《Hidden Brew - The Glember Inn and Tavern, Book 1》


 Chapter 1 - Nyaogi

    Nyaogi strode through Zambara''s marketplace, her gaze sweeping over stalls for the right potion-making bottles. The spicy scent of hot cahoos and sunomosia filled the air, mixing with the buzz of bartering voices. She moved past a fabric stall, its cloths bright as the town''s dawn sky.


    The glass merchant''s booth, sandwiched between an herb seller and a jewelry maker, displayed bottles sparkling in sunlight. Nyaogi''s fingers touched the glass, picking a few small vials.


    While paying, whispers from a nearby stall caught her ear. Two merchants, faces half-hidden, spoke urgently. "An official from Core City," one whispered, "inquiring about illegal magic."


    Her heart jumped, but she stayed calm, handing coins to the merchant. ¡°Core City¡± and ¡°illegal magic¡± ¡ª words that spelled trouble. She slipped the vials into her satchel and peeked at the whisperers. Noticing her, they fell silent, eyes scanning the crowd.


    With the bottles safe, Nyaogi left, mind whirring. A Core City official here could ruin her plans. She hastened her pace, eager to leave the market''s web of rumors and wary eyes.


    Thoughts of an official probing the Glember Inn''s activities sent a shiver through her. Discovery would endanger not just her but poor Kairo too. She glanced back, checking for followers, then turned into a quieter alley. The market''s noise softened behind her.


    She had to move her potion-making tools. Somewhere safe, hidden from authority. Nowhere seemed perfect.


    Resolved, Nyaogi hurried toward the Glember Inn and Tavern. She needed to move her supplies swiftly, without drawing attention. Her steps were careful, her face unreadable amidst the town''s rhythm. Challenges awaited, but delay wasn''t an option.


    Nyaogi navigated Zambara''s crowded street. The market''s chatter became a distant murmur, her heartbeat loud in her ears. She felt eyes on her, every shadow and glance seeming ominous. She kept looking back, her fear escalating with each quick glance. A roadwheel screeched past on the roadway.


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    Nyaogi arrived at the Glember Inn and Tavern, its familiar front a comforting sight. She entered unnoticed by the sparse patrons and ascended the stairs to her room above the tavern. Kairo looked busy and frazzled behind the bar. Nyaogi¡¯s hands trembled as she unlocked her door, entering and closing it with a quiet click.


    Her room, cluttered with potion-making gear, felt less secure now. The thought of a Core City official in Zambara hung over her like a dark cloud. Her secret work, though hidden, was in greater peril.


    She paced her small room, eyeing the vials and herbs. Each item was a reminder of her commitment and the risks she faced. Nyaogi knew she had to be extra careful in her next steps. She had to balance caution with the need to continue her work.


    She sat down. Her mind buzzed with plans. Night deepened outside, casting long shadows, reflecting her troubled thoughts. The time ahead would require stealth and determination.


    As she pondered, Nyaogi''s hand instinctively touched the leather pouch in her pocket, ensuring the unregistered kynik crystal within was still there. This crystal, vital for her magic, had to remain hidden and protected at all costs.


    #


    Nyaogi paced her dimly lit room, the heaviness of her decisions weighing on her. Her usually steady hands now trembled. The need for help was clear.


    She moved around, picking up a bottle, then an alembic. She couldn''t stay in the tavern; the risk of discovery by the Core City official was too high. But moving her potion-making setup, including the mortar and pestle and boxes on boxes of ingredients wasonya risky. Some of it looked like the typical supplies an herbalist would use, but much of her equipment had slots for her kynik crystal, obvious to anyone who knew what they were looking for that she used magic in her potion making.


    She considered her options. Tak Wolda forest was safe but too far for an immediate move. Then there was Bammyo, her resourceful friend with a workshop. Or Onaya the historian; she was trustworthy, but maybe too rule-abiding.


    Weighing her choices, Nyaogi grappled with the fear of betrayal. Yet, she clung to the hope of finding a reliable ally. With a deep breath, she resolved to seek help from a friend. But whom to trust was a dilemma. She needed someone competent and utterly trustworthy, someone who wouldn''t risk their safety or hers.


    Nyaogi knew her next steps were crucial. She couldn''t rush or make mistakes. The wrong choice could endanger both her and any accomplice. She set down the potion equipment, her mind working through the puzzle.

 Chapter 2 - Kairo

    Kairo stood behind the Glember Inn and Tavern''s counter, worry lines replacing his usual smile.


    ¡°Kairo, can I get another drink!¡±


    ¡°Coming,¡± Kairo said. ¡°In a minute.¡± He rushed to pour a glass of wine and sloshed some out onto the floor.¡±


    ¡°You said that five minutes ago.¡±


    The sudden departure of Wanjiru, his reliable bartender, for better prospects left a gap hard to fill. The tavern''s friendly vibe and top-notch service, much credited to Wanjiru, were now at stake.


    Kairo passed by a table to deliver the wine. ¡°Do you know anyone who needs a job?¡±


    But each inquiry met the same end: sympathetic shrugs and apologies. "Sorry, Kairo, I don''t know anyone," they said, or "Wish I could help, but no luck." Even his well-connected local sources came up empty.


    With each ''no,'' Kairo''s spirits fell. The tavern, usually alive with laughter and music, felt adrift without Wanjiru. The thought of the bar unmanned or run by someone who didn''t grasp its essence troubled him. He hurried back to the bar, eyeing his patrons, pondering how to maintain the tavern''s heart without his key bartender.


    The tavern''s lively atmosphere dulled as Kairo stretched himself thin, trying to manage the bar and attend to customers.


    A man dressed like a dockworker stood near the bar, a duffel slung over his shoulder. ¡°I need to check in to a room.¡±


    ¡°Just a moment, please.¡±


    The tavern''s lively chatter and laughter continued, yet there was a noticeable decline in the usual cheer. Regulars exchanged concerned glances, their patience reflecting their affection for Kairo and the tavern.


