To Serve a Drow
As Rezp pushed open the heavy wooden door of the bustling tavern known as The Haven, the lively sounds of laughter and clinking tankards enveloped him. The warm, welcoming atmosphere washed over him, a stark contrast to the shadows that he often frequented or the isolation of his camp outside of Havenbrook. The scent of ale, roasted meats, and freshly baked bread mingled in the air, creating an intoxicating aroma.
The tavern was alive with activity, patrons filling every nook and cranny of the establishment. Rezp's eyes scanned the room, searching for an available spot to settle. Finally, he spotted a booth tucked away to the side, one of the few remaining seats in the crowded tavern. With a quiet determination, he made his way through the maze of tables and chairs.
Taking a seat in the cozy booth, Rezp observed the bustling scene before him. The wooden table, polished with age, served as a sturdy surface for his forearms. The flickering candle at the center cast a warm glow, adding a touch of intimacy to the space. He beckoned the attention of a passing waitress, a beautiful young brunette maiden who seemed both intrigued and intimidated by the presence of the drow.
The waitress, her eyes momentarily flickering with unease, flirted and bantered with the other patrons as she made her rounds. However, when it came to serving Rezp, her demeanor shifted to one of meekness and uncertainty. She approached his table with cautious steps, her gaze carefully avoiding prolonged eye contact.
Rezp, undeterred by the apprehension in her presence, ordered a hearty bowl of stew and a glass of water. He watched as she listened while trembling slightly. Despite her nervousness, there was an undeniable beauty in her delicate features.
While waiting for his meal, Rezp turned his attention to the other patrons, immersing himself in the art of people watching. The tavern was a tapestry of characters, each with their own stories etched upon their faces. Brunhilda, the ginger and buxom lady behind the bar, commanded attention with her booming laughter and sharp wit. Rezp observed the ebb and flow of conversations, the clinking of tankards, and the occasional burst of song that erupted throughout the tavern. His keen eyes took in the interactions, the camaraderie, and the underlying tensions that colored the room.
As he sat in the corner booth, Rezp relished the opportunity to observe the complexities of other races, primarily human, interaction, each moment adding to the tapestry of his own experiences. The Haven, with its vibrant energy and diverse cast of characters, became a stage upon which he could witness the intricacies of life unfolding. He made sure to keep a low profile, wanting to do nothing out of place that could get him banned. Many places had an unspoken "No Drow Allowed" policy; however, fortunately this was not one of them.