Allen the Reincarnated Merchant: A Plan to Get Rich in Another World

“With KAEDE by your side, it should be safe to explore the surroundings. Shall I arrange a vehicle?”

“No need for that. I don’t like to make things too grandiose.”

Since the attack had disrupted my plans, I hadn’t had breakfast, let alone lunch. I decided to take a walk through Area 1 in Seito (Star City), where this hotel was located, and find a suitable place to eat.

Area 1 is like the central district of the capital, home to the upper class. It’s filled with establishments like restaurants, sports gyms, and entertainment facilities. There are also cinemas and theaters, showing the area’s purpose as a recreational hub within Seito (Star City).

“Wow, this really feels like a high-end resort.”

Near the Rose Hotel, trees had been carefully planted, and an artificial lake stretched nearby. There were even cycling paths around, making it hard to believe this was on the wilderness planet, Zerad.

‘Districts 3 through 6 of Area 1 have been marked as restricted zones by the Zerad government. So, there should be less foot traffic than usual.’

It was around 9 a.m. Typically, people would be cycling around the lake, and cars would be passing by. However, according to the information KAEDE obtained, the areas surrounding the Rose Hotel were partially restricted by the Zerad government.

At first, I wondered if the government had noticed us, but it turned out the one responsible for the restrictions was a high-ranking official who secretly collaborated with the Empire. Likely, some orders were issued via Eri.

The official reason for the restrictions was that there were suspicions of Sears operatives infiltrating Area 1, though I’d probably need to ask Eri or Yuzu to confirm what was really going on.

Consequently, the area around the Rose Hotel was very quiet. Shops around the lake were still open, though a peek inside showed they didn’t seem very busy.

“Some things about business never change, do they?”

In one shop, glass walls provided an open view, displaying vividly colored pottery lined up tightly. I’m not an expert, but I’d heard that pottery like this was popular in the capital, so maybe I’d buy a few pieces.

“This is really good.”

After enjoying a walk around, I ended up in a cozy little restaurant for breakfast. It only had counter seating and seemed to be squeezed into a small gap between two buildings.

Personally, I prefer this kind of hidden gem over some fancy, prime-location restaurant.

‘Sandvarché, a dish of steamed chicken breast cooked with a special wine, combined with leafy greens, and served in bread.’

“Steamed with wine, huh? Maybe not the lightest breakfast choice?”

The slightly spicy sauce and tangy chicken breast paired perfectly with the fresh, crispy vegetables. The bread was soft with a chewy texture and had a hint of sweetness.

The food at the Rose Hotel was high-quality and delicious, but this Sandvarché, with its familiar, slightly junky flavor, was something you’d never find in a luxury hotel.

Although it was steamed in wine, the alcohol seemed mostly gone, just leaving a light fragrance. It might be a bit heavy for breakfast, but it was a nice change.

“Uh… excuse me.”

“Yes, what is it?”

It was a bit late for breakfast, but I was enjoying this delicious meal when the owner behind the counter spoke up, hesitating slightly.

Curious, I looked up to see him glancing nervously toward the entrance.

“Oh…”

“By any chance, sir, are you some kind of government VIP?”

Following his gaze, I noticed several heavily armed soldiers standing outside, facing the street.