Meredith frowns softly.<br/><br/>"I do not know.  Perhaps the town has been blessed by a rich proprietor?  We may perhaps learn more within."<br/><br/>She enters the tavern after Zernok.  From speaking upon the road, Meredith has learned a little about her companions, but the last few days have focused upon travel more than conversation.  Now, she is hopeful they can learn more about one another than the few details they have gathered thus far.<br/><br/>------<br/><br/>Within the tavern it is warm and inviting, some two dozen folk around the common-room.  Near the fire, an aged looking Halfling sits, blue-grey smoke spirling out of his pipe, a pair of humans and three halfling lads focused intently on what must be stories of some sort or another.<br/><br/>A bustling halfling woman appears to be everywhere at once, behind the bar taking coin and giving out mugs of ale, or carrying overfull trays of mugs, plates, and bowls.  The helpings that she delivers are all quite generous, and her pleasant and smiling demeanor lends a personal warmth to the atmosphere that almost makes up for the lack of a comely wench to please and tease the eyes.<br/><br/>Sitting at a table is a dwarven male, whose long grey beard and dark brown face appear to be carved out from the very stone itself.  On his back is a full pack, a warhammer strapped for easy access, and a crossbow.  At his hip, a quiver of bolts.  He appears to be slightly uncomfortable amongst the mostly human and halfling clientele of the tavern, but perks up when you enter.<br/><br/>Most striking, the amulet lying in front of him: It is circular, blue enameled background, red diagonal stripe painted on, and bas-relief crown in gold-leaf.  It is the Royal Seal and matches the ones you yourselves have.<br/><br/>He gestures toward you all, and the many empty seats around his table, apparently saved for your arrival.