    Caught in the hectic flow, Kairo, in a burst of inspiration, decided to act. Between tasks, he began drafting fliers for distribution across Zambara, seeking a new bartender. He snatched moments for this work amidst serving drinks, handling payments, and apologizing for delays. His hands, usually skilled at bartending tasks, now crafted the fliers, each a plea for assistance and a spark of hope.


    The finished fliers captured the tavern''s essence: warm, inviting, vibrant. Kairo''s goal was to find someone who could do more than just pour drinks; they needed to embody and enhance the tavern''s spirit. Perhaps this would mark a turnaround, reviving the lively atmosphere the Glember Inn and Tavern was celebrated for.


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    The once harmonious sounds of glassware now echoed with mistakes. The enduring patience of his patrons began to show signs of strain, with discontent murmurs replacing the usual happy buzz.


    Kairo noticed every sign of frustration among his customers, including a Dardoman in the corner, his massive shoulders and thick, leather-like skin rising above the human crowd, even though the Dardoman sat on a flexing wooden bench.


    Kairo swallowed and hoped the Dardoman didn¡¯t get angry at the slow service.


    The weight of the tavern''s plight pressed on Kairo. His pride and livelihood were at stake. With a sense of renewed urgency, he concentrated on finishing the fliers, each one symbolizing both his desperation and hope for a solution.


    Night deepened. Hours later, he stood alone in the now quiet space. His shoulders sagged. His feet ached.


    #


    Kairo lingered in his usually bustling tavern, now cloaked in silence. The empty space bore down on him. He was exhausted, the day''s toil wearing him down. He understood that continuing alone like this was unsustainable.


    He wandered past the empty tables, his hand brushing over the counter''s wood grain. Memories of better times - the clinking glasses, happy customers, and the tavern''s efficient operation - contrasted sharply with today''s chaos: spilled drinks, confused orders, and growing customer dissatisfaction. Each error highlighted the crucial role his former bartender played in the tavern''s rhythm.


    Kairo slumped into a chair, weary but thinking practically. Operating solo was harming the tavern he loved. The establishment''s hard-earned reputation was in jeopardy. He weighed his options, his decision-making clouded by fatigue but driven by necessity.


    In a moment of lucidity, Kairo decided. The hard but logical choice was to temporarily close the tavern.


    This would allow him time to find the right replacement. A temporary closure was painful to consider, but essential for the tavern''s long-term health and the community it served.


    Rising, Kairo resolved to post a notice the next day. It would explain the closure, assuring patrons of a hopeful reopening later in the day. With his decision made, a bit of the burden lifted from Kairo''s shoulders.


    He shuttered the kynik crystal-dust infused rods that lit the space, and then picked up the few completed fliers from the bar. They rustled in his hands.


    Before securing the tavern''s door, Kairo hesitated, the cool Zambara night caressing his face. He mulled over his regulars'' reactions to the closure news, expecting disappointment but hoping for their understanding and support in preserving the tavern''s spirit.


    He glanced up, the Fungo-Litho architecture of the Inn standing stark against the night sky. Its bulbous mushroom shapes and more linear stone walls blended natural and crafted elements, reflecting the character and history of the place he strove to protect.


    As mirti bugs chirped in the night, their sounds a soothing backdrop, a flicker of hope ignited within Kairo. The time spent distributing fliers might soon attract the right person to revive the tavern''s lively ambiance. He pictured the fliers drawing the attention of someone capable and passionate, someone who''d grasp and enrich the tavern''s essence.


    In his quarters on the top floor of the inn, Kairo allowed a moment of relief. Tonight, he''d rest, readying himself for the tasks ahead. In his room''s quiet, he found peace, his mind already picturing the lively, warm scene he was committed to resurrecting. With a deep breath, he closed his eyes. The mirti''s chirps served a gentle reminder of the life he hoped to restore at the Glember Inn and Tavern.

 Chapter 3 - Nyaogi

    Nyaogi''s footsteps reverberated in Zambara''s quiet streets as she approached Bammyo''s workshop. The night''s chill penetrated her cloak, but it was fear that made her shiver. With each step, her worry about hiding her potion supplies grew. Bammyo and his well-stocked workshop was her best bet.


    The workshop was a creative sanctuary, cluttered with tools, unfinished projects, and the mingling scents of sawdust and metal. Bammyo, absorbed in his work, looked up with surprise. "Nyaogi! What''s the matter?" he asked, cleaning his hands on a shop towel.


    Nyaogi inhaled deeply. "Bammyo, I need a favor," she said, her voice betraying her inner conflict. She detailed her plight and the urgency for secure storage. Bammyo''s face shifted from concern to caution as she spoke.


    Bammyo turned back to his work. He filed a metal bar and didn¡¯t look up. ¡°You use magic in your potions?¡± Metal shrieked on metal.


    ¡°Yes.¡± The confession lifted a weight.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard they¡¯re strong.¡± He set the file down on a workbench. ¡°Your potions.¡± He looked up from his work. ¡°I thought you might be doing something like that. Not a common herbalist.¡±


    Nyaogi shrugged her shoulders. ¡°Well. Now you know.¡±


    He paused, his expression troubled. "Nyaogi, hiding illicit magic is risky, especially if there are Core City officials around." He grimaced. "If they''re found, we''re both in deep trouble."


    She understood his hesitation. Core City''s scrutiny had heightened everyone''s caution in Zambara. Guilt pricked her for involving Bammyo, yet she was desperate. She looked around at his creations, hoping he''d understand the need behind her request. But as far as she knew, he had all the proper licensing. Maybe he couldn¡¯t understand.


    As they talked, a vehicle rumbled by outside, its unique whirring sound briefly infiltrating the workshop''s stillness. Bammyo glanced out. "Rear axle needs greasing," he remarked.


    ¡°What?¡± Nyaogi asked.


