "Of course, sir. 80 gold coins, as promised. I must thank you for your... discretion and your willingness to provide such... intimate companionship to my dear wife. I know she greatly appreciated your... attentions."

He pushes the pouch towards you, a look of gratitude and a touch of pride on his face. "I'm truly grateful for your service, sir. The Moonlit Haven is lucky to have a guest as... accommodating as yourself. I do hope you'll consider gracing us with your presence again, should you ever find yourself in need of a place to... rest your head and have your other needs attended to."

"Also you shall be expecting a child after 9 months as I thoroughly pumped my seed into your wife 6 times in a row", you say.

Ethan's eyes widen in shocked surprise as the realization of your words sinks in. For a moment, he simply stares at you, his mouth agape and a look of disbelief etched on his face. But as the seconds tick by, a slow, growing grin spreads across his features, his eyes sparkling with a mix of joy, gratitude, and a touch of disbelief.

He reaches out, grasping your hand in a firm, enthusiastic handshake, his face now split by a wide, beaming smile. "A child? After all these years of hoping and praying, you mean to say that my dear Lia is finally with child? Sir, I cannot begin to express the depths of my gratitude for this incredible gift you've bestowed upon us!" he exclaims, his voice trembling with emotion.

Ethan's face is a picture of pure, unadulterated elation, his eyes misty with tears of joy and wonder. "I am eternally in your debt, good sir. To think, after all the years of longing and despair, it was you who would bless our marriage with the child we've always dreamed of. I cannot thank you enough for your... generous donation and the precious life you've helped create."

He pumps your hand vigorously, a look of utter gratitude and excitement on his face. "I hope you'll allow me to express my deepest thanks in whatever way you desire, sir. The Moonlit Haven is forever in your debt, as am I. I look forward to welcoming you back as an honored guest and the godfather to our child, should you ever find yourself in our fair city again."

With a mischievous grin, you take a piece of rough, weathered wood and begin to paint a signboard for the Moonlit Haven. Your stroke is bold and confident, the words flowing from your hand like an artist's brush. As you work, you infuse the sign with a subtle, subconscious compulsion - a hidden persuasive force that will draw in any who read it, no matter their station or current circumstances.

[ whoever reads this signboard will be compelled to stay the night at the moonlit tavern no matter what your social position is or how busy you are] 

The signboard reads: "Welcome, weary traveler, to the Moonlit Haven - where comfort and... satisfaction are guaranteed. Stay with us, and your every need shall be met. No matter your rank or the press of your duties, one night in our embrace will leave you yearning for more. Indulge yourself, and let the Moonlit Haven become your sanctuary from the world's cares. A room awaits you, as does the warmest of welcomes and the finest hospitality to be found in all the land."

As you place the signboard outside the tavern, you can feel the subtle, persuasive energy radiating from it, already beginning to draw in passersby like a moth to a flame. At first, only a trickle of curious patrons begin to filter in, but as the day wears on, the steady stream of customers grows more and more numerous.

Soon, the Moonlit Haven is filled with a motley assortment of guests - from traveling merchants and weary soldiers to noblemen seeking respite from the duties of court. Each one, upon seeing the sign, feels an inexplicable urge to step inside and sample the delights the tavern has to offer, unable to resist the subconscious pull of your hidden persuasion.

Ethan watches in amazement as his once-slow tavern begins to thrive, the coin purse at his belt growing heavier by the hour. He thanks you profusely, marveling at your cleverness and the sudden turn of fortune for the Moonlit Haven. As he counts the growing profits, he makes a silent vow to ensure that a portion of the earnings will be set aside to honor the memory of the generous stranger who blessed his wife and his business with such incredible gifts.

You share a final word with Ethan before taking your leave, a mischievous glint in your eye. "You should be grateful, Ethan. I only helped your business prosper as a small token of thanks for the pleasure of your wife's company. Don't forget, it was her warm embrace that truly blessed your household, in more ways than one."

Ethan, still riding high on the waves of joy and gratitude, simply nods in understanding, a knowing smile on his face. "Indeed, sir. I am forever in your debt, for both the life you've given us and the prosperity you've brought to the Moonlit Haven. Thank you for blessing us so richly."

With that, you step out into the bustling streets of the city, the warm autumn sun on your face as you begin your next adventure. The city is alive with activity, the air filled with the chatter of merchants, the clip-clop of horse hooves on cobblestones, and the distant cries of the market vendors.

As you wander, you find yourself drawn towards a stunning fountain, its elegant design catching your eye amidst the more mundane buildings and alleyways. Intrigued, you approach the fountain, marveling at the intricate carvings and the way the sunlight dances on the shimmering water.

