Ben stared at the grand master, who began writing a new deed.

  “Normally, we just write over the old deed, but since my colleagues have been unprofessional with their demeanor towards you, I have the authority to issue you a brand new one. This is the time to tell me if you want to give the mine a new name." The grand master stated while glancing up.

  Ben glanced at Har and shrugged. “I’m unsure if changing the name will bode well with the villagers. What do you think I should do?”

  Har gave Ben a stern nod. “Hmm, a new name sounds like a good idea and would make things more exciting for the people there. The Blackrocks did much for Robynhill, and their legacy will always be a part of the village. Ben, you are yourself, and so far, you’ve done enough to be remembered in the same light. As the new owner, change the name and allow the fine folk of Robynhill to be a part of your legacy. They will be over the moon, I’m certain.”

  Ben nodded. “Alright. I don’t want to make it look like I just changed it to feed my ego, so let’s keep a plaque near the mine entrance in honor of the Blackrock legacy.” He then scratched his head, “The thing I can't figure out is what I should call it?”

  Har nearly facepalmed, “The Bailey Mine would suffice, although I doubt Arthel would be too happy about it?”

  Ben frowned. “Why wouldn't he be happy?”

  Har started to chuckle. “The man who didn't change the name of his inn when he bought it. I have a feeling he was secretly in love with the Blackrocks, or he’s a stuck-in-the-old-times person.”

  “Understood. Well, he’ll have to get used to it then.” Ben nodded before facing the grand master, who looked annoyed that he had to endure that conversation. “The Bailey Mine is what I would like to call it.”

  “Wonderful.” The grand master muttered before continuing. “What are the names of the two witnesses?”

  “This is Har Olson, my first witness and deputy foreman, Finnan Mcgrain, who is currently running the mine in my stead,” Ben replied.

  The grand master continued writing. “Since it’s been confirmed that Grand Marshall Rolf Le’Vieux was in your presence and had no objections about the transfer, I will also write his name here as a secondary witness. That should ensure you are not bothered by anyone who thinks you may be lying.” When he finished, he continued, “With that done, it’ll take a few moments for the ink to dry. Until then, I will open and integrate a new business account with your system.”

  Ben patiently waited as the grand master created the account, but suddenly, a new notification appeared on his system.

  [The Bailey Mine business account has been added to your system.]

  “That’s all completed for you now. Please open your system and select the business account. You should read the system information while we prepare your checkbook, " the grand master explained.

  ***

  [The Bailey Mine: 0 GP]

  ***

  Only Gold Pounds (GP) may be stored in the account.

  The system user may transfer the GP of their personal system currency to the account at any time.

  Transfers with other account holders may only occur in person.

  Transfers out of person to another account holder may only take place via the checking system in person at any bank branch on Great Malle.

  When issuing checks, please ensure enough funds are in your business account; otherwise, your account may be subject to an unarranged overdraft with high interest rates.

  Always speak with someone at your local bank branch for help with the account.

  ***

  “Impressive,” Ben muttered, bouncing his eyebrows up and down. For a medieval society, their banking systems seemed similar to those he was used to on Earth.

  The grand master smiled before passing the new and old deeds. He also placed a thick book filled with slips on the table. “Congratulations, Mr Benjamin Bailey. You are officially the new owner of The Bailey Mine, formerly The Blackrock Mine. I have excused your military rank as I feel it will change in the future, and we can't keep issuing you new deeds. In case of future disputes, I implore you to keep both title deeds, old and new, together.” He then pointed at the book, “This is your checkbook. Please be careful when filling them out, as mistakes can be costly. I will now cash these checks for you. Would you prefer a transfer to your account or in fiat money?”

  The author's narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

  “I would prefer them to be transferred into my business account, please,” Ben replied.

  The grand master picked up the pile of checks and began counting them. When done, he looked at Ben and said, “A total of one hundred and seventy gold pounds. The recent one from the alchemy guild will have no problems, but those older ones may not get processed as we can't guarantee that the issuers still have their accounts open.”

  A few moments later, the grandmaster smiled. “It seems you are in luck today. None of the checks bounced, and all their payees still have accounts. I understand your situation this time, but I would advise you not to leave it for longer than a couple of months when receiving a check. Is there anything else I can help you with with?”

  [The Bailey Mine: +175 Gold Pounds. (Total: 175 GP).]

  Ben nodded. “That’s perfect. I want to thank you for getting all this sorted for me. I do hope to see you again in the future. I bid you farewell, Grand Master.”