    ¡°The roadwheel that just drove past.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Nyaogi barely registered his comment, her focus on the dilemma at hand. She waited, hoping Bammyo would grasp the gravity of her situation and agree to help, despite the risk.


    ¡°Typical Mubu Motors quality.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Nyaogi''s eyes burned with urgency. "Bammyo, I wouldn''t be here if there was another way," she said, her voice blending desperation and resolve. "The longer my supplies stay in the tavern, the higher the risk of discovery. And it''s not just me at risk; Kairo, completely innocent, could get involved."


    ¡°I¡¯m innocent too.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± She moved closer, her hands clasped. "I need somewhere safe. Your workshop could be that place. Please, you''re my only hope."


    Bammyo''s face showed his inner struggle. Their friendship mattered deeply. The idea of Core City officials raiding his workshop was frightening.


    His eyes swept over the workshop, cluttered with tools and projects. He paused at an old cabinet used for rare woods. Seldom opened, it could be a discreet hiding spot.


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    "Nyaogi, I want to help," Bammyo said, eyeing the cabinet. "If I do this, we need a spot they''d never check. Somewhere even I hardly use."


    Nyaogi watched, hope and fear mingling in her chest. Bammyo was considering her request, a sliver of hope.


    The workshop''s atmosphere thickened. "Nyaogi, there''s more," Bammyo spoke gravely. "Lately, I''ve seen unfamiliar faces lurking around. They''re not my usual crowd. I wonder if it¡¯s your investigator."


    Nyaogi absorbed his words, the reality of their situation sinking in. The stakes were even higher than she realized. They stood in the workshop. Nyaogi''s heart plummeted with Bammyo''s news of strangers nearby.


    ¡°I have all the proper training and licenses. My workshop is clean. Mixing up in illicit business wouldn¡¯t be good for me,¡± Bammyo said.


    The threat of being discovered felt more immediate, more suffocating. She had to persuade Bammyo, and time was running out.


    An idea struck her. "Bammyo, I know an elixir that might interest you," she said, pushing fear aside. "It enhances craftsmanship, sharpens focus, steadies the hand. It''s not exactly legal, and the herbs are rare. But I could make you a vial for helping me."


    Bammyo''s interest flickered. A craftsman at his core, the prospect of something that could refine his art had to be compelling. He studied Nyaogi, considering her offer.


    After a tense pause, he nodded. "I''ll help. Your elixir sounds fair for the risk. Plus, you''re my friend. I can''t turn you away."


    Relief washed over Nyaogi. "Thank you, Bammyo. You won''t regret this."


    They planned the discreet transfer of her supplies to his workshop under the night''s cloak. ¡°I can¡¯t help you move them though,¡± Bammyo said. ¡°If they¡¯re watching me, that might lead them to you.¡±


    ¡°I can move it alone. Nothing is too heavy.¡±


    Bammyo showed her the old cabinet, explaining his rearrangement plans to fit her potions.


    #


    Leaving the workshop, Nyaogi allowed a small smile. Danger still loomed from Core City, but she now had hope. Her supplies would be secure in Bammyo''s care, hidden from unwanted eyes.


    Nyaogi felt a surge of gratitude and a hint of relief. The stress that had tightened around her heart since hearing about Core City investigator arriving in Zambara eased a bit. Bammyo''s willingness to help made the looming threat of discovery seem less overwhelming.


    As she moved along the street, lit at intervals by kynik light poles connected by wires, Nyaogi''s thoughts turned to the upcoming task. She mentally mapped Bammyo''s workshop, picturing the best spots to hide her supplies. The cluttered space, with its shelves of wood carvings and tables strewn with tools, was an ideal setting for concealment.


    Her focus settled on the old cabinet. It was an excellent hideaway. She began planning how to arrange her items inside, maybe disguising bottles and ingredients as common workshop materials. It was vital that everything looked ordinary, just another aspect of Bammyo''s varied workshop.


    Hiding her supplies was a huge challenge, but Bammyo''s workshop provided a chance. With careful planning and some luck, she might outsmart the Core City official.


    Her pace quickened, energized by the planning''s intricacies. She was keenly aware of the risk of being watched. Every move, every choice, needed utmost care to evade the ever-present threat of the officials'' scrutiny.


    The familiar streets of Zambara now took on a new role for Nyaogi. They weren''t just paths anymore but potential routes for a covert operation. She mapped out quieter alleys and backstreets in her mind, planning to avoid any attention. Her intimate knowledge of Zambara''s lesser-known paths, acquired over years, was now a key asset.


    Turning a corner, a clear plan formed in her mind. She would use the night''s cover, the darkness becoming her shield against watchful eyes. She pictured her path, choosing the quietest routes and most hidden alleys to reach Bammyo¡¯s workshop undetected.


    Everything hinged on this plan. Her craft and future depended on successfully moving her supplies under the veil of night. She would wait for the late hours, when Zambara lay quiet and its people slept. Then, with everything carefully prepared, she would execute her plan.


    Just then, the distinct sound of a roadwheel with a squeaky axle cut through the night, passing by her. The sound jolted her. It was a stark reminder of her vulnerability and the possibility of being watched. She quickened her pace, her thoughts now shadowed by the prospect of unseen eyes following her every move.

 Chapter 4 - Kairo

    Kairo posted flyers around Zambara, each one beckoning for a new bartender to rejuvenate his tavern. They fluttered in the breeze, symbols of his hope. Near the marketplace, he noticed a woman examining a flyer.


    Dressed in thin fabrics that looked like they came from Utto or somewhere on the Boreo Coast, she didn¡¯t seem local. Kairo, drawn by this mysterious figure, approached her.


    "Interesting, isn''t it?" he said, gesturing to the flyer. "I''m looking for help in my tavern.¡±


    The woman faced him. "Ah, you''re the tavern owner," she said. ¡°I¡¯ve heard of it before.¡±


    Kairo said, "Yes, The Glember''s mine. And it needs a bartender."


