Snippet #2762785

"Aye, directions, young lord." The bartender explained to the cat and poured it more cream. Gilbert didn't question what he was seeing. It was common to see all types of folks in the tavern. The owner was an ogre named Olga, so a talking cat wasn't a huge shock to him. He had served many years in this tavern, but he had never seen such extreme reactions toward this particular trio. The drunkards and gamblers normally ignored passerby's, but he understood why this group stook out like a sore thumb. The girl was out of place and had an ethereal feeling about her. She was unnatural. At least the cat could be explained. Brishen looked like your average man looking for some peace and quiet.

He shrugged his shoulders and went to clean a glass. His thoughts went back to the owner looking for their pet. Some snob had entered the tavern many days ago looking for a certain black cat. The owner in tears over their disappearance. Gilbert never understood that sort of attachment with a pet, but he supposed the attachment could be worse.

Gilbered finished cleaning the glass and poured Brishen a fresh drink, then remade the same sweet drink for Aetheria.

"Your owner came in a few nights ago. I told them I'd keep a look out." He paused and watched Aetheria sniff her drink with a curiosity. "It's the same drink, on the house for all of you." Gilbert said and patted Aetheria on the head, like one would a precocious child.

He slipped Sireth a makeshift map with instructions on his owners whereabouts. "They were pretty upset by your disappearance. I'd suggest getting home to them as soon as possible." Gilbert refilled the cream to the rim and left the group to their own devices.

* * *

Aetheria smelled the sweet drink and drank it with an excitable expression seen in children. This was now her favorite drink. She didn't understand how the men drank beer, or ale, when this was available!

"Well, Sireth, are you ready to go home?" She smiled at Sireth and stroked his back with a fondness. She glanced at Brishen and waited for his input. Sometimes she forgot he was there, because he was so quiet.