Mage Legend

While they conversed, they walked toward the largest building here. Although the sign wasn't visible yet, judging by the style of its roof, it was certain that it wasn't an elf temple, so it must be a large inn. After all, the closer you get to human society, the more you realize a fact: money and faith (which might be the same thing) always occupy the tallest buildings because humans always need the most magnificent things to satisfy desires or escape condemnation.

Along the way, idlers constantly cast glances at Lynch and his companions; the two beauties were always the focus of attention wherever they went. Unless within the handsome elf communities, Zilvra and Soka's striking looks stood out like the only bright flower on the Ashen Plain.

However, when Lynch wasn't wearing his Elf Cloak, his black robe with unique patterns was equally conspicuous, at least quashing any would-be flirt's courage. So they managed to travel fairly peacefully, which was no doubt a bit disappointing for Zilvra, who kept her hand on the thin sword at her waist.

As Lynch had anticipated, the tallest building was indeed an inn, and it looked very exquisite. Perhaps the innkeeper was quite a decent designer, as he built this castle-like house with a very elf-like aesthetic—knowing that elves dislike tall and cumbersome buildings. Even in the crowded dock area, there was still a courtyard for horses, and an artificially dug small canal conveniently passed in front of its door. If visitors traveled by such small boats, they wouldn't even need to leave the cabin to arrive at this inn, making it very convenient indeed.

"Looks like this is the place," Lynch said, "Let's stay here for now until we prepare the journey's necessities and find a suitable boat."

"It looks decent," Zilvra remarked after a brief look around. "Although the servants here aren't as useful as slaves, as long as the rooms are comfortable, that's enough."

Lynch bypassed the busy human attendants at the door, not wanting to draw too much attention, and headed straight to the lobby here. Although this was an inn located in the Elf Kingdom, the hall still had the appearance of a northern tavern. Considering the differences in drinking styles between elves and humans, it was clear that the primary guests here were humans visiting Salantir.

"Oh, young lady and gentleman." A chubby Half-Elf greeted them. It was obvious he spent all day behind the counter because his thick waistline was as round as the wine barrels in the cellar, which made Lynch seriously doubt he still had the ability to move. However, the receptionist spoke very fluent Common Language: "Welcome to the Moored Inn, I am Bob, Bob-the-Uncle Barrel. Is there anything I can help with?"

"A large room, the best meals, and absolute quiet," Lynch replied, "Also, a local guide."

"Your requests will all be met, sir," Bob replied, "but we have a rule here to settle the bill first. How long do you plan to stay?"

Lynch pulled out a gemstone from his bag and placed it beside Bob's hand. He didn't bother to consider what kind of stone it was, as he had already selected those suitable for use in magic. The Underdark's Gray Dwarves were simply too generous, and every gemstone they "gifted" him was a top-grade piece. Regardless of how expensive this place was, Lynch believed the gemstone he just handed over would be enough to ensure they wouldn't be disturbed.

Of course, another reason was that Lynch hadn't had human currency on hand for a long time, so he could only pay with gemstones.

Bob merely glanced at the stone before swiftly stowing it away in the drawer in front of him. "Sir, Madam, Uncle Barrel is always at your service, just like home where everything is peaceful. However, sir, I still suggest you mind your purse. Beyond this door, it is rather dangerous now."

"Just like home?" Zilvra chuckled, "Not quite."

Uncle Barrel, of course, didn't know what a Dark Elf City was like; he merely considered Zilvra a picky Half-Elf woman. As an innkeeper, he had seen many such guests. Uncle Barrel's face remained plastered with an unwaveringly enthusiastic smile, as if it was the only expression he had made since birth.