    ¡°I¡¯m Linai,¡± she said.


    ¡°Kairo.¡±


    A smile touched Linai''s lips. "I¡¯m interested in mixology. I''ve traveled all over. Along the way, I''ve discovered a lot of unique drinks.¡±


    "Really?" Kairo''s interest piqued. "You''re know mixology?" The prospect of a bartender skilled in exotic drinks could be the key to revitalizing his tavern''s charm.


    Linai''s smile grew. "I''ve mastered drinks from the coastal cities of the north and even from the nexus capital. Each place has its own distinct flavors and methods."


    Kairo was captivated. He tried to remain calm.


    "In the ports of Utto, they make a drink called ¡®serenade,¡¯" Linai said. "It''s a shimmering blue cocktail made with kyan berries, mixed with a hint of spiced spirits. Under moonlight, it glows faintly, captivating everyone who sees it."


    Kairo''s eyes lit up. "Serenade? A glowing drink? That sounds incredible!" His mind raced with the idea of serving such a unique drink in his tavern. It wasn''t just the novelty; it was the allure of bringing a piece of distant Utto to a little place like Zambara.


    His hesitation waned as he pondered the idea of welcoming this traveler into his tavern. Her confidence and the vividness of her travel tales made him think she could back her words up. "The way you describe these places and drinks, it feels like I''m there, tasting them myself," Kairo said.


    After a brief pause, he decided. "Linai, would you come to the tavern? I''d love to see your skills firsthand," he said.


    Linai''s eyes sparkled at the invitation. "I''d be delighted. Sharing a piece of my travels would be my pleasure.¡±


    Kairo¡¯s steps felt lighter as he led Linai to his tavern. As they walked, Kairo dreamed of the potential change Linai might bring to his establishment.


    Arriving at the tavern, Linai dove in, eager to demonstrate her touted skills. She began, her movements fluid and skilled. The first few drinks garnered curious and pleased responses from the patrons, impressed by her flair and the drinks'' uniqueness. ¡°Ever had a Dirty Nexus?¡± She asked Amau Wega, a regular.


    ¡°No.¡±


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    ¡°Want one?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Another regular nudged Amau. ¡°Go for it.¡±


    Amau blushed. ¡°Alright, I suppose.¡±


    But as the tavern got busier and orders increased, Linai''s confidence dipped. The rapid pace and specific customer requests were more demanding than she expected. Her expertise in unique concoctions didn''t extend to quick, standard drinks, and it showed.


    Her once smooth actions turned awkward and uncertain. She mixed up orders, forgot ingredients, and struggled with routine requests. She spilled a regular''s order for the tavern''s signature ale, and a simple mixed drink came out too bitter, causing a customer''s grimace.


    Kairo''s heart fell with each error. The patrons began murmuring. The atmosphere shifted from excitement to mild disappointment and impatience.


    Kairo saw her initial enthusiasm give way to a sense of being overwhelmed. He stepped in with a supportive smile, but worry clouded his thoughts.


    Her enthusiasm couldn''t compensate for her lack of experience in the demanding tavern environment.


    The regulars, usually tolerant and supportive, initially watched with amusement. However, as more mistakes happened, their patience frayed.


    The situation came to a head when a regular, Ngalu, known for his quiet nature and precise drink preference, summoned Kairo. "Kairo, this isn''t right," he said, showing the incorrectly made drink. It was visibly wrong in color and texture. Grey chunks floated in the drink. Kairo didn¡¯t know how Linai had even managed to do that. "I''m not one to complain, but this isn''t what I expect here."


    Apologizing, Kairo quickly remade the drink.


    Linai, stepping back from the bar, looked disheartened. Kairo felt that she had entered the tavern brimming with tales and expertise in unique drinks, only to discover that everyday barkeeping was a vastly different challenge. Maybe the busy tavern''s rhythm and demands were far from the relaxed crafting of special drinks she was used to.


    Kairo found himself in a bind. With his tavern already unstable from losing his dependable bartender, he couldn''t risk further harm to its reputation.


    Approaching Linai, Kairo chose his words with care. "Your enthusiasm and unique approach are appreciated," he said kindly, "but my patrons have specific expectations. I need someone who can meet those immediately. Can you do that?"


    Linai''s response, a mix of disappointment and understanding, was apparent. "I understand, Kairo. I''m sorry I''m not the right fit for your tavern."


    ¡°Hey Kairo, another round!¡±


    Kairo''s anxiety spiked. "Please don¡¯t go. Just, I don¡¯t know. Just work slowly, at whatever pace you can manage. Don¡¯t rush anymore. Any help is a help.¡±


    #


    Working together, Kairo''s mind raced, processing customer feedback. Some regulars suggested simpler drinks for Linai or a different approach. Others were less patient, openly criticizing the drink quality and the change in their usual tavern experience.


    Linai tried to adapt. Her initial boldness had evolved into cautious determination, an eagerness to learn and improve. She worked slowly. Very slowly.


    Kairo watched. Linai''s passion and exotic mixology knowledge were undeniable assets. Yet, the tavern''s immediate needs were swift service and consistent quality, areas where Linai fell short.


    Kairo felt the weight of his decision bearing down on him. Every interaction with his patrons and each observation of Linai added layers of concern and hope. The future of his tavern, a cornerstone of the community he had carefully cultivated, depended on this choice. He understood the stakes: the right decision could rejuvenate his business, while the wrong one risked alienating his regulars.


    Despite the earlier blunders, she infused the bar with a unique charm and enthusiasm. The encouraging words from some patrons resonated with him - perhaps with proper guidance and a more tailored role, Linai might become an asset.


    Feeling worn out and urgently needing help, Kairo reached a decision.


    Kairo approached Linai, who was methodically cleaning the bar. "Linai, I see your effort. You clearly have a passion for this, and I''m willing to give you an opportunity to learn and grow here," he said encouragingly. "We''ll adjust the work if we need to, and I can help and teach you.¡± Kairo bit his lip. ¡°If you¡¯re still interested?"


