NOVEL NEXT Chapter 3: Interlude I
Raecum, Oriens
Night of the twenty-fourth day of the fouth month 564
The most reserved people would call it a place of evil to death, a place where one only goes to spend time.
He was walking at a cautious pace towards a bar located in one of the deepest areas of the capital.
Not for enjoyment of sinful luxuries or drinking, but as a way to get away from the world he considered foolish.
"In a few minutes we will bring you your order," he thanked the waiter for his attention.
The place was full, the noise caused by the shouting of the people, and the loud music, made him nervous, an accelerated breathing invaded him, his limbs began to tremble.
"Good evening, may I sit with you?"
The question from a sturdy man, who fixed him with a firm gaze, reassured him a little.
He took a deep breath, cleared his throat, and watched for a moment the one who brought him out of his mental agony.
"Of course," with a slight smile, he pointed to the chair in front of him.
The man thanked, and sat down.
"This is exhausting," said the newcomer with noticeable fatigue as he put the napkin around his neck. "The people who party as if it were the festive season, are the worst, don't you think so? They look as if they don't know, or pretend to be ignorant, that there is a bloody war going on at the borders right now."
Surprised by the confident and relaxed manner in which the man spoke, he merely nodded his head.
"What is your name, boy?" He placed both elbows on the table, fixing his eyes on the young man, who sighed, and tried to calm his nervousness generated by the hustle and bustle around him."
"Tra-Traugott, sir. My name is Traugott, a recent graduate of the Imperial Military Academy."
"Ah, congratulations then!" He exclaimed vehemently at her words, arms outstretched. "I'm happy for you boy, I was at the Imperial Academy too. Now, in just a few days, I will be leaving for the front to fight in the war," somewhat encouraged by Traugott's words, he settled back in his chair. "But that doesn't matter now, better tell me, what is your full name?"
Traugott pondered the man's words for a few moments.
"Well, I..."
"Here is your order, young man," placing a pitcher of mead and two glasses on the table, she interrupted him. "As I saw the gentleman I brought two, enjoy," he bowed, and withdrew.
The young man sighed at the interruption, to which he let out a slight smile, turning his gaze to the man.
"Would you like to drink with me, sir?" He asked, pouring the drink into the glasses.
The man smiled at her proposal, accepting it with pleasure.
"What are your plans, sir?"
"Well, the Nintu has blessed me with the opportunity to participate in the war. And if I survive, I hope to get involved in politics."
They both took their glasses to toast.
"I'm glad to he-hear that, sir, I see you have great ambitions," and somewhat embarrassed to be talking to someone slightly older than him, he asked: "What is your name?"
The man took a breath, raised his glass high, and smiled.
"I am Andrio Canrrio Crásico."