Helen
Despite having been to Aismir many times now, it was a strange feeling that washed over Carver Dal as he made his way into town this time. Oh, there were only relatively few changes since his last visit, for the months had changed and the seasons progressed, but in the end, it was all still very much *Aismir*. 

There was a light rain falling as he had emerged from the track leading in from the Steep Wood, and his pale white hair and the light clothing he wore was already plastered to him, but he smiled in his good-natured way to folk as he passed by, and many of them waved back, either vaguely familiar with the sight of him or simply curiously friendly enough to return the gesture.

It was only now as he spotted **The Three Cups** That his mind allowed him the briefest concern over how he'd left this place last time, and almost as if reflexively, his hand moved to the side of his neck where a pair of small bite mark scars served of the reminder of the poor choice in company he had kept during that departure. 

Would he even be welcome here now, he wondered? His friend, the prior owner, had once told him he'd always have a room there, but times had changed, and the place had been sold to the new lady who seemed far less tolerant of Carver's ways than his friend had been. He considered maybe just trying to bunk in the stable for the first night, but his rumbling belly was all the convincing he needed to decide that the better course was just to walk right in the front door. 

And that's exactly what he did. 

Brushing his wet hair out of his face, he put on what he felt was his most charming smile as he stepped in and made his way toward the bar. He still had a *Few* Coins in his pouch; he could at least buy a bowl of soup or something...
Jennifer
*Shielding her eyes from the rain with a raised hand Cy squints around the square in search of the vardo the lead waggoneer of the last caravan called home. In her distraction she'd wandered off from the square only to return and find that new wagons had rolled into town. Shoulders rounding she lets out a heavy sigh. They'd gone on without her.* "You'd think I'd be used to that..." 

*Her cloud like hair was soaked and dark, hanging much more heavily around her. Not one to dwell on unpleasant things too long Cy shrugs her shoulders, adjusts the strap of her bag, and starts toward a cozy looking tavern with an inviting sound of merriment pouring out in flashes as folks enter and leave the establishment. A lopsided grin grows on Cy's countenance as she floats mere inches from the wet, muddy walk and drifts toward The Three Cups.*

*A woman stepping out of the tavern gives Cy with nary a second glance. It struck Cy as strangely wonderful to not be quite an oddity here in this particular township.* "Guess if there's a big old troll skull hanging round I can't be that much to talk about." *She chuckles and slips through the open door into the warmth of the Cups.* 

*Floating by the door a moment Cy gives her eyes time to adjust to the cozy lighting of the tavern. A chill runs down her spine reminding her that she's dripping rain water onto the floor.* "That won't do." *She says to herself then plucks a little magic out of the ether to dry off her clothes and the growing puddle. Pleased with herself Cy drifts toward the bar. She leans against the wood, fingers drumming excitedly against the curved side of the bar, and flashes a smile to the pale haired fellow who seems to have arrived not too much before herself.* "Any idea what's good here? I'm sure everything is but most places have 'a thing', you know?"
Francis
Vicky emerged through the doorway from the kitchen, her attention attracted by the arrival of two unfamiliar faces at the bar. A welcoming smile graced her lips as she extended a welcoming gaze towards them, briefly pausing as her eyes settled on Carver. Without allowing her recognition to diminish her hospitality, she greeted them cordially.

"Good evening, folks. Rather dreary weather we're having," She casually engaged them, her tone affable. Casting a glance towards the pale, slender woman standing near Carver, a subtle sense tugged at her senses. Vicky realized that the woman was not wet from the rain. Unusual to say the least since her other patrons looked like drowned rats before the fireplace dried them.

"While everything on our menu is delicious, on a rainy day such as this, may I suggest our hearty stew or comforting vegetable soup? What shall I fetch for you both?" Her hands moved reflexively tidying the bar as she retrieved a mug and a delicate stemmed glass. "Perhaps an ale for the gentleman and a glass of claret for the lady?"

Though she recalled Carver vividly and the unfortunate incident that had occurred during his last visit to the Three Cups, along with the wounded creature involved, a familiar pang of guilt stirred within her. But, Vicky, ever pragmatic, recognized it was useless to dwell on the past. Inhaling deeply, she allowed the emotions to dissipate, her own remorse conveniently diverting her from any lingering apprehension about Carver's return. With determination, she focused on the task at hand, pouring ale into the mug and patiently awaiting their food preferences.
Helen
Carver nodded quickly in agreement to the proffered mug of ale; he knew The Cups had some of the finest brews both from Northern Ostia and Miller Dale alike, and there was little to complain about either. He watched the owner for signs of discontent at the sight of him, and seeing nothing initially, he turned his attention to the meager coins in his pouch: two silver and a handful of copper. Probably not enough to keep him out of the stable if he wanted to eat *And* Drink, but it was the tiefling's way in general to cast worry to another day. 

