Chapter 12 - The Broken Sword Inn

After a week of grueling training, Alex finally had a day to himself. His muscles ached, and his mind was weary, but he was determined to make the most of his free time. He had one goal in mind: find Alaric.

Thal had mentioned that Alaric could often be found at the Broken Sword Inn, a place known for its rowdy patrons and dubious activities. Alex set out early in the morning, the sun just beginning to rise over the horizon, casting a warm glow on the cobblestone streets.

The city was already bustling with activity. Merchants were setting up their stalls, children ran through the streets, and the scent of fresh bread wafted through the air. Alex moved quickly, navigating the narrow alleys and winding roads until he reached his destination.

The Broken Sword Inn was an old, weathered building with a creaking sign hanging above the door. The sign depicted a broken sword, its hilt and blade separated by a jagged line. Alex hesitated for a moment before pushing open the heavy wooden door and stepping inside.

The inn was dimly lit, the air thick with the smell of ale and smoke. Patrons sat at wooden tables, talking and laughing loudly. The atmosphere was rowdy, but there was an underlying tension that made Alex uneasy. He scanned the room, looking for any sign of Alaric.

"Welcome to the Broken Sword Inn," a gruff voice greeted him. It was the innkeeper, a burly man with a thick beard and a stern expression. "What can I get for you?"

"I'm looking for someone," Alex replied, keeping his voice steady. "A man named Alaric. I was told I could find him here."

The innkeeper's eyes narrowed slightly. "Alaric, you say? He's a regular here. What's your business with him?"

"I have something important to tell him," Alex said, choosing his words carefully.

The innkeeper's expression softened slightly. "Alaric's in the back. I'll take you to him."

As Alex followed the innkeeper through the crowded room, he couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. The patrons' eyes seemed to linger on him a little too long, and he caught a few whispers and glances thrown his way. Just as they neared the back room, a burly man stumbled into Alex, spilling ale all over him.

"Watch where you're going!" the man growled, shoving Alex back.

Before Alex could respond, another man stepped up, smirking. "Looks like you owe my friend a drink, stranger. And maybe a new shirt too."

Alex's temper flared. "I didn't spill it. You bumped into me!"

The system's sarcastic voice chimed in. "Smooth move, Alex. Getting into trouble already? What's next, a bar brawl?"

Just as the situation was about to escalate, a voice cut through the tension. "That's enough."

The crowd parted, and a small, older man with a meticulously groomed mustache and a confident air approached. He wore a simple yet well-maintained tunic and trousers, with a thick leather belt that held various pouches and tools. Despite his modest stature, he exuded an undeniable presence.

"Alaric," the innkeeper said, stepping aside. "This young man says he has something important to tell you."

Alaric's sharp eyes assessed the situation quickly. "Leave him be, Boran. If you have a problem, take it up with me."

The burly man grumbled but backed off, muttering under his breath. Alex felt a wave of relief wash over him.

"Thank you," Alex said, turning to Alaric. "I didn't mean to cause trouble."

Alaric waved a hand dismissively. "It's fine. Come with me."

They moved to a quieter corner of the inn, where Alaric took a seat behind the bar and motioned for Alex to sit across from him. "So, what's so important?"

Alex handed over the letter from Thal, watching as Alaric read it. As his eyes scanned the page, a small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.

"So, you're the one Thal mentioned," Alaric said, folding the letter and tucking it away. "He spoke highly of you."

"Thank you," Alex replied, feeling a mix of relief and apprehension. "I've been training with the Eldorian Army, but Thal said you might have some opportunities for me."

Alaric nodded slowly, his expression thoughtful. "Thal was discreet for a reason. Not everyone needs to know he's still around. Now, about those opportunities..."

Before Alaric could continue, the door burst open again, and a group of rough-looking men entered the inn. They were clearly trouble, their expressions menacing as they eyed Alex and Alaric.

"This ain't your business, stranger," one of the men growled, pointing a finger at Alex. "We're here to settle a score with Alaric."

Alaric rose from his chair, his demeanor calm but ready. "Gentlemen, there's no need for violence. Let's talk this out."

"Talking's over," the leader spat, drawing a knife. "Time to pay up."