    Linai''s expression brightened with relief. "Thank you, Kairo. I''m ready to give it my all," she said.


    Kairo, felt a tentative optimism. If necessary, he could reassess later. For now, helping Linai adjust seemed the most pragmatic option. As he locked up, his mind was already planning the training and changes needed.

 5 - Kairo

    In the late hours, as the tavern settled into a subdued rhythm, Linai addressed Kairo. "I''ve heard the customers'' feedback about my performance," she said, her voice conveying her vulnerability. "I know I haven''t lived up to expectations, and I''m sorry for any trouble caused."


    Kairo stopped cleaning a glass and gave her his full attention. Linai stood there, wringing her hands, with a readiness to face reality.


    "I''m not familiar with this fast-paced environment, but I know that''s no excuse," she continued, maintaining steady eye contact.


    Kairo remained silent for a moment, then exhaled slowly. "Your willingness to learn from tonight''s challenges is commendable," he said. "This tavern is more than a place for drinks. It''s about fostering a community. You seem to understand that."


    "I''ll prove my worth."


    "We''ll focus on speed, but that will come later," Kairo said. ¡°There¡¯s no rush.¡± There was, but saying it wouldn¡¯t help anything.


    Gratitude shone in Linai''s face. "I won''t disappoint you," she said, her voice echoing her determination. "Just wait and see. I¡¯ll take my time."


    ¡°You can make amazing drinks,¡± Kairo said. ¡°Focus on that for now.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve got it.¡±


    The patrons'' wary glances formed a silent judgment, their doubts clear from their reserved, observant stares.


    Taking a deep breath, Linai steeled herself against their expectations. Her eyes scanned the bar''s modest selection of ingredients ¨C nothing exotic.


    Linai, now centered and confident, set about crafting a drink. She moved with a newfound grace, a stark departure from her earlier hesitations. The regulars'' curiosity was kindled as she slowly buy skillfully blended basic ingredients with imaginative touches. Her choice to mix fermented spo-wine with hot cahoos was unexpected, her method both elegant and precise. Kairo made four drinks while she made the one, but anything helped.


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    The drink she created was both simple and sophisticated, showcasing her talent for turning ordinary elements into something extraordinary. The initial skepticism of the patrons shifted to impressed murmurs, captivated by her confidence and finesse.


    Kairo approached the bar, intrigued and hopeful. ¡°I made you something,¡± Linai said during a lull.


    Tasting Linai''s creation, he was struck by its unique flavor profile ¨C reminiscent of a summer rain''s freshness, balancing lightness with depth, both surprising and delightful.


    This revelation made Kairo see the potential in Linai''s unique mixology approach. It could be the rejuvenating element his tavern needed. The regulars'' skepticism was now replaced by an excited buzz, hinting that his risk might be yielding positive results.


    As the evening progressed, the tavern buzzed with a revitalized spirit, centered around Linai.


    #


    Leaning against the bar, the glass in Kairo''s hand, he savored the lingering taste of another of Linai''s distinctive drinks. It reminded him of salted sunshine.


    "How did you come up with this?" Kairo asked, still tasting the unique blend.


    "In Axis Yassi," Linai replied.


    "Yassi," Kairo echoed, picturing the sunlit shores of the famed port city.


    Kairo''s thoughts wandered. Her past, the mysterious vibe she brought since arriving in Zambara, nagged at him.


    He had always had a knack for understanding people. Linai challenged his conventional decision-making.


    Watching her, Kairo recognized that sometimes risks lead to substantial rewards. Linai had started to alter the customers'' perceptions, her new drinks could spell growth for the tavern.


    He envisioned transforming the tavern into a destination renowned not only for its classic offerings but also for Linai''s innovative drinks.


    Despite lingering questions about Linai''s past, Kairo found himself inclined to make a final, firm decision.


    Kairo approached Linai, who was tidying the bar.


    ¡°Linai, tonight didn¡¯t start well.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± she said.


    "But those drinks were a revelation," he said, sincerely. "Your skills and creativity could mark the start of a new era for the tavern."


    Linai turned to him, hope in her eyes. "Do you mean...?" she hesitated.


    "Yes," Kairo nodded, a hint of a smile on his face. "I''d like you to join, if you still want to."


    Joy and excitement radiated from Linai. "Thank you, Kairo. You won''t regret this," she said.

 6 - Nyaogi

    Nyaogi eased through the tavern''s back entrance, her heart racing. Each step towards her room intensified the burden of her secret magic. The tavern buzzed with noise, a blend of chatter and laughter. She hoped this din would mask her covert actions.


    In her room, she swiftly locked the door and glanced around. Her potion-making gear, once a source of pride, now loomed as a risky secret. She began packing vials, herbs, and ingredients into boxes, her hands shaking.


    The sounds from below filtered through the floor, a constant reminder of the outside world. Laughter and conversation contrasted with her urgency. She had to be silent to avoid suspicion.


    Nyaogi''s thoughts raced. She was pained by the thought of leaving her makeshift lab, but Core City''s increasing scrutiny gave her no choice. Today, the room was a refuge; tomorrow, it could be a trap.


    The gentle clink of glass vials echoed loudly in the quiet room. She paused, listening for any sound above the tavern''s noise. Her anxiety grew with each amplified sound.


    Remembering her unregistered kynik crystal, Nyaogi patted her pocket, feeling its familiar, smooth surface. This crystal, a key to her magical prowess, was both a lifeline and a liability. Keeping it hidden was paramount.


    Nyaogi reached for more herbs when a sound halted her. Footsteps, distinct and purposeful, approached her door. Her heart surged, fear and dread pulsating through her.


    Quickly, she scanned the room. Spotting stray herbs on the table, she swept them into a drawer. She pushed the satchel under the bed, only partly hidden, and stood motionless, barely breathing.


