rowdy raven.

I. THE ROWDY RAVEN

stepping into the old tavern, the ambiance was magnificent. Chattering townsfolk, yellow lighting, a smell like no other. It was sweet and home-like.

In the corner of the bar, was a booth, sitting within, was none other than Dr. Devorak, whom I had a run-in with the night previously, in my shop. Seated comfortably, looking mysterious as ever, his eyepatch just barely visible, peeking out from under his auburn locks.

It seemed as if he hadn't given my entrance any attention. I make my way to the booth and slide into the seat across from him, waiting for the doctor's eyes to drift up and meet my gaze. However, simply waiting proved to be useless, he was seemingly engrossed in deep thought, staring into the drink in front of him.

I cleared my throat.

The delicate figure across from me appeared to have realized where they were, glancing around the tavern now his attention had been brought out of whatever he had been thinking of.

"Doctor Devorak" I pull the scroll from my bag and clutch it tightly. "I have some questions for you... If you don't mind."

He nodded, appearing curious of my intentions, gesturing to the bartender, who he seemed to know quite well.

"Another salty bitter please."

His eyes landed on me for a moment, before his gaze traveled back to the bartender.

"Actually, make that two!"

He gestured in a come hither motion with his entire arm, as the assumed friend brought two glasses, setting them haphazardly onto the table, the golden liquid bubbling and spilling over the edge of the glass, causing Julian to make a loud noise of disgust. Grabbing the towel off the bartender's apron, he mopped up the mess. Proceeding to spit on the table and wipe it up once more.

The friendliness of the accused was honestly a bit of a surprise. This man acted as if he had not broken into Asra and i's shop in the early hours of the morning.

"Now, if you don't mind... Could we discuss the investigation...?" I spoke up, watching as he brought the alcoholic cocktail to his mouth, taking a deep sip, with an expression of disgust painted just barely visible had I not been studying his features for any change in emotion.

"...oh, right, of course..." He cleared his throat, his posture tensing ever so slightly. He looked slightly disappointed. "I do just adore idle chitchat though... Wouldn't you rather get to know me better?" A mischievous smirk appeared as the corner of his mouth rose, accompanied by his brow.

Looking at the handsome figure seated across the table, such an offer was quite tempting. after a moment of thought, I produced the scroll.

"Perhaps I will once we conclude our conversation regarding the accusations against you, doctor." My face now mirrored the same expression as his had just moments previously.

With a heavy sigh, the doctor set his drink down on the sticky table, leaning in. He took the scroll from my hands and began to read through it.

"You could read this?"

I shake my head no. "I could make out only a few words. Your handwriting is quite the force to be reckoned with."

A small chuckle falls from his lips before his expression changes into one that is much more somber. Pinching the bridge of his nose, rubbing his temples, an obvious appearance of regret took over his face. It was easy to tell the letter was saddening for him to read. He tossed the paper down onto the table.

"What does it mean to you?"

As he opened his mouth to speak, an ebony bird flew into the tavern, alerting the patrons of guards nearby. A look of panic struck Julian's face. He grabbed the tea-stained paper, shoving it into the pocket of his overcoat. Sweat balling on his forehead, he grabbed my hand, yanking me out the back door of the tavern and into the street.