The second day in Latulle Cave began with the party setting out early in the morning, traveling for quite a long time by wagon and horseback until they arrived at the vast market established in the cave's largest cavern around late afternoon.
This was the true heart of Latulle that Gravel and the party encountered for the first time, a symbolic space of the cave city. Countless Anthro and humans mingled together, filling the streets, with wagons hauling heavy loads for various purposes, merchants tending to their display cases, and crowds buying and selling diverse goods catching Gravel's eye.
Gravel's eyes widened in awe at the surrounding scenery, but Dallen, guiding him, casually explained various details about the market while continuing the conversation, as if it were all too familiar.
"This is the largest market in Latulle Cave. It's practically a city in itself. The market is tangled like a maze, and no matter which way you go, another alleyway appears. That's its unique feature, you could say. There are as many as 21 entrances like grand gates, each leading to different areas."
As Dallen spoke, Gravel looked around, observing the countless shops lining the maze-like alleys. The number of stores was beyond counting, each with its own distinct character. In particular, as Dallen mentioned, the most numerous were those selling ancient artifacts and gems discovered in the underground labyrinth. Among them, the largest shop gleamed with dazzling, rare jewels and artifacts obtainable only from the labyrinth.
"There must be at least 1,100 gem shops here that I know of. They commonly sell relics from the dungeon, ancient gold coins, and rare herbs too."
Dallen explained to Gravel without a hint of hesitation.
"There are plenty of precious items that dungeon explorers seek, and goods you can't easily find elsewhere all gather here. Probably as many labyrinth-related items as in Aquiln."
Gravel couldn't suppress his deep admiration as he surveyed the shopping district. It was his first time witnessing rare items he'd obtained directly from the dungeon being sold through merchants' hands in a market like this. People were trading not only gems and artifacts but also various ceramics and ornaments. Some shops displayed plates adorned with vibrant mosaic patterns, and delicate pottery works shone like pieces of art.
"The ceramics traded here hold considerable value too. Even merchants from across the distant seas come to buy pottery in this place."
In the direction Dallen pointed, three merchants who appeared to be from the Cobalt archipelago were haggling over ornate ceramics placed before them.
Since it hadn't been long after lunchtime, the merchants at each shop were busily cleaning or arranging their displays, preparing for the afternoon customers. Those who had finished preparations sipped tea made from special herbs grown deep in the cave or chatted leisurely with neighboring merchants in front of their stores.
"There are more small teahouses selling tea or kohwa than full restaurants here. They're tucked away in every corner of the market. Among them, some sell tea brewed with rare herbs that only grow in the labyrinth."
Gravel listened to Dallen's explanation while scanning the teahouses lining the alleys. In the widest road cutting through the center of the market, large carts and wagons loaded with goods moved ceaselessly, showcasing the bustling daily life of the enormous cave market. The voices of merchants, the haggling of customers, and the rumble of wagon wheels rolling over the ground blended together, conveying the vibrant energy born from a busy routine.
Gravel and Dallen strolled slowly through the market, passing numerous shops and alleys. Between the stores, small auction houses were set up, where rare artifacts obtained by explorers from the dungeon were put up for bid. In the center of one auction house, explorers were engaged in fierce competition to acquire intriguing items, surrounded by onlookers.
As time passed, they headed toward the edge of the market. Now, the time to head to their lodging for the day was approaching.
The lodging, situated on a high level of Latulle Cave, was Raven Tower, or the 'Raven Tower.' Operated by Rerues, this inn held an excellent position overlooking the entire market, and thanks to its elevated spot, the grand vista of the cave came into view at a glance.
Standing by the window and looking down, Gravel could see the complex market he had just traversed moving like a tiny beehive beneath the enormous cave ceiling. The lodging was calm and quiet, but the lively hum of the market below still tickled their ears.
The Reru owner of Raven Tower welcomed them warmly and guided them to their rooms. Dallen exchanged a brief conversation with the owner and added some details about the lodging for Gravel.
"Many explorers stay here. This tavern run by Reru is popular for its good location and safety, so plenty of people rest here after finishing their expeditions. Especially, this view overlooking the market makes it a charming spot that doesn't feel like being inside a cave at all."
Gravel forgot the fatigue of the journey, enjoying the comfortable space provided by the lodging and the splendid view while sipping tea and resting.
After a brief period of rest, Gravel and the party headed to the dining hall of Raven Tower, operated by the Reru. The stone walls and ceiling enveloped the cave's characteristic vast space, yet gentle lighting and intricate lanterns created a warm atmosphere. The dining hall was bustling with adventurers and explorers of various appearances, all enjoying a late afternoon meal.
As Gravel sat down with the party, the owner approached and handed over the menu. It was filled with dishes reflecting the unique character of Latulle Cave. What caught the eye were the catfish dish and the grilled walleye.
"Catfish dish, interesting."
Gravel murmured while looking at the menu.
"Catfish... Hmmm... The catfish dish I had before had a strong fishy smell."
Nia showed interest upon hearing Gravel's words. Then, with a slightly tense expression, Nia brought a face close to the picture of the catfish dish and stared at it.