    Positioning herself between the workbench and the door, she tried to shield the alembic with her body. The footsteps neared, steady and deliberate. Nyaogi stared at the door, muscles taut. She hoped it was just a passerby. The thought of it being the Core City investigator t sent chills through her.


    Time dragged as she waited. The footsteps halted outside her door, plunging her into a tense stillness. She held her breath, focused on the tarnished brass doorknob.


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    Time crawled. Finally, the footsteps continued and faded down the hall. Nyaogi exhaled, her breath quivering, realizing how close she had been to exposure.


    Shaken by the encounter, fear lingered. She knew she couldn''t risk another mistake. With extra care, Nyaogi resumed packing. She gently padded each item with rags, ensuring no glass clinked or rustle was loud enough to reach beyond her room.


    The room''s mood shifted; Nyaogi''s once hurried packing turned into a silent, measured process.


    With everything safely packed, she stepped back. She double-checked the room, making sure her potion-making was completely hidden. She disguised the containers among everyday items. To anyone glancing in, they''d seem like normal travel belongings.


    Her heart still racing, Nyaogi gave a small nod of approval. The boxes concealed the room¡¯s true contents. The recent scare had fueled her urgency. It was time to transport her supplies discreetly.


    #


    Nyaogi cracked her door open, she crept down the stairs, then eyed the tavern''s bustling common area. Her heart sank at the sight. The inn was crowded, filled with laughter and chatter. It was far too busy for moving her supplies unnoticed.


    She stepped back and went upstairs. She shut the door, leaning against it, she tried to steady her thoughts. Now was the time for careful planning, not panic.


    The danger of storing her potion supplies at the inn was growing. Core City officials were hunting for illegal magic, making staying put risky. Yet, moving her items in such a public setting was dangerous too. She risked being spotted.


    Pacing her room, Nyaogi thought hard about her options. Waiting for a quieter time meant less risk of being seen but increased the chance of her supplies being found. Moving them now in the crowded tavern could lead to getting caught.


    Each choice was risky, but inaction was not an option.


    Standing in her room, Nyaogi felt the walls closing in. The fear of her supplies being found clashed with the hope they''d stay hidden. She imagined Core City officials lurking, threatening her secret potion world.


    She weighed her options. Acting now, amidst the tavern''s noise, risked attracting attention. But leaving her supplies hidden in the room felt equally risky, stirring anxiety within her.


    After tense thought, Nyaogi decided. Moving her supplies now was too risky. She''d wait for a quieter time. It was a gamble to leave her items in plain sight, but a necessary risk.


    She eyed the boxes again, doubting their safety.


    With a heavy heart, Nyaogi accepted her choice. Caution was key, more important than haste. She''d wait for a safer moment to act. For now, she needed to blend in, unseen in the tavern''s lively chaos.

 7 - Kairo

    Kairo leaned against the bar, arms crossed, a slight smile on his lips as he observed Linai as she made an intricate drink. The liquid shifted colors, drawing in onlookers. A patron in a plain suit tried the drink, his expression turning to one of surprise and delight. Customers began requesting "whatever Linai''s mixing up.¡±


    Kairo took order after order and, along with them, handfuls of copper nodes and silver moons.


    As she chatted and mixed drinks, Kairo noticed a small, shimmering crystal around Linai¡¯s neck. It almost looked like a Kynik crystal. His forehead creased with worry. It had to be a fake.


    Kairo''s pride in Linai''s success now mixed with concern. He didn¡¯t think she¡¯d ever mentioned anything about any kynik training, and she¡¯d definitely never shown him any sort of license or training certificate.


    As patrons enjoyed Linai''s drinks, oblivious to the crystal, Kairo pondered its implications. He needed to decide how to handle this revelation but chose to observe for now, his gaze returning to the glowing stone around her neck. It was a fake, just jewelry intended to make her look rich. It had to be.


    A foolish choice, one that could draw the attention of Gann¡¯s guards, but nothing that would have any serious consequences.


    Kairo''s attention fixed on Linai as she prepared a complex drink. The liquid swirled in the glass, captivating nearby patrons. As one man, dressed in dockworker¡¯s clothes, took a sip, his eyes widened in surprise.


    "I can see sounds," he blurted out, his voice tinged with amazement. The tavern grew silent. Heads turned toward the speaker, curiosity on their faces.


    Kairo''s brow furrowed. The Kynik crystal''s presence was concerning enough, but now, a drink that altered senses?


    The man set his drink down slowly. ¡°What''s in this drink?"


    ¡°Just a little something I threw together,¡± Linai said.


    "I''m Inspector Sonn Adamma from the Gann Guard," he said, his tone harsh.


    Linai''s confident facade wavered under Adamma''s gaze.


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    Kairo felt a need to defuse this situation. He stepped forward, a reassuring smile on his face.


    Inspector Adamma leaned on the bar, his gaze sharp. "What''s in this drink that causes such effects?" he asked.


    Linai, steady and composed, replied, "It''s a blend of herbs and spices from my travels, nothing more."


    ¡°Inspector,¡± Kairo said.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking to your bartender.¡±


    ¡°¡±But-¡±


    ¡°Leave us.¡±


    Kairo edged down the bar, but kept an ear open.


    "These... travels of yours," Adamma continued, "where exactly did they take you?"


    "Across the continent," Linai said. "I''ve learned from various cultures and their unique ingredients."


    Adamma paused, mulling over her words. "Interesting. And there''s no use of magic in its creation?"


    "Absolutely not," Linai assured him. "Just natural ingredients and a bit of creativity."


    ¡°Do you understand that lying to an inspector is in itself a crime?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not lying!¡±


    Kairo watched the exchange, his unease mounting. Linai''s calm response didn''t quell his growing doubts. The Kynik crystal and the inspector''s reaction to the drink raised too many red flags. His trust in Linai teetered as he pondered the possible implications of her using magic.


