I entered the inn.
The place felt warm and lively. Laughter and voices came from every corner of the room. I ran my eyes through the inn and noticed an empty table.
I took my seat there.
Suddenly, a young waiter came to the table and asked for my order. He looked no older than seventeen. His cheerful expression made me smile.
Without asking for the menu, I said, "Bring your bestseller."
"Yes, sir," the waiter replied with a grin.
He kept me waiting for a few minutes before returning with the meal. I enjoyed it. The food was tasty and worth stopping at Goldcrest.
As I reached the end of my meal, the waiter returned, this time carrying a small cake. I must have looked worried, because he noticed immediately.
"It's on the house," he said.
I let out a breath of relief and asked, "What's the occasion?"
"It's the King's birthday in two days," he replied. "Every night is a celebration."
"Thanks for the courtesy," I said.
After finishing the cake, I asked for the bill.
"One gold coin," the waiter said.
I reached into my pocket and dropped two gold coins into his hand. "Thanks for your service," I added.
His face lit up with happiness as he thanked me.
Night had settled in by then, and I needed a place to sleep. I asked the waiter if there was anywhere I could stay for the night.
Still pleased from the tip, he suggested I take a room on the first floor of the inn.
I had already judged the crowd and felt safe enough, so I agreed and asked him to show me the room. He led me upstairs.
I fell asleep the moment I touched the bed.
Morning light crept into the room and woke me.
I got ready, checked my bags, and went back down to the inn. The place was crowded with people having breakfast.
As I searched for a seat, someone tapped my elbow.
I turned and saw the same waiter from the night before. He grabbed my hand and guided me to an empty seat behind the bar.
I nodded in thanks.
He disappeared for a few moments and returned with breakfast. Just like dinner, it was satisfying.
When he came back for the bill, I placed two gold coins in his hand again. His expression softened.
I asked him, "Is there a place where I can find guilds or temporary work?"
"Yes," he replied. "Go to the town square. You'll find all kinds of work there."
I gave him another gold coin, thanked him, and left the inn.
Outside, I noticed several people wearing guild badges. They were walking in the same direction.
I followed them, guessing they were heading to the town square as well.