DRIP DRIP DRIP PLINK
Gentle as the drifting clouds in the sky, water trickled down the pointy stalactites and gathered by the tip, forming little droplets which soon fell towards the shallow waters below, the subtle sound of splashes echoing in the air.
A single figure moved across the glowing lake, small waves forming as he moved and a cacophony of ripples forming by the waters' surface. Its eyes clear as the waters it was swimming in watched the two figures standing before it.
Those two figures were youths he just met a couple days ago. One was a silver-haired young lady whilst the other was a black-haired young man. Despite its massive and intimidating appearance, they didn't even flinch one bit.
"Sorry, did I surprise you?" ［Asfara］
"Ah, no, not at all... Rather, we should be the ones apologizing for suddenly barging into your place. You're... Asfara, right?" ［Grey］
"That is correct, My Lord. I'm honored to have you remember my names." ［Asfara］
As it seems, the underground hidden cave system was actually the home of the Lord's familiar. It was a place where it rested whenever it was finished with its duties and where it recuperates with a peace of mind.
And no, it wasn't an artificial cave system, but rather, something the Tarllagan was lucky to have come across whilst he was surveying the rivers and eradicating all the dangerous creatures and elements to the city, several decades ago.
Thankfully, despite Grey and Yuna suddenly crashing into his place, Asfara remained calm and collected, simply curious about how they got in with no intention of harming them. Rather, he was even polite, keeping his head down as he paid his respects.
"But... My Lord, My Lady... How did you arrive here? I was pretty sure I didn't see anyone enter the entrance. Did you get in using stealth?" ［Asfara］
"Ahh... About that... Actually..." ［Grey］
Grey and Yuna didn't spare any time and quickly explained the situation to Asfara to clear up any misunderstandings. From the time that they spotted a mutant Ragonea all the way to them exploring the caves and arriving at the hidden lake.
There was not a single rock unturned and they decided to tell the whole truth without any hesitation. At the same time, Asfara listened to them earnestly. There was a bit of shock from time to time, but he simply continued nodding his head.
"I see... So a part of the cave collapsed, huh..." ［Asfara］
"Yeah, but don't worry. We already patched it up, so there shouldn't be any more problems. I've also reinforced some parts of the cavern while we're at it." ［Grey］
"I see... That's a relief then..." ［Asfara］
Fortunately, it didn't take long for Asfara to understand the situation. He was a calm and understanding individual, and after hearing their explanation, all the dots have finally connected and all questions have been answered.
He was a bit worried that certain parts of the caves' ceilings are collapsing, but trusting Grey's words, he felt a sense of relief flood his heart. After all, it would be a disaster if people suddenly started falling to their deaths because of it.
Actually, on the contrary, it was a huge relief that it was Grey and Yuna who learned of the collapsing cave system. Not only would it be dangerous for others, there are also a couple things he needs to hide from the outside world.
"No wonder I felt some low rumbles before... That must have been it..." ［Asfara］
"Yeah... Sorry about that..." ［Grey］
"No, on the contrary. I am thankful. People might be hurt in the future if not for your intervention. It's an act worthy of praise, My Lord." ［Asfara］
"Hahaha. If you say so, then I'm relieved." ［Grey］
It has been over a century since the founding of Arihal, and since then, the cave system has remained hidden from the eyes of the people. Not even the Lord knew of its existence, only knowing that there was someplace where Asfara rested himself.
And it wasn't just Asfara's home, it also served as a wonderful treasure trove where several magic plants grow in abundance, many minerals and crystals could be found, and all sorts of rare materials could be obtained.
Monsters also spawn from time to time due to the abundance of mana, so albeit very inefficiently, one could also get mana crystals and drops inside. It was a place where one could gather all kinds of materials kept hidden from the eyes of the public.
Had it been another person who discovered the caverns accidentally, Asfara wouldn't be able to guarantee that they wouldn't tell the outside world about it. Rather, it would be more likely that rumors about it will spread like wildfire.
"But My Lord, My Lady... If it isn't too much to ask, you have mentioned the harvesting of magic plants and minerals, am I correct?" ［Asfara］
"Ah, yes, we did... Is it perhaps the territory's property?" ［Grey］
"Yes, you could say that. Actually, you could say my first master left it untouched in case of emergencies. Our hidden reserve, you could say." ［Asfara］
"I... I see... Sorry...." ［Grey］
As for why it was hidden from the outside world, it was for good measure. One of the previous lords and Asfara's first master deliberately hid all the good things from the sights of many for times of need where they would be of great help.
While it was true that many of the magic plants around were native to the caves, a couple of them were introduced by the first master and grown with care so that his descendants could use them whenever the need arises.
Of course, the ores were also included. However, it is to be noted that such ores aren't abundant like the usual ore deposits. The pockets of ores are much smaller compared to others and are not very abundant as it seems.
