Cafe

What's this, you ask? It's a coffee vending machine.

Pssh, since when did you start being picky?

We've got three drinks on the menu.

Sugar coffee, Milk coffee, and Cream Coffee.

C'mon, just relax!

You're our first customer, so have some Sugar Coffee on the house.

See what you think.

Just a sip.

Try.

So it doesn't kill humans. Good to know.

Then Nikkes must be able to drink it as well.

Nice. Sell it.

I told you it'd be fine!

Now we've got to divvy up the shares.

It was my idea, so I get the lion's share...

I should get 40%.

I'm the one who got the vending machine.

You must be pulling my leg.

Who gave you the idea to sell coffee using a vending machine in the first place?

Me!

So I get 40% of the cut!

Objection.

Why?

Me. Leader.

!!

...

Well well, aren't you something.

You didn't lift a finger and you're proclaiming yourself a leader?

You lazy oaf!

There's no other way.

What, you wanna make something out of it?!

...

What is it now?!

!!

!!

!!!

Then how do we choose?

Rock paper scissors?

No. Pure chance.

Well, what then?

You got any ideas?

!!

Earn what you sell... not bad.

You're pretty smart, Commander!

Acceptable.

All right, that's the rule from here on out.

Agreed.

I like it.

In that case...

What are you staring at?

You're not trying to run off without paying, are you?

I gave you a sample. I didn't say anything about it being free.

Ka-ching! Hehe...

What are you doing?

I'm the one who had the Commander order a coffee.

Moreover, it was a Sugar Coffee.

!!

But I'm the one who asked them to pay. This is my money!

Sugar Coffee. Rules are rules.

Damn, should've had him drink Milk Coffee.

Fine, I'll give you half.

What now?!

Leader.

...

...

Are you screwing with me?!

Ah, perfect timing.

The cafe's gotten 12 complaints already.

People say it's ridiculous that we only have 3 drinks.

If they taste good, what's the problem?

If only we didn't have to deal with customers...

That's what we were discussing.

We've come up with a new idea. Take a look.

Presenting item No. 4 on the Cafe Sweety menu!

MilkSugarCream Coffee!

Wait a minute.

Didn't we agree it was gonna be SugarCreamMilk Coffee?

The milk is at the top, so it should be MilkSugarCream.

Milk gets poured last, so it should be at the back.

CreamSugarMilk coffee.

I swear...

Fine, we can figure out the name later.

First we need to decide whether or not to even put it on the menu.

Have a taste.

It's an even mix of sugar, cream and milk. It's bound to make your taste buds sing!

C'mon, drink up!

Darn, maybe mixing everything together wasn't such a good idea after all.

That's fine, we kinda expected that's what would happen.

Now is where you come in.

Got any ideas for a new menu item?

Yeah, whatever you've got, fire away.

Espresso...

Just plain ol' coffee? No milk, cream, or sugar?

I'm fine with that, so long as you add some sugar.

That's no different from Sugar Coffee.

Espresso should be straight-up.

Uh...

People actually drink that stuff?

I can't even imagine... that needs at least 10 spoonfuls of sugar.

But, different strokes for different folks... I'll make the espresso.

Are you sure about the color? It's black.

According to the recipe, it's right...

And you drink it in this small cup?

What do you think, Commander?

All right then, everyone down it on three.

...

...

One-

Two-

Three!!

Ughhhhh! It's so bitter!

What!? Nobody else drank it?

It needs more sugar, for sure.

Hate bitter.

...

I get you two flaking on me,

but you, Commander? You're the one who suggested this!

Mint Chocolate Latte...

You mean making a sweet coffee using mint?

Sweet coffee? I'm on board.

Have you ever tried mint?

I heard it tastes like toothpaste.

Uh...

There are people who like their drinks to taste like toothpaste?

I can't even imagine adding toothpaste to Sugar Coffee.

But, different strokes for different folks... Mint Chocolate Latte it is.

Are you sure about the color? It's green.

According to the recipe, it's right...

The smell is super potent.

What do you think, Commander?

All right then, everyone down it on three.

...

...

One-

Two-

Three!!

Ugh? What is that?

Terrible.

I kinda like it.

What?! You can't be serious.

I'm not picking up any toothpaste, and it's very sweet. It's not bad.

