The smell of warm bread and seasoned meat greeted Michael as he stepped into the common area of the inn. The place was quiet, save for the crackle of a cooking fire and the soft clatter of dishes behind the counter.
The innkeeper looked up from polishing a glass. He gave a curt nod, but there was something different in his posture—looser, more relaxed.
Michael sat at his usual spot. A minute later, a steaming plate of eggs, root vegetables, and sliced meat arrived without him even needing to ask.
He raised a brow. "Thanks."
"No trouble," the innkeeper said, and then lingered for just a moment longer than usual. "Let me know if you want seconds."
Michael watched the man walk away, noting how the innkeeper no longer held that stiff tension in his shoulders. He almost seemed… comfortable.
It puzzled Michael for a moment until he recalled the passing glances and wary distance the man had kept in the first few days. Now? He was freer. More open.
Michael didn't know exactly what happened but he supposed it didn't matter.
Just as Michael was finishing up his meal, Ace and Lia entered the inn, the quiet thump of boots on wooden floor alerting him before he even turned.
"My lord," Ace said with a short bow. Lia mirrored him.
Michael glanced up from his empty plate. "You two eaten yet?"
Ace shook his head. "Not yet, sir. We came straight here."
Michael dug a few copper coins from his robe and tossed them to Ace. "Order something. We're going out soon—gonna look for a place I can actually call home."
Ace caught the coins and nodded respectfully. "Yes Sir."
The two wasted no time in ordering but ate on a different table.
After they were done, together with Michael, they made their way out of the inn and entered the roads of the outer city.
As they walked out of the inn, Michael took a deep breath, feeling the cool morning air fill his lungs. He looked around, taking in the sights and sounds of the outer city. The streets were bustling with people, and the smell of fresh bread and roasting meats wafted through the air.
"Alright, let's get moving," Michael said, nodding to Ace and Lia. "We have a few options to consider for our new residence."
Ace nodded, falling into step beside Michael. "Yes, my lord. We can head to the Silver District and take a look at that mid-sized house."
Lia walked on the other side of Michael, his eyes scanning the surrounding area. "If I may suggest, my lord, we could also consider the Copper District. The homes are cheaper, and it might be a good option if you're looking to save some gold coins."
Michael nodded thoughtfully. "That's a good point. But I think I'd like to see the house in the Silver District first."
After a short walk, they arrived at the Silver District, and Michael was struck by the beauty of the houses.
They were well-maintained, and the streets were clean and quiet.
They made their way to the mid-sized house that was available for 250 gold coins, and Michael was impressed with its condition considering the price.
The house had a modest garden in the front, filled with a variety of plants and flowers that added a touch of color and vibrancy to the exterior. A small stone path led from the gate to the front door, and a few steps up to the entrance. The front door itself was made of sturdy wood, with a large iron knocker in the shape of a lion's head.
According to Ace, who had scouted out the house earlier, the interior was functional, with average-sized rooms and moderate ceilings. The floors were made of polished wood, and the walls were adorned with simple but tasteful decorations.
However this was the only house he had been able to scout to.this extent which Michael figured must have cost something.
While it wasn't a grand estate, Michael thought the house seemed like a solid choice for the price.
He could see himself living here, and he was interested in making an offer.
But he wanted to consider all his options before making a decision. He turned to Ace and Lia. "What do you think? Is this a good choice for a new residence?"
Ace nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, my lord. This house is perfect. It's secure, well-maintained, and in a good neighborhood."
Lia was more cautious. "It's a good option, my lord. But we should also consider the Copper District. The homes are cheaper, and it might be a better value for your gold coins."
Michael nodded thoughtfully. He knew that Lia had a point, but he was leaning towards the Silver District.
He wanted to make a good impression on the people of this city, and living in a nicer neighborhood might help him do that.
"I think we'll go with the Silver District," Michael said finally. "Let's make an offer on this house."
Ace grinned, while Lia nodded in agreement. "Yes, my lord," they said in unison.
First, they went to get an agent while Michael took the opportunity to enter the house compound and made his way to a dark spot.
He then brought out a chest from his storage space. It was a chest filled with gold coins.
The only money box of the bandits that was in gold.
Michael had counted it before.
There were three hundred gold coins in it.
With the time he had left, Michael separated 50 from it.
After doing this, he then carried the box in his arms and came out of the house compound while waiting for Ace and Lia to return with the house agent.
As he waited, Michael couldn't help but think about the potential of his new home. He had already begun to envision the changes he would make to the property, the improvements he would implement, and if he could somehow take advantage during the process of buying the house.
Before long, Ace and Lia returned with the house agent.
The agent, a middle-aged man with a friendly smile, greeted Michael warmly. "Ah, sir. I see you're interested in purchasing this lovely home. Shall we discuss the details of the sale?"
Michael nodded, holding out the chest filled with gold coins. "I'm ready to make an offer. But first....