Six days have elapsed since my departure from Vermina. Two days prior, I arrived at the bustling Harbor City, a place renowned for its acquisition of exotic goods from distant lands, far beyond the borders of the Vermina Kingdom. Among the sought-after treasures are foreign garments, fine silks, exquisite pottery, and an array of jewelry and accessories that hold allure for women. I have dutifully delivered all the wares to my clients, and now find myself engrossed in researching the prevailing market prices for these regions. However, I admit that I have allowed my indulgences with Cordelia's alluring embrace distract me from my daily responsibilities, and I now find myself somewhat adrift, in need of reassessing my plans in light of the market news I have gathered.
Similar to Vermina, I have found a favored tavern in this city as well, conveniently located near the guild lodge. Given the city's amalgamation with a sizable harbor, one can anticipate a vibrant atmosphere filled with bustling activity. Where people gather, merchants naturally follow. With the convergence of merchants, competition inevitably arises, presenting opportunities to acquire goods at bargain prices depending on the prevailing demands. Within this bustling tavern, numerous robust individuals revel in the consumption of alcoholic beverages. The majority of these patrons are seafaring men, individuals who brave the perils of the ocean in pursuit of their livelihood. It often piqued my curiosity to contemplate the world they have encountered on the distant shores and the wonders they have witnessed on the very edge of the sea.
While being attended to by tavern waitresses who evoke memories of Cordelia, my yearning to be reunited with her intensifies greatly, as I long for the familiar scent and tender embrace she provides. To momentarily alleviate this longing, I engage in conversation with the tavern master, diverting my attention from the yearning for the woman with whom I have pledged my lifetime.
As I shared my sorrows with the tavern master, he listened intently before bursting into hearty laughter. Without a hint of shame, he unabashedly suggested that I take one of his tavern girls to accompany me for the night at a recommended lodge. It was at that moment I realized the hidden truth behind this seemingly innocent tavern—it operated as an undercover brothel, with the tavern master acting as the pimp. The presence of numerous seafaring patrons had created such an establishment. I had been oblivious to this fact, as I rarely engaged in conversations with the tavern master or the waitresses before, except when placing my food order.
Feeling a sense of discomfort, I politely declined the tavern master's proposition. However, he persisted, presenting me with what he believed to be logical reasons for accepting his offer. However, my unwavering devotion to Cordelia saved me from succumbing to disloyalty. As a merchant at heart, I could not fathom betraying the woman to whom I had pledged my life. I paid for my food and drinks, then I walked out from the tavern. I must find another tavern next time.
With the goods securely loaded onto my carriages, ready to be sold in Vermina and Goldkorb, I completed the final payments to the sellers. Ensuring I had ample provisions for the three-day journey back to Vermina, I made all necessary preparations. Yes, I am returning to Vermina once more, driven by a resolute determination to convince Cordelia to accompany me. A sense of certainty fills my heart, as if this time, she will undoubtedly say yes to my proposal.
YOU ARE READING
The Merchant and Tavern Master
FantasyIn 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...
