Chapter 605: Don’t You Know Me?
The morning in Thornvale was already alive with the hum of voices and the shuffle of boots against the ground.
Sunlight spilled across the crooked roofs and damp alleys of the town. Near the market square, a modest inn stood tucked between two old trade buildings — its wooden sign creaking faintly with every breeze.
A man stepped through the inn’s doorway, his frame wrapped in a traveler’s coat dusted with road grit. His expression was mild, unremarkable, the kind that could blend into any crowd.
To anyone watching, he looked no different from a merchant making his routine stop before heading to the next town.
"Ah, back already," the innkeeper said, glancing up from polishing a mug behind the counter. His tone carried the warmth of recognition. "Off early today?"
The man smiled faintly, dipping his head in greeting. "Business doesn’t wait, friend. Had to see a few buyers before breakfast."
The innkeeper chuckled, setting the mug down. "You merchants and your business... At least trade’s been better lately. Ever since the new lord took over, Thornvale’s looking livelier by the day."
"Is that so?" the man replied smoothly, his tone polite.
"Mm. People feel safer now. The guards stopped their nonsense, and there’s been less trouble from the outer roads." The innkeeper grinned, pride slipping into his voice. "You can tell good leadership when you see it. This new viscount’s the real deal."
The man’s smile didn’t reach his eyes. "Seems so."
The innkeeper mistook the mild tone for agreement and kept going, warmth in his words. "You can’t imagine what a relief it’s been for folks like us. Fewer fights, more travelers, better coin flow. If you ask me, Thornvale might finally have its golden stretch."
"Let’s hope it lasts," the man said softly.