He flashed a warm smile in welcome to the dry woman who joined him at the bar. "Mistress Vicky doesn't do the cooking herself," He explained rather casually, "But surely you've heard of her chef, none other than Chuckles himself. His soups and stews... And cakes and pies... And.. Well, just about everything that comes out of his kitchen is just the very best in Aismir." As he spoke, he gesticulated animatedly with his right arm between himself and Cy, and water from his still-drenched shirt sleeve sprayed just about everywhere: on the floor, on the bar, on the poor woman beside him, and even a bit on Vicky on the other side of the bar. "Oh.. Uh.. Sorry..." He apologized sheepishly as he realized his mistake.

Finally, he also seemed to remember his manners. "Oh! Uh... I am Carver. Carver Dal, world explorer, and this fine woman across from us is none other than the owner of Three Cups— Vicky... Uhm.. Ms. VIcky." He ran out of steam quick when he realized he didn't know her surname, but smiled proudly, hoping to have done the introduction justice. 

"And I would love some of Chuckles' beef stew, Ms. Vicky..." He added with only the slightest twinkle of mischief in his eye.
Jennifer
Cy's attention is quickly brought to the woman arriving through the kitchen and offering such a generous welcome. "Hello!" She beams a bright smile and tucks her legs under herself to sit criss cross in the air after setting her bag on the floor. "Claret sounds wonderful, thank you." Her gaze shifts to Carver then back to Vicky. "I don't think I've ever heard of Chuckles! I'm sure their stew is a divinity though so yes to that as well." When splashed with water Cy jumps slightly and laughs. Unbothered she passes her hand over the affected areas of her outfit after making a quick gesture to pluck a little more magic. The result is a perfectly dry and tidy Cy still floating by the bar as though seated.

"A world traveler? Truly? Ah, that's marvelous! It's lovely to meet you Carver Dale." Cy offers a slim hand for Carver to shake if he likes then turns her gaze back to Vicky. "And you as well Miss Vicky. I'm Cy. I, ah, am passing through I think." It does occur to Cy that she doesn't really have much in the way of coin, the waggoneer was supposed to pay her before they parted ways. 'Drat.' Well she can figure that out later.

"Do you have any fantastic tales from your travels Mr. Dale? I'd love to hear them. I've only just made my way out of Ostia for the first time in my life."
Francis
Vicky poured a dark crimson liquid into the delicate glass for Cy, her ears attentive to their introductions. As she gently placed the glass before the floating patron, a realization dawned upon her - now she knew why Cy hadn't been affected by the rain. A quiet smile graced Vicky's face, admiring the effortless demonstration of arcane skill. Despite encountering many spells in her adventures, firsthand experience remained a delight. Lacking any affinity for magic herself, she found pleasure in witnessing the talents of others.

"An honor to make your acquaintance, Cy. Carver, I'm certain, has an abundance of adventurous tales to entertain you with," She remarked with a playful grin and a wink, before adding, "I'll bring food to fill your bellies and warm your souls." With that, she returned to the kitchen to put together a variety of dishes: a medley of stew, freshly baked bread with butter, a selection of soup, and roasted vegetables. She never asked patrons for coins in advance. Generosity always served her well in the past, and continued to do so as an innkeeper. 

Returning with the plates arranged neatly on the bar, Vicky urged them to eat. "I'd like to hear your stories as well. Though, let's perhaps omit the one concerning your previous visit to town, shall we?" Her gaze conveyed meaning to Carver, without reproach, signaling her preference to leave certain matters in the past. As she left them to their conversation, she attended to the needs of other patrons, ensuring they were served drinks and food, all the while upkeeping the inn's fireplace to ward off the evening chill.
Helen
Carver, too, was somewhat dazzled at the easy display in which Cy dispelled the effects of the water on her person with such obvious ease, and grinned emphatically. "Wow! That must be very useful! You must be a mage. Did you study in Siri—Sisi— no wait. Si-hi-ri-sium!" He spelled out the name of the place phonetically in syllables to make sure he'd gotten it right, then almost seemed to forget that he was actually asking the woman a question; it took a moment for him to double back and finish. "Did you go to the college for learning?"

