Between the Veil and Crown

Arvek 33

Darkness had fallen by the time they reached the first town. A couple of the guards with Arvek went on ahead in order to find rooms for the party, so there was no searching around when they arrived.

The eastern route to the Veil had fewer towns than the western route, and it was also considerably longer. However, its closeness to scenic views, spacious streets and beautiful buildings, as well as roads closer to trade routes for the northern kingdoms and Dwarven kingdoms farther to the east, it was often the more appealing option for travelers. Inns were set up along the way between towns to provide comfort to those walking between the capitol and Ault, the city at the end of the eastern route, and the constant foot traffic provided some sense of security for anyone fearing bandits and thieves.

Being in a position to compare the two, Arvek now realized just how much the eastern towns benefitted from the trade routes. Businesses were well stocked and customers were eager to buy. Even the inn they stayed at could afford food unseen on the western side. Rooms within Arvek's means were quite spacious, with bedding carefully picked for the guest's comfort. Even more effort was put into the room's decoration. All things that Arvek was used to, but had never put thought into until now.

He had expected to have no issues falling asleep, as it had been a long day of mostly travel. But even after the guards -save one, to watch for danger- had fallen asleep and the fire in the fireplace had died down, Arvek found himself still awake. He was both tired and not tired; he wanted to do nothing but sleep, however, his mind still wanted something to do.

He finally gave up making the attempt and decided to head downstairs to see if the inn offered anything helpful. He was only vaguely aware of the guard slipping away with him and tailing him at a respectful distance as he headed to the dining area.

It was no longer filled with the bustling merriment of the evening earlier. Most of the tables were now empty, having been cleaned off hours ago by the barmaids. Only one barmaid could be seen now, as she was sweeping the filth from the floor that was left there throughout the day. A handful of people were present, either having tucked themselves away into corners of the dining area, or sitting up at the bar for quicker service or a chat with the barkeep.

Arvek settled himself at the bar a few seats away from a man who appeared to be a merchant and ordered something that would help with sleep. The merchant watched him curiously as he waited for his drink. Arvek kept his focus on a random object in front of him, in hopes that it would discourage the man from starting any kind of conversation. However, when the man persisted in staring at him long after the drink arrived and Arvek had not even spared him a glance, it felt necessary to address it.

"Is there something you want from me?" Arvek inquired, still not looking at him.

The man startled, surprised that Arvek had actually spoken to him. "Apologies, sir, but I couldn' help but think that ya look so much like one of the royals."

Finally, Arvek gave him a closer look. The man's head drooped a little, and his eyes were slightly crossed. He had a couple of mugs in front of him. Arvek decided against telling him that he was indeed "one of the royals," as the man was clearly not in his right mind. Whatever would ensue from giving that man that information was not something he particularly wanted to involve himself in.

"Interesting," Arvek responded, going back to his own drink.

"Where'ya headed?" the man asked.

"The Veil," he answered.

"Oooh." To Arvek's dismay, he scooted himself down a couple of seats to be closer, bringing with him the stench of one too many beers. "Been before?"