"Haha, don't worry too much, Nia—there's no sloppy food like that here. If they couldn't properly remove the catfish's fishiness, it wouldn't count as cooking."
Mau, sitting beside Gravel, laughed as Mau spoke.
While waiting for the ordered food to arrive, the scene of the cave market unfolded beyond the dining hall window. The market on the lower level was still operating vibrantly, illuminated brightly by lanterns and mana stone lamps even in the dimness, highlighting the busy movements of merchants and customers.
Gravel recalled Dallen's words that they couldn't afford to spend another day here without disrupting the schedule. Dallen had explained that resting here before reaching the end of the cave was a wise choice.
"The market is really huge,"
Iris said while gazing out the window.
"Shall we go explore after the meal, Iris?"
Gravel said with a smile.
Shortly after, the food arrived at the table where the party was seated. The first to come out was the catfish, prepared following the Reru tradition. The large catfish fillet was thoroughly rubbed with spicy seasonings, its reddish hue captivating the eye. The fillet was coated in a spicy blend of chili powder, cumin, coriander, the intensely hot Reru pepper, and paprika. Topped with a fresh tomato sauce that tempered the heat, the sauce featured finely chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and tangy lime, adding a refreshing flavor.
"The aroma is intense from the start."
Mau said while inhaling the deep scent.
"Alright, let's dig in."
Gravel carefully picked up a piece of catfish with a fork and put it in his mouth. The inner flesh of the fillet was tender and moist, with the sweet yet spicy seasonings spreading in the mouth in a balanced way, not overpowering. The tangy taste of the accompanying sauce appropriately subdued the spiciness, making it stimulating yet not burdensome.
"It's a strong flavor, but the harmony is good."
"This should be enjoyable for Nia too."
Iris said with a slight smile toward Nia. Nia picked up a small piece with tiny hands and cautiously put it in the mouth.
"Oh, this is better than expected!"
Nia's eyes sparkled. Nia took another bite, wearing a delighted expression.
"It's spicy but okay!"
Next came the grilled walleye. The walleye fillet, crisply pan-fried, gleamed with a golden exterior. Herb butter was spread on top, still melting and seeping into the fillet even as it was served to the table. The nutty aroma stimulated the party's noses.
Gravel cut a piece and put it in his mouth.
"This gives satisfaction in a different way. The frying is so crispy, and the inside is moist."
Iris also picked up a piece of walleye and chewed it.
"It's light and crunchy. And the butter's richness matches perfectly."
Dallen quietly nodded while listening to those words.
"It's rare to have such luxurious food inside a cave."
The meal didn't end there. Besides the catfish and walleye, Gravel's party also sampled dishes accompanied by various vegetables and special herbs that only grow in the underground labyrinth. As they savored the cave's distinctive flavors, the intense aroma of the herbs pierced their noses, leaving a bitter yet fresh taste lingering on the tongue tips. The warmth of the food contrasted intriguingly with the cool dampness of the stone walls, stimulating their senses.
"If only we had more time, staying another day here wouldn't be bad."
Gravel murmured softly.
After finishing the meal, Gravel and Iris slowly rose from their seats. With the thought of wanting to explore the market a bit more, Gravel turned to Iris and said,
"Shall we take a little more stroll around the market?"
"Yes, Lord Gravel."
Iris nodded.
"Nia, coming along?"
Gravel said, looking at Nia seated nearby.
Nia glanced at Gravel, then with eyes shining, pointed to the plate of remaining grilled fish on the table.
"Hmm... I think there's still a bit more of this I can eat."
Gravel's eyes widened as he spoke.
"You can still eat more?"
Nia nodded as if it were obvious.
"Yeah, no matter how much of this I eat, it doesn't fill me up!"
Gravel shook his head and turned to Iris.
"Looks like we should leave Nia behind. Let's go and come back... As always, a Droko's appetite is astonishing."
Gravel muttered.
Nia lifted a chin and savored the last piece of grilled fish.
"Go on ahead, I'll stay here and eat more!"
Gravel left the table with a laugh. As he was about to exit, Dallen rose from his seat.
"I should head out too. I need to deliver an item a acquaintance in the market entrusted me with."
"Must be something important, huh?"
Gravel asked Dallen.
Dallen smiled and said,
"Well, it's not a big deal, but since I took on the request, I have to see it through properly. As a merchant, handling these small commissions carries significant meaning too. I'll be off then."
After Dallen bid farewell and left the dining hall, Mau also leisurely stood up.
"I'm heading up to the room to rest."
"Driving the wagon is tiring work. Rest well."
Gravel smiled at Mau.
Mau waved a massive hand and said,
"After sleeping like a bear, I'll be bursting with energy. Have a good time! Uhaha."
As Mau headed up to the room, covering a yawn with a hand, Mau muttered jokingly,
"The beds here are big, but I always worry. What if an old bed breaks under me?"
Gravel and Iris burst into laughter as they saw Mau off at the joke.
"See you in the evening, then."
Gravel said as he followed Iris out of the dining hall.