As the sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the bustling market of Ramshorn, I wandered together with Nimri, gathering provisions for our upcoming adventure. My wounds were mending nicely, though they still throbbed with reminders of their existence. Despite the discomfort, I felt a pull to press forward; this city had never quite felt like home. Today was a rare gift, allowing me to roam freely without the usual disguise of mask and cloak. What Sanise concocted remains a mystery, and truth be told, I’m not eager to uncover it, but it seems whatever she did has worked wonders.
As I ambled past the tailor shop of Mrs. Nanette1, I paused, captivated by a stunning dress that an elderly woman, draped in black with wispy white hair, was meticulously arranging on a mannequin in the window.
"Oh, how I long for the days when I could craft my own garments," I murmured wistfully.
Once she finished her work, the old lady turned to me, her face a canvas of age and wisdom, and with a snap of her fingers, the dress shimmered to life, illuminated by tiny, buzzing orbs of magic. It was a breathtaking backless creation, with a corset that seemed to be forged from a sturdy fabric, flowing into a softer, purple skirt. The shoulder straps cascaded elegantly, adorned with a sparkling purple crystal, while a matching necklace boasted an even larger gem. The ensemble was completed with long gloves that danced with chains from the shoulder straps.
"Look at this, Nimri! I absolutely need it!" I exclaimed, my excitement bubbling over, though I could see him rolling his eyes in response. "Even if I never get to wear it. But the price—2000 platinum pieces!" I added, my voice trailing off.
As I leaned closer to admire the dress, a gentle tap on my shoulder startled me. A young man, his bright blue-grey eyes peering nervously through his glasses, stood there, clearly mustering his courage. "Um, I noticed you earlier at the market, and..." he stammered, his voice quivering, "I wanted to ask if I could invite you for a drink?"
I blinked in surprise, taken aback by his boldness. "You want what?" I asked, ensuring I had heard him correctly.
'He’s the one who didn’t join the brash crowd. Up close, he’s rather charming' I thought, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks.
"Never mind. I apologize for the interruption," he said, turning to leave. But I couldn’t let him go so easily. I grasped his arm gently, a smile breaking across my face. It was refreshing to encounter such respect in this city; he seemed more inclined to retreat than to impose.
"Hold on a second!" I laughed, a mischievous smile lighting up my face. "I could really use a hot cup of tea at this moment." The warmth in my eyes seemed to dissolve the worry lines on his face, and suddenly, a big grin broke out. "I know the perfect spot!" he declared, practically bouncing with enthusiasm. For a heartbeat, it seemed he might dash off without me, but he quickly turned back, making sure I could walk beside him effortlessly. I couldn't help but chuckle softly; there was something irresistibly sweet about his little flurry of excitement.
He guided me to The Open Barrel, a tavern that radiated warmth and joy from the outside. The sturdy logs and stone beams formed a welcoming facade, and even from the threshold, the lively music and laughter spilled out into the street. Upon entering, we were enveloped in a vibrant atmosphere, with patrons dancing and the bartender managing to greet us with a wink despite the chaos.
Inside, the tavern was just as inviting as it appeared. The stone beams supported the upper floor, adorned with magical lights, while the walls showcased the owner’s hunting trophies—mounted heads and furs that hinted at a love for the wild. The aroma wafting from the kitchen promised hearty fare, and the clientele—a mix of humans, Tieflings, Tabaxi, pale elves, and even orcs—suggested a lively gathering of travelers.
Over steaming cups of tea, he introduced himself as Ykril, though he couldn’t recall his last name or where he hailed from. I was taken aback by how quickly he shared such personal details, knowing that in the wrong hands, they could be exploited. His name felt familiar, yet I couldn’t place it, no matter how hard I tried.
We chatted, laughed, and enjoyed comfortable silences until the stars twinkled outside. Before I returned to the inn where Sanise awaited, Ykril mentioned a grand soiree at the city’s castle on the first of Marpenoth, extending an invitation my way.
"A soiree?" I asked, intrigued.
"Yes! A grand celebration with dancing, exquisite food, and a full orchestra!" he replied, his enthusiasm infectious.
"But we have all that here too, don’t we?" I countered, surprised by his excitement.
"A soiree is on a whole different level. There’s even a dress code." he explained, his eyes sparkling.
I laughed lightly, shaking my head. "I have neither a dress nor the funds for one, and I’ve never envisioned myself at a noble’s gathering."
He looked at me with hopeful eyes, sensing the hint of disappointment in my voice. "I’ll take care of it." he declared confidently.
"That sounds quite ambitious." I teased, a sneeze from Nimri punctuating my words.
"Is that a yes?" he asked, a glimmer of hope in his gaze.
"Well, if you can manage to get a Drow into a noble’s party in a human city, then yes, that’s a yes," I replied, flashing him a charming smile that finally broke through his nervousness, and I could see his joy radiate.
