The cowl betrayed little as he caught sight of the group of women, assembled in a mirror of tribal behavior as they found protection in each other's company. The man couldn't say he blamed them, as an assessment of the surroundings revealed an hive of scum of villainy mingled with the light of would-be heroics. There were men, their shirts open to reveal barrel chests, heads wrapped in kerchiefs and sometimes missing an eye. Some sat about, their cheeks covered in several days' stubble, elongated blades at their hips and with grime swelling beneath the edges of their nails. Some were missing several teeth, others had scars that crossed their jaws.
What a an odd paradox, such a crowd assembled alongside young adventurers, their blades free from any nicks or scratches, their clothes and armor freshly assembled, having all the signs of youth, including the inexperience. Their eyes gleamed with a fresh glow, glances of anticipation and excitement flashing from their faces. The man allowed a smile. Their clothes were a shade whiter than white, a deeper red than red, all newly purchased, all so new. He couldn't remember a day when he was exactly the same, but could sympathize with the excitement.
From the corner of his hood he gazed one last time upon the women, allowing an even wider smile. It felt good to see people again.
His eyes moved forward, to the line of drinks that sat towards the wall beyond the bar, seeking out someone who could assist him. "Barkeeper?"
What a an odd paradox, such a crowd assembled alongside young adventurers, their blades free from any nicks or scratches, their clothes and armor freshly assembled, having all the signs of youth, including the inexperience. Their eyes gleamed with a fresh glow, glances of anticipation and excitement flashing from their faces. The man allowed a smile. Their clothes were a shade whiter than white, a deeper red than red, all newly purchased, all so new. He couldn't remember a day when he was exactly the same, but could sympathize with the excitement.
From the corner of his hood he gazed one last time upon the women, allowing an even wider smile. It felt good to see people again.
His eyes moved forward, to the line of drinks that sat towards the wall beyond the bar, seeking out someone who could assist him. "Barkeeper?"