It didn't take more than her simple suggestion and meaningful glance for Carver to take Vicky's meaning, and he nodded emphatically, using one hand to wave the thought away entirely. Those bright blue eyes of his widened in response of the stew, and without even considering the consequences of his longer-term (meaning simply later that very night!) consequences of his actions, he dug out a silver coin from his pouch and placed it on the counter.

"I suppose it would be too much to hope for that my old room was available for rent?" He asked after a hesitant gulp of the steaming stew, the heat of which did not seem to affect him much. "I don't know how long I'll be able to afford it, but I'll be looking for work immediately tomorrow."
Jennifer
*Cy beams at the possibility of adventurous tales though the mention of some forbidden story positively churns the depths of her imagination. Her eyes dart between the two and her mind spins up all manner of narratives in the brief time it takes to do so. Her attention is soon brought to the food which elicits a pleased, eager sound from Cy.* "My this does look delicious. Chuckles is truly the wonder you said!" *After blowing on the stew a moment then taking a few bites she makes herself slow down and sets the spoon aside in favor of her drink for now. Even the small amount eaten has already begun to warm and bolster her after being out in the rain.*

*Her cheeks flush a pinkish lavender at the mere suggestion she is a mage.* "I'm flattered but now. I just know this simple traveler's trick. The granny of one of the caravans I've traveled with taught me. I'd love to learn more magic and she did say I have a knack for it. Where is this Sihirisium? I've never heard of it. To be fair anything outside of Ostia I can't claim much knowledge of and even that... I would say I left many more things to learn behind me." *She briefly thinks back to meeting the Moth and how unexpected that had been but chooses not to speak on it just now.* "As a world traveler you must have seen more than I can imagine." 

*When Vicky returns to check on them Cy puts a similar question to her as well.* "Miss Vicky, you must have seen many exciting new things here too with all of the people who pass through. You must have a tale or two also, yes?" *The mention of a room Cy lifts a hand to scrub at the back of her neck.* "I don't suppose you'd be open to letting me earn a room for the night would you? I put on quite a delightful show with my flute."
Francis
With casual grace, Vicky engaged in conversation with Cy and Carver. "There's a long list of adventures to immerse oneself in, each loaded with nostalgia. I've had my fair share, spending most of my life exploring lands, sustaining myself through mercenary work. However, now I find my existence attached to this place," She remarked, gesturing broadly to the room with her calloused, weathered hands. "It was certainly an adjustment, but I've grown to love it and wouldn't have it any other way. My days of adventure are long past, and I find solace in providing a haven for those returning from their own journeys."

"On that note, I can arrange accommodations for both of you. A comforting hot bath and a soft bed for the night, perhaps," She suggested, directing her attention specifically to Cy. "I'd gladly offer you a room in exchange for entertaining our guests with your musical talents." Then, turning to Carver with a crooken grin, she added, "And yes, your usual quarters are yours, but I'll find tasks to occupy your time here. You can both replenish your energy with a night's rest, then explore opportunities for work and perhaps even find a new adventure in the town center on the workboard. Until then, indulge in food, drink, and the warmth of the fire."

She replenished Carver's ale and Cy's claret, then inquired curiously about the floating guest's origins. "And where do you hail from? I must admit, I've never encountered anyone quite like you," She remarked tactfully, gesturing towards the ethereal form. "I'm delighted you've found your way to my inn, but I'm eager to hear about the journey that led you here, especially since Carver seems to have left your curiosity unfulfilled with his lack of storytelling." With an amiable wink, she leaned in, genuinely intrigued by the response.
Jennifer
*Straightening up in her 'seat' Cy looks relieved to hear she can perform for her lodgings.* "You are a divine being, Miss Vicky. A hot bath sounds a dream honestly. It's been quite some time since I've had the luxury of a soak." 

*She smiles broadly at the questions about herself.* "As far back as I can remember I'm from Ostia. As a child I lived on one of the noble estates there. I'm sure you've heard how things like that go in Ostia. It's an ever shifting stew of power grabs so the house isn't still around. When it fell I worked in a village for a while before taking on with a caravan. Little entertaining here, little mercenary work there..." *She shrugs and takes a sip of her claret.* 

"I feel like I crossed Ostia a hundred times. I wanted to see what else the world had for me to see so I traveled to the Draagonclaw Mountains found a trapper headed this way and just sort of tagged along with them to cross. Once I was on your side of the peaks I fell in with some merchants and now... Here I am!"
Helen
Carver was grinning ear to ear at the prospect of sharing some of his stories with this new friend, even if Ms. Vicky had already ruled out his tale with the vampire, and he had just opened his mouth to begin sharing that when the innkeeper informed him that she intended to keep him busy. That certainly brought him up short. 

