[Noble's District] The Crest Resting House

[Dignitas]

The Crest Resting House

Whoever had once said that Imperia was without any class was certainly wrong. Well, perhaps a little wrong. Ok, just barely wrong. For in the dark city there were beacons of a higher civilization and refinement, even if they were few and far between. The Crest Resting House had been in Imperia since the days of old, since such a thing as Nobles had been in the city at least. Located in a lush section of the Noble's District the Crest Resting House was Imperia's premier Inn. Situated on a small ridge facing over the sea, the large two story twelve room Inn catered to both the refined and safety minded. It had housed various traveling merchants, city and Imperial officials, nobles, and even a few Imperial Officers over the years. Its luxury and style was unmatched within the large towering walls of Imperia.

More of a bed and breakfast then anything, this intimate yet servicing business was owned by none other then Lord Priquis of Ruberium. A notable noble who nobody noticed. The Resting House afforded a relaxing wind trough a small pebbled walkway lined with well kept flower beds up the slight slope to its ornate and masterfully carved double black oak doors. The building was painted a deep red on the outside, trying as hard as it could to match the colors of the sunset over the North Sea. Trimmed in a heavy black it stood testament to the style those who stayed here demanded. Coming to the front door large windows from the front of the building greeted you, although all were covered from view via laced curtains of fine materials.

Inside the front desk sprawled along foyer of the building. It was here that Regis, an old but service minded Kemite would greet those who came seeking the luxury of Imperia's best Inn. "Good brightening Sir, and welcome to the Crest Resting House. How may we be of service to you?" he offered with a well rehearsed smile and bow of his head. A butler more then anything, the man held extensive reserves of both patience and humility. To the side of the sprawling wooden (and heavily detailed, with merchant pictures) carved front desk lay a small piano which was in a perpetual state of shine. Large paintings of various famous people hung in the foyer as well, perhaps not enough to draw attention away from the marbled floor however.

To the left of the front desk and piano lay a twelve chaired table that wait in a constant readiness of use. Its fine goblets and exquisite supper ware ready to serve those who stayed here. Three meals a day were included, no doubt about it. To the left of the main foyer is a large spiraling twin staircase, its pillars at the bottom adorned with lions standing with claws out. Upstairs lay the rooms. Each one a large and elegantly styled affair complete with a large white sheeted bed. Spacious and with a view of the North Sea unabated it was truly worth every crown. A large mirror and drawers lay on the south of the room while the bed was against the east. On the south lay a walk in closet for those staying a while. Beautifully woven tapestries adorned the walls while an animal pelt rug takes the center of the room and captures one's attention.

Of course, with such crowns being held here security was not without proper staffing or training. Although kept out of sight the Crest Resting House retained a total of twelve guards. All trained with long swords and paid by Lord Priquis, these men patrolled the private formal gardens around the Inn, as well as patrolling the halls and common area's at darkening. Each man held extensive knowledge of their trade, and should any try to test that they knew for a fact their employer had the crowns to get them out of any trouble....legal or not, that might arise. Never engaging in conversation, these men took their jobs seriously, aware that many important people stayed here regularly.

For those that could afford it, this was the side of Imperia that was meant to be. A picture of luxury, stateliness, safety, and service. It didn't come cheap after all. If you had to ask, you probably couldn't afford to stay. But those that could, would relish it.

Ooc: Location can not be self moderated.

[Lucian DiVilli]

Cycle one of The Month of Immanis,
in the Season of Winter, Era I of the Celestine Mandate,
Era XV Post Fractum.

This was the sort of place Lucian could get used to. It was quite a step up from the Green Goblin Inn that was his watering hole in Riparia. This place was for a different bred of people, a breed that Lucian was not usually associated with. Those of noble blood, and old money and a few of the neuvo riche which to a degree Lucian was a part of both. His family name was one he usually kept to himself, one of political intrigue and abundant wealth. Lucian was more of a black sheep, prefering to do things his own way, at his own time. Growing up an unknown in a city of unknowns instilled that to his inner being.

