CHATTER CHATTER CHATTER
Excited and boisterous voices were adrift in the air, thundering all throughout the market as excited folks gathered from all corners of the city. Eyes were filled with excitement and enthusiasm, waiting for the items yet to be revealed.
DONGGGG DONGGGG DONGGG
The afternoon already arrived and the afternoon bells had rang out all throughout the city. The sky was blue and dandy as ever, the sun slowly sinking towards the horizon. Yet despite all that, having waited for several hours, people were still full of energy.
One could see knights and soldiers here, adventurers and merchants there, and quite a few civilians dotted all over the place. Each and every kind of person was present, all whispering and chattering as they exchanged their thoughts.
"Man, I've been waiting for this all day! It's finally here!"
"Hahaha. Have you prepared your money already?"
"Nickel and bronze, you name it! I got all the coins in the bag!"
"Ohh! Mister thrifty is finally spending money? That's a miracle!"
There were smiles blooming across everyone's faces, each one's eyes shifting left and right as they await the unveiling of new products. The more time passed, the more people gathered, some gathering though they didn't know what was happening.
"Hmm... There sure are a lot of people... I wonder what's happening..." ［Arnelius］
And amongst those clueless people, one was the Headmaster of the Royal Academy. He was just exploring the 1st floor when he suddenly heard a pandemonium of loud and booming voices coming from the outer plaza.
Out of curiosity, he also joined the crowd to see what was happening, but to no avail. He still doesn't know what was happening, but he could tell from the mood and the amount of people gathering that it was something out of the ordinary.
One thing to note was the abundant amount of adventurers and merchants present, consisting more than two-thirds of the population. Outside dungeons and labyrinths, he had never seen such a configuration before.
"Hey, I thought you won't be buying anything?"
"I was... But after seeing the instant goods in the grocery section, I changed my mind. Those things were amazing!"
"Oh, so that's why! Those things were pretty sweet, right?"
"Don't even get me started. Not only are they easy and quick to make, they also taste amazing. The price is cheap considering all that."
"Right? I don't think I can return to my usual everyday life anymore. My eyes have been opened by Their Highnesses."
Judging from what many of the people are talking about, it seems like everyone is waiting for the unveiling of yet another revolutionary product from Esperanza, all eager to try them out as soon as they can.
The Headmaster had seen quite a lot of revolutionary items inside the mall, and even then, he is still surprised to witness a new one. It was like he was in a new world, his life suddenly changing all of the sudden. It was too surreal.
"A new product, huh... I wonder what they'll be revealingー" ［Arnelius］
"Let's do this, Your Highnesses! Let's get this started! Ohhh!!" ［Velzier］
And just when he was wondering quietly to himself, a familiar voice rang in his ears. He turned his head around, and surely enough, it was an acquaintance he knew very well. It was the High Guildmaster of Alfrione's Adventurers' Guild.
He was amongst the many people Grey and Yuna handed an invitation to, and is also one of the most influential people in the country. Yet despite his high position, he was acting like any adventurer, using a rough tone.
The High Guildmaster is usually a calm and proper person, but it doesn't mean that he has always been like that. Back when he was still an active adventurer, he was just like any other, closer to a thug than anything else... A dark past...
"Umm... Velzier...?" ［Arnelius］
"Hm? Did someone call meー Ah..." ［Velzier］
It was only when the Headmaster called out to him that he realized how unruly he had been acting. He was frozen for a bit, but it didn't take him long to recover. He quickly fixed his stature and cleared his throat, greeting the former soon after.
"It has been quite some time, Arnelius. So it seems like Their Highnesses had also invited you to join the Grand Opening of their mall." ［Velzier］
"Yes, well... It just happened. I didn't think I would see you here though," ［Arnelius］
"Well, I'm also more or less their acquaintance, and His Highness had also talked to me about Esperanza before." ［Velzier］
"I see... So you've already known for a long time, huh..." ［Arnelius］
"Yes. I have been looking forward to it ever since." ［Velzier］
The Headmaster didn't dwell on what he saw any longer and simply chatted with the Guildmaster. They both talked about some trivial topics before the former started to ask some questions, asking what people were so busy with.
Thanks to the Guildmaster, it didn't take long before the Headmaster understood the reason. As per his intuition, it really was about another product from Esperanza. The instant foods, to be exact... A mysterious item...
At first, many people were just curious and some were skeptical, but after seeing the instant drinks and goods in the grocery, people quickly understood the potential and usefulness of the products, many lining up one after another.
