Running a Tavern as a Former Witch!

"Ah, you've found my most curious item," he said, his voice rich with mystery. "That piece is from an ancient artifact, said to possess protective powers."

I carefully picked up the fragment, feeling a slight warmth emanate from it. "How did it get broken?"

"No one knows for certain," he replied, "but legend has it that the orb shattered during a great battle. Even in its current state, it holds remnants of its original magic."

I decided to purchase the fragment, feeling an inexplicable connection to it. It certainly reminds me of Vernon's old prototype which purpose I cannot comprehend. As I paid the shopkeeper, he handed me a small, intricately carved box to store it in. "Keep it safe," he advised. "You never know when it might come in handy."

Leaving the shop, I continued my walk back to the inn. On the way, I spotted a stall selling beautiful, hand-crafted leather pouches. Remembering that Levi always carried his tools in a worn-out bag, I bought one for him, hoping it would be a useful gift. The vendor wrapped it neatly in a brown paper and secured it with a thin rope.

Back at the inn, Ion was busy in the kitchen when I returned. "Got everything we need?" he asked.

"Yes, and a bit more," I replied with a smile, showing him the onions, garlic, and spices. I tucked the orb fragment into a pocket of my apron, feeling its reassuring warmth.

Finally, I sat down at the counter and unfolded Levi's letter. His handwriting was elegant, almost like art. The letter was filled with news of his travels, his discoveries, and his longing to see me again. As I read, I felt a deep connection to him, as if his words bridged the distance between us.

In the end of his letter, he expressed his intent of coming to my tavern but mentioned that it will not be anytime soon due to some of his personal errands.

The next few days passed in a blur of routine and anticipation. I kept the orb fragment close, often finding comfort in its gentle glow. One evening, while cleaning up after dinner, I noticed Ion struggling with a broken chair.

"Ion, let me help with that," I said, stepping over.

"It's no use, Miss Elara. This chair is beyond repair," he said, frustrated.

An idea struck me. Remembering the magical properties of the orb fragment, I retrieved it from its box. Holding it against the chair, I focused on the warmth and energy it radiated.

To my astonishment, the broken wood began to mend, knitting itself back together until the chair was whole again.

Ion stared in amazement. "How did you do that?"

"I'm not entirely sure," I admitted. "But it seems this fragment has more power than we thought."

As I put the fragment away, I couldn't help but wonder what other uses it might have. The market trip had brought unexpected treasures into my life, each one seemingly ordinary, but holding the potential for extraordinary impact, and possibly exciting discoveries!

-

Extra

I looked around strolling slowly, taking in the satisfying scenery of our bustling lively town. Stalls lined up all over the place, vendors promoting their produce to the customers that hints curiosity to their displays.

I sat in a bench situated in front of an old store, enough not to block the huge mirror that every passerby utilizes to peek at the items offered by the establishment.

The shop keeper waved her hand and I returned the gesture along with a smile. Although unable of vocal communication, Mrs. Hera never failed to form bonds even with just simple gestures or her kind smile.

I peeked on the fragment orb, curious of its origin and ability until I was distracted by sharp voices. I listened closely, the owner of the voices are at the alley just beside this shop.

Some adults never learned to live properly. Just like those old hags. It's revolting.

I remained seated, until a small skinny child passed by my side, out of the shady alley. She approached a noble-looking lady that had just stepped out of the boutique in front of this shop.

I stared at the child as she engaged the lady in a hushed conversation. Her dress is simple and a bit dirty. The color is obviously faded. This child must've been doing her best to take care of it.

I felt sad.

The child kept reaching for the lady's purse. Immediately, I got the gist of what she is attempting to achieve. I might be unnecessarily involving myself in something that shouldn't honestly be any of my business, but seeing this child somewhat reminded me of the children's situation under the care of those old ugly hags.

"There you are! I've been looking for you. You had me worried sick!" A generic line, I'm awfully aware. But that should be enough.

The child froze, but she quickly tried once more except that I rushed to her side and placed my hands gently on her shoulders. Her hands dropped to her sides. I looked down at her with a smile, she looked like she was about to cry.

Poor child...

"Ah, are you this child's guardian? You ought to look after her more attentively. Well then, I shall be on my way now." The lady curtsied lightly then walked away before I could utter a word. Well, all's well that ends well...as they say?

I kneeled to the height of the girl, keeping a smile. "Are you starving? I own the tavern by the Plaza. We serve warm food and refreshing drinks for children too," I spoke, offering a choice to the child. Hoping that she would be clever to take the hint.

She looked pass by my shoulder and into the alley. She shook her head, but her stomach growled in hunger.

A hand pulled me by my shoulder from behind, turning me around. Drops of saliva splattered towards my direction. "You meddling bitch! What is up with you?!" A rough looking man screamed at me angrily. He grabbed the child by her arms, ready to leave and drag the girl with him.

I watched the child get dragged away. It would be too unreasonable of me to meddle further. I just hope that the child would be alright. It is hypocritical to wish, but what right would a stranger have to dip a hand on someone else's private matters.

If the child runs away from that man, I would not hesitate to let her take shelter in the tavern.

Mrs. Hera gestured from inside her shop. "It is a pity, but the man is that kid's father." I sighed, nodding.