I can't believe what I'm hearing...

What about you, Commander?

You two certainly have... unique tastes.

Yes, maybe Sugar's taste buds have gone crazy.

...

Either way, I can't sell this.

I don't want to sell something I wouldn't drink myself.

I don't like such divisive drinks.

Enough of this. I don't care if we end up getting complaints, the fourth new dish at Cafe Sweety will be...

nothing!

They just said they were sorry. Maybe you can get another suggestion from them.

Sorry, you say?

I don't accept apologies.

I am, however, more than willing to accept cash. Or your life.

Is it me, or has business been dead around here?

It's quiet. Too quiet.

Quiet. Happy.

Do you think it's because the menu is so small?

Or maybe we haven't tried hard enough to lure the customers in...

What do you think, Partner?

What? Who says we fight with the customers?

Actually, I guess I have been a bit short with the customers lately...

All right, from here on out, it's nothing but smiles all around from me!

Hey, is that a customer?!

Hello!

Welcome!

Hey, Belorta.

What'll you have?

We make everything here ourselves, take your pick!

Hmm...

Do you have anything other than coffee?

I'm not really a big java freak.

... Excuse me?

This is a cafe! What else would we possibly serve?

I don't know, desserts and stuff like that!

You're limiting yourself by only selling coffee...

Be honest, are you getting a lot of customers?

Wh-what?

Sigh... I knew this would happen.

That's why I'm having someone come in to help you guys. They run one of the most famous cafes in the Ark.

Who the hell do you think you are?!

You're just a customer, so act like it! Shut up, drink your coffee, and get the hell out!

You could at least hear what she has to say. I've already called her, after all.

Who knows, her advice could be a boon for business.

Speaking of which, I think that might be her.

What?

Hello!

Hello, Emma!

Emma?

You mean the person who runs that cafe is...

Yep, me!

It's strange saying it out loud, but I suppose it is quite famous.

Belorta told me that you're concerned that you don't have any desserts on the menu?

Well, I decided to put my skills to good use.

Wh-what is this?

Just something I whipped up earlier.

It took a lot of doing, I'll tell you that much. Care to try some?

It's so nice of you to

do all of this for Cafe Sweety, really.

Looks like my work is done here.

The customers will be rolling in soon enough, hehe!

Thank you, Belorta.

Hey! HEY!!

Where are you going? Stop!

Well... yeah, but... this is different!

Whoops, I totally forgot.

I was supposed to go for a drive today. Black Typhoon's waiting for me!

If you'll excuse me...

A motorcycle ride sounds nice!

Be safe.

You traitor!

She's not a customer, can we get rid of her later?

Emma isn't a customer!

*Cough*

Zzzzzz...

Seems like Frima is sleeping.

Commander, Milk, would you two like to try it?

Ahh...

It wouldn't feel right refusing... she did put a lot of time into it...

Fine, let's get this over with!

Actually, because it looks sooo delicious,

I'm not sure about you, but I'm not willing to share.

Let's play rock, paper, scissors. Winner can eat Emma's dessert.

So long as I'm not the winner.

I could make more you know...

Oh no, we wouldn't dream of it. You've already done so much.

C'mon, let's do this!

Rock, paper, scissors...

Gah!

I...

won?!

H... he... hehehe.

Time to face the music. Pal...

If you run into Sugar or Belorta,

tell them their time is limited.

Such a unique coffee is wasted on these philistines. Nobody here knows how to appreciate good java.

Sugar left already...

Am I really going to have to wake up that sloth Frima?

Oh boy, I can smell the coffee already.

*Sniff sniff* So this is where you drink coffee?

Let's drink!

Sugar took off on her bike. She's hunting down someone who gave her a bad review.

As for our oh-so-useless leader...

What else do you expect?

Did you come for our coffee tasting? What about your friends?

C'mon, when's the part where we drink the coffee?!

If anyone else asked me that, I'd be showing them the door,

but for you, I'll make an exception.

Wait a moment.

This here is what we call Cafe Sweety's Yuletide Brew.

Can't you tell?

Duh!

Of course the coffee is the same!

Why change perfection?

The slightest alteration to the recipe could destroy the delicate balance.

Of course, Milk Coffee is the best of the bunch.

It smells wonderful.

Let's see who can neck all these first!