Squinting over the bowl of steaming stew at her suspiciously, he was fairly certain this would result in actual *Chores*, the *Hard* Kind of chores that innkeepers had for people who *Didn't* Have interesting lives being world travelers. "Uhh.." He stalled guardedly, glancing over at Cy. "Well I *Do* Have some prospects, Ms. Vicky.. But if those don't work out, I'm sure we could work out an alternative..."

Rather than let that go much farther— Carver did *Not* Want to begin discussing mundane chores— he spooned up a mouthful of the steaming stew, chewed, then turned once more to Cy. "*I* Just got back from Elsir Vale," He proclaimed happily. We— err.." He paused only briefly to glance astray to see if Ms. Vicky was still paying attention to him before continuing, "*I* Was dealing with this cult of moon-worshippers there,. They actually think there's people living up there on the moon!"
Francis
"Welcome to Aismir, my dear," She said warmly, her hand resting on Cy's arm. "May it usher in your own adventures to share with others. I'm confident there are countless opportunities for exploration. Consider this place a home away from home for you."

Vicky engaged in intermittent conversation with them and other patrons circulating through the inn. When Carver mentioned the moon worshippers, she chuckled genuinely at the notion. "People are often so eager for some sort of mystical significance in their lives that they'll believe almost anything." She sighed, unperturbed, and waved her hand as if dismissing such notions as frivolous.

Returning to the rear of the bar, she shouted some instructions to Chuckles, who, though quiet that evening, adeptly managed the bustling demands of the inn. "Keep an eye on things; I'm heading upstairs to prepare a couple of rooms and baths." With a wink and a grin, she ran up the stairs to ensure everything was arranged for Cy and Carver.
Jennifer
"Thank you for such a lovely welcome." *Cy beams at Vicky and realizes the woman is also trying to run an establishment. She shouldn't try to monopolize too much of the other woman's time. Of course the tale of moon worshipers certainly caught Cy's interest.* "Seems people will make a cult for just about anything. The moon, huh? She's pretty but I don't know that I'd go about worshiping her. She's always coming and going. You'd think they'd want someone more reliable." *The air spirit almost giggles at that and gives her head a small shake.* "Did they hope to travel to the moon also or did they think the people up there would come down here?" 

"I have visit Elsir Vale a time or two though I've never stayed very long on those trips. A few nights here and there. I did catch quite a scene outside the Church of the Open Wish. Very against hair it seems." *She grins and takes another sip of her wine her brief aside complete.*
Helen
Carver's eyes widened dramatically at Cy's mention of the Open Wish, but he'd just taken a mouthful of the stew and was exhaling over it in an attempt to cool it off in his mouth and could not respond immediately. The resultant laugh almost caused the young tiefling to choke his mixed efforts too cool the mouthful, chew the mouthful, breathe, and talk all at once, but after only a momentary struggle, he managed to swallow it down and gasp-laugh in response. "I was told to stay away from them!" He exclaimed with a huge grin.

Out of the corner of his eye, however, he was distracted by the entrance of two new figures who entered the inn behind them. One was short and wirey with jet black hair and a uncomely patch of straggly growth on his chin, while his companion was a tall brute, thick-limbed and pale-skinned with short-cropped brown hair shaved on the sides, thick arms folded over his chest.

"Well look who the cats dragged in out of the rain," The shorter of the two declared in a loud voice that overtook all of the other quiet conversations between other patrons in the inn. He was focused directly on Carver seated at the bar, and began slowly to walk toward him, a contemptuous, disapproving grin on his face. "I think you forgot to deliver on your promises before you skipped out of town, you little chit."

The bigger man followed along behind his companion, obviously playing the role of intimidating muscle, though the short wirey man seemingly needed little in the way of confidence. Carver, for his part, gulped almost audibly, then slid down off the bar stool with his hands out before him. "Carhelm! Um... Don't worry... I was planning to pay you a visit soon enough. I *Just* Got back into town. Surely you heard—" 

The naive little tiefling didn't even see the punch coming. Carhelm landed a vicious punch to Carver's stomach that sent him staggering back, nearly bumping into Cy behind him. "You made me look like an idiot! You think I'm gonna let that pass?" The sh

Ort roguish figure demanded. "I'm gonna take it out of your hide, kid!"

