Yet to be named, pt23

They crossed the courtyard and entered the inn proper.

Riding down the street definitely attracted attention.

But compared to this, it felt like nobody cared about their arrival in the city. People stopped their chats and hung their mugs in midair, watching the pointy-eared travellers walk inside. One even stood up - a rather big fellow, who, despite the early hour, already had quite a few beers in him and, apparently, some race-related issues.

'What're you doin' here? We don' want you here!'

'Yes, yes, now sit down, you're not to decide here', the bartender, also a bulky man with a bushy beard, quelled him. He gave up shouting and sat down, but kept his aggressive stare. The pair hurried through the crowd to the counter as the buzz of a tavern began to return. The innkeeper greeted them with a smile from under his hairy beard.

'Please accept my apologies, that oaf can never hold his tongue. Now, can I be of service to you two?'

'Thank you, and yes, we'd like to rent a room for us. We need nothing fancy, just two beds.'

'Of course. Here's the key', he took the big iron tool from under the counter.' One word of advice though, people are on edge right now. Something foul is in the air, I say.'

'You tell us. Thank you for letting us stay', she grabbed the key and left a few coins behind her. 'Come on, let's go', she ushered Alvaren to get moving.

'It's on the top floor', the barkeep shouted after them.

When they finally reached their destination, Alvaren could finally ask freely.

'When he said something foul, od you think he meant what you meant?'

'Honestly?'

'Yes?'

'No', she answered and pushed the door open.' Well, enjoy your stay, we're leaving this place as soon as dawn breaks.'