Wait. If you're going to try them all, start with Cream Coffee.

Okay, here goes.

*Sip*

*Glug, glug, glug*

So smooth!

Blech!

What is this? It tastes like you melted down a candle.

My thoughts exactly.

Consider it a trial by fire.

Now, onto the star of the show. Cafe Sweety's one and only Milk Coffee.

The one we just had was already delicious, and you're saying this is even better? I can't wait.

I'm telling you, between the two, there's no comparison!

Let's give it a try, then.

*Glug, glug, glug*

Very interesting. Quite savory.

You know your stuff. Such is the beauty of Milk Coffee, my friend.

Blech!

Why would you put milk in this? Disgusting.

...?! You son of a...!!

... Yes. Right.

I can forgive you for dumping on Milk Coffee,

but saying it's worse than Sugar and Cream Coffee? That, I will not allow.

All right, last one. Sugar Coffee.

Just like Cream Coffee, this is bottom of the barrel dreck.

Go ahead and rank them. Take your time.

Looks like Sugar is back.

Let's tell her how nasty her coffee is!

We went through them so quickly... I'm so sad there aren't more.

The Sugar Coffee is...

*Glug, glug, glug*

Very sweet! It's quite good.

I'm gonna hurl.

This is the worst one yet. How is it even possible to make a drink this bad?

You might not be so ignorant when it comes to coffee after all.

The Sugar Coffee is just reprehensible, am I right? I knew it!

Patooey! Commander, you said you were going to treat me to something delicious.

Hehe. I found it to be delicious.

Thank you for bringing me here.

Gah!

What's gotten into her?

Teacher?!

Is this some kind of joke?

Hehe! Let's go!

This tea is lovely.

I'm glad to see we have the same taste when it comes to tea.

Haha, that we do.

I didn't expect to meet you here in the cafe. What brings you here?

Commander-kun? What are you doing in the cafe?

I heard that Ludmilla likes tea.

So we arranged to meet and try some.

Sakura has all sorts of wonderful teas here.

No. They only sell coffee here.

We're drinking some tea I got from some people who work in the Chamber of Commerce.

I've rented the entire place for the day, so it's okay.

Thanks to you, I get to sample some of these magnificent teas. What an honor.

Black tea never disappoints.

I prefer black tea as well.

First you've got the mesmerizing color of the tea itself, then there's the intoxicating aroma and distinct bitterness to the taste.

And it pairs wonderfully with desserts.

Truly a most delightful blend.

This next one here is oolong tea.

Oh, very nice!

Black tea may be my favorite, but oolong is a close second.

It's less bitter and has a refreshing aftertaste. One of my favorites.

Would you like to try some?

Of course.

Very different from black tea, but still quite nice.

Would you like a cup as well, Commander-kun?

I see you're a fan of more exotic tea blends.

Coming right up.

Here you go.

How is it?

Ha, looks like you're quite enamored with it, Servant.

Now, have another sip, but try to really take in the aroma this time.

It will help enhance the taste, and make it richer.

Partner?

You're joining these ladies for teatime? Color me surprised.

Actually...

Come to think of it, I don't believe I've ever had tea before.

Any chance I could have a cup? If you don't mind, of course.

Not at all. What kind of tea would you like?

Whichever has sugar, I guess.

Tea is made using water and tea leaves only. No added sugar.

But... how the... no sugar...?

How about some floral tea instead?

It's the sweetest one I brought with me.

Here you go.

Let's see...

Smells nice.

...

... How is it?

What do you think?

I feel like something is missing.

I wanna give it a little extra zing. Wait a second.

... Why is it a different color now?

What is that powdery stuff swirling around in the cup?

This stuff really zips now! Try it out.

All right, I'll try it.

...

...

I just added a little bit of brown sugar.

10 spoonfuls, that's all.

What do you say?

Way better, isn't it?

The sweetness completely overwhelms the taste of the tea itself.

It's like I just inhaled a mouthful of sugar.

Artificial sweeteners shouldn't be within a mile of tea like this.

Really?

But it's nice and sweet now. I think it's a heck of a lot better.

Hehe, well it doesn't seem like Sakura is much of a fan.

Do you have any other sweeteners?

Sure, I've got all kinds. I'll bring 'em over so Sakura can have a look.

I guarantee you'll find something you like.

