The exterior of the tavern exuded a cozy, rustic charm that beckoned passersby with its promise of warmth and respite. Constructed primarily of stacked stones and sandstone pillars, the building's darkened windows concealed the revelry within, yet the vibrant sounds and energy spilled out into the street.
Upon crossing the threshold of the tavern through its well-crafted metal door, I was met with a chorus of clapping hands and the welcoming smile of a waitress.
The air was redolent with delightful aromas, and lively music filled every corner, creating an atmosphere of merriment. Inside, patrons danced and conversed with infectious enthusiasm.
The interior of the tavern retained the same rustic charm as its facade, with sturdy stone beams supporting the upper floor and decorative lights casting a warm glow upon the scene.
My eyes wandered through the bustling establishment, and I couldn't help but notice a few remarkable individuals who stood out from the crowd.
Some of them had distinctive cat-like ears and tails, and what struck me most was how seamlessly these demi-humans were accepted and integrated among the other patrons.
Whether they were human or beastkin, everyone shared a common predicament: being trapped within the city due to the ongoing monster threat.
They reveled with the same enthusiasm as their human counterparts, dancing and engaging in conversations effortlessly.
As I scanned the room, it became clear that the majority of the patrons were seasoned adventurers, easily identifiable by the telltale signs of their profession.
Groups of adventurers gathered at various tables, examining maps and discussing strategies in hushed tones.
Armor and weapons adorned the walls or hung from hooks, serving as both decoration and functional gear in this lively setting.
By observing the room and assessing the circumstances beyond the city's boundaries, it became apparent that adventurers had taken on an even greater role in the city than ever before.
The increase in monster attacks had created a higher demand for their services, transforming them into both protectors and entrepreneurs.
They played a pivotal part in the city's defense against the encroaching threat while simultaneously taking advantage of the lucrative bounties offered for slain monsters.
The tavern's walls were adorned with an assortment of bounty posters, each offering a reward for defeating a specific type of monster.
Adventurers examined these postings with great interest, planning their next expedition to secure their livelihoods and the city's safety.
Behind the bar, the bartender, deeply engrossed in conversation, still managed to acknowledge me with a friendly wink.
The tavern played host to a diverse array of patrons, from travelers to locals and foreigners, all united by the common thread of passing through or finding themselves stranded in the desert city.
Long communal tables brought people together, forging new connections and fostering camaraderie, while smaller tables accommodated those engaged in spirited discussions with newfound acquaintances.
Even the bar itself was a hub of activity, with most stools occupied, yet the patrons appeared to welcome the additional company.
I made my way to the bartender, my attention drawn to his striking heterochromia, with one eye orange and the other purple.
A small mole beneath his left eye added to his unique features, though it was his vibrant orange hair, characterized by parted bangs, black streaks, and a distinctive ahoge, that stood out most.
Roberu's warm welcome extended through a firm handshake as he introduced himself. "Welcome, Yukoku Roberu," he greeted me with genuine hospitality. "You seem to be a newcomer. I'm pleased you've discovered the 'Robel' , the finest tavern in the entire city."
Returning the gesture with a friendly smile, I introduced myself, saying, "Hello, I'm Mumei. It appears I was fortunate to find it so quickly. Do you happen to have a vacant room for the night?" I inquired, placing a stack of ten copper coins upon the gleaming counter.
A shadow of regret briefly crossed Roberu's expressive eyes as he delivered the unfortunate news. "I regret to inform you that this won't suffice," he admitted with a heavy sigh. "I understand it's disappointing, but, as you may have already noticed, prices have risen across the board, including accommodations. We're all striving to make ends meet."
The bartender's visible frustration underscored his words, emphasizing his reluctance to impose these higher rates. He conveyed his apologies, clearly attempting to cushion the disappointment that came with this news.
Despite the somber tone, Roberu remained resolute in his decision, knowing that it was necessary to sustain his livelihood.
Understanding the situation, I added five more coins to the counter, suppressing the urge to voice my concerns about the advertised prices.
Before I could interject with the thought that had been forming, Roberu turned away, his gaze shifting to a wooden board adorned with room numbers and corresponding keys.
"Room 14," he began, "it's on the second floor, fourth door to the-" His words were abruptly interrupted.
In a sudden and unexpected manner, a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and chatter was interrupted as the tavern's door swung open.
A small girl, dressed in an outfit that seemed to blend elements of a French-style maid and military uniform, entered with flair.
Her long coat flowed behind her like a cape, and an officer's hat adorned her head as she leaped toward the bartender with exuberance.
