<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/thumb/0/0f/Xinshi.jpg/424px-Xinshi.jpg)<br/>Xinshi The Herald (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1206793)<br/></div>The novelty of an ancient castle converted into an inn appealed to the poet-musician that strolled through its high arches, seeking out its alcoves, nooks, and eccentricities of character.  Xinshi was most drawn to the history behind the place, intrigued by the stories the stones had to tell.  Behind each nick and notch, chipped corner, and puckered surface lay a story of violence and passion.  Swimming in the sea of humanity that teemed inside the dining areas, the kitchens, and various antechambers, the performer was recognized and warmly greeted by most of the folk celebrating within.<br/><br/><em>"Tell us a story!"</em>cried out an admirer.<br/><br/><em>"Will you play for us tonight?"</em>asked a well-wisher.<br/><br/><em>"Do you bring any news of happenings or matters of consequence?"</em>queried the wary.<br/><br/>With a bow of his head and a murmured phrase of deferment, Xinshi passed through the throngs, making his way to the chapel.  Eyeing the neophytes appreciatively, the bard found a suitable table to crouch upon while gesturing for a horn of spirits to be brought to his hand.  Slipping his arm around the girl waiting upon him, he gave her a squeeze and a smile before taking a deep draught of the beverage.  Spying the entrance of The Lady, he gave a barely perceptible nod of greetings to her before ranging his gaze to Gilead, already deep in his cups and feasting on roasted meat.<br/><br/><strong>"A man of appetites is a man after my own yearnings, for life lived well is the most satisfying life, wouldn't you say?"</strong>he quipped while playfully slapping the rump of the neophyte in his arm.<br/>