Adding sugar to a tea like this... it's an insult!

Agreed. Tea and sugar should be kept separate, and never the twain shall meet.

If you like, we could continue our tea sampling somewhere else. How about my place?

Sounds great.

Let's go.

Hey.

Come on in, Pal.

We sure are! You came at just the right time.

Not usually, no.

So today, I plan to try desserts from various places, and if I find any that are good, I might even try to research their recipes!

We've had a bit of a dip in customers lately.

So annoying.

If you're so upset about it, then think of ways to earn some more money!

Too. Troublesome.

You're something else, you know that?

Oh, we've got someone else to grab that for us.

Hey, guys!

Oh! Hey, Teacher!

Hehe!

Tia, the dessert boxes you're holding are going to get crushed!

Besides, you know how embarrassed Teacher gets when you hug him like that.

Anyway, how are you all doing?

I hope Tia's enthusiastic greeting didn't startle you too much, Teacher.

We're still working on her etiquette, so please forgive us.

Oops, sorry about that.

I'm just so happy to see you. Hehe.

It's all good, as long as the desserts are okay. Thanks for getting them.

So. Many.

I meant them, yes.

Did you get everything on the list?

Of course!

I scoured social media and compiled a list of the most sought-after desserts.

Hold on, let me plate them up.

So. Fast.

When it comes to desserts, we know what we're doing.

Wow, they look amazing!

I can't wait to give it a try!

W-what the...?!

Whoa there, hold your horses now.

I'm not done setting them up.

You're not?

All. Unpacked.

Oh, my dears. That's just the beginning.

Tia still has several more steps to complete.

?

No, that's not it...

This just isn't the one, and that's not it either!

Bright. Eyes hurt.

This shot appears to be underexposed.

The cake decorations seem a bit crooked in this one.

This one doesn't look appetizing enough.

Hmm...

Something tells me we won't get to try any of these desserts today.

What are you talking about?

I asked you to buy these for us!

Tia won't touch these until she's captured the perfect shot,

and considering how many desserts you had us buy,

I'd say tomorrow is the soonest we'll possibly be eating.

No way! You've gotta be kidding me!

Frima, do something!

Sleep mask. Comfy.

Now. Dark.

What?

Me. Sleep.

*Snore*

Aaargh!

Here you go, Milk.

What is this?

A cookie?

Hey, just a heads-up,

this might not be as good as what Tia got from those famous stores,

It's actually something that I prepared for her.

but you're more than welcome to have it if you'd like.

Thanks,

that's really sweet of you!

I won't forget this!

Don't sweat it!

I'm really sorry that Tia's such a handful,

but your understanding means a lot to me.

Hey, Pal! You got here just in time!

Finally, someone I can trust.

Sit here.

Hiya, Old-Timer!

I was wondering who's at the door.

Come on in.

Cafe Sweety asked us to come dressed like this.

Apparently, they're changing the cafe's concept.

That's right, we're in a real pickle at the moment.

Customer numbers and overall sales are both through the floor.

So, we're thinking of revitalizing the cafe ambiance and adding new items to our menu.

Then, we'll be officially unveiling the NEW Cafe.

That's right.

Ludmilla is a veritable encyclopedia when it comes to tea,

and she was kind enough to fill us in on a few secrets.

Hehe... Well, you all were fantastic listeners.

I had an absolute blast teaching you.

Hehe, nope.

I'm just gonna help with serving!

Um... What did they tell me again?

If the servers here wear special outfits like they do at the Maid Cafe,

it'll amp up the customers' enjoyment.

Business image.

Yeah, exactly!

So that's why I'm here dressed like this. Hehe.

I've only really worn this before at Snowfield Hot Spring, so I feel a bit self-conscious wearing it here...

I hope everyone likes it...

Smiles. Healing power. Great.

Not just yet.

Lastly, I'd appreciate if you and Ludmilla could help us test a few things.

The food, the service quality, and all that jazz.

After experiencing it firsthand, you can give it all a rating on this tablet.

Well then, I'll leave it to you!

Look forward. A lot.

I shall look forward to your menu and service.

I-I'll do my best!

All right, everyone, let's get to work!

Y-yes!

Um...

W-welcome, Old-Timer and Ludmilla... Er, I mean, distinguished guests!

L-let me show you to your table!

