Another World Fluffy Cafe

Chapter 3: Arrival in the Azeln Kingdom!

Taichi and Luke’s journey went smoothly, and they reached the border of the Azeln Kingdom in just five days. The border was guarded by soldiers who were checking passersby.

Since it was still early morning, there weren’t many people around.

“Luke, can you shrink down a bit to cross the border?”

“I suppose I have no choice…”

When Taichi asked, Luke reduced to about one meter in size. This way, they wouldn’t draw attention from the guards or scare the locals.

(I’m so nervous…)

While waiting in line to cross the border, Taichi felt a bit jittery. Even though he wasn’t doing anything wrong, he hadn’t interacted with soldiers much before, which made him uneasy.

“Humans are so inconvenient, having to line up to cross the border… They could just go through the mountains instead.”

“That’s not a good idea…”

Although the border isn’t marked by an unbroken wall, it would defeat the purpose of having a border if people just went through other ways.

“Besides, I’m not doing anything wrong. I’m just going to tame Forest Cats. Following the proper procedures is important.”

Also, it wouldn’t be good to attract unwanted attention from soldiers by acting recklessly. Maintaining a peaceful operation of his café was also crucial.

(With Luke and Cerberus around…)

Taichi kept the fact that Luke and Cerberus were powerful monsters a secret. Thus, no one outside of Taichi knew they were Fenrir and Cerberus.

…Or at least, that was the idea.

After a while, it was Taichi’s turn to cross.

“Wow, that’s a big… Is that a wolf-type monster?”

“Nice fur you have there.”

The two guards were surprised by Luke but seemed used to monsters. Luke seemed pleased by their praise.

“Hello. I’m Taichi, a tamer. This is Luke, a Wolf King familiar. He won’t cause any harm.”

Taichi introduced himself and showed his Tamer Card. This card served as his identification in this world, showing his name and Tamer Guild rank “F.”

“A Wolf King! I’ve never seen one in person.”

“It’s amazing how you managed to tame such a creature. Everything seems to be in order, so you’re good to go.”

Taichi was relieved when they received permission to pass.

(I’m glad Luke behaved calmly…)

Usually, Luke would have been angry about being called a Wolf King, but Taichi felt a sense of pride seeing how much he had grown.

…Although Luke still looked grumpy.

“Thank you.”

“Take care.”

With that, Taichi and Luke smoothly crossed the border and set foot on Azeln Kingdom’s soil.

In the Town of Forren

About two days after entering the Azeln Kingdom, they arrived near a forest where Forest Cats are known to live — the large town of Forren.

The town was surrounded by wildlife and monsters, with many soldiers and adventurers present. It was dangerous but well-secured.

The town had many street shops, many of which sold natural goods like wood items.

(Just looking around is enjoyable…)

Taichi thought the wooden dishes had a warm feel, and they might be nice for his fluffy café. Wooden carvings could make great decorations for the reception area.

“Is that what you want?”

“Looks well-crafted, doesn’t it?”

Taichi was looking at a wooden carving featuring a monster. There wasn’t one of a bear with a salmon, but there were some impressive ones in heroic poses. The one of a wolf and its pup napping was especially cute.

“Look, doesn’t this one resemble you?”

“Don’t compare me to such weaklings! I’m a Fenrir!!”

“No, I meant just the appearance!”

“I look stronger.”

It seemed Luke was stubborn about not being compared to ordinary wolves. Taichi sighed when the shopkeeper asked if Luke didn’t like the carving.

“I think it’s great… Sorry.”

“No, no. This was carved after a wolf. Your familiar is… probably a stronger monster, right? It would be disrespectful to compare.”

“That’s right!”

Luke puffed up proudly, making Taichi chuckle.

“However, it’s quite large. Are you new to Forren?”

“Yes, we just arrived. We need to find accommodation soon.”

Since Forren was a large town with many tamers, Taichi wanted to secure lodging quickly, especially at the Tamer Guild’s facility.

(I saw a merchant’s caravan with their familiars pulling a big load…)

As Taichi was pondering this, the shopkeeper pointed to a nearby street.

“Try the ‘Forest Cat Inn’ down that road to the right. It’s a good place.”

“Wow, that’s a lovely name…”

Though not the main reason, it was a part of it.

“Actually, I was thinking that since I have a familiar, they might refuse us at inns. I planned to use the Tamer Guild’s accommodation.”

Explaining that inns generally refused familiars, the shopkeeper shook his head.

“That place is run by a former tamer, so familiars are welcome.”

“That’s wonderful news!”

Although the Tamer Guild’s facilities were also good, Taichi preferred staying at an inn if possible. A place with a hot spring would be perfect, but he wasn’t expecting too much from another world where bath culture wasn’t widespread.

“An inn that allows familiars… It’s quite a smart place.”

“Luke.”

Taichi smiled at Luke’s proud response and decided to check out the recommended inn.

“Thank you. We’ll head over there.”

“Of course. I’ve stayed there myself and they’re very good, so please take care.”

“Yes.”

Taichi thanked the shopkeeper once more and headed to the Forest Cat Inn.