  Ben picked up the title deeds and felt the silky smooth texture of the new one. Carefully, he opened the checkbook and neatly fit the deeds inside to ensure the edges didn't get creased. Once he was done, he glanced at the clerk and steward before giving them a grin of victory.

  [New Title: Owner of The Bailey Mine.]

  After waving goodbye to the grandmaster, Ben and Har returned to the horse cart.

  Ben noticed the sun was starting to set in the sky, and it wouldn't be long till night blanketed the town. All the goals they had set out had been completed, making him feel the best he had since being transported to the world. Wanting to end the day positively, he figured it would be best not to travel at night.

  “It's too late to head back now, and I don't want to put your life in danger in case we encounter trouble on the road. Let’s find a nice place to hunker down.” Glancing down at his grumbling stomach, he added, “Could do with some nice food too.”

  “Aye, some good ale would go down nice as well. There’s no need to worry about your van. The guards around here are true to their word. They’ll let the night watch know to keep an eye on it during the night.” Har stated before looking around as if he was thinking. “Ah, yes. In this district, there are a few fancy inns that I have always dreamt about staying at, but I doubt I have the coin. I can drop you off at one of them and make my way to the other side of town where it’s more affordable.”

  Ben chuckled and patted the old courier on the shoulder. “Come on, Har! Do you think I will stay in a fancy place and let you wander off to the dodgy side of town? After everything you’ve done for me, you’re coming no matter what. We may have different blood, but we’re family now.”

  Ben noticed Har’s eyes become misty, and a warm smile filled his face. The man had gone through hell and back, losing almost all his family to the bloodhounds. It looked like Har wanted to say something but was lost for words.

  After a moment, Har cleared his throat. “I don't haggle like that for just any old sod. You know, I felt you’d turn out to be a good egg after we first met.” He shifted the cart into gear and got moving out of the courtyard.

  ***

  “Not too shabby.” Ben complimented.

  The Feruswich Hollow was the name of the inn. Har steered the cart in when a teenage porter a couple of years older than Finn approached them and took the reins.

  “Hey, lad! We’ve got precious cargo in the back, so make sure you leave it in a place where it’s well guarded.” Har explained, getting off.

  The boy was silent and only nodded in acknowledgment before taking the horsecart to a nearby barn.

  Ben glanced at the inn building itself. It stood proud on almost three floors, with many windows across its facade. Almost all the building was covered in a beige render with some bits, especially the corners and window sills, where the stone was still bare.

  At the entrance, they were greeted by armed guards who looked like they had seen their fair share of combat from all the scars on their faces. Because of their exquisite armor, they must have profited well from their combat skills. Ben and Har had no issues walking into the inn as the men moved out of the way and opened the entrance.

  A young woman in her late teens wearing a maid's outfit stood there with a heartwarming smile. She waved and started her greeting. “Thank you for visiting The Feruswich Hollow. My name is Annie, and I will be your waitress today. If you don’t mind me asking, are you here to stay the night, or would you like to book a table? We have special rates for our wonderful patrons if it's both.”

  Ben cleared his throat. “Hello there, Annie. Thank you for the warm welcome. If it is okay with you, we would like to book a table and stay the night.”

  Annie bowed her head before taking a piece of paper and attaching it to a clipboard. “That won't be a problem. Could I have a name for the booking?”

  “Ah, yes. My name is Benjamin Bailey, and this man with me is Har Olson.” Ben replied.

  “Perfect. How long will you be staying with us?”

  “One night… Two rooms.”

  “That’s wonderful. I will get this to the innkeeper so your rooms are ready. Because you will be dining with us tonight, I have included a free breakfast so you can fill your bellies before you leave in the morning. If you could follow me, I will take you to your table, where you can peruse the best food in the town.” The waitress explained before taking them to a table.

  Ben looked around and saw that the bar area was full of guests. Multiple bartenders served drinks and kept the area clean. There was a small stage where some bards played their instruments and sang tales of heroic warriors. Most tables were fully booked, but a few empty ones were in the back, where they were motioned.

  The waitress picked up two sheets from nearby and placed them before Ben and Har. “If you have any questions about the menu or feel ready to order, please don't hesitate to call me. Once again, thank you.” She smiled at them both before tending to her other duties.

  The whole atmosphere and vibe gave Ben flashbacks of the restaurants back home. Although he preferred living on the edges of society and made the most of what he had, one of his favorite things to do was going to eat at nice places.

  “I haven't seen a smile on your face like that since we met.” Har chuckled. “Does this place remind you of somewhere?”

  Ben pushed the thoughts back before nodding. “Ah, just some memories from my old life. Come on, let’s see what they have on offer. I’m starving so much my stomach is about to eat itself.”