Carhelm's bigger companion stepped forward and grabbed Carver by the back of his collar with the clear intent to drag him outside.
Jennifer
*The sudden commotion pulls Cy's attention to the entrance of the Three Cups. Her eyes dart between the approaching rough looking men and Carver. Shifting so she's standing a few inches off the ground rather than floating in a less easy to act from mid air float Cy scowls at the tone of the shorter man. She looks around quickly for Vicky and to judge how the other patrons are taking such an affront.*

*Reaching behind herself Cy undoes the small straps that help secure her swords in place in their sheaths. They'll stay put for now until she needs to free them but handing the strap now makes things easier should the situation break bad. Which... It was seeming like there was a high possibility of that. Cy lets out a startled cry as Carver takes a fist to the gut and barely manages to flit out of the way.*

*Unsure what the score was here between the man and Carver, Cy decides in the moment to back up her new companion and hope that she's on the right side of things when it all shakes out. Fliting forward, knees slightly bent and hair billowing out Cy reaches a hand out to grasp the man's wrist where he's holding Carver.* "Now hang on a second. Can we maybe have a civil chat over drinks instead of whatever this is? I'll buy." *She looks between the two rough men with a doe eyed expression.* "Would be a shame to disrupt everyone's lovely night with a fuss."
Helen
As Cy reaches for his wrist, the bigger man turns toward her, and both of them seem to recognize her presence as if for the first time. How they missed her floating figure there to begin with is likely testament to just how set they were on Carver's past misdeeds with them. The big man frowned at Cy in warning, and Carhelm opened his mouth with an amused look on his face. Though he hardly seemed ready to accept Cy's offer for drinks or discussion, he wasn't given a chance to reply. Carver, who had been given that lengthy moment to catch his breath, slipped right out of the shirt that Carhelm's brute clutched, and bare-chested, he lunged at Carhelm with a punch of his own. Carhelm fell, and Carver jumped atop the other man, and soon the two were brawling and wrestling on the wooden floorboards. 

The brute beside Cy was confused far longer than he probably should have been, raising the wet cotton shirt that had only moments before been covering Carver's chest to stare at it in disbelief. By the time he tossed it aside to begin reaching for Carver from above, he and Carhelm were trading blows with one another, quite entwined..

Much as usual, trouble seemed to follow Carver like his own shadow.
Jennifer
"Oh boy..." *Cy floats back a few inches and reaches behind herself to work the different fastenings of her sword sheaths. It wouldn't do to actually draw steel in here but she could womp someone with the sheathed blade if need be. Hopefully that won't be the case but better safe than sorry.*

*Flinching at some rather robust looking blows Cy clears her throat and tries to get the big man's attention.* "Hey, ah... Five silver on Carver if you don't join in. I'll even say you win if it's a draw. Maybe we can get more takers?" *She flashes what she considers a winning smile at the oaf of a man and hopes like heck to buy some time with the offer of gambling. If not... Close quarter fighting is tricky but not impossible.*
Helen
The bigger brute, as yet unnamed had only begun to reach down to grab Carver, but the shirtless little tiefling proved hard to lay hold of, and when Cy suggests setting wagers, it distracts him enough to keep him out of the fight.

Carver seemed to be getting as good as he gave, and he and the stockier but shorter rogue he tumbled with traded punches and jabs as they rolled around on the wooden floor.
Jessica
From behind the door behind the bar, came a loud roaring voice. "What in the name of all my good crockery is going on out there?!" Was asked demandingly just before the wooden door was slammed open and the large chef eternally known simply as Chuckles emerged. 

Normally a bit dumpy around the midsection, when he saw the commotion on the other side of the bar, he squared his shoulders and inhaled, then lunged around the end of the bar, pushing past the brute beside Cy, and grabbed both Carver and Carhelm and pulled them up by their ears.

A stringing chorus of "Ow!"S emanated from the two, who immediately yielded. Even the brute took a step back, not daring to get in the big cook's way. He pushed Carhelm back toward the door, and pulled Carver back toward the bar, then glared theateningly at the two, wagging a beefy digit in warning. "Don't make me get my rolling pin..."