After all, there is no such thing as instant goods in Merusia yet. While one could brew coffee from coffee beans and coffee grounds, it would take a lot of time. But such isn't the case for instant coffee. Only hot water was needed for a quick brew.
"Speaking of which, have you tasted the instant coffee the mall was offering? It was quite delicious, wasn't it?" ［Velzier］
"It was. I even bought a couple bags myself." ［Arnelius］
"Hahaha. I see... That only proves how popular it is." ［Velzier］
"Well, that's true, but I don't think it's for everybody. Especially nobles. Those bunch have their own antics and preferences." ［Arnelius］
"Hahaha. Esperanza is aimed towards the common folks, after all." ［Velzier］
Of course, that doesn't mean that coffee businesses would go out of business. The mall already signed contracts for a regular supply of coffee beans, and also other handy products which common people enjoy.
If people want to drink more refined and luxurious blends, they still need to buy from the original shops, making it function healthily as they usually would. It was just the right and healthy balance Grey and Yuna were searching for.
However, for business which no one has tapped before, there was no need to hold back. The two of them already applied several dozen patents, maybe even reaching 3 digits already. As examples of such were instant foods aimed at travelers.
They are delicious and quick to prepare meals which would only need hot water, with a long shelf life. They are a little bit pricey, making homemade meals seems better, but considering their capabilities, the pricing is just right... The perfect products.
"Instant foods, you say... Doesn't that seem harder to make than beverages? Is it even possible in the first place?" ［Arnelius］
"It is... Actually, I had a live demonstration just last month." ［Velzier］
"And? How was it?" ［Arnelius］
"Well... I think it's better to see it for yourself." ［Velzier］
There was no need to say any further. Just as the Guildmaster ended his words, a couple familiar figures finally headed up the stage. All eyes quickly fell towards them and silence swallowed the whole plaza.
The figures were none other than Grey and Yuna, eyes swimming around the plaza as they observed the crowd, light expressions painted on their faces. With a flick of their fingers and a little bit of magic, their voice soon echoed all over the place.
"Good afternoon, everyone～!!" ［Yuna］
Yuna's voice boomed throughout the plaza, and a cacophony of cheers followed soon after. It was as if she was an idol on stage about to sing her hit single, but actually, she is just a cheerful saleslady advertising their new product.
"Fufufu! I see a lot of excited faces around here. I'm sure you already tried our instant products in the grocery section. So, how was it? Did you enjoy it?" ［Yuna］
"It was amazing, Your Highness! We bought a dozen bags!"
"They've already run out when I arrived. When will you restock?"
"Your Highness, will there be another flavor next?"
A simple question, and an overwhelming floor of responses. It has always been the plan to introduce the instant products first to hype up the reveal of the instant foods, and it seems like it worked like a charm, everyone was greatly excited.
Thankfully, they already have some stock in hand, so it should be able to last them until the workers get the hang of producing them and new employees join the shopping mall. Everything was working as it should be.
"Waah～! Quite a lot of positive feedback here～! And please don't worry, we will be restocking soon. As for our products, we will be posting announcements throughout the mall when the time comes. Look forward to it, okay?" ［Yuna］
"Ohh! We will surely do! Thanks a lot, Your Highness!"
"There's already tea, coffee, milk, and orange juice. I wonder what's next?"
"Hahaha! Looks like I'll have to visit the mall often then."
Yuna spoke once more, and another resounding orchestra of cheers greeted her back. Everyone was a little disappointed to see the shelves cleaned empty, but it seems like they still have the chance to buy the new products.
With just a couple words from Yuna, the mood of the crowd was lifted instantaneously and everyone had excited sparkles brimming in their eyes. They had just started, but it seems like the Grand Opening was already a resounding success.
"Well, enough about the instant drinks, we all know what everyone here is for, right? Let's get this all started already～!" ［Yuna］
Said Yuna, punching her fist towards the air, met by yet another resounding applause from the crowd. Soon enough, a handful of carts walked it, all filled with paper cups with cute and eye-catching labels pasted in front of them.
The paper cups were made with a special kind of tree which doesn't easily dissolve in water but is still biodegradable, sealed tightly. The label was also made by the same paper, duplicated numerously by the ever so hardworking photocopy machine.
But what's important was not the outside, but rather, what was inside the cup. There lies the precious meal everyone has been looking forward to. Currently, there were only 5 sorts of meal offered, but it was already a good start.