Though he was covered in grime from the many brightenings of travel, he walked with his shoulders back and his head high. For the nobility he felt inside was one he fought for, and earned. Not feeling out of place he walked through the manicured gardens, and the expensive doors and halls. He smiled at the old Kemite, waiting for his group to catch up. When all three were together he spoke.

'Serale, I am Lucian, Lucian DiVilli. We have just arrived in town from a long journey from Primus Gaudeo. A hot bath, and meal, before we retire to our rooms.' He said with weary smile on his face. He used to fave a minor notiriety within the city, but that was eras ago and it seemed most of the populas had forgotten about thier homegrown fight club champion.

[Ly'san'a]

All Ly'san'a could say when they approached the Inn was wow. She felt so out of place here, but she followed Lucian's cues, and held her shoulders back and her head high. She was ready to change out of her travel clothes and into her new black and red dress, the one she was sure to impress her hero. The elven woman glanced back at the dwarf to see what he was doing. Did he feel awkward here, too?

"I do not think I belong here," she whispered softly into Lucian's ear when she caught up to him. "Farm girls do not belong with the noble." She looked at her tattered clothes, and hoped they would get a room before the meal so that she may freshen up. She wanted to look like she belonged in a place this upper class. Maybe one day she would feel like she belonged here. For now, she could only try to look the part.

"Do you think I would be able to go to the room first to change out of the atrocious dress," she spoke up so that the clerk would hear her. She really did not think her dress was that horrible. It was one of her new ones, but brightenings of travel had taken its toll on both her and her clothing.

Her lips found themselves whispering into Lucian's ear once again. "I cannot wait for a hot bath and a soft bed. Can you?"

[Korgar Kinslammer]

The dwarf’s heavy boots clattered atop the wooden floor as he entered behind Lucian and Ly’san’a. His long, frizzy black beard tossed from side to side whenever he turned his head to gander at the facility, and he finally whistled sharply and loud enough for his companions to hear. “Hope ye got enough crowns fer da three of us, mate,” Korgar innocently said, frowning embarrassedly as he opened his far from significantly sized coin purse.

Unaccustomed to the lavishness of wealthy living, the dwarf shared Ly’san’a’s sentiments; however, his self-consciousness failed to suppress his proclivities. Lumbering over to Lucian as he requested the tavern’s services, the dwarf propped a large hand onto the man’s shoulder to rivet his attention. “Oh, ‘n can ye make sure ta get us some ale too, lad?” He innocuously requested, glancing at one of the nearby patrons and the foamy mugs that they held in their grasps.

Once satisfied that the rich taste of ale would soon wet his lips and throat, the dwarf turned to Ly’san’a and wiggled his bulbous nose. “Can’t say I’m likin’ da sound of a bath, but a nice bed would sure’n beat dem rocks.”

[Dignitas]

Lucian, Ly'san'a, and Korgar Aleslammer.

For era's the establishment had served various clientel. From preformers, to merchants, to statesmen. Of course, those without the wealth of a small king and the authority of an official stayed here too. Crowns, were the watchword. Although the three before Regis didn't seem the type he would oblige them. Because obliging them, meant obliging himself. And that was something he was interested. "Ah, greetings Master DeVilli." DeVilli? Hmm....the gentle front desk attendant swore he had heard that name before. He had been in Imperia for a long time....DeVilli? After a few instances of thought he couldn't place the name. But if he had heard the name, this man was someone. And no-one would ever catch this-one being anything but pleasant and gracious with a some-one. "The Crest Resting house welcomes you sir." he offered with a well rehearsed smile. "Ah, such a long trek. Well, don't you worry sir you will be well cared for here."

That was before he saw the two people standing with Lucian. Deciding they were not together (obviously the other two were lost) Regis told Lucian it would be a mere 30 crowns a night. "Elisiu! Prepare a bath in one of the vacant rooms immediately!" he called off to the room to the right. A second later a young dwarven boy ran off as best he could, full speed to one of the rooms upstairs to prepare to take care of Lucian.