What would you like to order?

Wh-wha? That can't be!

I'm positive that I wrote them all down earlier!

M-may I see the menu for a moment?

...

Oh my goodness!

I must have brought you an unfinished menu by mistake.

... *Sob* ... I'm sorry.

W-wait a sec!

Let me think about the menu for a moment!

We definitely have black tea, green tea, and...

The rest are... Um... I...

Mica.

You're psyching yourself out. Take a moment to collect yourself.

Remember all the training we've done on

how to deal with unexpected situations.

Oh, right!

Let's see...

W-would you be interested in trying our Signature Tea?

I'll have the same.

Hehe, all right!

You won't be disappointed, Servant, I can assure you.

It's a special, yet simple, recipe that I shared with them.

The aroma and the taste are sublime and subtle,

and I've never known anyone to not enjoy it.

Here are your Signature Teas.

Ah, Old-Timer!

Are you okay? Here, wipe yourself with this handkerchief!

What's wrong, Servant?

Did you not enjoy it?

...!

Who made this tea?

Me, why?

What did you add to the tea?

Made it just like you told me to.

But it was missing that sweet kick, so I threw in some sugar.

No, there's more to this tea than a mere sweetness of sugar.

Well, I thought it lacked a certain smoothness, so I added milk.

Cream. Added.

What? You guys added stuff too?

Then, who's cashing in on this?

Me.

You were over there sawing logs while Ludmilla was teaching us, you lazy oaf!

Besides, I'm the one who came up with this whole idea, so it's only fair that I get the money.

What, just because you added some milk and cream?

Everyone, just simmer down.

O-Old-Timer?

Would you like to try this?

I made you a new drink, hehe.

I've never done this before, so the taste might not be amazing... But if it's all right with you...

What do you think...?

Welcome, Commander.

Hey, Coach.

Today, we are going to make some strawberry cookies!

I'm using this special recipe Ade gave me, and she swears by them.

Hehe, you're gonna love them!

Um... You sure this is okay? It's my first time cooking, you know.

Don't worry,

Commander and I will guide you along.

Great!

Let's get started, shall we?

All right, this is gonna be fun!

Let's see... First, I need 300 grams of strawberries.

Here you go.

Ooh, the red strawberries look incredibly tempting, don't they? Tee-hee!

Definitely.

As long as I stick to the recipe, I'm bound to make a killer cookie.

298g...

300g!

Perfect.

I think so too! It's your first time, but you haven't made any mistakes yet.

Impressive!

That's only because I've got you two helping me.

Aww, you should see your face, Bay. You're nearly as red as the strawberries.

... What should I do next?

Hehe, look at you, changing the subject.

Stop teasing me...

Okay, fine.

Are you ready for the most important step? Making the cookie dough.

I've got this in the bag.

200 grams of flour...

Sweet.

And 100g of butter...

Hmm...

50g of sugar...

3g of yeast...

Oh no!

Dang it... my hands slipped.

You're right!

Where's the spoon, Coach?

I saw one just a moment ago.

No, I'll do it.

Aw man, it's already mixed itself into the dough...

And I was doing so good following the recipe...

Now, I've gone and ruined it.

I wouldn't say that.

!!

What are you doing?!

Now, I'm the one who ruined it, not you.

But still...

Bay, isn't making cookies fun?

!!

Don't you think so?

...

I'm not sure.

I mean,

I was excited at first.

The thought of being able to make delectable cookies really thrilled me,

as did the idea of sharing them with my friends.

That's why I wanted them to be perfect.

I was so obsessed with not making any mistakes

that it was all I could think about.

Hehe, I see.

Well, at this point, I don't think we should bother with the recipe.

!!

Do you think we'll be able to make cookies without it?

Of course, we can!

Hey, what are you talking about?

You've always enjoyed my cooking, Commander.

He has?

In that case...

I'll trust that you two know best, and give it another shot.

Hehe, good thinking.

Since we're gonna share these with our teammates, let's toss in loads of stamina-boosting ingredients.

That's a great idea!

...

Don't they look wonderful?

Hurry up and try one, Bay.

... Okay.

...!

How is it?

This flavor... it's unlike anything I've ever tasted...

Oh my goodness, what high praise!

Looks like this batch is another resounding success!

You should try one as well, Coach.

