It had not been long after the fires had burned, died and reduced to cold ash in the 13th brightening of the month of Optia that from that ash rose new life – it seemed a promise for some, but for others, it was an opportunity. Buildings rose on the bones of older buildings, ash slid everywhere, creeping into corners. It was in such circumstances that
The Dirty Prince arose. To everyone who just glanced, it appeared just to be a normal Tavern or something to the like from the outside, but like all things, often something else was being done beneath its skin.
Yes, the main floor looked quite normal – even from the inside. Heavy benches lined the walls the center of the floor had been lowered a about a step, but then rose up two steps. Clearly a stage of some type despite the fact that no one performed on it during the business hours and those that offered their services were often scoffed and booted out – unless the proprietor was feeling humorous. Then again, people rarely saw him either.
Along one side was a tall heavy bar with equally heavy stools set in front of it. Kegs and barrels lined a section of the wall behind the bar, sporting a fair ale selection, along the same wall was an a doorway, its only adornment were swinging saloon doors that serving wenches passed in and out of. The menu was limited, but the food was decent for its price. But before one could even gaze upon the kegs or the swinging doors, a large black scarred Dorin loomed behind the counter, his one eye white and unseeing as he growled quietly at the customers, taking orders from outsiders grudgingly.
There was only one meal ever served, but it came in several courses, promising a full and warm stomach by the time you finished. A sign behind the Dorin read:
Quote:
~ The Dirty Prince’s Special ~ 3 crowns
Hypocras – heated wine mixed with spices
Salad – a light vegetable salad with croutons
Potage – thick soup of shredded chicken, goat kid, or fish and vegetables
Fruit and Cheese – fruit of the season paired with aged cheese
~ The Dirty Prince’s Drinks ~ 2 silvers a mug, 1 crown a pitcher
Leather Ale – mildly flavored with a nutty taste
Dark Blood Ale – dark colored ale with a smoky taste
Collar Ale - light and refreshing ale
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Another door was heavily barred from the outside and a dog was on a long length of chain that attached near the door - clearly a guardian.
Upon inquiring the Dorin about the door he would simply shrug, if one inquired about the door to anyone else in employment they would spread rumors about a shapeshifter or perhaps a Dragon, or just about anything that passed through their pretty (but empty) little heads, but if one was quick enough to turn around, in a darkened corner a few men would grin a little twisted smile - and if you looked down, huge hulking dogs lay at their feet.
Quite interesting it was at
The Dirty Prince, but then again - it was only a Tavern in the brightening candlemarks, as soon as the Suns set the doors and windows were barred and locked - then the real fun began.