As Ly'san'a and Korgar spoke up it seemed like they actually knew this Mister DeVilli. "Are they with you sir? We have an excellent servants quarters out back where you're property will be cared for." he asked quietly, with honestly no offense meant. As Krogar placed a hand on Regis the man looked as though he might faint. "Please sir!" he pleaded at the unwanted contact. "If your Master wishes it, we can arrange beverages for you yes. Now kindly move you're hand off of me!" Still with a smile on his face the whole time, he looked to Lucian and then Ly'san'a and Krogar, then back to Lucian. This man carried strange servants, that was sure. And not very trained well either!

[Lucian DiVilli]

Master DiVilli, one could get used to that, the young man thought with a slight grin on his face. The sound of the man's pronunciation further told Lucian he was no longer in the Imperia he had grown up in, for he was used to the slang and gutter talk. As the young dwarf ran up the stairs Lucian knew there was some confusion, he looked as his companions beside him, and realized that the Kemite came to the wrong conclusion. His next words mirrored Lucian's thoughts.

'No dear man, we will be needin two rooms,' he spoke in reply. 'As I mentioned, it has been quite a trip. Please do excuse our rough apperance, for you would not begin to believe the hardships we have endured.

If you have some time after our meal, I would be more than glad to recount the event.' he said understanding the man's confussion, and wanting to give thier apperence a good spin. He leaned over and spoke quitely to the Kemite, 'Remember, apperences can be deceiving... especially in this city.' Hoping to insinuate to the older gentleman that his companions could be important people traveling in disguise.

He stood back up, his face a knowing grin directed at the kemite keeper. He realized after he felt Ly'san'a's lips purr in his ear that he had asked for two rooms. The smile on his face changed slightly, as he hoped the minor 'slip' would be played off due to the confusion of the situation.

[Ly'san'a]

Ly'san'a glared at the clerk who insinuated that they were servants. She realized she may look like one at this point, but it still made her face grow red with anger.

"I will have you know, sir," the young elven woman spoke up for the first time ever in anger. "That I am not a servant. We have traveled many brightenings from Primus Gaudeo and I would just like to be treated with respect. I would like a hot bath and a soft bed. Do you think you could do that for me?"

Her tone was different- haughty almost. She was trying to make herself sound more important than she was, and she hoped it worked.

She leaned over to Lucian and apologized for her behavior. It was inappropriate, but they way she could almost carry off that noble air made her smile.

"Two rooms," she whispered quietly into Lucian's ear. "It's to keep me safe, right?" Her mother would have berated her for that statement. She was sounding just like her grandmother. She could not help it though, it was in her genetics.

[Korgar Kinslammer]

OOC:I actually meant Lucian’s shoulder but it’s all good lol

“Now ye wait just a durn minute ‘ere!” the dwarf angrily retorted, his hairy hands rising into clenched fists directly in front of him. For a moment the enraged Kinslammer dwarf appeared as if he was going to barrel over the counter and tackle Regis head on, but luckily for the disrespectful bartender, Korgar held himself in place.

Instead, the dwarf’s dark eyes narrowed into a glare, one that failed to disguise his outrage at being misconceived to be a slave. If there was one thing that Korgar Kinslammer wasn’t, it was a slave. As the descendent of generations of proud Kinslammer lairds, the young dwarf was virtually nobility! –well, sort of. He had a long way to go until he was promoted to be the head of his clan, but that was another story entirely.

“Ye watch yer words ye ‘ear? Or I’m gonna…” Growling through gritted teeth, the dwarf shook his fist angrily before crossing both arms over his barreled chest. The urge to remove his battle axe and cleave the bar in half crossed his mind, but Korgar reminded himself that he was here to represent Lucian to the best of his abilities, and if that meant behaving then so be it –for now.

“Bah, ye ain’t worth it. Jest gimme some ale!” He ordered, rolling his eyes and dismissing the bartender with a wave.

[Dignitas]

Lucian, Ly'san'a, and Korgar

ooc: Ah, sorry Korgar.

For the human known as Regis; his face filled with crimson blush as he was informed of his mistake. So they were not the mans servants, but actual friends of his? The idea was preposterous, perhaps even unthinkable but they were paying so the human would not argue. "My most humble apologies mi'lady" he said to Ly'san'a with a small incline of his head. "I will endeavor to see that every iota of respect and service is placed upon you and I dearly hope this small misunderstanding won't soil your stay here with us." he replied with a grin of rectifying the situation. However, he noticed the dwarf was a little less vocal in his anger, being more action oriented. Regis gasped high pitched as the dwarf raised his fist and the human quickly took a step back. Clearly; this man was not the fighting type. Likely never been in a fight.

