The day before I was set to leave the city, I made my customary visit to the Dragon's Paw. The tavern was not yet crowded with diners as it was not yet mealtime. I noticed Master sitting in a corner, lost in thought. His face still appeared somewhat pale, and he seemed to have lost weight, but I tried to convince myself that he was on the path to recovery. It was important for me to bid him farewell before my departure.

"Greetings, Master. Are you feeling alright? Shouldn't you be resting?"

"Greetings, Takahiko. I'm glad I had the chance to see you. Your herbal remedy was truly helpful. I've been experiencing less pain and have been able to sleep properly." the Master replied in a relaxed manner.

"That's good. Is there anything else I can do to help?"

"Your presence alone is a great comfort to me, my friend. Thank you for your kind offer."

We sat in silence, facing each other. In his eyes, I could detect a mixture of concern and sadness. Master took a deep breath and mustered the courage to speak.

"I must be frank with you. As my friend, I trust your judgment, and I find myself in need of your assistance. You see, I can sense that my time in this world is drawing to a close."

His words shook me to the core. I couldn't bear the thought of Master accepting his own impending death.?

"No, Master, please don't talk like that!"

"I understand my body's condition better than anyone, Takahiko. I have come to terms with it. Please listen to what I have to say."

I remained silent, allowing Master to express himself. Although it was difficult to listen to him speak of his own mortality, I felt it would be disrespectful not to lend him my ear when he had entrusted me with this conversation.

"I believe I have done everything within my power to prolong my life, but alas, it seems that the grim reaper is drawing ever closer."

...

"I have also made arrangements with the tavern guilds to ensure that my family will be taken care of after I'm gone, so they won't be burdened with funeral expenses."

...

"Moreover, I have imparted all the necessary knowledge to my wife and daughter about running the tavern. They will not go hungry, at least."

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Please stop..

"However, I can foresee that they may encounter challenges in the future that require a man's understanding. At such times, I would need your help to be there and support them."

Why me..

"You may wonder why I have chosen to make this request of you. The answer is simple. While there are many patrons of this tavern who would undoubtedly extend their help to my wife when the time comes, most of them already have their own families to attend to. I cannot bear to burden them further. However, you, my dear friend, are different."

Please, I cannot bear to hear any more.

"I have witnessed your growth from a thin lad to a respected merchant. I cannot help but feel a sense of pride when I speak about you with other patrons. Honestly, when you decided to leave your service at this tavern five years ago, I thought it would be the last time I would see you. Yet, you have continuously returned, keeping your promise as one of the longest-standing patrons. It is through these experiences that I have come to trust you."

What about Madam? What about Sofia?

"I am also aware of Sofia's deep affection for you. My wife and I have observed it clearly. If you so desire, you may marry her. But even if you only consider her as your own sister, that would also be acceptable. I believe in your ability to guide and protect them in my absence."

I'm not sure if I can fulfill such a significant role.

I just realized small tears were flowing down my cheeks, but I forced myself to listen to what Master wanted to convey. Deep down, I still couldn't believe that he would be gone anytime soon. But as I observed Master's pale face striking contrast to the blaze of determination in his eyes, it seemed akin to witnessing a gallant knight bracing himself for the ultimate clash with mortality, ready to face his final battle with unwavering resolve.

"I understand that it may be deemed unseemly for me to impose such a plea upon you, particularly considering your tender years and promising future endeavors, but I humbly ask this of you as my final wish," Master spoke with a hint of vulnerability in his voice.

I wiped away my tears and composed myself. This was not something I could answer half-heartedly.

"Master, you need not ask. I will never forget the taste of the stew you shared with me five years ago. You've always been there for me, like a second father. I promise to take care of your family with all my strength. This is a pledge, witnessed by the Gods themselves."

Master was taken aback by my words, his eyes reflecting relief in his heart. "I am deeply grateful for your pledge. Your words have lifted a great weight off my shoulders, allowing me to embark on my next journey with peace in my heart. Thank you, Takahiko, my dear friend," he expressed, extending his hand to convey his gratitude.

I clasped his hand firmly signifying my resolve. "However, I would much rather witness your recovery and see you return to the tavern" I replied, mustering a smile, understanding that his determination to face the end of his mortality days should be respected."But I would rather see you get healthy and return to the tavern," I said.

Master just laughed at my remark. "Only if the grim reaper behind me is willing to wait," he said, his voice becoming softer, a hint of sadness lingering.

"When the time comes, please gather my wife and daughter and share with them the memories we have created, the stories of our friendship, and the love that has blossomed within these walls. Remind them of the strength they possess and the joy they have brought into my life."

He took a deep breath, his voice filled with determination.

"Now, my friend, let us cherish the present moment. Tell me about your recent adventures and the tales you've gathered along your travels."