Thael entered the inn, frustrated at how the morning had unfolded. He had arrived in Ashwell at dawn, finally reaching his destination after weeks of travelling from The Great Library. He had not enjoyed the human lands at all. The humans he had interacted with seemed afraid of him, and called him "schoolman" almost like a curse. Only the elite were educated, but everything was dirty. Even "comfortable" accommodations paled to what was the minimal standards of hospitality in Elven lands.
The humans were also quite uncivilized. Not even a few hours after he disembarked from the elven ship, thugs had tried to rob him. Fortunately, he dispatched the miscreants with the help of some local guards, but decided to don armor as he traveled, which was uncomfortable but proved to be necessary on two more occasions.
He also much preferred to be on the road than in human cities, and preferred to sleep in forested areas when he could.
He had been eager to arrive in Ashwell. Some of his elven kin would even have scolded him for being impatient, a reflection of his youth - as he was only 85 years old. He had rehearsed his arrival in his mind for months, and dreamed of the possibilities. He would immediately go to the head archeologist with the introduction letter from the elder council at The Library, and would immediately immerse himself with the findings, focusing on anything remotely arcane.
Of course, the morning's events had burst his illusions and had not occurred as planned. First, the excavation efforts were completely disorganized. There was no head archeologist, and the digging was done by thugs more interested in gaining wealth than knowledge. With significant protests, he had been escorted away from the pit after the workers had complained that he was interfering with their work.
"This is not a place for you, schoolman!" The words of the guards resonated as he entered the inn. He needed some time to plan what his next move would be. He likely needed help, or perhaps allies, but he was a stranger in a strange land, and needed to think.
He walks to the human that seems to be in charge. "May I have some tea?". He then sees the books behind the counter, and nods in approval "I see you are a learned man, mind if I take a look?"