Personal Room

Hal weighs his coin purse, before deciding he doesn't want to risk fleas, or worse, in a shared room on his first proper night as a Yeoman. "I'll take a personal room." He says, handing her a single gold coin.

She smiles, taking the coin "Let me know when you're ready and I'll show you where your room is." With that, Helena leaves him once again.

Now that he's alone, the Ranger picks up his bowl of stew and begins to eat. Much to his surprise, it's very good, far better than the salted meat he's been used to travelling with Woden. The ale isn't as good, rather too sour for Hal's taste, but it's not the worst thing he's ever drank. Owing to how hungry he was, Hal devours the meal in minutes, leaving the empty wooden bowl in front of him. He thinks on his plans, perhaps he'll help out for a few days in the tavern, earn some coin, and then he can travel south, to the mountains, where there's always plenty of mercenary work. Alternatively, he could remain in the city, taking contracts as they come. Staying in the city may pay better, but there will be less contracts, so both choices have merits and drawbacks.

He finishes his ale, before picking up both the bowl and the mug and bringing them to the bar. The Barkeep is busy, so he is greeted by Helena once again. "How was it?" She asks, taking the dirty bowl and mug from his hands to be washed.

"The stew was lovely, and the ale wasn't half bad either." He answers. "Would you mind showing me to my room?"

Helena nods "Of course, you're on the upper floor, it's a lot quieter than any of the shared rooms. Oh, and here's the key to your room" She hands him a small iron key. With that, she leads him up the stairs.

"What's it like working in a tavern?" Hal asks curiously.

"It's... interesting. If my father didn't run the place, I probably wouldn't work here, but that doesn't mean I hate it. I have dreams of my own, though, and they don't include staying here forever."

"What sort of dreams might those be?"

She blushes, not used to being asked about herself "I... I like to cook. Not just stew, but things people actually enjoy. Once I have enough money, I'm going to open a bakery"

"That sounds lovely, Helena. I assume you made the stew?"

"Yes, though it mostly just stays on the fire and I add to it. It's an old recipe. Anyway, we're here." They arrive on the upper floor, which contains a short corridor, two large rooms on either side. Helena gestures to the closest door on the right. "This is yours"

"Thanks" Hal smiles, unlocking it and opening the door.

Beginning to blush once again, Helena speaks just before he enters. "I'm... I'm supposed to ask if you want a... a whore for the night"

Hal chuckles "Well..."