Arriving at the village tavern, Gideon was welcomed by Lena, the tavern owner's wife who also served drinks at night.
This was the first time Gideon had come since the villagers knew his real identity, and Lena was really shy because she had once spoken directly with the Baron.
The memory was still clear in her head. She even remembered every word they had talked. But the villagers' perception had started to change. Gideon was not Nozel, so there was no point in hating him.
"Give me your best drink," said Gideon, reaching into his pants and handing her a few copper coins.
"Keep your money. Think of this as my thanks."
"You lowered the tax. You helped all of us," Lena replied.
She poured the beer into a wooden mug in front of Gideon. The tavern guests turned their attention to the side, watching clearly as Gideon sat at the bar table facing Lena.
Some of them raised their mugs, and then Lena did the same. Gideon was caught off guard by this.