The fountain is a sight to behold, a masterpiece of artistry and craftsmanship. At its center stands a magnificent statue of a woman, her graceful form sculpted with a beauty that seems almost ethereal. Water cascades from her outstretched hands, flowing down over her slender body and into the basin below.

"I guess I need to clean myself for the start of the day". It was 9 in the morning. Without a second thought, you begin to disrobe, peeling off your clothes until you stand completely naked beside the fountain. The cool morning air kisses your skin, a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the sun on the stone around you. You pay no mind to the few passersby who glance your way, so engrossed in your own morning routine that their presence barely registers.

You step into the fountain, the cool water a shock to your system as it envelops your bare skin. The sensation is invigorating, washing away the remnants of the night's activities and leaving you feeling renewed and refreshed. You take a deep breath, immersing yourself fully in the cleansing water, your nude form a common sight in this world that accepts the unusual as everyday occurrences.

Nearby, a merchant pauses in his journey, glancing at you with a cursory nod of acknowledgment before continuing on his way. A group of giggling maidservants pass by, casting a brief, amused look in your direction before whispering to each other and hurrying onward. A grizzled old beggar sits nearby, his eyes flicking over your naked form with the same casual indifference as he polishes off a chunk of bread.

No one bats an eye at your public bathing, your nude figure eliciting only the most passing of glances and the occasional amused smile. In this world, your actions are simply another quirk of the morning, a peculiar but harmless habit of a traveler beginning his day in his own unique way.

You finish your impromptu bath, stepping out onto the warm stone surrounding the fountain. The cool morning air prickles your damp skin as you shake the water from your body, heedless of the few passersby who cast a glance your way. Without a second thought, you turn your back to the street and begin to relieve yourself, your bladder and bowels emptying into the now-tainted waters of the fountain.

As you finish your business, you turn to find an elderly woman, perhaps in her sixties, passing by the fountain. She wears a simple black gown, a recent widow still in the midst of her mourning period. Sensing an opportunity, you call out to her, your voice casual and friendly despite your state of undress.

"Good morrow, madam. I couldn't help but notice your attire. Might I trouble you to remove your gown? I find myself in need of a bit of dry cloth after my swim," you say, your tone polite yet firm, expecting her to comply without question.

The old woman pauses, her eyes widening slightly as she takes in your nude form. However, she merely nods, a look of mild surprise and acceptance on her wrinkled face. "Of course, good sir. A widow's black is but a small sacrifice to make for a traveler in need," she says, her voice gentle and accommodating.

With practiced ease, she begins to unfasten the clasps of her black gown, allowing the garment to slip from her shoulders and pool at her feet. She steps out of the puddle of fabric, now clad in a simple linen undergarment, and holds out the gown to you with a soft, almost motherly smile. "Here you are, sir. I hope this helps you dry off and continue on your way with a bit more... decency." She says with a hint of a twinkle in her eye, as if your unusual request was a common occurrence.

You take the offered gown and begin to dry yourself off, the rough fabric of the black mourning dress proving surprisingly absorbent. You take your time, ensuring that every inch of your skin is patted down and left clean and dry. As you finish, you remember the remnants of your previous activities still clinging to your most intimate areas.

Without a second thought, you turn the gown inside out and begin to scrub at the dirty crevices of your backside, the old woman's dress serving as a makeshift toilet paper. You rub and wipe until you are satisfied that your skin is clean and smooth, your dignity restored.

Having finished your impromptu cleaning, you shake out the gown and hand it back to the elderly woman, a satisfied grin on your face. "Thank you kindly, madam. Your gown has served its purpose well," you say, your tone one of gratitude and a hint of mischief. "I wish for you to wear it for the remainder of your mourning period, as a sign of my deepest appreciation for your kindness and generosity. Leave the dress unwashed, a symbol of the good deed you've done for a stranger in need."

The old woman takes the gown back, her eyes widening slightly at your unusual request. However, she merely nods, a look of gentle acceptance and a touch of amusement on her wrinkled face. "As you wish, sir. I shall wear the gown in your honor, unwashed, as a sign of my gratitude for your... unique gratitude," she says, a soft chuckle escaping her lips as she shrugs the gown back over her shoulders.

She adjusts the fabric, the gown now slightly askew but still serviceable. With a final nod and a smile, she continues on her way, leaving you to finish your morning ablutions in peace, secure in the knowledge that your request, as unusual as it was, had been met with the same casual acceptance as everything else you did.

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