Carhelm had several puffy spots on his face, and Carver had a busted lip, and both were out of breath, glaring at one another themselves, but Carhelm seemed to realize his vengeance would have to wait. "I'll deal with you later, halfbreed!" He spat with a scowl, then backed out, and the brute followed after him.
Jennifer
*Breathing out a long breath of relief when the bigger man bought the gambling bit Cy finally turns her attention fully to the brawl on the floor. While she cringes and flinches at the blows shared between the two Cy reaches behind herself to do back up the straps of her swords.* "Glad that didn't escalate..." 

*Well it was still pretty bad but at least there weren't weapons pulled. Glancing quickly at the bigger brute to make sure he's still staying out of the row Cy bends to pick up her satchel.* "Oh heck, right... My flute..." *Chiding herself for not thinking __that__ as a distraction first Cy stands up straight and taps the temple of her head with the butt of one hand.* "Gah, that would have worked bett.."

*She doesn't get the rest of her thought out before a large man makes a large entrance from the kitchen. 'Must be Chuckles.' she thinks to herself with her eyebrows raised. She floats back out of the way making sure the chef has plenty of room to regain the room from the bubble of chaos that had been visited upon it. Carver is pulled to the bar and the other men pushed toward the door. Cy drifts towards the former and sets her bag on a barstool.* 

*The last comment from the smaller man causing a bit of confusion to bloom across her face.* "Half breed? What in the winds is that supposed to mean?" *Tutting and shaking her head Cy looks to Carver.* "Want me to get you a wet cloth for your lip?"
Jessica
Carver fell back against the bar, his left hand rubbing at the side of his face as he watched Carhelm depart. Chuckles turned to give him a frowning look of disapproval, then wagged his thick index finger in the young tiefling's face. "Don't think I don't remember the likes of you, pilfering from the ale barrel and the sweets alike, you little miscreant," He warned in a loud, dangerous voice. "Keep your hands to yerself and your trouble outside the door!" While he was clearly scolding Carver, it didn't seem to have quite the ferocity as the threat he'd delivered to Carhelm. The big cook seemed to know the difference between the different flavors of trouble.
Helen
For his part, Carver looked up at Chuckles with big, wide eyes that recognized the threat that Chuckles presented to him, and nodded eagerly in agreement, and Chuckles swore under his breath as he stomped off back to the kitchen.

Dabbing at his busted lip, he'd finally turn those big blue eyes to Cy once more, smiling apologetically. "That would be nice," He accepted her offer in a nod, glancing behind the bar where the doors to the kitchen were still swinging closed. "You might be more welcome back there than some of the rest of us," He said in a low voice.

He turned his eyes then to the floor, then gasped quietly before groaning out loud. "Aww man," He complained. "They took my shirt!"

For a brief moment, it seemed as though Carver might go out the door after them, then sighed quite audibly. "Dammit.."
Jennifer
*Chuckle's warning to Carver set her back a space. Her eyes look from one man to the other and she reaches up to rub at the back of her neck. Cy makes a worried sound as the cook makes his way back to the kitchen.* 

"Hm?" *Cy's attention is brought back to Carver. Blinking a couple of times Cy gives her head a little shake as the sounds of the tavern kick back up, everyone going back to their meals or to gossip about what just occured.* "Oh, yes. Ah... I don't think I need to bother Chuckles again just for a cloth." *Reaching over to her dinner she picks up the napkin provided. Draping it over one hand she gestures with the other plucking threads of arcane energy out of the ether. The cloth becomes both clean and cool to the touch. Cy folds it into a tidy square and hands it to the shirtless Carver.* 

"That should help." *She floats backwards a few inches when it looks like the young man is about to tear off after the brutes for his shirt. Letting out a relieved breath when he doesn't.* "Seems wise to let that one go..." *Tilting her head to the side Cy floats back to her seated position and picks up her wine.* "So... What did you do to those guys anyway? Why all the name calling and fisticuffs?"
Helen
Looking a little embarrassed, Carver accepted the proffered cloth and began tenderly dabbing at his lip with it, which immediately came away tainted with blood. Whatever expectations he might have had about having his injuries tended to were quickly and easily dispelled in her quick dismissal. "As Ms. Vicky mentioned, I left in a bit of a hurry on my last visit here in Aismir, and... Well, I never quite got the chance to pay off that little debt. I didn't think it was all that big of a deal, really.." It was always not that big of a deal so long as the expenses were someone else's, in Carver's experience. He sighed quietly, eyes cast across to the stairway where Ms. Vicky had disappeared before the altercation had begun. "I'll have to find a bit of extra coin to get that settled while *Also* Doing chores for her," He lamented ruefully. "...But I suppose I'll eat well, and I'll have a roof over my head."

