The Tavern

Kendall Town, Nemanian Empire.

A modest human settlement within the vast empire, Kendall was neither an economic hub nor a military stronghold. Its only notable feature was its proximity to Tianqi Academy, the continent’s premier institution. Otherwise, it drew little attention, its tranquility and peace defining its essence. Kant had once considered retiring here, but that was no longer possible.

Through the clothing shop’s glass door, the orange glow of magical streetlamps illuminated leisurely passersby. Nightfall brought a subtle liveliness to the town’s nightlife. The tavern overflowed with patrons, and nearby shops bustled slightly.

“Miss, how does this outfit feel?” asked a saleswoman in simple attire, addressing a black-haired girl in a white dress and floral sunhat, her voice warm with eagerness.

The girl had been trying on various garments since entering. For an ordinary customer, such dawdling might test even a patient clerk’s temper, but this refined, elegant girl, with her graceful demeanor, kept the saleswoman’s enthusiasm intact.

Her skin was smooth as jade, her features striking yet pure, her attire exquisite, and a lovely maid accompanied her. Clearly, she was a noble lady from afar, likely a big spender who’d buy even lightly favored items with a wave of her hand.

Money was no object for nobility.

As expected, the black-haired girl, snapping out of her reverie, offered an apologetic smile.

“Sorry, I was distracted.”

Her soft, melodious voice, though heard before, struck the saleswoman as angelic, its charm irresistible, drawing people closer.

“I like all these clothes. Please pack them up for me to take later.”

The saleswoman’s heart leaped. Her patience and introductions paid off—these high-end garments, sourced from major cities, equaled half a year’s revenue in one sale.

A true VIP!

After a satisfying shopping spree, the mistress and maid returned to their parked carriage. Inside, Cuibis, disguised as a human, confirmed no eavesdroppers and sighed in relief.

“Human territory is such a hassle—hiding our identity and watching every word.”

Blinking, she pouted, her complaint clear. Elves cherished freedom and peace, loathing such constraints.

“We’re enrolling at Tianqi Academy as ordinary humans. This trip’s disguise helps us adapt to our new identities. The students there aren’t as easily fooled as commoners,” said the poised black-haired noble, unmistakably Selina in disguise.

After leaving the Elven Forest, their carriage traveled steadily toward Tianqi Academy in the continent’s center, stopping briefly in the Nemanian Empire for rest.

The stop wasn’t just for convenience. This was where Selina parted with her apprentice and where her mentor was buried. After five years, now free, how could she not visit her human hometown?

An orphan of unknown origins, she considered Kendall home from the moment her drunken mentor settled them here.

“But, Your High—” Cuibis began, only to be silenced by Selina’s stern look.

“Even in the carriage, change how you address me. Understood?”

“Fine, Miss. But we brought enough clothes. Why buy so many human ones?” Cuibis asked, puzzled.

In her mind, the princess’s luggage held exquisite elven gowns, any of which outshone this shop’s offerings. Why bother with human styles?

Selina sighed, a hint of exasperation in her voice.

“The clothes we brought are too conspicuous. My appearance is hard enough to downplay. If my clothes hint at my identity, I’ll be exposed within a week.”

As a former master thief, Selina knew disguise and subterfuge intimately. Tianqi’s students—prodigies and royals—required meticulous care in maintaining her cover.

“Oh~ Where to next, Miss? An inn to rest?” Cuibis nodded, understanding, and asked.

“No, the tavern. I think it’ll be interesting,” Selina replied, pointing out the window at the bustling tavern, her blackened eyes tinged with nostalgia.

“Uh, Miss, a tavern like that doesn’t suit your status,” Cuibis hesitated, eyeing the rough, drunken men—middle-aged and scruffy—entering and leaving.

“It’s fine. Taverns have few real villains,” Selina said confidently.

Unlike Cuibis, who rarely visited human lands, Selina knew this tavern well. As Kant, the Leisen Tavern was a hub for gathering intelligence and relaxing. Her mentor loved drinking here, and the owner, Leisen, was an old acquaintance.

He probably wouldn’t recognize her now, though.

Ignoring Cuibis’s protests, Selina stepped out, her maid hurrying behind. Gazing at the unchanged tavern, memories overlapped with the present.

I’m back…

She longed to say it aloud but restrained herself to avoid curious glances, her princessly composure holding firm.

Navigating past drunken patrons at the entrance, she pushed open the tavern door, greeted by the familiar mix of alcohol and sweat. Though her new body wasn’t accustomed to the smell, she frowned but moved deftly to the counter.

The towering counter mocked her diminished height. Once, she’d slap it with one hand, calling for the barkeep. Now, she strained to see its top.

Her lips twitched. Spotting a lone high stool, she leaped onto it gracefully, her pale hand tapping the counter as in days past.

“One mug of ale, large, no ice.”