Chapter 32: Serval's Promise

Afterward, everyone eagerly chatted with Serval, learning a wealth of information about Belobog. Among other things, Serval revealed with a smile that she was Gepard's older sister.

The group found it hard to believe that the stern and rigid Gepard could have such a laid-back older sister.

As the sun began to set, the group rose to bid Serval farewell.

"Time flies when you're having fun!" Serval remarked with a warm smile, standing up as well. "I've thoroughly enjoyed spending time with you all." Her impression of the Nameless had improved considerably, especially after learning that they truly traveled through the cosmos aboard the unique Astral Express. She was genuinely eager to visit the Train someday.

"Oh, right, Serval, thank you for chatting with us for so long. Here's a model of our Astral Express as a memento."

Under the astonished gaze of March 7th and the others, Theresa produced a model remarkably similar to the Astral Express and presented it to Serval with a smile. Serval gratefully accepted the gift, thanking Theresa warmly. Though curious, the group knew Theresa would explain later.

"Thank you, Theresa," Serval said, smiling warmly. "Since we've all enjoyed each other's company so much, feel free to reach out if you ever need help. I'll do my best to assist you."

Serval's promise laid the groundwork for their eventual showdown with Cocolia.

"Okay, thank you, Serval!" Theresa replied with a bright smile. "If we ever find ourselves in a bind, we'll definitely take you up on that."

Serval chuckled and affectionately patted Theresa on the head, her expression radiating delight.

"If only my sister were as well-behaved and considerate as you," Serval sighed wistfully, her gaze lingering on Theresa. "Instead, she's always gallivanting off to become some snowfield explorer."

"Ugh, today was really exhausting..." March 7th stretched languidly.

"Then I won't disturb your rest any further. Good night, everyone," Serval said with a smile as she followed the group out. They smiled back in farewell, and the party of four arrived at the Goethe Hotel, arranged by Cocolia.

Goethe Hotel Reception

"Welcome, welcome! It's rare to see new faces at the Goethe Hotel. Are you esteemed guests who've made arrangements with the Supreme Guardian?" Old Goethe greeted them warmly, his curiosity piqued by the group's striking combination of handsome men and beautiful women.

"Yes, the Supreme Guardian instructed us to rest here," Dan Heng replied calmly.

"Oh, by the way, do you have any food here? We've been exploring Belobog all afternoon and haven't tried any of the local cuisine yet," March 7th exclaimed, suddenly realizing she was hungry.

"Of course, of course! At the Goethe Hotel, we serve breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and late-night snacks—all included in your stay. No need to spend any extra Shields!" Old Goethe chuckled. "And please, just call me Old Goethe. It's truly a pleasure to host such handsome and lovely guests."

Old Goethe chuckled warmly.

"But we don't have any Shields. Can we still stay here?" Stelle asked, scratching her head in confusion.

"Not a problem at all," Old Goethe replied respectfully. "The Goethe Hotel has a partnership with the Silvermane Guards. They've already informed me of your arrival. Please, eat and stay without reservation. If you have any requests, don't hesitate to ask. We'll do our utmost to accommodate our esteemed guests."

His unusual deference stemmed from the Silvermane Guards' briefing: these were guests of the Supreme Guardian, and he knew exactly how to treat them.

"Well, we are quite hungry," March 7th said, rubbing her rumbling stomach curiously. "What's good to eat here?"

"Our signature dishes include Belobog Sausage, Salmon Bread, Snapper Jam Appetizer, Suncake, and Rye Bread Soda Iceberg," Old Goethe announced proudly. "We also have rare delicacies from the Underworld: Stone-Grilled Olm and Deep-Fried Rock Crab. These last two, in particular, are culinary treasures exclusive to Goethe Hotel!"

"Then we'll take one of everything," March 7th said. "There are four of us, so we should be able to finish it all."

Theresa paused, thinking for a moment, then looked up at Old Goethe. The reception desk was a bit too high, making her feel awkward and causing the others to stifle their laughter.

"Heh heh heh, very well, Little Cutie," Old Goethe chuckled warmly. "By the way, would you prefer to dine in the lobby or have your meal delivered to your rooms?"

His kindly gaze lingered on Theresa, her adorable demeanor clearly lifting everyone's spirits.

"Hmm, let's eat here in the lobby," March 7th suggested with a smile. "Food smells tend to linger in the rooms." The others nodded in agreement.

"Excellent. Please have a seat on the lobby sofas. Your hot, freshly prepared meal will be ready in about half an hour," Old Goethe announced.

He stepped out from behind the desk and signaled a waiter to place the order in the kitchen. He then led the Nameless guests to a quieter corner of the lobby and personally served them red tea and other beverages.

No one complained. After all, this was the last surviving city on the planet, and resources were understandably scarce.

The Goethe Hotel lobby was furnished with tables and chairs suitable for dining.

Half an hour later...

"Ahaha, the feast is here!" Old Goethe personally supervised the waiters as they served the guests. As patrons of the Supreme Guardian, he was determined to provide the Nameless with impeccable service.

"I won't disturb you any further. Please enjoy your meal, and call if you need anything!" Old Goethe led the waiters away.

The group, ravenous after their journey, eagerly anticipated the meal. Before digging in, however, Dan Heng pulled out a food scanner he had purchased at the Space Station and scanned the dishes and drinks. After confirming their safety, he nodded to the others, signaling them to begin.

Theresa sampled the Russian-inspired dishes. The first bite seemed promising, but she couldn't help comparing them to the exquisite flavors of Shenzhou cuisine from her past life. She simply missed Shenzhou food; after all, a truly hungry person rarely complains.

[Ding-dong! It seems Little Cutie is longing for Shenzhou cuisine. Come on over! The Comprehensive Guide to Shenzhou Cuisine—only 1,000 Elation Points! You won't regret it!]

[And there's the Culinary Mastery passive skill, specifically designed to enhance cooking and perfectly compatible with the Comprehensive Guide to Shenzhou Cuisine! It's a steal at just 2,000 Elation Points—and it's on sale!]

The Homu System excitedly pitched the product. Theresa pondered for a moment before deciding to buy it. After all, it was discounted, and she wanted everyone to experience the wonders of Shenzhou cuisine.

"Alright, I'll take it. By the way, how many Elation Points do I have left?"

Previously, Little Cutie, you exchanged 100 Elation Points and purchased five Homu plushies at 10 points each, leaving you with 50 points.

[Then, you recharged with one million Credit Points, earning 10,000 Elation Points. That brings your total to 10,050 points. You just bought items worth nearly 300 points, but we'll round it down to exactly 300 for you. Add the 2,000-point culinary package, and your remaining balance is 7,750 points. Thank you for your patronage!]

The Homu System chirped enthusiastically. Theresa's purchases were stored in the system's inventory, awaiting her retrieval.