"I'll keep that in mind. Have you had trouble around here?"
"Not directly, but the village two miles north got hit three days ago. It was a small group, maybe five or six men. They took food, coin and anything valuable and roughed up anyone who resisted." The innkeeper shook his head. "Times are getting harder."
Lucas ate his stew thoughtfully.
The Legion's attack had done more than just target the king. It had destabilized the entire region. With resources diverted to the capital's defense and recovery, outlying areas were vulnerable.
[This sounds like the perfect situation a villain can exploit.]
*Not now,* Lucas thought. *I have enough on my plate. Maybe later.*
[I'm just saying that those willing to act decisively during such times often rise quickly.]
Lucas ignored the System and finished his meal. After paying the innkeeper and checking on Copper, he set out again.
