Ciaran, Aeron and Jinx opt to remain in the barn to keep an eye on the horses. The barn provides a respite from the wind and rain, but it isn't very warm. The storm itself is something of an oddity...cold weather like this is relatively uncommon this time of year in this part of the Flanaess.
Meanwhile, the rest of your company (Merrick, Zirat, Deren and Shoon) move across the muddy yard of the inn and approach the front door.
[sblock=Merrick, Zirat, Deren and Shoon]
As you open the door and enter the Waterside Hostel, you can immediately tell that this is a rough and tumble type of establishment. The common room is dim and smokey, and the smell of sour wine hangs over the place. A loud din greets your ears, as at least two dozen folk go about their business. Shouts and laughter are the order of the evening. While a few of the people appear to be farmers and other villagers, most appear to be fighting men of one sort or another. Leather armor and ring mail seem to be the preference, and most have a blade of some sort near at hand. Drinking games appear to be a common way to pass the night, and some folk play at dice, draughts or cards. In one corner, two rough looking men in dark leathers slash at each other with knives, while spectators bet on which will shed first blood.
Two serving wenches and two manservants weave their way through the crowd, delivering drinks, and a lanky barkeep is kept busy by the continual orders. A burly, pockmarked man with a patch over one eye also stands behind the bar, occasionally shouting orders out to the wenches and servants.[/sblock]
OOC: I am going to proceed on the basis of Jebediah and Thomas remaining behind in Hommlet, as we did the first time Lord_Raven disappeared. If he comes back, this will give him the option of following after the rest of you. With Jinx back and Shoon added to the group, I believe you are reasonably well prepared for the trials ahead.
