The Hound and Tails
Like much of the village, this tavern has seen better days. Its weary facade, weathered by time and the unforgiving elements, reveals the remnants of a hopeful past. The once vibrant inn sign, depicting hunting hounds chasing the tails of foxes, now hangs precariously, its colors muted and chipped, a somber reflection of the establishment's present state. The "Tails" of the name are those foxes, as the battered painted inn sign shows. It was founded by a family of nobles who moved to Thurmaster in the early 1500s with dreams of building a hunting resort. After a few years, it became glaringly obvious that hunting wasn't a viable endeavor in the area, so they sold the inn to Weismar's father, who then passed it on to him.
Entering the tavern, one is immediately struck by the aura of desolation that permeates the air. The frigid drafts that whisper through the worn floorboards seem to match the general atmosphere of the place. The flickering candlelight casts long, dancing shadows upon the faded tapestries that hang haphazardly from the walls, as if reluctant to illuminate the dreary surroundings.
The scent of dampness and stale ale lingers, blending with the unmistakable odor of worn timber and lingering regret. The worn furnishings bear the weight of countless patrons, their once-rich upholstery now tattered and threadbare. The aging wooden tables and chairs creak with each movement, a symphony of melancholy that echoes throughout the dimly lit room.
The fare offered at the Hound and Tails mirrors the establishment's somber ambiance. The mutton stew, a predictable and lackluster staple, sits lukewarm in chipped earthenware bowls. Its flavor, once promising, has been dulled by repetition and a lack of care in the kitchen. Breakfast fares no better, with cold, fatty mutton pies served alongside a less-than-palatable ale swillings. The culinary offerings are a stark reminder of the inn's deteriorating reputation.
Despite its uninspiring culinary offerings, the Hound and Tails manages to attract a modest clientele. Woodsmen, rivermen, and weary travelers seeking respite from the outside world gravitate toward the gloomy bar. It is not the food or drink that entices them, but rather the presence of the three waitresses — Anth, Cynders, and Gloris — who add a fleeting spark of vivacity to the otherwise lackluster establishment.
In the dimly lit bar area, patrons seek solace in the company of these saucy barmaids, finding brief respite from the weariness of their journeys. The flicker of flirtation and laughter punctuates the hushed conversations, providing a temporary distraction from the tavern's other shortcomings.
Type
Pub / Tavern / Restaurant
Parent Location
Characters in Location
Related Report (Secondary Locations)