Sunlight filtered through the curtains of Yamano Yusuri's room in Emerald Orphanage, casting a warm glow on the walls adorned with drawings and colorful posters. As the first rays of dawn began to dance across the small space, Yamano stirred from his slumber, stretching lazily in his cozy bed.
Just as he started to savor the comfort of his awakening, a cheerful cacophony erupted outside his bedroom door. Laughter, giggles, and the unmistakable sound of scurrying footsteps filled the air. The source of the ruckus? His fellow inhabitants of the all monster-girls orphanage, who seemed to have chosen this particular morning to unleash their boundless energy.
Yamano groaned, burying his face in his pillow, hoping to reclaim a few more minutes of blissful sleep. However, fate had different plans for him.
The door burst open, and a parade of monster-girls flooded into the room, their exuberance undeniable. Hikari, the residence Succubus, led the charge with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. Following her were an array of vibrant characters – Haru the playful Harpy, Mina the shy Mermaid, and Suki the adventurous Kitsune, among others.
"WAKEY WAKEY, ONII-CHAN! TIME TO WAKE UP!!" Hikari's melodic voice greeted him, her petite body gracefully navigating the room.
Yamano mumbled in response, pulling the covers over his head, hoping that the world outside his blanket fort would disappear.
But Hikari, undeterred, hold the bedpost and playfully tugged at the covers. "Onii-chan, open your eyes. The day is waiting for us, and so are these delightful girls!"
With a sigh, Yamano emerged from his blanket sanctuary, rubbing his eyes. "Can't I sleep in just once?"
Haru, the Harpy with feathery wings and a mischievous grin, fluttered down to sit on the edge of the bed. "No way, Yamano-niisan! You promised us that you will play with us."
Yamano raised an eyebrow, a hint of curiosity replacing his grogginess. "Did I say that? I can't remember."
Suki, the Kitsune with multiple tails and a playful spirit, added, "And we thought we'd wake you up! Mama Lumina said it was okay ."
" Did someone mentioned my name?" a soft, motherly voice coming from outside Yamano's room.
Lumina, the caretaker and Holstaur monster-girl, made her graceful entrance. Her large, gentle eyes surveyed the scene, taking in the excited expressions of the girls gathered around Yamano.
"Good morning, Mama Lumina!" Suki, the Kitsune, greeted with a wide grin.
"Morning, Mama Lumina! We just wanted to play with Yamano," Haru, the Harpy, added.
Lumina slowly approached the group. "That's wonderful, my darlings. But I think it's time for your beloved brother to tend some errands for us."
The girls collectively pouted, but Lumina's warm smile assured them. "Don't worry; you can continue your playtime later. Now, go and enjoy the fresh air outside. Perhaps a game of tag in the garden?"
Their faces lit up with excitement, and with a chorus of cheers, the monster-girls bounded out of the room, leaving Lumina and Yamano in a quieter atmosphere.
"Now, Yamano," Lumina began, her voice carrying a soothing quality, "I have a little task for you. We need some groceries for today's lunch, evening tea and dinner. Oh, and tomorrow as well. Would you mind going to the market to fetch them?"
Yamano nodded, already accustomed to helping with the household chores. "Of course, Mama Lumina. I'll go after I take a quick bath."
Lumina's eyes twinkled with affection. "That sounds like a plan. Make sure to pick up everything on this list. I don't want the same thing like last week happened." she said, handing him a small parchment with neatly written items.
Yamano smiled in a smugful way. " Come on, Mama. It's me you're talking about. I never missed a thing."
" That's why I don't have enough ingredients to cook last week because of you. Remember, I had to order pizza for you and the girls." Lumina pouted as she pinched Yamano's cheek for his over-confident self.
Yamano grunted because of Lumina pinched his cheek. " Sorry Mama. I promised I won't do that again...probably."
Lumina immediately flicked Yamano's forehead. Lumina just giggled as Yamano rubbed his injured forehead.
