481. A Night at The Swan & Scepter

"There is no way I am going to do this outward journey in a singular day," grumbled the merchant’s son to his footman as they rode along the dusty road. "We will stop at The Swan & Scepter—perhaps there will be something there to take my fancy."

The footman, well accustomed to his master's laziness and vices, said nothing, merely nodding. The inn loomed ahead, its lanterns glowing warmly in the evening mist. Within, the murmur of conversation and clinking of glasses beckoned, promising an evening of indulgence.