His bright blue eyes again turned to Cy, and he seemed to catch up to current events abruptly. "Hey! You made this wet with your fingers. You *Must* Be a mage of some kind. I bet you could have zapped them or something, couldn't you have?" One shoulder slumped as he considered, leaning on his stool. "My magic isn't very reliable. I once tried to cast magic missile and made my friend float over a mud pit and then fall into it. It's usually better that I *Don't* Try to cast spells," He admitted, clearly disappointed about it all. He'd already seemed to forget about Carhelm. If he'd remember long enough to actually try to repay the rogue, it'd be an accomplishment in itself.
Francis
Vicky had prepared two rooms and heated water for two baths. She took her time since most of her guests were already settled. While the work might seem monotonous to many, especially after her life of adventuring, she relished the meditative aspect of readying everything for visitors. She loved ensuring that everything was just right, so her guests could feel a bit of comfort, even if just for one night.

The rooms were spotless, and the water would be perfectly hot by the time Cy and Carver were ready for their baths. Just as she closed the last door and stepped back into the hallway, she heard a muffled voice - Chuckles, of all people - sounding annoyed. He was always grouchy, but this time he seemed even more irritable, though she couldn't quite make out what he was saying.

Vicky quickly made her way down the stairs and through the door behind the bar, just as Chuckles disappeared into the kitchen. Carver was dabbing blood from his lip with a napkin. Clearly, something had happened during her brief absence. With wide eyes and disbelief, she gasped, "What in the world happened?" She glanced at Cy, who seemed unharmed, while the rest of the room looked around, not particularly disturbed. Turning back to Carver, she narrowed her eyes and chided, "Did you manage to get into trouble just sitting there?"
Jennifer
*Cy watched the man dab at his lip and glanced down at his shirtless chest in search of any blossoming bruises that might mean a broken rib. Maybe also because it was the shirtless chest of a fit fellow... Mostly for the bruises though. When she looks back up her own softer blue eyes meet his bright ones. Given that she's know Carver less than an hour he'd already provided much entertainment so it only suited in her mind that she offer to assist.* "If you find a job that's at least mostly legitimate and need company I could use extra coin." 

*Setting her glass down Cy shakes her head in the negative.* "No, no. I'm not that kind of... I'm not really a mage. I know some travelers tricks, that's all. I might wander my way down to that school you mentioned before though at some point. See if I can't pick up some other skills." *Cy feigns a pout.* "Sadly 'zapping' isn't in the cards right now. Down to just charm or blades." 

*Cocking her head to the side she squints at Carver in curiosity.* "I've never heard of unreliable magic. At least not in people. What's it like? How tragic if there is nothing to be done about it." *Her expression changes to one of pure sympathy that is quickly dispelled when she nearly jumps out of her skin at Vicky's voice. Cy inwardly thanked the Winds that she hadn't been fussing over Carver's wounds like a enamored maiden. Fates that would have been embarrassing. Turning in her 'seat', that is merely rotating mid air to face Vicky, Cy gives a little shrug.* "It would seem so, Miss Vicky." *She has the sense to offer an apologetic look the other woman's way.*
Helen
Carver had a sudden look of a rabbit prepared to run at the sight of Ms. Vicky returning, but seeing only astonishment on her face and not immediate conviction to have him thrown out of her establishment, he sheepishly lowered his head, shrugging his bare shoulders. "A little bit of a debt I didn't get resolved before I left town last visit," He apologized in an appropriately subdued, sullen voice, truly regretful for having caused the ruckus (much less losing his own shirt in the process.) "I'll settle the score with Carhelm soon enough," He promised vaguely, his words only slightly muffled by the cloth he kept pushed to his lower lip to stem the bleeding. Otherwise, thankfully, he seemed only to be suffering bruises, and would be all right in due course. "Perhaps if uh... Well, if our new friend here will be singing, perhaps I could find something to do to help out in the meantime as well, and—" Suddenly the cloth lowered as his eyes lit up, his enthusiasm recovering just that quickly. "I know! I bet I can do a bit of a show while she plays her music!" He exclaimed energetically, waving a hand. "I can do some colored lights, and I bet with a bit of practice I can make them pulse and bounce right to the rhythm!" 

