The Merchant and Tavern Master

Introducing Amanda, My Apprentice

When we arrived at Vermina, I secured accommodations for our group at one of the city's largest inns, where we could all stay together in a communal room. I was relieved when the inn owner greeted us professionally, sparing us any intrusive questions about our unconventional group – consisting of one adult man, three young girls, and a little one. Despite the envious glances from some adventurers and travelers, I chose not to dwell on their assumptions. I refrained from explaining our situation, not wanting to make Isabelle uncomfortable. Instead, I entrusted Guin with looking after her, ensuring she felt safe throughout our stay.

"Amanda and I will be heading to the Merchant Guild momentarily and then proceed to the market for some hands-on training. We plan to be back in the afternoon, well before dinner. You girls are welcome to explore the city, but I urge you to exercise caution. While the capital's security is robust, it's essential to remain vigilant, understood? Sofia, Guin, and Isabelle?" I asked the girls.

"Yes, we understand, Takahiko. I'll make sure we'll be careful," Sofia answered with high spirit. It's not her first time coming to the capital, but she hasn't for a long time I guess.

"You sure you'll be alright, Isabelle? You don't have to force yourself if you're uncomfortable," I'm worried more about Isabelle.

"Yes, I will be fine; I'm not alone this time," she assured me.

"We will ensure she's safe, Takahiko, don't worry," Guin confirmed and tapped on my shoulder, just as she usually is.

"Alright. You girls, go and have fun. I've left some money here for the three of you to buy anything you like until Amanda and I return. We'll meet back here in the afternoon, and then we can all go out for dinner together," I left a pouch with some silver coins and gold coins to Sofia for the girls to use.

"Goodbye, Takahiko," they chorused as Amanda and I walked out of the room. The echoes of their cheerful voices lingered in the hallway as we made our way toward the bustling streets of the city. With a reassuring smile, I glanced at Amanda, appreciating the newfound confidence in her eyes. When we stepped outside, Amanda's little hand found mine, her smug expression practically daring me to praise her. She was dressed like a town girl, resembling a scholar with her bag and cap, exuding an air of intelligence that harmonized beautifully with her innocence.

"Ready to start your mission?" I asked her.

"Yes!" Her innocent and excited countenance already gave the answer, but she still answered in high spirit.

Hand in hand, we strolled from the inn to Vermina's merchant guild. Just as she had done upon her arrival in Goldkorb, her curious eyes continued to scan the people, scenery, and activities that unfolded during our walk. As one would anticipate in the capital city, the scale of everything we observed and the air were markedly distinct from the serene ambiance of Goldkorb.

Of course, she asked many questions, and I answered them to the best of my ability. Upon our arrival at the merchant guild, the guild clerks who knew me from before were taken aback by my sudden appearance with Amanda. I introduced her as my apprentice, and Amanda followed through by introducing herself. I felt a surge of pride as I watched the once-shy girl confidently introduce herself. I couldn't help but wonder if this is what a father feels when he sees his daughter grow.

"I'm really surprised; I thought you suddenly had a bastard child from somewhere, Takahiko."

"Of course not! What do you take me for?"

We jokingly exchanged banter, and finally, I asked the clerk to provide me with the updated market prices of some goods we had inquired about over the last three months for us to study. We were then led to a study chamber where we saw many merchants conducting their own research. The compiled reports of the market prices we gathered were brought to us in a box. We were allowed to transcribe the information onto our own parchment, as taking the compiled papers outside the guild was prohibited.