Vale stared blankly at the man behind the counter while trying to process what was happening as calmly as possible.
The man was clearly trying to extort him: he had taken his money and was now keen on escalating the situation. Even if Vale hadn't wanted to resort to violence, the situation was clearly heading in that direction.
Just as he placed his hand on the hilt of the dagger, a heavy hand fell on his shoulder, and a man in leather armour slowly came into view.
With a light chuckle, he said, "Don't be so tense kid, Old Gramps here's just pulling your leg."
The barman who was referred to as old gramps let out a strained laugh and went to the shelves to pull out some drinks.
Another woman, middle-aged, then appeared beside Vale. She didn't even glance at him but spoke to the barman. "This the kid y'all were talking about."
