I carefully parked my carriage in the designated carriage lot, joining the other travelers who had already arrived at this bustling rest area. Leading my trusty horse, I made my way to the public stable nearby. The stable was filled with other horses, some neighing softly while enjoying their feed and water. I ensured my horse was well taken care of, paying the stable officer for their services.

Once my horse was settled and content, I headed back to where Sofia eagerly waited. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she took in the sights and sounds of this lively place, her gaze darting in every direction.

"Isn't this place amazing, Takahiko? It's like a little village right on the road! " Sofia beamed, unable to contain her wonder.

"Until several years ago, there were no places like rest areas along the roads, and travelers had to rely solely on their own provisions for their long journeys." I explained as we walked to the eatery.

I know adventurers would often hire specific helpers called 'carriers' to handle their goods, allowing them to focus on battling the monsters and other challenges that awaited them.

"Back then, the king sought ways to bolster the region's economic activity and enhance the safety of the roads," I explained to Sofia, relaying the story of how these rest areas came to be. "He launched a grand project to establish several of these rest areas along the roads frequently traveled by adventurers, merchants, and travelers like us."

As we walked through the rest area, I pointed to the knight guards patrolling the vicinity. "You see those knight guards? They travel between each rest area, keeping a watchful eye on the travelers passing through. Thanks to the sense of safety they bring, the commerce guild wholeheartedly supported this project. It provided them with increased business and profit as more people felt encouraged to travel and engage in trade." I continued sharing the story, Sofia remained captivated by the place's charm. Her eyes sparkled with wonder, mirroring the same awe I once felt during my first visit. I couldn't help but smile at her genuine fascination.

"In rest areas that see a large number of travelers, such as this one, you'll find public facilities like stores, taverns, and even public baths. However, most of them aren't as sizable as this." I pointed out, gesturing around us. "If you ever venture to more distant regions within the kingdom, you'll encounter various types of rest areas, each with its own unique charm." As I finished my explanation, our destination drew closer into view.

We arrived at the eatery known as "Pilgrim Feast." As we entered through the door, a distinct atmosphere, unlike the tavern Sofia and I were familiar with, enveloped us. The interior was different, with long tables and benches where several patrons shared a place while enjoying their meals.

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Curious, Sofia looked around and asked, "I see no waiters in here?"

"That's right," I replied, guiding her to join the line of patrons. "In this place, we serve ourselves at the counter. It's different from our usual tavern, where we are served by the staff. Here, we pick the foods and drinks we want and pay the helpers at the counter. Here's your tray," I said, handing her the tray to carry her food.

"This place is designed for quick dining, which is why after we finish eating, we return our used utensils to that designated area ourselves."

"This is.. fascinating," Sofia marveled, her excitement evident in her eyes and demeanor. Her genuine curiosity is delightful to see.

When it was our turn to choose our meals, I encouraged Sofia to pick whatever she desired. She looked adorable as she flustered, trying to decide amidst the people waiting behind us. To my relief, the others in line seemed understanding and amused by Sofia's dilemma. As a merchant, I knew that a young girl's charm could brighten up such places, often dominated by male travelers. After paying for our meals, we found an empty seat and enjoyed our lunch, toasting with our drinks.

"This eatery has such an interesting concept. I wonder if we could implement something similar in our tavern," Sofia pondered.

"It's an idea born from the genius mind of our young king. Sometimes, I wonder if he's truly human like us, considering his outstanding vision at such a tender age," I remarked. "However, applying the same concept to your tavern might not be as suitable."

Confused by my direct response, she prodded me to elaborate further. "Why not?"

"In your tavern, and many others in the city, the main appeal lies in the atmosphere that encourages people to socialize and converse for extended periods. They wouldn't want to bother with handling their own eating utensils. Moreover, the presence of the charming waitresses adds to the tavern's popularity. People come to your tavern to be served and enjoy themselves," I explained.

"But this eatery, being situated in a rest area where travelers don't stay long, makes sense to have a different approach. It's designed to encourage patrons to eat, pay, and leave promptly. As you can see, guests come and go swiftly. They don't require many waitresses, only some helpers to clear the tables. People come here simply to eat."

"I see. I never gave much thought to my tavern in this manner. This was an eye-opening lesson, Takahiko. Thank you," Sofia said gratefully.

"You're welcome, Sofia," I replied, smiling at her.

"By the way, you said that most taverns in cities have many charming waitresses, right? Did you encounter many waitresses when you were in other cities, Takahiko?" she suddenly asked.

"Yes, of course I have, especially in the capital.." Suddenly my voice stopped as memories of my late Cordelia surfaced. It's not that I felt pain or anything, it's just reminded me that she's not here anymore, and that fact never failed to make me feel sad.

"Takahiko?" Sofia's concerned voice brought me back to the present. She looked at me with worry, unsure of what had caused my sudden change in demeanor.

"It's alright, Sofia," I reassured her, offering a small smile to put her worries at ease.

"Let's finish our meal, and then I'll give you a little tour of this rest area before we continue our journey."

Sofia understandably agreed and didn't pursue anymore. We continued our meal, engaging in lighter conversations, and after we had enjoyed our satisfying lunch, we returned our used utensils as I had explained earlier.