Chapter 7: Medieval Hygiene, Here We Go

- Day 2 -

The next morning I wake up feeling more refreshed than I ever would've expected considering the circumstances. I haven't felt this energized in a long time, which is rather funny considering that I just slept in the worst bed of my life, without even washing myself beforehand. I then look around the room and realize how basic it is; containing only a bed, a small table, and a couple of chairs. The walls are bare, and there is only one window with a wooden covering. It's a long way from the conveniences of contemporary Earth. I truly begin to yearn for certain comforts from home- like a daily soak in the tub or a restroom with proper plumbing.

I also can't help but worry about my teeth rotting. I'll have to look around the town later, maybe they do have something similar or at least passable replacements.

I get out of bed and stretch, feeling the muscles in my body responding more energetically than they ever did back on Earth. It provides a small solace in this odd world. I toss some water from the sink onto my face, in an attempt to fully rouse myself. The cool water is invigorating, yet it falls short of compensating for the absence of the modern-day morning ritual I'm used to.

I choose to go downstairs to the communal area, longing for breakfast. As I make my way down, the innkeeper greets me with a nod. "Morning," he says. "Sleep well?"

"Yeah." I reply with a smile. "Do you have any breakfast available?"

He shakes his head apologetically. "We don't. I recommend you head to the bakery down the road. My son-in-law works there, their products are well-priced and really tasty."

Before heading out I decide to inquire about the local amenities. "Thanks, I will check it out. By the way," I say to the innkeeper, "do you know where I might find some basic toiletries? A toothbrush, perhaps? Or any place to get a proper bath?"

He looks at me curiously. "A toothbrush? Can't say I know what that is, but you can find tooth powder and brushes made from animal hair at the general store."

Damn, that is disappointing. Also a bit disgusting, not gonna lie.

He then continues, "as for a bath, there's a public bathhouse a few streets over. It's not luxurious, but it gets the job done. We also provide a similar, more affordable service here, for an extra bronze coin we bring you fresh, warm water in a wooden bucket and a few clean rags to wipe yourself with."

"Why didn't you tell me that yesterday, old man? I could've used a wiping." I ask with a bit of annoyance in my voice.

He looks me up and down curiously. "I'm sorry sir for my incorrect assumption. You looked pristine clear, I thought you wouldn't need a bath for the next week."

Fuck. Me.

Medieval hygiene, here we go.

"... Thanks for the information," I say, trying to hide my discomfort. Having resolved that, I leave the inn and enter the busy streets of Aldoria.

The town is coming to life, with vendors preparing their booths and residents going about their usual activities. Inhaling deeply, I experience a blend of anticipation and nervousness. This is a fresh realm, brimming with risks and possibilities, and I plan to seize them all.

I easily locate the bakery by following the directions given by the innkeeper. My stomach rumbles as the delightful scent of newly baked bread wafts through the air. I enter and am welcomed by a young man at the counter who I guess is the innkeeper's daughter's husband.

"Good morning! What can I get for you?" he asks cheerfully.

"Morning. I'll take whatever pastry you recommend," I reply, hoping to get a sense of the local cuisine.

He hands me a sweet-smelling pastry. "That'll be one bronze coin," he says.

"Can I pay with a silver coin?" I have a single bronze coin left so I could pay the exact price, but I really want to find out how much a silver coin is worth.

He glares at me for a second before relenting. "... Yes sir." He then brings a pouch out and counts 99 bronze coins. Yep, my guess is confirmed. A silver coin is worth 100 bronze coins.

I pay him and take a bite of the pastry as I leave. It's surprisingly delicious, filled with a sweet fruit jam that I can't quite identify. The bread is fresh and hearty, perfect for a quick breakfast bite.

With my hunger satisfied and my new toiletries in my bag, I step out of the general store, taking a moment to count my remaining coins. I have 1 silver and 100 bronze coins left. Not a fortune, but enough to get by for now.

I decide to explore Aldoria further, hoping to find opportunities and get a better understanding of this place. I soon come face-to-face with many vendors selling their goods, artisans busy in their workshops, and individuals navigating the streets in a steady stream. It is a lively, busy city.

Something I failed to observe yesterday but is noticeable today is the widespread presence of slavery. Roughly every seventh person I see has a collar around their neck. The collars aren't linked to chains, almost like fashion accessories rather than tools of oppression. I suppose they must be magically bound to ensure loyalty, eliminating the need for physical leashes.

This greatly piques my interest. If slaves are indeed magically bound to be loyal, they could be invaluable. Equipping one with a sturdy shield could allow me to level up safely by having them take the brunt of the attacks while I look for opportunities to strike with my iron spear.

But first things first. I need to get a price estimate for the goods I scavenged from the merchant's carriage. Two wooden figurines and two wool products are nestled in my backpack, and I have no idea what they might be worth. Selling them would give me a clearer picture of the local economy and help boost my finances.

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