As Yamano prepared to leave, Lumina held out a hand to stop him. "Before you go, my dear, there's something else."
Yamano turned to face her, curiosity in his eyes. Lumina approached him with a maternal gentleness, cupping his cheek with her hand. "You grew up so fast, Yamano. I never thought that I get to take care a human like you."
A warm smile graced Lumina's face as she leaned down and pressed a soft kiss on Yamano's forehead. It was a tender gesture, a motherly expression of care and gratitude. Yamano, though slightly surprised, felt a comforting warmth enveloping him.
"Thanks, Lumina," he said, touched by the gesture.
With a gentle pat on his cheek, Lumina encouraged him. "Now, go on and take that bath. The market can wait a little while longer."
Yamano nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. As he made his way to the bathroom, he couldn't help but reflect on the unique family he had found in the all monster-girls orphanage, and the caring presence of Lumina, whose love and guidance shaped their home into a haven of warmth and acceptance.
Freshly bathed and invigorated, Yamano made his way to the carriage with attached motors parked just outside the orphanage. The town of Carved Stone stretched before him, its charming streets bustling with a myriad of monster-girls and townsfolk going about their daily lives.
As the carriage glided through the cobblestone streets, Yamano waved at familiar faces. Carved Stone was a close-knit community, and Yamano had become a recognizable figure in the town for being the only male human in a monster-girls orphanage. The townsfolk, a mix of humans and monster-girls, greeted him warmly.
"Good day, Yusuri-san!"
"Hello there, young man!"
"Good morning, human. Busy as always?"
The friendly exchanges filled the air as the carriage meandered through the vibrant town. Yamano couldn't help but appreciate the sense of community that Carved Stone offered.
Finally arriving at the marketplace, Yamano parked the carriage beside a bustling bakery. " Let see what I need to buy today? Goodness gracious, the girls ate a lot these days. Might as well made a buffet while you at it." Yamano read the grocery list Lumina gave earlier.
The aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air, tempting him to pause and indulge. He slapped his cheek lightly, reminding himself of the task at hand.
"Focus, Yamano," he muttered under his breath, determined to resist the delightful distraction. With the shopping list in hand, he entered the bustling marketplace, a lively hub of activity where vendors peddled their wares and colorful stalls showcased a variety of goods.
Yamano navigated the crowded marketplace, exchanging pleasantries with vendors he had come to know over time. The monster-girls behind the stalls greeted him cheerfully, offering samples of their unique products – enchanted fruits, vibrant potions, and even a stall where a Cyclops crafted intricate jewelry.
His first stop was the produce section, where a friendly Dryad offered him the freshest fruits and vegetables. Yamano carefully selected the items on Lumina's list, ensuring the colors and textures were just right. The bustling market atmosphere added an extra layer of excitement to his shopping experience.
As he moved through the market, the savory scent of roasted meats from a barbecue stall teased his senses. Yamano's stomach rumbled, and he couldn't help but glance over at the sizzling skewers. However, he shook his head, reminding himself that he needed to stay focused.
Approaching the last few stalls, Yamano spotted a cozy spice shop. The rich aroma of various herbs and spices enveloped him, making him appreciate the diversity of flavors that enhanced their meals at the orphanage.
With the basket now filled with all the necessary items, Yamano headed back to the carriage. Passing by the bakery once more, the tempting scent of fresh pastries and bread beckoned him. He slapped his cheek again, a determined look in his eyes.
"No, not this time. Groceries first," he whispered to himself.
As he loaded the carriage with the carefully selected items, Yamano couldn't shake off the lingering aroma of the bakery. He immediately went inside the bakery to do some "survey."
The enticing aroma of freshly baked pastries and cakes beckoned to Yamano as he passed by the bakery on his way back to the carriage. Unable to resist the pull, he found himself stepping through the door, drawn in by the warm and heavenly scent that filled the air.