Pfft...!

Coach... your face...

Pfft...!

Hahahahahaha!

Oh my goodness, this is the first time I've seen Bay laugh like this.

These cookies really are a smash hit!

Hahaha!

They truly are the perfect cookie.

That was fun.

How about we make some together again?

Sure, why not? Are you going to join us?

Cream coffee.

Black tea.

Cream coffee.

Black tea.

Uh...

Tea. Bad.

Customers. Hate it.

I think otherwise.

Cream is far too artificial and will undermine the flavor.

I dare say, a greater number of people would be inclined to avoid it.

...

Ugh. Stubborn.

Since you were the first to insult the tea, I have no intention of backing down.

How about the two of you stop now?

...

Hmph.

*Sigh*

Hi, Highroller.

We're planning on incorporating a new drink into the menu this month,

and I thought these two could give me some ideas.

But...

Black tea.

Cream coffee!

They've done nothing but bicker with each other.

Tired of it.

Cream. Not enough.

Need more cream. Need new menu.

You need to make a decision, Rouge.

A nice cup of fragrant tea will help customers relax and free their minds.

I think it's obvious which drink will offer the greatest benefit to the customers.

I believe you'll make the right choice.

Hmm... I think both suggestions are valid.

I'm torn.

Which should I pick?

Oh, that's a good idea.

Good. My specialty. I'll show you.

I believe I have some tea leaves left.

I'll brew them for you.

You both have had some time, so let's stop here.

Can you show me the drinks you've made?

Perfect.

... That was hardly enough time.

I'm not sure if the leaves have had enough time to steep.

Heh. That too. Skill.

Don't be ridiculous.

The act of waiting is one of the subtle joys of the tea-making process.

It's not something meant to be rushed out as quickly as possible.

So waiting itself can be an enjoyable process?

That's... a new approach.

They both look excellent.

Since the taste of coffee is stronger, the black tea...

Coffee first!

No matter what!

... Fine.

Then, the cream coffee...

...

...

Well?

Fallen for it?

It's... unforgettable.

Proud.

Might I inquire as to the recipe?

One part coffee. Nine parts cream.

New menu. Special.

... That explains the taste.

Sure, let's try it!

Haha, there's no need to hurry.

...

?

Highroller.

I... I think I need to head to the Repair Center for a moment.

How is it?

Please do give me an honest assessment.

Coffee wins?

Who loses?

If I'm being honest...

The coffee is a bit too strong, and the tea is slightly weak.

So both...

??

... aren't quite what you're looking for.

...

I'll take both.

Oh?

May I ask why?

After watching you both make your beverages, I came to a few conclusions.

The cream coffee is great for a guaranteed quick dose of caffeine.

The tea, although more time-consuming, relaxes both the body and mind.

Each has their own unique appeal.

You'll have customers who want to get jazzed up to keep playing as many games as possible, and others who want to take a load off after playing.

Of course. Coin Rush offers a variety of experiences.

We want to also provide a range of diverse experiences, even with our simple drink menu.

Heartwarming conclusion.

I knew you would understand, Rouge.

Of course, we'll need to make some tweaks on our end to improve the taste.

If you come back soon, I'll make sure that you're not disappointed.

Good.

I'll visit soon with some of my men.

Good. I visit too.

...

...

...

... Say something!

Anything at all, you punks!

They say that when you've got too much to say, you end up saying nothing. Guess that's true.

Hell if I know where to start.

Agreed.

Ugh...

... Let me start by asking this.

When did you put that outfit on?

Or rather, why are you wearing it?

And most importantly... who are you?

You idiots! It's me, Milk!

Lies.

... What did you say?!

Hair. Makeup. Clothes. All not Milk.

Disguise. Obvious.

Exactly. Milk wouldn't be caught dead in that getup.

So I'll ask again.

Who are you?

... Pal, help me out here.

Can you explain to those guys why I'm in this ridiculous situation?

Why are you adding fuel to the fire?!

Hmm... it's hard to believe, but if Partner says so, I'll hold off on making a judgment for now.

Still, gotta make sure you're really Milk.

Answer. Verify.

*Sigh*... Fine, fine. Ask away!

All right, then. Answer me this.

What's the coffee-to-milk ratio in a milk coffee?

1:10.

...!!

Milk. For sure!

