The next morning, Marcellus awoke with a lingering weariness, the result of his late-night activities.
Last night had been particularly long, his mind replaying the events of the previous day, the adrenaline still coursing through his veins.
As he opened his eyes, the weight of the world seemed to press down upon him, the burden of his recent actions casting a shadow over his thoughts.
He reluctantly rose from his bed, not because he had any pressing engagements but because Edwin was expecting him.
The job offer had come as a relief, a lifeline in his otherwise precarious situation. Without it, he might have spent the entire morning lost in the depths of sleep, oblivious to the world around him.
With a slow, deliberate pace, he donned his shirt, the bloodstains from the previous night having been meticulously washed away.
He washed his face, the cold water bringing a fleeting sense of clarity to his mind. Strapping his trusty dagger to his waist, he counted his remaining coins.
This would likely be his last stay at this inn, despite the three days he had paid for. It was wiser to relocate, making it harder for whoever was investigating the pirates to track him down.
Marcellus's recent expenditures and earnings had left his finances in a somewhat precarious state.
Initially, he had possessed a modest sum of 11,269 copper coins. This amount, when converted into larger denominations, was equal to 112 silver coins and an additional 69 copper coins.
However, fate had intervened in the form of Finn's unexpected generosity. The substantial sum of 500 silver coins had considerably bolstered his financial standing, increasing his total to 612 silver coins and 69 copper coins.
Unfortunately, the acquisition of the heart of the hallow serpent, a crucial ingredient for the potion, had set him back a significant 100 silver coins. Additionally, the purchase of various supplementary ingredients had further depleted his funds, amounting to around 90 copper coins.
After these transactions, Marcellus's remaining wealth stood at 51,179 copper coins. When broken down into larger denominations, it translated to 511 silver coins and 79 copper coins.
With his finances in order, Marcellus picked up his cutlass-like sword and cast one last glance at the room before making his way out.
The common room was abuzz with activity, a flurry of people engaged in various pursuits. The atmosphere was one of quiet diligence, the murmur of conversations and the clatter of silverware creating a background symphony of daily life.
However, as Marcellus entered, a hush fell over the room.
The presence of Edwin the previous night had not gone unnoticed, and rumours had circulated about Marcellus's possible connection to the governor's nephew.
Speculation was rife about his identity and status, his mysterious aura attracting curious glances and whispered conversations.
Marcellus navigated through the tables, his eyes scanning the room for familiar faces. The whispers intensified as he approached, but he remained focused, his demeanour unwavering.
He made his way to the serving table, where a hearty breakfast awaited him. The innkeeper piled his plate with a thick slice of fish, and a generous portion of roasted potatoes.
He took a seat at a nearby table and began to eat, savouring the flavours and the warmth of the food.
As he ate, he couldn't help but overhear the hushed conversations around him. People were still speculating about his identity and status, their voices laced with curiosity and suspicion.
He finished his breakfast stood up and looked around the room, his gaze meeting the eyes of a few of the patrons. They quickly looked away, their faces flushed with embarrassment.
He turned and walked out of the common room, leaving the whispers in his wake.
...
Marcellus made his way to the governor's mansion, his heart pounding with anticipation. He had been summoned by Edwin, the governor's nephew, and he wasn't sure what to expect.
As he approached the imposing structure, a sense of awe washed over him. The mansion was a testament to the governor's wealth and power, its white marble columns and manicured gardens exuding an air of grandeur.
Edwin greeted him at the door, a wide smile on his face. He was dressed in a fine silk tunic, his hair neatly combed. He looked every inch the aristocrat, yet he was not really.
"Blackeye, it's good to see you again," Edwin said, with a pleased grin.
Marcellus returned his smile, He had been down and out, lost in the underbelly of the city, when Edwin had offered him a lifeline.
"Thank you for having me," Marcellus replied. "I don't know what I would have done without you."
Truly I don't know what I would have done.
Edwin led him inside the mansion, the cool air a welcome contrast to the morning heat outside. The interior was just as impressive as the exterior, with high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and walls adorned with priceless works of art.
"Please, make yourself comfortable," Edwin said, gesturing towards a plush settee.
Marcellus sat down, feeling a bit out of place in such opulent surroundings. He was still a rough-around-the-edges buccaneer, used to the grime and grit of the streets.
"I've been thinking about your proposition," Marcellus said, leaning forward. "And I've decided to go ahead with it."
"I knew you would," Edwin said, a grin spreading across his face.
"I need someone I can trust," Edwin continued. "Someone skilled and discreet. And I believe you are that person."
"I won't let you down," Marcellus promised.
Edwin nodded. "I know you won't."
They discussed the details of the mission, and Marcellus felt a surge of excitement. somehow he had thought himself a knight not like this but similar.
Edwin, addressing Marcellus, "Given the exceptional swordsmanship you've demonstrated, I expect you're a first-rate swordsman. I propose that you help instruct the governor's soldiers in physical combat. Outside of these duties, you're free to spend your time as you wish, including guarding me. Should you choose to reside elsewhere, rest assured that we will cover the associated expenses."
Marcellus, silently pondering this proposition, harboured no illusions about the payment structure. He suspected that they might not be as generous with compensation as Edwin's words implied.
Edwin continued, outlining the incentives tied to Marcellus's performance. "Depending on how well you fulfil these responsibilities, from time to time, you will be rewarded with coin." His tone suggested a performance-based remuneration, contingent on Marcellus's ability to meet or exceed expectations in his role.