In this world, there are adventurers, knights, mystical races, magic spells, and treasures. But this is not stories about them. This is just a story about a humble man working as a traveling merchant who dream to become rich to support his family. O...
As I entered the tavern, a familiar voice called out my name.
"Greetings, Takahiko. It's been quite some time since your last visit. How is your business doing?"
I responded, "Greetings, Master. I am faring well thus far, thanks to your guidance. Might I request the customary Knight's Table Stew and a Morning Dew ale, as usual?"
With a hearty laugh, the master complied and went to the kitchen. This tavern, located on the west side of the city, although not too fancy and big, is quite famous among the guards. The reason for this is that the master was once an imperial knight who was retired from service due to a permanent injury on his left leg. This man, Maximus, was a platoon leader when he retired, and had invested a substantial portion of his severance funds to establish this very tavern. I always called him as 'Master', just like any patrons who frequently visited his venue. In a way, Master possessed a profound understanding of the favored fare and libations among the guards, owing to his past camaraderie. Through his connections with former colleagues, Master had access to valuable insights. Moreover, he had been fortunate to retire while still retaining his vigor.
Not long after he went to the kitchen, he returned to bring my ordered stew.
"One Knight's Table Stew, and a glass of Morning Dew ale. It would be 11 silver coins, but I'm in a good mood, so the ale is on the house."
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Taken aback by the unexpected discount, I expressed my gratitude to the master, saying, "How splendid, Master! Pray tell, what is the occasion for such generosity?"
With a wide smile adorning his face, the master proudly declared, "Today marks the joyous celebration of Sofia's birthday! She has reached the tender age of twelve. I owe her upbringing entirely to the support of the esteemed patrons who frequent this very tavern. This humble gesture is but a token of my deep appreciation."
"Truly? In that case, I must present a gift to young Sofia as well!" I exclaimed. Recalling one of the precious items I had obtained from the dwarves city with the intention of selling it to noble ladies, I retrieved it from my bag. Though it was among my most valuable possessions, I resolved not to be frugal on this occasion and instead offer it as a heartfelt gift for Master's daughter.
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"You need not trouble yourself, Takahiko. Your heartfelt words of congratulations are more than sufficient," Master replied, displaying a hint of reserve.
"I insist, Master. This is a special celebration for your beloved daughter," I insisted. "Now, if you wouldn't mind, could you please summon Sofia?"
"Well, if you insist. Sofia? Could you join us for a moment?" Master called out.
"Yes, Father. I will come," the sweet voice of a young girl echoed from the kitchen. I recognized her as Sofia, whom I had encountered when I first met Master, albeit our conversations were infrequent. Standing at a height reaching my waist, she possessed vibrant blue eyes reminiscent of her father's, and her dark hair seemed to be inherited from her mother, Madam.
"Do you recall Takahiko, my dear? Although he visits our tavern only once every six months, he has been a loyal patron for quite some time. He has brought something for you," Master reintroduced me to her, emphasizing our connection.
"Ah, greetings, Sir Takahiko. If my memory serves me well, you are a merchant, are you not? I am Sofia. I extend my gratitude for your consistent visits to my father's tavern," she politely greeted. I was truly impressed; it was evident that Master and Madam had raised Sofia exceptionally well.
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"Greetings, Sofia. Actually we already met years ago, but I understand if you don't recall our encounter. Nonetheless, I humbly offer you this gift," I said as I presented my offering to her. "I apologize for not having it wrapped, as I only learned of your birthday today."
Sofia responded somewhat awkwardly, "Oh, please, there's no need to apologize. I am genuinely grateful for your thoughtfulness, Sir Takahiko. Oh, this is... a book?"
"Yes, indeed. I presume your father has already instructed you in the art of reading, has he not? This book holds within its pages a collection of numerous tales and poems gathered from bards and poets across this very continent," I explained.
Observing our conversation, Master interjected, "This seems rather valuable. Are you certain about giving this to Sofia?"
Books are indeed considered precious and costly for common folk, for the process of creating them demands the collection of numerous writings to be skillfully bound together. Hence, for those of lesser means, acquiring such literary treasures might be perceived as extravagant. However, for a merchant like myself, it proves to be a lucrative commodity, as nobles hold a keen interest in possessing these literary gems.
I hold the firm belief that the Master has taken the initiative to teach Sofia the intricacies of managing and preserving this very tavern, with the intention of grooming her as the rightful heir for the future.
"Certainly, it would be most fitting," I agreed, "Given that Master has already imparted the gift of reading upon Sofia, it seems only fitting to provide her with captivating material to further nurture her interest. What are your thoughts, Sofia? Do you find the content of this book to your liking?" I inquired, addressing Sofia while simultaneously responding to Master's earlier question. Sofia appeared engrossed in her reading, displaying evident enjoyment.
"Yes, Sir Takahiko! I've already read two whole pages of the adventure tales, and I'm absolutely curious about what the hero will do to rescue the kidnapped princess! It's so exciting and fun! Thank you so much!" Sofia exclaimed with enthusiasm. Her bright and spirited response filled me with a sense of fulfillment, reaffirming that presenting her with this gift was indeed worthwhile.
"You're most welcome, Sofia. If there's something specific you desire as your gift next year, do let me know, and I shall search for it diligently," I offered.
"Truly? Do you really mean it? Oh, thank you ever so much, Sir!" Sofia exclaimed with gratitude and excitement.
"Please don't spoil her too excessively, Takahiko. I don't wish to impose any further burden upon you," Master interjected, expressing his concern.
"No, it's not a burden in the slightest, Master. Witnessing her joy and happiness makes every effort worthwhile," I reassured him.
We continued our lively conversation throughout the night until the tavern began its closure for the evening.