No doubt about it. That's Milk, all right.

All right, next question.

Why are you in that bunny girl outfit?

You think I like wearing this thing?

It's part of the mission, all right? I didn't have a choice...

Lies.

No missions.

It's a secret mission. Secret, you hear?

Pal, say something! We were on this mission together, weren't we?

Hmm...

Super suspicious.

That narrows it down to two possibilities:

Either you were really out on some classified mission,

or you're just making excuses after sneaking off to do something else.

We're not making excuses!

Can you prove it?

If you're gonna accuse me of doing something shady with him, then you'd better prove it, smartass!

... Proof? Ugh. Too lazy.

Believe you for now.

... Fine, I'll move onto the next question.

I swear, I'm gonna tear this place apart...

All right, last question.

You... really gonna be our daughter?

!!!

Wh-wh-what are you... talking about...?

Don't tell me you don't know your words are all over the Outpost?

What was it again...? Something about how wearing embarrassing clothes would make you look like Sugar and Frima's kid?

Rumor. Heard it too.

This. Real?

Uh...

This time, we even have a witness.

So if that's the case...

go on, call me Mom.

Not a chance!

... Disappointed.

Trust is a Scavenger's lifeline, yet you can't even honor your word?

Cafe Sweety's reputation will hit the dirt.

Ugh, what nonsense is this?!

Then what? Gonna make some excuse?

!!

Realized.

Milk. Outfit. Not embarrassed.

Y-yeah! That's right!

I'm only wearing this for the mission, so there's no way I'd be embarrassed!

Since I'm not embarrassed, I don't have to go acting like your kid either!

... Got it.

Milk, I know where you stand.

Since you've put it that way...

you'll be taking on missions in that outfit from now on.

Wha...?!

Oh...

Hold on, why did things turn out like this?

You said you weren't embarrassed, so that much should be fine.

Or... were you just lying to get out of trouble, and you're actually embarrassed?

Daughter. Here.

... All right, fine. If it means that much to you, I'll do it.

From now on, I'll take on missions in this outfit.

Happy now, you punks?

Not another word, Pal.

This is about my honor as a Scavenger.

I need to prove that I'm not embarrassed in the slightest.

So I'm gonna work in this outfit for the next seven days, starting now.

That's too bad... I thought I'd get to hear you call me Mom.

Same.

In your dreams!

Hey.

Hang on.

Customer.

Oh, hey, Commander!

Heh, it's nothing, really.

This is my regular coffee spot.

Heh,

I'm not the Soline you used to know.

Both my mind and body have grown.

Of course! Enjoying a coffee like an adult is—

Order?

Oh, right! I totally forgot to order.

The usual adult coffee, please.

Two cups,

and make 'em strong this time.

Oh.

No regrets?

Yeah, I can handle it!

Okay.

This one's on me, Commander, so drink up!

Hehe, it's nothing.

Adults give each other coffee all the time, right?

So don't go making a big deal out of it!

Done.

Here. Two cups.

Whew... Here we go.

Don't blink, Commander!

!

I-it's...

It's...?

Delicious...!

The coffee I had last time was so bitter... no, it just wasn't really my taste.

But this one is just perfect.

I finally get why Brid can't live without coffee!

Oh. Congrats.

Hehe! How's that, Commander?

Look at this! Not. One. Drop. Left!

I've matured a lot since then.

How about you give it a try?

What's this, Commander?

Acting all grown-up, and now this is too much for you?

It's okay, I used to be like that too.

No need to be embarrassed.

Soline. Drank well.

Very adult.

One more?

Huh, really? Should I?

Got it.

Heh! Watch closely, Commander.

I'll show you what it really means to be an adult.

... Urgh.

Ugghhh...

My stomach feels weird,

and my head hurts too...

*Gasp!*

I-I'm still totally okay!

Ugh...

... Okay, I'll just go home?

...

... C-Commander?

Um... can you hold my hand?

I don't think I can go on my own right now...

Oh, hey, look who's here.

Yo.

So, did you actually bring someone?

They'd better be smart and on the ball.

One person. Does five.

Needed.

O-of course!

You have no idea how insane this place gets during peak hours!

Mhm.

Overworked.

About to die.

And if we actually do the serving, I bet the service quality'll go up.

Well? Where the hell is the guy?