"Oh please!" he pleaded. "Thank you for your mercy master dwarf" he said in quick tones at the short ones notice that he wasn't worth it. Realizing that he had made a dear mistake he turned around grabbing two sets of keys. Handing them to Lucian (and Lucian only, it might be noted) he explained: "Rooms five and six upstairs. For such valued guest as yourself I can see we only need charge you for one room. Only 30 crowns sir" Although one had the feeling it was less because they were valued and more because Regis was trying to hope they wouldn't leave after the small gaffe. After all, a place like this could afford to give out free rooms at their discretion. "the darkening meal will be served in one candlemark...." he said. 'So clean yourself up' wasn't said however, although he certainly thought it.

"If there is anyway I can be of further service please let me know" he said looking only at Lucian. When the trio turned around they would find a young female human likely of new found adulthood leading them to their rooms. In one of the rooms a bath was already being drawn. A few moments later the smell of food wafted lazily through the Crest House enticing all within.

(ooc: Have a nice rest! Feel free to self mod the rest; unless you wish for me to mod some of the other guest in the place.)

[Korgar Kinslammer]

Behaviorisms were idiosyncratic because they were unpredictable, and every person displayed them differently in varying circumstances. Some would have been outraged by the innkeeper’s misconception and stormed out of the tavern in protest, but the Kinslammer dwarf, having recognized the man’s attempt to remedy his previous blunder, overlooked the mistake entirely. Besides, they’d received two free rooms as an immediate result.

“Gee! Thanks mate!” Grinning widely, the dwarf snatched one of the keys from the innkeeper’s hand, laughing wildly and showing it to Lucian as if the man hadn’t been present. Clearly, Korgar was excited by the prospect of discounted boarding, particularly as that would mean more money to spend on booze and other hard liquor –and of course the other necessities of life.

Seemingly ignoring the innkeeper’s apology, the dwarf finally turned back to him –though he only afforded the man a small portion of his attention as most of it was still fixed upon the key. “Just me ale, man, just me ale,” Korgar said, stomping impatiently as he plopped himself down upon a chair. His beady eyes steered to the woman for a moment, but it was clear that he was going to wait for his drink before following her anywhere.

[Lucian DiVilli]

Not in practice of being the haughty nobleman, Lucian smiled as the old kemite stumbled out an apology. It seemed that he was truely ashamed of himself, more for the fact he may lose the crowns than anything else. The yougn dwarf grabbed one of the keys, and Lucian looked down and with one eyebrow arched said to the elf at his side, 'Yes for your safety, of course.'

He moved to follow the younger female as she lead them to the room, pausing for a moment to hear the final words Regis spoke. With an approving nod Lucian turned and walked away a smirk on his face. The inn did not know what they were getting into, for it had been a long and perilous juorney. Lucian was sure the other two were as hungry and thirsty as he was. He turned to Korgar, 'Be right back down... after a change of clothes.'
Once in the room he tossed down his gear, and started to freshen up. He pulled his folded clothing out, and was a bit dismayed at the state of his own wardrobe. Perhaps the old Kemite was correct, but mayeb it was all three of them that should be in servents quarters. After washing off the dust he was about to change his clothing, suddenly aware that he was in the room with Ly'san'a and a hot tub had just been filled.

'I will leave you to change, and join Korgar downstairs... I think I smell something tasty cooking...' He said as if he were once again a schola boy. It was strange how the shadow elf had him acting full of himself one moment the bashful the next.

[Ly'san'a]

Ly'san'a said nothing to the man, just nodded once, and turned her nose up like her mother had said the noblewomen did. She had seen the expression on many occasions on her grandmother's face. Her grandmother was not a noblewoman, but Lyssa knew that she had been with many noblemen.