Inside, the bakery was a haven of delightful sights and sounds. The clinking of baking utensils, the hum of ovens, and the sight of expert hands crafting delectable treats captivated Yamano's senses. Trays of golden croissants, glazed doughnuts, and intricately decorated cakes adorned the display counters, tempting him with their sweet allure.
As he stood there, momentarily captivated by the array of pastries, the owner, a man with almond-coloured hair, with a welcoming smile, noticed him. "Good day, son! Welcome to our humble bakery. Is there anything I can help you with?"
Yamano hesitated, torn between the desire to indulge in the sweet treats and the responsibility to stick to the grocery list for the orphanage. "To be honest, sir. I don't have enough money to buy anything here. Just had to do some... rain-check."
The man smile remained warm as she regarded him with understanding. "Oh, don't you worry about that, son. We just opened our shop and now tried to make some new customers. Come with me."
Yamano followed the owner to the pastry display. The man gave a quick scan and decided what he want to give Yamano." How about a loaf of our freshly baked potato bread? On the house!"
Yamano's eyes widened in surprise and gratitude. "Really? Thank you so much, sir! That's very kind of you."
The owner retrieved a soft, warm loaf of potato bread and handed it to Yamano. "Consider it a little gift. Everyone deserves a treat now and then."
Yamano accepted the unexpected gift with a thankful smile. The simple act of kindness touched his heart, and he couldn't help but feel a warmth spreading within him.
"Thank you again. I'll make sure to come back when I have some money. I promise" Yamano promised.
The owner chuckled, her eyes gleaming with kindness. " Sure thing, son. Come again soon."
However, the owner thinked about something about Yamano. He decided to stop Yamano." Wait a minute, son. Can I ask you something? Is this rumor true?"
" What rumor, sir?" Yamano asked the owner.
Is it true that you're the only human living in the monster-girl orphanage?" asked the owner.
Yamano nodded, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "Yes, that's correct. I've been living there since I was a baby. Mama Lumina took care of me like one of her own."
The owner's gaze held a mix of interest and understanding. "Ah, I thought as much. You know, there's been quite a buzz around town about it. People are talking, and I've overheard whispers about the kind-hearted human in the monster-girl orphanage."
Yamano couldn't help but chuckle. "Really? I didn't think my presence would be such a topic of conversation."
The Gorgon grinned, a twinkle in her eyes. "Oh, Carved Stone's people really like to talk and yours seems to be capturing the imaginations of many."
He leaned in slightly, as if sharing a secret. "I must say, the rumors have been positive. They say you bring a special kind of warmth to the orphanage."
Yamano smiled modestly, appreciating the unexpected recognition. "Basically, I owed my life to them. Knowing that some monster-girls treated human after the incident."
The owner nodded. "By the way, I believe my daughter might be at the orphanage as we speak, spreading the word about our recently opened bakery. She's quite the little marketer, that one."
Surprise registered on Yamano's face. "Your daughter is at the orphanage? Well, that explains the talk about the bakery. I'll make sure to thank her when I get back."
" You and my daughter look like you can be best friend. Besides, she is around your age, you know." the owner added.
" If you say so. If I happen to meet her on my way back, I'm going to say hi to her." Yamano added.
The owner smiled, knowing how kind Yamano was. " Either way, thank you for the visit here. Come again and this time, make sure to bring some money because you sure look like someone who is eager to try all of this pastries me and my wife did."
Yamano smiled and thanked the man for the free potato bread. " Thank you , sir."
As he approached the hill leading to the orphanage, Yamano couldn't help but admire the scenic view. The town below looked like a colorful patchwork quilt, with the houses, shops, and winding streets creating a harmonious tapestry.
His reverie was abruptly interrupted by the distant sound of wheels whirring and the faint echo of a girl's laughter. Turning his attention downhill, Yamano's eyes widened as he spotted a young girl on a bicycle hurtling toward him with astonishing speed.
" SOMEONE!! ANYONE!!! HELP ME!!!!"