Other than the instant food cups, there were also some canned goods which Grey and Yuna prepared just last week. They could be eaten just as is, but they could also be cooked for a warm meal. It comes in a handful of varieties as well.
"I believe you already tried our instant drinks before, right? These also work on the same concept, and could quickly be prepared." ［Grey］
"Un! All you need is hot water, and a few minutes!" ［Yuna］
"We haven't tested it yet, but in theory, these goods should be able to last for several months at the very least, maybe even a couple of years." ［Grey］
Grey and Yuna then started explaining what exactly instant food packs and canned goods were, everyone squealing in excitement as they listened. They had already seen the wonders of instant drinks, so there was less skepticism.
Of course, the two also didn't fail to mention their money-back guarantee rule. If the products are already spoiled or expired when they opened it, they can return them back and earn twice their money's worth, as long as they still have their receipts.
It was a little touch, but it made their prospective customers feel a little more secure, making them engage in the promotion. But of course, those weren't the only things the two had prepared. After all, what's a promotion without...
"Well, enough rambling! These may not be much, but we have prepared a handful of sets of our sample products here. These ones have already been stored for a month, and haven't been touched since." ［Grey］
"Is there anyone who would like to volunteer for the sample testing? It's absolutely free! All you need to do is raise your hand!" ［Yuna］
".... Me! I would like to volunteer, Your Highnesses!"
"Hey! That's not fair! I would also like to volunteer!"
"Pick me, Your Highness! It would be my honor!"
There was a little silence at first, but as soon as one raised their hand, the others quickly followed. Everyone already has full trust in Grey and Yuna, so there was no need to hesitate. Rather, it was a privilege for them.
With smiles on their faces, Grey and Yuna soon picked about 50 volunteers and had them sit on their respective seats, soon giving them a plate full of rice, and a pair of instant cup food and canned goods of their choice.
"Yo... Your Highness... Why did you not pick me...?" ［Velzier］
"There, there... There's always a next time." ［Arnelius］
Though, it seems like not everyone was excited... A certain Guildmaster had his long ears drooping low after not being picked by Grey and Yuna. There were too many people, after all... It can't be helped...
Before long, Grey and Yuna then showed the volunteers how to prepare their food items, letting them have a try at it for themselves. It didn't take long before everyone understood, soon pouring hot water by themselves.
Everyone watched intently as the volunteers prepared their foods, watching with eyes filled with curiosity and anticipation. Soon enough, a couple minutes had passed and it was finally time for the moment of truth...
"A... Amazing... It really became stew... What just happened...
"My dried noodles also became thick and soft!"
"This aroma, too... Ah～! I can't wait to eat!"
The appearance and the scent. Both were perfect the moment they were unveiled, but what mattered most was the taste. Each volunteer soon took hold of their spoons and forks, then feeding a spoonful of food to their mouths.
As soon as they did, their tongues were caressed by all sorts of different flavors, greatly surpassing their expectations and filling both their hearts and stomachs with warmth. It wasn't just good, it was extremely delicious.
"Wh-What the hell is this?! This is too good!"
"Are these really the same things from before?! This is unbelievable!"
"If I could eat these while traveling, that would be heaven!"
No one could believe the food they were eating had already been stocked for one month. The taste, the smell, the presentation, and the beautiful combination of its components were neither mild nor overbearing... It was perfect.
The meals were so good that before long, out of excitement and delight, everyone started sharing their foods with the others, making them squeal and squeak in surprise and excitement as well, all unable to believe what they were experiencing.
Grey and Yuna didn't even need to do anything else, as the volunteers themselves were happily sharing the instant foods already. The more they watch, the more it warms their hearts. It was worth all the effort.
"Well, I guess that's the end of the promotion, huh?" ［Grey］
"Fufufu! For those who are wishing to purchase some instant goods, please line up properly. We will begin selling shortly." ［Yuna］
"Ahh! You're open already?! Please let me buy some!"
"Agh! Me too! Don't leave me out!"
"Your Highnesses! Please sell some to me as well!"
The promotion was a resounding success, everyone lining up as soon as Yuna gave her words. And as if he had already predicted it, the Guildmaster had already lined up first, dragging the Headmaster with him. It all happened so fast.
There was no need to say any more. Even when Grey and Yuna already limited the purchase to 5 items per person, the whole stock was still emptied in less than an hour. Of course, the 50% discount still applied.