Greetings.

Huh...? What the heck?

Delta?

In a freaking ninja getup?

Oh. Cool.

I was informed that you have a task for me.

What is it?

We need someone to help out at the cafe, pronto.

...

You sure you can handle it?

If you're gonna cosplay, wouldn't the Maid Cafe be more your speed?

You need not worry about that.

I complete every assigned mission without exception.

Such is my way of the ninja.

Oooh. Cool.

... Fine.

Let's start with serving.

It may look simple, but the more orders pile up, the harder it is to keep track.

Mhm.

Expertise. Necessary.

Oh, is that so?

One sugar coffee for Table 1.

One milk coffee for Table 4.

One cream coffee for Table 6.

Think you can handle that?

Am I to begin right away?

Consider it done.

Nin-nin!

What the hell? You're back already?

...!

Swift. Precise.

Mission complete.

Any further instructions?

Then... how about this?

Think you can handle twenty at once?

Twenty cups of coffee... a formidable opponent.

Nevertheless, it should not be a problem.

Ninjutsu: Hologram Clone!

!!

Delta. Split.

Wh-what the hell is that...? Does that even make sense?

Did you accidentally wander into the wrong world or something?

Do not be alarmed.

A hologram is simply that—a hologram.

The only one truly moving is me.

What the...? Then it's totally pointless!

Still, it's good for the cafe to appear busy, isn't it?

... Ugh, I can't believe that actually makes sense.

So, what is the outcome of the mission?

Are you satisfied?

Pass.

Tch... I hate to admit it, but...

you pass.

Thank you.

Okay.

Then you can start tomorrow.

Coincidentally, we've got a mission coming in tomorrow too.

Consider it done.

Seriously, though...

can you at least change first?

It's kinda ridiculous... to have a ninja as a waitress.

That cannot be done.

I am unable to achieve this speed in my usual attire.

Yeah, whatever...

We'll make it work somehow.

No, listen.

It's called sugar coffee for a reason.

Now, now...

That's a bit too much sugar, don't you think? It's not very good for you.

And besides, Friend...

Oh my, we were just talking about you.

You come here quite often, don't you, Friend?

Partner? Yeah, he's here a lot.

Big fan of my sugar coffee.

That's exactly why we can't allow that, okay?

This ghost-like woman keeps saying my sugar coffee's too sweet.

Won't stop nagging about how bad sugar is for you.

Going straight for the face, huh?

?!

Sugar, my friend...

That's not a very nice thing to say.

It really hurts my feelings when you call me a ghost-like woman, you know?

H-hey, let go of me.

I'm called Snow Crane, just so you know.

Fine, Snow Crane. Now get your hand off my face—

Apologize, and I'll let you go, okay?

...

...

Par—

He won't help you.

I'm sure he'd want you to make the right choice.

Black Typhoon never goes off course.

...

...

Lemme do a Frima.

*Snore*

...

...

... Sorry.

There's a good girl.

No!

Hey, gho—no,

Snow Crane, cut it out unless you're trying to wreck our business.

This is a cafe. We sell coffee.

But even so,

five sugar cubes is way too much.

I cut it back a ton.

I believe everyone deserves the chance to make their own choices.

See?

All right, Friend,

this one has five sugar cubes already mixed in.

And this one has absolutely no sugar at all.

You can add exactly as much sugar as you like.

You'll just need to pay a little extra for the sugar, that's all.

But one cube isn't expensive, is it? It hardly costs anything at all.

Now then, which will you choose?

Goodness, you're serious, Friend...?

You really like your coffee this sweet?

I thought so.

Everyone's got their own tastes, after all.

Hold on.

Yes, Sugar?

So you're saying...

we can make extra cash off sugar?

Ding, ding, ding!

That's right!

The customer can sweeten it however they like, so it's just to their taste.

And the seller gets to earn a little extra on the side.

Wouldn't you call that a win-win?

Not bad.

I'm gonna try it right away.

Thanks, Snow Crane. Didn't take you for a decent one.

Hehe, you're very welcome.

Sorry, Partner.

Gotta change the vending machine settings, so not right now.

No can do, Partner.

I need to change the settings fast if I want to make even a little extra.

Drinking too much coffee isn't good for you.

How about we go get a nice, cold glass of water today?

It's on me!