The first master was a great person, knowledgeable in magic of all sorts. He had already determined that such a small pocket of ores would only last the territory a couple years at most, so it was best to save them for when dire situations arrive.
Thankfully, such a situation has yet to come, and for the duration of the time Asfara has been around, Arihal has been prosperous and bustling. It was also the reason why the current Lord is still in the dark as there was not a need for him to know.
"I see... Your first master sure is an amazing person, huh... But... Doesn't that mean that we were taking what was meant for the people?" ［Grey］
"S-Sorry! We didn't really mean it! I-I'll return everything I took right now!" ［Yuna］
And hearing of his story, Grey and Yuna couldn't help but be flustered by them taking the hidden resources the first master reserved for the future generations. Arihal has yet to lay their eyes upon them, but they've already taken them.
Yuna was especially guilty, looking quite frantic with panic and confusion brewing in her heart. The happiness she once felt whilst collecting the materials was now gone, only a guilty conscience taking its place.
The young lady may love collecting materials and all sorts of things, but she actually has quite a strong sense of justice. She can't tolerate people being unfair to others and the same applies to herself. She just looked like a villain in her own eyes,
"There's no need, My Lady. You can have them if you want." ［Asfara］
"B-But! Aren't these for the people?! I-I'm not a thief, you know?!" ［Yuna］
"That's not what I meant, My Lady. I simply want to give you a present. You can consider it my gratitude for fixing the caves," ［Asfara］
"R-Really?! I really won't give them back if you don't take back your words right now! Are you really sure about that?! Really, really sure?!" ［Yuna］
"Yes, My Lady, I hope you like it." ［Asfara］
"Y-Yaay～! Thank you so much, Asfara! I'll gladly accept it!" ［Yuna］
It was a roller coaster of emotions the young lady just felt. From great excitement and happiness, to guilt and dread, and now, to ecstasy and gratitude. It hasn't been long since they've met, but she already went through a lot.
Asfara wasn't lying either when he said Grey and Yuna could have the magic plants and ores they harvested, words filled with sincerity. However, Grey couldn't help but notice something a little bit off about the massive Tarllagan.
"And? The real reason is?" ［Grey］
"Hahaha. Wo you've noticed, My Lord." ［Asfara］
"I hate to break it to you, but I actually have quite the sharp eyes." ［Grey］
"I see... There's no use hiding it then..." ［Asfara］
The real reason why Asfara easily handed them over to Grey and Yuna was none other than population control. The magic plants have been growing unnoticed for far too long, and it has gone to the point that it becomes a hindrance to the caves.
If left unsupervised for a couple months, some of the plants would tend to overgrow and shift the balance in the ecosystem of the cave system. There were even times when it reached the hidden lake and started bothering him.
Of course, Asfara has been keeping an eye on them, and cleaning up some of the areas slowly by himself. It was a relief that most of the magic plants were edible, so he only needed to eat them to dispose of them, his side dish after the offerings.
However, despite how much he cleans up, the magic plants and the flora always manage to somehow overgrow, so it has been causing a headache for him. It was actually a relief that Yuna cleaned the place up with her hoarding skills.
"I see... So we're your little helpers, huh..." ［Grey］
"I apologize if that sounds rude, My Lord, My Lady. But I'm really thankful that you helped me out. You can consider the ores as a sign of gratitude." ［Asfara］
"Hmm... Then would it be alright to drop by from time to time? You don't have to clean up the magic plants and I also get them easily! It's a win-win!" ［Yuna］
"Ohh! That would be very much appreciated, My Lady. Though it may be bothersome for you, I'm more than elated if you could do so." ［Asfara］
"Great! That's a deal, then!" ［Yuna］
One way or another, Grey and Yuna also themselves a new treasure trove of rare and precious resources they could harvest from every couple of months. Yuna was especially excited, eyes sparkling like the torchstones around them.
Though Asfara doesn't exactly know how strong they were, he has been a little bit nervous around them even when he greeted them calmly. After all, they could bring ruin to Arihal at just the slightest slip of the tongue.
Thankfully, such a thing didn't happen and rather, he found them to be quite humble and level-headed, not flaunting their ranks even once throughout the whole time. He was greatly relieved, now able to heave a sigh of calm and serenity,
"Oh, right. I completely forgot. The name's Grey, and this adorable elf over here is my partner, Yuna. We're the party 'Aster'. It's a pleasure to meet you, Asfara." ［Grey］
"Un! It's nice to meet you, Asfara. We'll be in your care." ［Yuna］
"The feeling is mutual, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna. I'll be in your care as well." ［Asfara］
The introduction was soon over, and with most of the major topics now finished, the sound of waves started to echo once more. Asfara took a deep dive once again and swam out of the surface as if it just remembered something.
