"Haha, you cheated just now. Again, again..."
"Who said I cheated? If you're not convinced, then let's go again..."
"...Haha, drain this cup too..."
"...No, I can't drink anymore. I'm a little hungry. Let's eat something first. Huh? Where are the pies? You lot ate them all? You sure eat fast!"
"Hehe, the pies here really are delicious. Let's get some more."
"Fine... Boss, bring another basin of pies!"
"Certainly, please wait a moment!"
The moment he entered the tavern, he heard waves of clamor. There was only one tavern in this little town, and this place had once belonged to a wealthy knight.
Later, the knight's entire family moved away and rented the house to the current tavern owner. Since they were distant relatives, the rent was not expensive, and it became the present tavern and inn.
At the front stood a spacious two-story storefront. The first floor was the tavern, with dozens of tables. Two attendants and the owner and his wife bustled about, and even during busy times, they could barely manage.
The second floor was for ordinary guests to stay in. The two attendants also lived upstairs, where various daily necessities were stored.
Past the storefront lay several small courtyards arranged one behind another. The foremost courtyard was where the owner's family lived, while the courtyards farther back were left vacant for more distinguished passing guests or larger caravans.
At this time of year, business was at its best. Spring had arrived, and more travelers were passing through. Moreover, because of last year's war, the number of travelers passing through this area had greatly dwindled. To make business flourish again, the tavern owner had put considerable effort into the food and wine this year. Sure enough, he soon won the favor of passing guests.
"Boss, I'm