Running a Tavern as a Former Witch!

Early morning, I quickly went through my daily morning routine after I got up from my bed: I stretched for a bit, took a bath, changed into my working clothes and tidied my room before moving around the tavern. I made sure to secure the orb in the hidden pocket of my apron and stepped out of my bedroom, making my way to the second floor. In the hallway, I was greeted by an adventurer who came to stay for the night. She offered compliments for the comfort of our humble room and tasty warm meals.

I smiled and thanked her before heading down the stairs to the common room. The air was filled with the aroma of fresh bread and roasting meat from the kitchen, and the sounds of clinking mugs and cheerful chatter filled the space.

As I walked through the bustling room, I made sure to check in with a few regulars and see if anyone needed assistance.

The day was just beginning, and the early sun cast a warm glow through the large windows.

As I glanced towards the entrance, the bell above the door chimed, signaling a new arrival. The figure who walked in was tall and commanding, clad in the finely crafted armor of a seasoned warrior. Her presence drew the attention of the entire room. She carried herself with a mixture of confidence and grace that was hard to ignore.

Her eyes scanned the room with an almost practiced ease, settling briefly on me. I recognized her immediately, though I had not seen her in person before.

She was renowned in the neighboring city as the new guild leader of the prestigious Crimson Dawn Guild. The tales of her strategic brilliance and unparalleled skill in battle had traveled far and wide, making her a figure of considerable renown.

I made my way over to greet her, offering a courteous bow. "Welcome to our tavern. How may I assist you today?"

She returned the bow with a nod, her expression a blend of seriousness and curiosity. "Thank you. I'm here to discuss a potential alliance. The Crimson Dawn Guild is always on the lookout for reliable partners, and I've heard good things about this place."

Her words carried weight, and as she spoke, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. This was not just any visitor; this was a chance to forge a new path and perhaps gain a valuable ally. I gestured for her to take a seat at a quiet corner table where we could talk privately, the wheels in my mind already turning, eager to hear what we are about to discuss.

She smiled as she settled onto the wooden chair opposite to where I sat.

“Thank you,” she said, placing her gauntleted hands on the table, “I’ll get straight to the point. Our guild has been tracking a series of unusual magical disturbances, and we believe your establishment might hold a clue.”

My pulse quickened. I subtly shifted, feeling the weight of the orb in my apron’s hidden pocket. “Unusual disturbances?” I asked, trying to keep my tone even. “That sounds serious. What sort of disturbances are we talking about?”

She leaned in slightly, her gaze piercing. “Spikes in magical energy, strange sightings, and whispers of powerful artifacts changing hands. We’ve traced one such artifact to this area. A small, ancient orb. Would you happen to know anything about that?”

I swallowed hard, my mind racing. How could she possibly know? “An orb, you say?” I replied, feigning ignorance. “This is a bustling tavern; many travelers pass through with all sorts of items.”

She studied my face for a moment, then leaned back. “Of course. I would not expect you to reveal everything to a stranger. But this artifact is dangerous. It’s not just a relic; it has the potential to cause immense harm if in the wrong hands.”

Her words echoed in my mind. I thought back to the strange aura the orb emitted when I first found it. “I understand your concern,” I said carefully. “Artifacts of power should be handled responsibly. What exactly does this orb do?” It wouldn't hurt to learn more.

“It’s an ancient scrying device,” she explained. “It can locate other magical objects and amplify their power. Some records also claims that it has restoration abilities. In the hands of someone with ill intent, it could tip the balance of power in ways we can’t afford.” A different ability than what the shopkeeper or Vernon had told me. Quite interesting, but right now isn't the time to gush about it.

A cold shiver ran down my spine. I realized the gravity of the situation. “And you believe it’s here?”

“Not just here,” she said, her voice lowering. “I believe it’s in this tavern. And given its potential, I need to take it into custody to ensure it’s kept safe.”

I took a deep breath, weighing my options. Revealing the orb could put me at risk, but hiding it might lead to greater danger. Before I could decide, a commotion erupted at the entrance.

Two figures, cloaked and hooded, burst in, their eyes scanning the room until they locked onto our table. The guild leader’s hand instinctively moved to her sword. “Seems we’re not the only ones looking for the orb,” she muttered.

I stood up and stepped in front of her. "They're with me. It's alright." I smiled at her before facing the two who had now took off their cloaks.

Vernon and Levi approached us. It was Vernon who spoke first, dramatically as he often does it.