Be that as it may, Grey and Yuna had no plans of increasing the price despite the high demand. They have already established the price, and don't want to scare away the customers. After all, they want their products to be available to everyone.
For the next few days, Grey and Yuna are going to be hiring a ton of people and will also be teaching them how to handle production. It would be a busy week for them which could only be described as hell, but the two still don't know of that yet.
DONGGGG DONGGGG DONGGGG
All the ruckus and racket was soon over, and the sleepy sun finally set over the horizon. The evening bells soon rang throughout the night sky. Night had already fallen yet the city folks had yet to quiet down, excitement still adrift in the air.
With the first day of the Grand Opening nearing its conclusion, it was finally time to unveil the winners of the raffle. There were all sorts of wonderful prizes lined up before everyone, numbers called out one after another.
"#2753! #2753? Is there a 275ー" ［Yuna］
"Ah! That would be me, Your Highness!"
"Fufufu! Please come up to the stage and receive your prize!" ［Yuna］
"Ohhh! I won! Yeahh! I really won!"
An excited cheer echoed throughout the crowd, one young man soon went up the stage and took his prize. There were instant goods, cosmetics, delicate crafts, coupons, and all sorts of things present.
It was already the 5th prize, and so far, Grey and Yuna had been giving items which are related to the mall. Though they are tailored for general folks' use, a little bit of promotion doesn't hurt. They're still running a business, after all.
But perhaps what the young man was most excited about was the chance to see Grey and Yuna up close and shake their hands. It seems like he was a fan, one of many, who won the prizes. They are simply too warm and excited.
"#0918? Is there a 0918 here? Please come up the stage." ［Grey］
"#8100! Congratulations! You won the 3rd prize!" ［Yuna］
"Congratulations to #5877! The 2nd prize is yours!" ［Grey］
The prize giving continued, one number was called one after another. All sorts of people, young and old, big and small, man and woman... They all headed up the stage and claimed their prize with excited faces.
And amongst those people, one little child managed to get her hand on the winning number. It wasn't exactly the grand prize, but the 3rd prize wasn't so bad as well. She was really excited when she got her number called out.
"Auntie! Auntie! When can we eat these?!" ［Ruru］
"Fufufu! Let's wait later when we get back home, okay? Let's share them with your Mom, Dad, and siblings too." ［Valka］
"Okay! I'll share with Ul too!" ［Ruru］
It was none other than Ruru, now hugging a handful of products from Esperanza. She only bought some sweets with the money her mother gave her, but who would have thought it would win her so much. It was a happy coincidence.
Before long, it was time to announce the Grand Prize winner. The sound of drums echoed in the air, thrill and hope blossoming in everyone's heart. Yuna's red lips soon broke into a smile, her eyes sparkling brightly as she announced the winner.
"And.... The Grand Prize Winner is.... #4655! Congratulations～!" ［Yuna］
"Ohhh! That's me! That's me! I won! It's the first time I won something!"
The Grand prize winner was none other than a young lady. She was someone Grey and Yuna had never met before, but judging from her outfit, it was easy to see that she was an adventurer, a rookie at that.
The young lady quickly went up the stage and received her prize. There were all sorts of things like the previous prizes, numerous and varying, but not one item that was extremely precious. After all, they don't want to endanger her safety.
But what made it different from the others was a single card. It was a card which allows her to ask a "reasonable" favor to Grey and Yuna, be it building her a new house, forging her equipment, concocting her a potion, and anything of the sort.
At first Grey and Yuna were thinking of making something precious, but they quickly realized how inappropriate some prizes would be for other people. They can't just give a child a precious weapon, after all... A favor was the best compromise...
"U-Umm! Your Highnesses! Can I give you a hug?!"
"Fufufu! Sure!" ［Yuna］
Her eyes sparkling bright, the young lady then gave Grey and Yuna a hug each, her heart racing wild as she tried to compose herself. She had always been a big fan of theirs, and they were the reason she started adventuring. She was really happy.
The young lady still couldn't think of a wish, but there was no need to rush. She can use the favor whenever she wants. She soon headed down the stage, a brilliant smile on her face... It was time to conclude the night.
"Then, everyone... Please enjoy this little gift of ours." ［Grey］
WHISTLEEEEE BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM
Soon, the night sky was filled with life and colors, vibrant shades of red, blue, green, and anything in between, blooming like flowers in the advent of spring. Fireworks sparkled with the stars, smiles blooming all over the place.
The Grand Opening... Great success!
CHAPTER 470 END