Arthas felt a slight sense of helplessness, but quickly composed himself, following Syr.
If he decided to integrate into this world, he couldn't keep rejecting contact with others. Though the lively atmosphere made him uncomfortable, it was an important part of social interaction.
After all, he'd decided to make Hestia's name known throughout the world. As the sole representative of Hestia Familia, he had to set an example.
Thinking this, Arthas's expression returned to normal, and he followed Syr into the tavern.
"Please, have a seat."
He was led to a seat at the counter.
Only after sitting down did Arthas notice his location: at the corner of the counter, with the wall behind him.
Being a corner seat, there were no other seats nearby. It was like sitting face-to-face with the owner at the counter. Syr's choice of seat seemed deliberate.
But being away from the noisy crowd was what Arthas preferred.
As he thought this, a booming voice rang out.
"You're Syr's guest? Don't make that face! Come to my tavern to drink and be happy!"
A black line appeared on Arthas's forehead.
"I heard you're a big eater! I'll keep bringing dishes, so just keep paying!"
Hearing the owner's words, Arthas looked surprised.
He turned to Syr, who had shifted her gaze to the side.
She's avoiding eye contact!
"What's going on?"
"…Hehe."
Arthas asked, somewhat amused, but Syr only giggled playfully.
"Um, I told Mama Mia that I wanted to treat a new acquaintance, so she said she'd take extra care… and it turned into this."
"Alright, kid, order. You look thin; you need to eat more."
The boisterous owner said this, clapping Arthas on the shoulder.
The impact felt like a huge log hitting him. Seeing the owner's unusually large build, Arthas shook his head helplessly.
His physical condition was still a problem. Even as a powerful mage, getting winded after a few steps or a spell was not ideal. Of course, the biggest problem was that he couldn't freely cast spells.
"Syr, you order."
Without looking at the menu, Arthas handed it to Syr, who was watching the situation unfold with amusement.
"Eh… me… me?"
Syr paused, looking at Arthas in confusion.
"Don't you remember? I'm treating you to dinner. You should order."
"Wh… what? I thought you were joking."
Syr blushed, lowering her head, perhaps feeling embarrassed.
It was fine when they were alone this morning; a few laughs and it was over. But now, everyone was watching, and the owner had heard everything.
"Kid, you're smooth! You've got your eye on our Syr? But getting Syr isn't easy!"
Before Syr could speak, the owner laughed boisterously.
"How about a luxurious couple's set meal?"
"Boss! That's too expensive…"
Syr protested, playfully teasing Arthas, but not wanting to overdo it.
Adventurers didn't earn money easily; they risked their lives, and equipment and items were expensive. Even the cheapest health potions cost at least 500 Valis, not to mention weapons and armor.
"Alright, let's get that one."
Hearing the owner's description, Arthas nodded. He didn't worry about money; he'd earned it easily.
"Oh my… that's expensive! It's 2,000 Valis! You've only been an adventurer for a short time; where would you get that kind of money?!"
Syr tried to stop him, but Arthas shook his head with a smile.
"I have exactly 2,000 Valis, Boss."
Arthas said, handing over the money pouch. Coincidentally, he had exactly 2,000 Valis.
"Alright, one luxurious couple's set meal!"
Shouting towards the kitchen, the owner's attitude became even more enthusiastic.
"Oh…" Seeing Arthas pay, Syr felt helpless.
"Sit down. A couple's meal is meaningless if we don't eat together."
"Arthas, what are you saying?! When did I become your girlfriend?!"
Syr said shyly, but she took off her waitress apron and sat down beside Arthas.
"Is it alright to leave work?"
"The kitchen is busy, but we have enough waitresses. And I have some free time now."
Is it okay? Syr looked at the owner.
The owner smiled and nodded in agreement.
"I haven't properly thanked you yet. The bread was delicious."
"It's okay. It gave me a reason to work hard for you."
Syr looked embarrassed, blushing.
"Besides, you've already repaid me, haven't you?"
"Ha, 'repay' sounds too formal. Aren't we a couple?"
"Ugh, Arthas, you're teasing me again!"
Seeing Syr's cute, blushing face, Arthas smiled warmly.
Syr quieted down, resting her chin on the counter, gazing at Arthas, captivated.
"You… really look handsome when you smile, Arthas."
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