She followed Lucian and the young girl up to their room. They went into their room and her eyes lit up at the sight of the steam rising from the wash tub. She could not wait to soak in the hot water, letting the steam carry all her burdens away along with travel dirt.

She pulled out her four new dresses and laid them across the bed. She knew exactly which one she would wear, but she would not change while Lucian was there. Not out of modesty, but for the fact that she wanted to surprise him when she showed up for dinner.

She turned and watched Lucian unpacking his clothing and giggled to herself when she saw the hint of embarrassment spark across his face. "Do not mind me," Ly'san'a smiled as she turned around to face away from him. She did not want to cause any discomfort, but she also did not want to make him go to dinner in his travel clothes.

"You may just get dressed and meet Korgar for dinner," she said as she turned back to Lucian. "When you go to eat, I will get dressed and meet you down there. I really need to freshen up before showing myself downstairs again." Her feet glided across the floor and she placed a small kiss on his cheek. She then wandered to the bed and sat down, facing away from Lucian to give him some privacy.

[Korgar Kinslammer]

Propped upon a stool, there were several empty glasses in front of Korgar by the time Lucian and Ly’san’a returned to the ground level –if they opted to return at all. The dwarf had one mug of ale cupped securely in both hands, and he frequently sipped at it, the ale’s foam coating his black beard rather messily.

The dwarf was still acclimating to the notion of residing at the Crest Resting House, possibly the finest roof that he’d ever been under –to sleep in at least. Having become used to hard stones underneath his back during the night, the prospect of a comfortable and plush bed was all too exhilarating to ignore. He wasn’t sure how long he would be in Imperia or if Lucian planned on establishing his headquarters in the city for an extensive period of time, but he knew that he wouldn’t mind staying at the Crest Resting House for as long as his boss liked.

This was heaven.

There was still much work to be done, he knew, but Lucian had said that they needed to wait for the others to arrive. Korgar still didn’t know who exactly the human was waiting for, but if all of Lucian’s companions were like himself, the dwarf suspected that the Coven of Twilight would be a fond agency to work for. Nevertheless, Korgar kept in mind that there was a position for captain still open, and he kind of liked the sound of it. Captain Korgar. The dwarf grinned. Of course, if Ly’san’a wanted it then he wouldn’t challenge her for it. He’d grown a soft spot for the woman, not like the one Lucian had, but in a friendly sort of way.

[Lirael Galanodel]

Hour 14 of the First Srennia of Kalendryas in the Season of Winter

Ah, this was more like it. Certainly better than the hard ground and shelter of trees that had been her home as of late. Brushing her hands down the soft material of her borwn skirt, Lirael stepped up to the counter with a small smile, inclining her head to the elderly Kemite.

"Serale, good sir. I am Lirael Baenre ... I am lookin' to rent a room, if'n ye have any openings?" Her hands she held clasped together in front of her chest, most of her weight settling on to her right leg as she continued to smile at the man -- just the slightest twist of her lips.

[Dignitas]

Lirael

Ah, the comforts of luxury. Like a gleaming beacon of nobility the Crest Resting House dominated the small hill it occupied, looking over much of the ocean behind it and the city to its front. This was a place that those who could afford to stay often did; much to the chagrin of other, less notable, inns around the city. A monopoly? No, there were sufficient numbers of Inns and hostels around the city. However, this one was by far the wealthiest, and its subtle nuances of comfort and services showed this. As much evident as the arcanicaly created globes of fire that hung in mid-air in the lobby, giving off warmth and refuge from the cold air of Winter outside. No doubt they had hired a rather competent mage to add those.

Regis was at the front desk as usual, his wizened hands scribbling something on parchment as Lirael approached. Upon hearing her footsteps he promptly (if not gently) put the quill down and flashed to her a well rehearsed smile. He nodded his head in kind at her request. "Ah, greetings Mrs. Baerne." He looked her over very carefully for the shortest of an instant then replied further. "I'm glad to inform you we do in fact, have one vacancy left. The view is of the city however, not the ocean." Which might be good, especially in the cold winter months with the wind whipping from the north. "If you wish to stay with us for a single night, the rate will be 50 crowns." The kemite tilted his head a little; wondering if the last room for t he evening would be sold or not.