In the beginning, Eelzad had enjoyed a quiet reprieve from his adventures, soaking in the healing waters and enjoying some peace. Despite the vibrancy of Hosenka and the warmth of its people, the evening turned into an impromptu celebration of life's simpler pleasures. As he shared stories and jokes with the other guests, Eelzad's formidable presence was softened by the genial atmosphere.
Clad in nothing but a towel, his necklace, and his trademark confidence, Eelzad raised a cup of Sake, the traditional brew gifted by the Joyan culture, toasting to new friendships and the shared experience of the hot springs. Several travelers and locals joined him in the toast, each with their preferred drink. Their faces glowed with the warmth of the water and the evening's festivities.
"Bring me more! Join us! "
While the laughter settled into a warm, companionable lull, Eelzad leaned back against the edge of the hot spring, the steam curling lazily around him. In a languid gesture, he waved his cup in the air, signaling for another pour of sake.
"Ah, my friends," Eelzad began, his voice a smooth blend of mirth and nostalgia, "this reminds me of my last quest before I joined the guild. A client was an eccentric collector who was obsessed with acquiring a relic believed to be guarded by the spirits themselves. I was alone in the depths of the Cursed Forest surrounded only by shadows and whispers.
As the attendant navigated the wooden planks that surrounded the hot spring, he refilled Eelzad's cup. His eyes twinkled with the reflection of the lanterns that dotted the area as he nodded his thanks.
Taking a sip, he savored the warmth of the drink, which contrasted with the heat of spring. He continued, gesturing with his refilled cup, "what the client failed to mention is that the relic was protected not just by any spirits, but by a legion of ghostly warriors, remnants of a forgotten battle, bound to protect it forever."
Listeners' drinks were temporarily forgotten as intrigue and suspense circulated among them.
The sound of Eelzad chuckling was rich with the thrill of retrospect. "There I was, thinking my greatest challenge would be the journey there. I was right, it's a lot easier when you have the power of the ripple. That makes me a specialist when dealing with those kinds of problems." Flexing his bicep, an intoxicated Eelzad would boast more while drunk.
WC: 463
TWC: 463/2000
Last edited by Eelzad on Tue Apr 09, 2024 5:31 am; edited 1 time in total