It wasn't long before it returned to the hidden lake, resurfacing with a large aquatic beast in its mouth. It measured about 7 meters in length and was bigger than great white sharks, its blood trickling down the hidden lake along the water droplets.
"I apologize for the wait." ［Asfara］
Asfara soon dropped the beast in his mouth, a subtle thud resounding in the air as he placed it in front of Grey and Yuna. The closer they were, the bigger and grander it seemed, looking especially impressive at very close distance.
It was "Dicentra", another C-rank aquatic beast which resembles that of a massive, overgrown Bass. It was equipped with sharp teeth and tough scales, making it quite the dangerous enemy when inside bodies or water.
Of course, much like the Vargladius from before, Dicentra are also known to be quite delicious, many people from the common people all the way to the nobility enjoying its meat during special occasions and savoring them with smiles on their faces.
"Please consider this a welcoming gesture from me. I hope you like it." ［Asfara］
"Like it... It would be more appropriate to say we're surprised. Are you really sure you want to give them to us? C-rank beasts aren't cheap, you know?" ［Grey］
"Un! With a size this big, it could go for more than a hundred thousand!" ［Yuna］
"It's fine, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna. These things are infesting the rivers, anyway. So offering one or two of them shouldn't be a problem. Or is it that you're dissatisfied with this? I can catch bigger prey, if need be." ［Asfara］
"No, no, this is more than enough..." ［Grey］
Grey and Yuna were a little bit hesitant after receiving so many presents from Asfara, but when he put it in such a way, there was no way they could refuse him. Else, he might deplete the river of its resources, trying to please them.
It hasn't even been long since they introduced one another, and Asfara was already eager to offer them some hospitality. With such a kind gesture like that, it was only natural that they respond in kind, smiles blooming on their faces.
"Then... Shall we show you a good show, Asfara?" ［Grey］
"A show...? All of the sudden...?" ［Asfara］
"Yeah. As you said, you can also consider this as our thanks. I'm sure you'll like it." ［Grey］
There was no time to waste. With Asfara still lost in context, Grey quickly whipped out their ever so reliable portable kitchen and utensils, surprising the former making his eyes almost pop out of their sockets.
What followed was a mountain of ingredients to go along with the Dicentra from flour, eggs, salt, condiments, spices, and many more. They also brought out some of the seafood they caught a couple days ago, the Kraken meat taking the highlight.
CHOP CHOP CHOP
The knives ran through the Dicentra, slicing and dicing the tender red meat until they were minced into small, beautiful portions. The meat was red and fresh, shining just as brightly as the glowing hidden lake before them.
Salt and spices drizzled from above and caressed the thick strips of meat, spread flavorfully as to make sure all portions were tasty. A bit of lime and lemon into the mix, and the seasoning was done, the sound of sizzling oil echoing soon after.
It didn't take long before the sides turned golden brown, flipped ever so quickly and another sizzling session going on. The fish were soon raised from the pan, and placed atop some parchment paper, letting them rest for a while.
The frying continued and a mountain of fried Dicentra formed in but a jiffy. Soon, the last piece was placed, but the hands had yet to stop. Sauces were soon made, one sweet and spicy, the other sour and creamy, and lastly, one with soy sauce and lime,
"Grey, I'm done with the fried Dicentra. I'll start with the other ones, okay?" ［Yuna］
"Sure, go ahead. I'm just about finished on this side too." ［Grey］
Whilst Yuna was cooking, so was Grey. He is now baking a giant clam over medium heat, making sure to distribute heat evenly with fire magic. A fragrant smell wafted in the air, the aromatic scent of spices and savory smell of clams joining hand in hand.
Of course, Grey didn't just start cooking the clams by themselves. To season it, there was garlic, onions, parsley, lemon juice, and a bit of salt and spices. He mixed them in a mixture, then poured it over the clams along with cheese and butter.
Steam rose from the clams, and a harmonious orchestra of warm and inviting scents danced in the air, a could of steam forming as Grey removed the clams from heat and placing them over a large bowl for everyone to enjoy.
"Amazing... Just amazing... I didn't know Lord Grey and Lady Yuna were so capable of cooking such dishes... Not to mention, the ingredients used..." ［Asfara］
"Our Master and Mistress are awesome, right?! They're the best!" ［Canopus］
"That's only to be expected of our Master and Mistress. There were even times when they cooked Garudas and Leviathan." ［Kentaurus］
"L-Leviathan?! And Garuda too?! That's beyond amazing already!" ［Asfara］
And whilst Grey and Yuna were cooking the remaining dishes, the familiars were all getting along with one another. They have summoned them to accompany Asfara, but why never thought they go along so well with one another.
Well, the same couldn't be said the first time Asfara saw them. The moment Grey and Yuna summoned them, he was actually frightened and dumbfounded with just how powerful they were. They were all familiars, but they were in a totally different league.