    The inspector got up and started wandering around the room, focusing on little details, like the kynik dust lights, which were all bought from legal vendors, and the drinks of other patrons.


    The tavern''s buzz resumed, but Kairo felt a lingering uncertainty. He wondered if bringing Linai on board was a mistake. He felt to stressed watching the inspector wander about the room. Kairo stepped away from the bar.


    #


    In his quarters, Kairo paced, his demeanor far from the calm, warm presence he showed his patrons. His usual steady hands now clasped together, he occasionally glanced out the window.


    The room, once his haven for reflection, echoed with his worries. He sat at his desk, intent on thinking clearly about the night''s events, then got back up again. Then he sat back down.


    Forehead in hands, Kairo mulled over the evening. The inspector''s shocked expression, Linai''s calm reply, and the flash of the kynik crystal at her neck played in his mind. He recognized her talent and the buzz she''d brought to the tavern.


    Kairo was haunted by the threat of government scrutiny. If Linai used magic, even harmlessly, it could jeopardize the Glember Inn. The idea of his hard-built establishment caught in a scandal over illegal magic use was intolerable.


    He massaged his temples, burdened by his role as the owner. Protecting his tavern, staff, and patrons was paramount. Kairo knew difficult choices were imminent. Balancing talent with legal and safety concerns was tricky.


    Standing, he needed to act to protect his tavern.


    Closing the tavern briefly crossed his mind, but he dismissed it. It would raise suspicion and harm the Glember and the community. A diversion was an option, but it was fraught with risks and unknowns.


    Kairo''s mind lingered on Linai. He needed to prevent further questioning until he understood the full implications.


    Reluctantly, Kairo decided to talk to Linai. He needed to know more.

 8 - Kairo

    In a quiet corner of the tavern, Kairo noticed Inspector Adamma approaching. The inspector''s face, once filled with awe, was now stern. Kairo felt a wave of unease as the inspector neared.


    "Mr. Kairo, a moment, please?" Adamma''s official tone put Kairo on alert.


    "Of course, Inspector," Kairo answered, trying to appear calm. He played the role of a clueless tavern owner, aiming to allay any suspicion. "How can I help?"


    Adamma''s voice lowered. "The drink your new bartender made earlier, it was... peculiar. What do you know about it?"


    Kairo acted surprised, shaking his head. "Not much, I''m afraid. Linai has her own methods. I leave her to it; it''s part of our appeal." He glanced around, looking for Linai, who was nowhere to be seen.


    Adamma''s gaze was probing. "Where is this Linai now? I need to speak with her."


    Kairo concealed his worry. "She might have taken a break," he suggested nonchalantly. Internally, he was concerned. He hadn¡¯t seen her since he decided to talk to her. Linai''s disappearance could be misinterpreted. He needed to find her and handle the situation before it worsened.


    Inspector Adamma''s questions grew more specific, yet his condition seemed to deteriorate. "Tell me, Mr. Kairo, how often does Linai experiment with new drink recipes?" he asked, his speech slightly slurred.


    ¡°She¡¯s new, so I can¡¯t really say.¡±


    ¡°How new?¡±


    ¡°She just started.¡±


    ¡°She seems to know a lot of drinks for someone new to the job.¡±


    "She''s got experience somewhere.¡± Kairo replied, watching the inspector''s unsteady stance. ¡°She¡¯s brought a lot of new drinks to the menu.¡±


    "And these recipes," Adamma said. He blinked, apparently struggling to maintain focus. ¡°These recipes. Do they always produce such... strong effects?"


    "Not usually, no," Kairo answered. "Most are just unique flavors."


    As Adamma''s words began to slur, and his balance wavered, Kairo''s approach changed. "Inspector, are you okay?" he asked, concern in his voice. He moved closer, ready to help.


    Adamma sniffed slowly. "I''m... just light-headed," he said, his shaky voice contradicting his words.


    Kairo, maintaining calm but feeling a rush of panic, saw the tavern''s patrons watching. "Maybe sit down, Inspector," he suggested, guiding Adamma to a chair. "These drinks can be stronger than expected."


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    Helping Adamma sit, Kairo thought fast. He needed to ensure the inspector''s safety.


    The tavern''s atmosphere shifted into the surreal as Inspector Adamma''s confusion worsened. He glanced around wildly, reacting to invisible sights. His quiet mutterings grew into loud shouts, drawing attention from the patrons. Kairo''s attempt to quietly handle the situation was now a struggle against the rising commotion.


    "Hower-Ba! Three of them, in the rafters!" Adamma yelled, pointing to an empty space above. The mention of the fearsome "Hornbeast" stirred a mix of amusement and worry among the patrons. The room buzzed with whispers, heightening the tension.


    Kairo stood by Adamma, trying to soothe him. "There''s nothing there, Inspector. It''s the drink''s effect. It will fade," he said calmly.


    But Adamma seemed lost to his hallucinations. In a moment of seeming clarity, he asked for a bed.


    "Of course, Inspector," Kairo quickly responded, guiding the disoriented man to a spare room. The patrons'' eyes followed them, their expressions a blend of curiosity and concern.


    In the room, Kairo helped Adamma into bed. The inspector soon fell into a troubled sleep, still mumbling. The immediate crisis was handled, but the issues with Linai and Adamma''s suspicions lingered, clouding the future of his tavern.


    Closing the door, Kairo knew that he had to find Linai and grasp the full situation.


    #


    Kairo thought of Nyaogi, another resident with arcane interests. His previous leniency towards Nyaogi''s activities now seemed like a risky precedent.


    As he entered the hallway, deep in thought, he saw Nyaogi at the end, walking down the hall. She appeared to be sneaking out.


    Kairo, acting instinctively, approached her. "Nyaogi," he called softly, to avoid startling her or waking the inspector. Her surprised look confirmed his suspicion.


    "Kairo, I was just..." Nyaogi began, faltering.


