[IRP] The Dead One Calls

[WyvernSlayer]

Satsume folded his arms. “In that case, milady – I’ll leave you in Paige’s capable hands.”

“While I think about it,” added Ellie, “Shad wanted to talk – how does a meal with friends sound while we wait for the ladies?”

So maybe that’s a guy, I guess? Satsume struggled internally with the youngster’s voice and appearance, but he didn’t dare say anything to confirm his thoughts. Instead, he merely nodded in approval. “Sounds good. I’m getting a bit hungry, myself,” he said finally. He and the young archer took their leave of the other two and started in search of the tavern.

As they walked, Satsume’s eye caught some movement off to the side, between a couple of buildings. He turned his head as he walked past and very briefly made eye contact with a black-haired man with a scraggly beard. The man’s gaze was one of scrutiny, but not fear. Satsume’s gut told him he wasn’t an enemy, but he grew suspicious all the same.

Satsume led Eli and Shad to the tavern and opened the door, marveling at all of the empty tables. Apart from the bartender, off to the side cleaning a glass while meeting the party with a slightly confused stare.

“Hi,” said Satsume. “Mind if we grab a table?”

“Not at all,” replied the bartender. “Although we’re a bit short-staffed at the moment. Just me and the cook in the back right now.”

“That’s fine,” Satsume replied, gesturing towards a table near the bar to invite his friends to sit. “Somehow I don’t think you’re over capacity.” He nodded his thanks and pulled out a chair.

As the group sat down, Satsume leaned over to Shad. “Did you see that guy in the street a second ago?” he asked. “Different one than what I saw near the armory. Do you think we’re being scouted?”