Thankfully, because of Canopus and Vega's energetic and friendly nature, they quickly got along and the other familiars joined in as well. Now they are all watching the two cook, the familiars boasting of how incredible Grey and Yuna were.
"Fufufu! They sure are getting along well." ［Yuna］
"Well, it's better than fighting, isn't it? It would have been troublesome then." ［Grey］
"Don't worry, Grey! Our familiars won't lose, you know?" ［Yuna］
"Yuna... That's not the point, you know..." ［Grey］
Grey and Yuna continued to move their hands and handle the flames, bubbling and running waters, sizzling and bubbling oil, clanging pans and utensils, and crackling flames. Such an orchestra continued, ringing to the beat of the wind.
What followed after the clams were Garlic Butter lobster which Grey had done many times before already. They weren't just normal lobsters either, but giant E-rank Black Lobsters, which is not only hard to catch but very delicious as well.
Grey first prepared the lobster, washing it and soon putting it inside a cauldron, a bit of corn, salt, pepper, and a couple of spices mixed until it came to a boil. The tender lobsters were then cut in half, revealing the tender meat inside.
The pan was readied and the spices were sautéed with butter. A bit more of garlic, onions, scallions, and chives into the max, and the butter was soon added to heat, bathed in golden liquid, yet another fragrant smell wafting in the air.
The lobsters were removed from heat and served into its plates, a sprinkle of greens to finish the decorations and also a couple drops of soy sauce and grated cheese to spice things up a little. Meanwhile, Yuna...
"Grey, can you pass me the pepper, please." ［Yuna］
"Alright, here you go, catch." ［Grey］
"Un! Thanks!" ［Yuna］
She is also continuing to cook, now using the Kraken meat from before to make some calamares. She had already sliced up the meat and marinated them in a mix of salt and spices, then dipping it towards a coating of flour and bread crumbs.
SIZZLE SIZZLE SIZZLE
The sound of sizzling and bubbling oil ringing once more, and the strips of Kraken were put into the oil and fried. It formed a sea of bubbles, a sour and salty scent drifting afloat in the air, covering the floating strips of white meat.
It wasn't long before the strips turned golden brown and they were taken out of the sizzling oil. After they placed atop some trays and parchment paper, another batch of Kraken strips were fried and the cycle continued.
Grey and Yuna continued to cook, baking, grilling, frying, and steaming all seafood to perfection until they were all tasty and juicy. There were also grilled eels, crab stew, squid rolls, takoyaki (from Kraken), and many more. It was a fiesta.
"Everyone, please help us out～!" ［Yuna］
It wasn't long before everything was finally cooked, and the dining tableー or rather, the picnic blanket was set, a whole range of dishes lined up one after another and all sorts of colors filling the air, appetite-arousing fragrance drifting all over the place.
Asfara had seen all sorts of dishes before, but never one Grey and Yuna cooked. It was a shame that he couldn't shapeshift like Grey and Yuna's familiars, but the two were considerate enough to cook him extremely large portions.
""""Thank you for the meal!!""""
There was no time to waste, and with their prayers sent above, everyone quickly dove into the bowls and plates before them, a rush of rich and savory flavors flooding their mouths, a nice and aromatic scent accompanying it neatly.
The Grilled Dicentra was crispy and tasty, the Baked Clams were chewy and savory with a tinge of zest, the Garlic Butter Lobsters were juicy, a bit salty, and flavorful, the Kraken Calamares were juicy, savory, and immaculate. Each one was delicious!
Asfara was speechless at the taste of the dishes, unable to utter a single word. He had tasted all sorts of offerings before, be it raw or cooked, but never as good as the ones Grey and Yuna cooked. It was a fantastic experience.
"Fufufu! What do you think, Asfara? Do you like it?" ［Yuna］
"These are incredible, Lady Yuna, Lord Grey! I've never had anything like these before! You really are great people! I'm in awe!" ［Asfara］
"Fufufu! I'm glad you liked it!" ［Yuna］
The meal continued and there was only warmth and happiness in the air. Everyone had a bite of everything, filling their mouths with joy as they indulged in a hearty meal, full of chars, giggles, and laughter.
"Hey! Second Brother, that's mine!" ［Procyon］
"It's not my fault you're so slow～. Eat Faster～." ［Canopus］
"Fufufu! It's okay, Procyon. I still have some here. Let Big Sister feed you." ［Vega］
"No! Get away from me!" ［Procyon］
Of course, there were also shenanigans where the familiars played around with one another, Canopus and Vega especially being naughty, and Procyon raging about. It was a meal as lively as usual, Grey and Yuna smiling ever so warmly.
"Yuna, here, open wide." ［Grey］
"Ahh～!" ［Yuna］
Of course, there was flirting as well.
"Do you like it?" ［Grey］
"Un! I love it!" ［Yuna］
CHAPTER 410 END