Chapter 168: The Reopening
The sun was just beginning to crest over the rooftops of Elandra when the aroma of sizzling meat and frying potatoes began to drift into the cobbled streets of the western plaza. It mingled with the morning air like a siren call, tugging at the noses—and stomachs—of passersby.
The building wasn’t grand. Inigo hadn’t wanted it to be. It was compact and charming, made of red stone and wood beams, with a slanted shingle roof and wide windows. Above the entrance, a wooden sign hung proudly with the painted words: Mcronald’s — Burgers and Fries.
Inside, the layout was tight but functional. A wooden counter with a brass bell stood in front of a modest kitchen visible through an open service window. Eight small tables lined the dining area, each made of sturdy local oak. A painted chalkboard on the wall listed the menu:
Burger + Fries Combo – 5 coppers
Double Burger Meal – 7 coppers
Adventurer’s Feast (2x burgers, large fries) – 10 coppers
Morning Fried Egg Rice Bowl – 4 coppers (available until 10 a.m.)
Add egg – 1 copper
Add soda – 2 coppers
Behind the counter, Inigo wore a dark red apron and a short-sleeved tunic, his hair tied back. Lyra stood beside him, arms crossed and a rare smirk on her face, also wearing a matching apron—though hers had a dagger tucked discreetly at her hip.
"Doors open in ten minutes," Inigo said, glancing at the small wall clock they’d installed. "You ready?"
Lyra raised a brow. "To cook burgers for half the city? Not really."