All of this might have been quite possible, and Carver certainly *Meant* Well by it, but of course he'd also just finished telling Cy that his magic was anything but reliable, and if he was pressed, he'd have to admit he had no idea just how he would create this idea of his in the first place... But it sound a *Lot* Better than scrubbing dishes or washing floors, which he knew was the more typical work someone like Vicky would put him to if given half a chance...
Francis
Vickey quickly narrowed her eyes at Carver, her tone both playful and stern. "You will do no such thing, you mirthful menace! Trouble follows you at every turn, and I don't need your chaos driving away my other guests!" Her word was final, and if Carver had any sense, he wouldn't dare to insist on whatever mischief was brewing in his scatterbrained mind.

"If you want to be of service and earn some coin to pay your forgotten," She emphasized the word with a touch of disbelief, "Debt, you will do some real work tonight. Clear dirty dishes into the kitchen, clean off tables, and do whatever Chuckles might ask of you, hmm?" She fixed him with a meaningful gaze, leaving no room for negotiation. "And go ask Chuckles for a shirt. You won't be wandering around here without at least minimal attire, no matter how much the young lasses might enjoy it." She pointed towards the kitchen and started walking, expecting him to follow. "I'll let Chuckles know he can expect your help."
Jennifer
*More than willing to avoid dishes and serving duty Cy makes no moves to step in to relieve Carver of any burden he's taking on. She straightens her legs to go from her floated seated position to standing just a few inches off the ground.* "Ah, well... I'll just pop upstairs for that bath then?" *She gives both Carver and Vicky a cheeky grin and scrubs at the back of her neck.* "If it's all the same to you Miss Vicky, I can come down after and play flute for a bit. You don't mind a little extra magic pizzazz do you?"

*Cy reaches out to grab her glass and downs the last of her beverage. Bending down she scoops up her bag, the swords on her back bouncing against her from the sudden movement. When she straightens Cy slings the strap of her bag over her shoulder which causes her to sink lower toward the ground. She adjusts her float and with a parting chuckle starts to drift across the room to the stairs.*
Francis
Before trailing Carver into the kitchen, Vicky turned to Cy, giving her a wink and a reassuring smile. "We'll need to keep an eye on him together. He just can't help himself," She said with a playful grin. Despite the chaos, Vicky enjoyed the company and the excitement added to her daily routine, even if her adventuring days were behind her.

"If you play tonight, the room, bath, and food are yours," Vicky offered. "Freshening up before the dinner rush is a good idea." She pointed Cy towards the door leading upstairs. "Second door on the right at the top of the stairs. The water should be nice and hot—it'll feel marvelous after your journey. Come down when you're ready, and we'll have a grand evening with your music. Don't take too long, though. I'll need your help keeping this one in line." Turning back to Carver, she smirked teasingly and nudged him toward the kitchen.
Helen
Carver looked on at Vicky with a growing dread as she laid out her dire plan to make a scullery boy out of him. He cringed visibly at the mention of working for Chuckles. "He works twenty hours a day!" He complained in exasperation, glancing to Cy, hoping for some support. *Surely* She needed someone to support her— no, his shoulders slumped as he saw her grab her bag and head for her room. 

"Why does *She* Get to take a bath, and *I* Have scrub pots?! How is that fair?" He asked in a loud voice even as he was shepherded into the kitchen. 

Yes, Carver wasn't going to be very pleased with his new lot in life for the forseeable future...
Jennifer
*Shaking her head at the fading voice of Carver and his claims of unfairness Cy hurries to the room she's been granted. She takes her time unpacking her things to check her gear. A few plucks on the strands of magic in the ether and her belongings are so clean she might have been scrubbing them all day. She loved that trick almost as much as the one that dries her off. Laying out her only dress, a very simple cream-colored thing of modest cut, along with the charcoal blue woven belt that goes with it Cy strips out of her road clothes and steps into the tub.*

*Vicky was quite right, it did feel marvelous. Cy only took a few minutes to enjoy the soaking before she got to the business of actually scrubbing herself clean. Knowing she had some work to get to left her too fidgety to enjoy relaxing too long. In short order she's back out, dried, and dressed.*

*After touching up her looks with a little kohl around the eyes Cy is ready to return downstairs. Leaving her room with a dark cherry wood box in her arms the sylph floats back downstairs and winds her way around the room back to the bar. She'd hoped enough time had passed that at least some of the customer base had changed out so not everyone had seen the scuffle but it did seem most were still in attendance. Letting out a long breath Cy looks for Vicky, waving to her when she seems momentarily free.*