Alex's heart pounded in his chest. He instinctively reached for the sword at his side, ready to defend himself and Alaric. But before he could draw his weapon, Alaric moved with surprising speed.

In a blur of motion, Alaric disarmed the leader, twisting his wrist and sending the knife clattering to the floor. The other men hesitated, uncertainty flickering in their eyes.

"Enough," Alaric said firmly. "If you have a grievance, we can settle it without bloodshed."

The men exchanged uneasy glances before slowly backing away. The leader clutched his wrist, glaring at Alaric with a mixture of anger and fear. "This isn't over," he muttered before turning and leaving the room, his companions following closely behind.

Alaric watched them go, then turned back to Alex with a calm expression. "Apologies for the interruption. Now, where were we?"

Alex let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. "You handled that well," he said, impressed by Alaric's composure and skill.

"Comes with the territory," Alaric replied with a shrug. "Now, about Thal's letter. He mentioned to me that you might be interested in joining our group."

Alex hesitated, his thoughts racing. "I'm already enlisted in the army," he said slowly. "I'm not sure how that would work."

Alaric nodded, understanding. "It's a big decision. Being a mercenary isn't for everyone. It's dangerous, but it can also be rewarding. Thal thought you might have what it takes."

The system's voice chimed in, dripping with sarcasm. "Oh, great. Another choice for you to agonize over. Why not just give up and go back to your boring life?"

Ignoring the system, Alex focused on Alaric. "What exactly does being a mercenary involve?"

Alaric leaned back in his chair, considering his words. "We operate in the shadows, Alex. Our group is like a network of dark shadows, working behind the scenes. We have members in all kinds of positions—soldiers, merchants, craftsmen. They all help us gather information and carry out missions discreetly. Our main goal is to root out a group called the Black Hand, I think you know them well."

Alex nodded, thinking about his experiences in the village.

Alaric nodded. "They're a dangerous organization with their fingers in many pies. We do what we can to disrupt their operations. If you join us, you'll still serve in the army, but you'll also take on missions for us as a sideline. You won't be doing this full-time; we only call on you when we have a specific task that suits your skills."

Alex thought about his experiences so far—the training, the battles, and the system's constant pressure. Being a mercenary could provide the freedom and challenge he craved, but it also came with risks. "I'll need some time to think about it."

"Of course," Alaric said, standing up. "Take all the time you need. You're welcome to stay here at the inn as long as you like. Thal's friends are my friends."

As Alex left the room, his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. He found a quiet corner of the inn and sat down, trying to sort through everything. The idea of being a mercenary was appealing, but he was already committed to the army. Could he balance both? Would the army even allow it?

The recruits back at the barracks had started to respect him, and he didn't want to throw that away. But the thought of a life filled with adventure and the chance to truly make a difference tugged at him. If he can be strong enough to defend himself and not worry about Black Hand, only then can he find time for relaxation and perhaps a tiny little bit of vacation.

Lost in his thoughts, he barely noticed when Alaric joined him at the table. "It's a lot to take in, I know," Alaric said, his tone understanding. "But you don't have to decide right away. Take your time, see how things go with the army. If you ever feel the need for something different, you know where to find us."

"Thanks, Alaric," Alex replied, appreciating the older man's patience and advice. "I'll think about it."

Alaric clapped a hand on his shoulder. "Good. Now, let's get you something to eat. A full stomach helps with tough decisions."

As they headed to the inn's dining area, Alex felt a sense of relief. He didn't have to make a decision right away. For now, he would continue his training with the army and see where that path led him. The future was uncertain, but with allies like Thal and Alaric, he felt more prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As they walked, Alex couldn't help but notice the inn's details: the rough wooden beams, the flickering lanterns casting warm light, and the aroma of hearty stew drifting from the kitchen. They reached the bar, where Alaric himself began to pour a couple of drinks.

Despite his modest stature and small build, Alaric moved with a confidence that made it clear he was in charge.

"Maybe it's the mustache, I think I would look glorious if I grew one.", Alex thought as he pictured himself with a mustache.

"Planning on growing a mustache? Just make sure it doesn't look like a caterpillar took a nap on your face!", the system jabs him right on the stomach.