The Merchant and Tavern Master

Night Before Leaving

That evening, I savored my dinner as usual at Dragon's Paw tavern. The warm atmosphere and familiar faces greeted me, some of them being returning patrons whom I had known since the time of the previous tavern master, Maximus. As we sat together, reminiscing about the late master, we shared laughter and raised our glasses in joyful camaraderie. I took this opportunity to introduce them to my mother, who had recently started working at the tavern. I wanted her to be included in the close-knit social circle that had protected and cared for the master's family for years. They welcomed her warmly, and I knew she would be in good hands. Of course I shared the news of my upcoming marriage to Sofia three years later. Surprisingly, they didn't seem taken aback by the revelation.

"We already know, Takahiko. That girl has loved you for a long time. And if it's with you, we trust that you'll take good care of her," one of them warmly assured me.

"Indeed, it's true! Maximus used to boast about you incessantly in the past, but since he approved of you, it means you can be trusted," another chimed in. 

As the night wore on, I remained inside the cozy walls of Dragon's Paw, engrossed in conversation with the familiar patrons. We exchanged stories, each sharing our unique perspectives and knowledge. I took this opportunity to learn from their experiences, gaining valuable insights into life's challenges and triumphs. In return, I shared the limited knowledge and experiences I had gathered during my journeys, wanting to reciprocate their generosity.

The lively atmosphere of the tavern began to mellow as closing time approached. One by one, the patrons bid their farewells, heading back to their own homes, with promises of meeting again in the future. The diligent helpers continued their duties, tidying up the tables and ensuring the tavern was ready for the next day's bustling activity. My mother, madam, and another experienced helper retreated to a separate room to tally up the day's revenue, their minds focused on the task at hand.

After everything had been tidied, it was just Sofia, Guin, and me remaining sitting in this spot in the corner of the tavern. In another corner, my mother, madam, and the senior helper had finished counting the day's revenues and were now engaged in their own talks. Their relaxed gestures and laughter indicated that they were enjoying each other's company.

Seizing the moment, I quickly shared the knowledge I had just gained from the guild with Sofia and Guin. "I inquired with the guild, and it turns out that the Stormborne family is indeed a legitimate merchant name. However, their financial standing has been in ruins for several years, and there have been no recorded transactions under the Stormborne name in recent years."

"So, Isabelle's suitor is legit?" Guin asked.

"Isabelle's suitor does indeed have a legitimate family name, but let's not jump to any conclusions just yet. There are still many uncertainties, and I'll need to see for myself before making any judgments," I replied, trying to reassure Guin.

Sofia's curiosity sparked as she pondered the situation further. "If their family has been bankrupt for several years, how can this Lysander guy afford such wealthy attire and grooming? It must cost a considerable amount of money."

"If you've grown up in a privileged household, certain habits and appearances tend to stick with you, even as you age," I explained, drawing from my experiences in trading. "As for their financial situation, there are several possible explanations. They might have acquired money through debt, sold their assets, or even begun the process of reviving their business."

Guin nodded in understanding. "So, it's possible that Isabelle is genuinely overwhelmed with her bride training if it involves learning how to handle the family's business and finances?"

"That's a valid possibility," I agreed. "The bride training in such cases may involve much more than just traditional teachings. Handling financial matters and securing the family's future might be a significant part of it. But again, it's all speculation until we have verified knowledge about her and the merchant's family." My habit as a merchant had shaped me into a person who didn't easily believe in speculation, even if it was my own.