"Roberu-chan~!!!" she exclaimed, her vibrant presence filling the room.
"Kagura-Sama!" Roberu, the bartender, responded with a mixture of surprise and respect.
With an air of entitlement, the girl corrected him, "Didn't I tell you to call me only Mea? Ka-gu-ra Me-a. Champagne Tower, please~."
As the unexpected entrance of the spirited girl settled in, a group of nine knights clad in heavy armor marched into the tavern, their synchronized footsteps resonating throughout the establishment. Their entrance prompted a hushed pause, casting an anticipatory stillness over the patrons.
Surveying the tavern, I noted a palpable shift in the atmosphere. Whispers began to circulate, patrons leaning in close to one another in hushed conversations.
The earlier jubilant mood had given way to tension and curiosity. Eagerly, patrons pieced together what was unfolding, their speculative glances and murmurs heightening the suspense.
As if choreographed, many patrons dropped to their knees in reverence. "It's the royal knights!" someone gasped, "And her... she must be Kagura-sama, the queen!" The excitement morphed into fervent devotion as the patrons affirmed their loyalty and hailed their queen.
Among the knights, one stood out, his armor fashioned to resemble a fierce phoenix. His helmet bore the visage of the bird, and his silver armor was adorned with intricate phoenix-like motifs, complemented by a short crimson cape draping over his right shoulder.
Instead of a shield, like the other eight knights, he wielded a long and slender sword with a phoenix-themed design.
"Your majesty," he declared, eliciting recognition from the crowd.
"It's Ernst Kaiser, the Phoenix Blade," someone uttered in awe.
Ernst Kaiser. I couldn't help but be taken aback. It was a name that I had heard not long ago. My mind quickly connected the dots, and I realized that Ernst Kaiser was none other than the father of the spirited young girl I had helped not long ago—a girl who embodied a unique blend of arrogance, bravery, and fiery temperament.
Amidst the collective awe, another figure swiftly entered the tavern—a woman with striking features.
Her eyes were a mesmerizing shade of purple, and her hair cascaded in two-toned splendor, shifting from deep purple to a brilliant blue at its core.
Blunt bangs, elegant sidelocks, and a distinctive ahoge completed her hairstyle. Twin French braids morphed into twintails, secured by charming blue ribbons, while a blue hairband adorned her head.
Her attire bore an air of playful elegance, featuring a maid headdress embellished with an anchor symbol. A short, frilled blue dress adorned with puffy sleeves and an anchor motif enveloped her figure.
A revealing breast frame accentuated her cleavage, adorned with dainty white bows and a blue bow tie. Wrist cuffs and frilled ankle cuffs, coupled with blue mary janes adorned with bows, completed her ensemble.
"Your Highness," she implored, breathless from her haste. "Please refrain from venturing off on your own. You are well aware of our current predicament, and your people, your kingdom, require your presence now more than ever."
"Allow me at least a moment to revel in the festivities," the royal responded, her tone lighthearted. "With the imminent removal of the greatest threat to the kingdom, our mountains shall once again yield their treasures, our farmlands will flourish, and trade shall prosper. Besides, I haven't seen Roberu-chan in quite some time."
"Your Majesty?" Ernst Kaiser reiterated, his voice tinged with urgency.
In an instant, the woman known as Mea snapped to attention, her posture strict, arms crossed, and a stern gaze affixed upon Ernst.
"You may proceed, Ernst," Queen Mea declared, her authority resolute.
"Of course, Your Majesty," Ernst Kaiser acknowledged with a respectful bow of his head. "The envoy from the Kingdom of Arvandor will arrive soon."
"Then prepare the finest of accommodations for our supporters," Queen Mea commanded, her voice firm. "We don't want to disappoint our esteemed guests. The fate of our entire kingdom hangs in the balance."
With a quick nod, Ernst Kaiser rose to his feet, never wavering in his respect for the queen. She and her retinue, along with Aqua, their secretary, made their exit from the tavern.
As they departed, the hushed whispers and murmurs among the patrons rekindled, their curiosity piqued by the mysterious turn of events.
"Ah," Queen Mea directed her final words to Roberu, the bartender. "Farewell, Roberu-chan. You may all rise," she addressed the patrons, her demeanor transitioning from regal to approachable as she neared the exit.
The mood in the tavern experienced a gradual transformation, shifting from the reverent atmosphere that had prevailed moments earlier to one of boisterous celebration.
Those who had previously knelt in reverence to the queen rose to their feet once more. The lively strains of music once again filled the room, prompting patrons to resume their joyful dancing and spirited conversations.