a dumbass gets isekai'd: the novella

28. help girl, i drifted out to sea

The lounge was bustling with customers and employees alike when Jack and Yuu walked in. The ambience wasn't as threatening as it had been the last time they visited, but it didn't make Yuu any less anxious.

"We're in enemy territory, so don't let your guard down." Jack warned. The first people to notice them were Jade and Floyd, who welcomed them.

"Oh, you came little shrimp! Welcome! I see you've brought the sea urchin with you too."

"I've said I'm not a sea urchin!"

"My, what a surprise. Thank you for quickly making a decision. Welcome to Monstro Lounge. This is your first time visiting, I presume?"

Yuu deadpanned at Jade's question. "No, we were here a day ago."

Jack subtly placed himself between the twins and Yuu. "Do you make a hobby out of asking things you already know the answer to?"

"I'm just making sure, fufu. Now then, I shall explain some precautions before we proceed with our business today. Monstro Lounge is a gentleman's social facility, so please refrain from getting into arguments with those from other dorms. Here everyone from other dorms must adhere to Octavinelle rules. We kindly ask you to please remember these rules and enjoy the Lounge to your hearts' content. Now that that's done and over with, what have you come here for today?"

Yuu had blanked out for most of Jade's monologue, but hearing his question they refocused and cleared their throat. "I would like to speak about something regarding the anemones. Is the manager free?"

"Very well. Right now, the manager is busy discussing with another client. Will you be alright with waiting for a bit? Ah, that's right. Loitering is also prohibited, so please buy a drink if you want to stay."

Yuu and Jack were sat down at a table. Jade motioned at Ace and Deuce, who were busy with other customers. Both of them balanced trays full of food and drink.

"Anemones, please take their order."

"Sorry, I have to deliver these drinks." Deuce said.

"I'm in the same boat! Can't you take their orders?" Ace argued. "You're just sitting around while we do all the work."

"You have quite the rude disposition for a bunch of anemones."

The anemones pulled hard on their heads, and the two cried out in pain. Even as they pleaded for it to stop, Jade continued to pull the anemones.

"Azul left me in charge of training the newcomers. Newcomers who do not follow the rules will be punished."

Having seen enough, Yuu stood up. "Stop that. Aren't you overdoing it?" Their voice was laced with irritation.

"Oh dear. This won't do, Yuu. I believe I have already stated that you are to follow the rules established here." Jade said, his smile unwavering.

"But it's wrong to harm your employees." Because Yuu had worked in restaurants and retail before, they've seen how often workers, including themselves, were mistreated by higher ups. So it pissed them off to witness it happening.

"We have all the right to squeeze problem children who are disobedient. Are you saying you want to be squeezed too, shrimpy?"

Seeing Floyd inch towards Yuu a little, Jack got up as well. "You tryin' to say that we aren't allowed to speak out against you? All their trying to say is that your using your power to pick on newbies."

"Then, would you help out the shop in their place?" Floyd asked.

Yuu and Jack didn't even have time for a response when Ace butted in, saying "That sounds good! Let's do that!"