    Kairo sighed, a mix of understanding and worry on his face. "I know. But we need to discuss this. The tavern''s safety and legality are my priorities."


    Nyaogi clutched her satchel, defensive. "I''m moving my things," she replied quietly.


    Kairo''s expression softened. "You''re a friend, Nyaogi. I''ve supported your practices out of trust. You''ve helped people. But now I face a dilemma."


    Kairo leaned against the wall, his eyes meeting Nyaogi''s. "I suspect Linai is using magic too," he confessed.


    Nyaogi, tilting her head slightly, asked, "Who''s Linai?"


    "My new bartender," Kairo replied, his voice low.


    "I''ve seen her," Nyaogi said, a hint of recognition in her tone.


    ¡°There¡¯s an inspector here. Linai drew his atten.¡±


    ¡°An inspector?¡± Nyaogi looked around, panicked. ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°In his room.¡±


    ¡°Oh no.¡±


    Kairo looked down, his hands clasped tightly. "I could report her, but I don''t want to," he admitted.


    "Then don''t," Nyaogi responded simply.


    Kairo paused, his forehead creased with worry. "There might be another way. But letting Linai go... would that make me a hypocrite? I''ve overlooked things before, and it''s... well, it''s not simple."


    Kairo''s eyes, filled with conflict, met Nyaogi''s. "I need to sort this out. For everyone''s sake, for the tavern." His statement echoed in the hallway.


    ¡°You won¡¯t report me, will you?¡±


    ¡°Of course not!¡±


    Nyaogi said, "Kairo, handle this delicately. The inspector, they''re not just passing through; they''re actively searching for unlawful magic."


    Nyaogi''s words sharpened Kairo''s determination. The threat of legal action was too serious to overlook. His top priority was the safety of his tavern and its patrons. He had to uncover the truth about Linai''s abilities and their potential impact on his business.


    "I appreciate it, Nyaogi. I''ll be cautious," Kairo said, a resolute expression on his face. "I need to speak with Linai, to grasp her intentions and techniques. It''s vital to know if she poses any risk to the tavern."

 9 - Nyaogi

    The trio of moons cast their light through the Glember Inn''s windows. The enigma surrounding Linai and the effects of her concoctions had forced Nyaogi and Kairo¡¯s hand; it was time for direct confrontation.


    They tread quietly through the deserted tavern, their footsteps a soft echo in the stillness. Kairo, leading, scrutinized every corner and shadow of the familiar space. Nyaogi, vigilant, followed close behind.


    They stopped in the main bar area. They peered behind the counter, eyes scanning the rows of bottles and glasses for a hint of something out of place. Nyaogi glanced out the front windows. Only a few customers remained, and none had seen Linai recently.


    Finding the bar area empty, they progressed to the storage rooms. The aroma of old wood and stored provisions permeated the air. They wove through kegs of ale and stacks of supplies. Kairo and Nyaogi exchanged anxious looks.


    Quietly, they opened doors of un-rented rooms upstairs, peeking into the dimly lit chambers.  They even knocked and investigated the rented rooms. Each room was a snapshot of transient lives, unmade beds and clothes hanging out to dry, yet Linai was nowhere to be seen.


    As they descended the creaky steps into the cellar, they were greeted by the cool, damp air of underground spaces. The the faint sound of water dripped in the background.


    It was as if she had vanished into thin air.


    Their search circled back to the bar area. A regular said, ¡°Hey Kairo, can I get another one of those Linai drinks?¡±


    ¡°Not right now, Ngalu.¡±


    Ngalu wobbled in his seat. ¡°What a way to run a business!¡±


    ¡°Is that your cloak?¡± Nyaogi asked, pointing to a thin suweve cloak tossed over a stool behind the bar.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Hers?¡±


    ¡°Must be. I don¡¯t know how I missed that,¡± Kairo said.


    ¡°Maybe that means she¡¯s coming back?¡± Nyaogi said.


    ¡°Or that she ran away fast.¡± Kairo''s concern was evident. "This is bad," he whispered. "We need to find her, figure this out."


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    Nyaogi nodded. Nyaogi checked the cloak¡¯s pockets. Nothing in the first one. She found a folded paper in the next. Nyaogi picked it up, unfolding it cautiously.


    I knew you would come looking. There are things better left undiscovered for your own safety, the note read, chilling Nyaogi.


    Nyaogi passed the note to Kair, who read it, his expression troubled.


    "She expected us to find this," Nyaogi said. "What does ''things better left undiscovered'' mean, though?"


    Kairo and Nyaogi shared a look of concern.


    #


    Kairo¡¯s hands were clasped tight, his eyes reflecting Nyaogi''s anxiety.


    "This random woman shows up, causes all this trouble," Nyaogi said, her voice betraying her shock. "And then to vanish without any explanation..."


    "It''s more than her leaving. It''s the implications for us, for the tavern. She clearly was doing something unlawful.¡±


    The concern in his tone was evident. They both understood the danger Linai''s disappearance might pose, particularly with the inspector¡¯s visit.


    "Did the inspector come because of her?" Nyaogi asked.


    Leaning in, Kairo said, "It could be. The inspector¡¯s arrival, his interest in her drink... It doesn''t seem like a coincidence."


    Nyaogi pondered the possible consequences of Linai''s actions. ¡°I''m concerned about the impact on us, especially with the inspector already wary,¡± she said, her voice tapering off, leaving her worries unspoken.


    ¡°We must be ready for whatever comes,¡± he stated solemnly. ¡°If the authorities start inquiring, we need a consistent story. We can''t risk any mistakes.¡±


    Kairo and Nyaogi delved deeper into their conversation, pondering potential issues and how to move forward.


    ¡°We need to think about the worst-case scenarios,¡± Kairo said, his tone serious. ¡°What if the inspector return with more questions? Or if he finds out about Linai¡¯s possible use of magic?¡±


    Nyaogi nodded, her expression grave. ¡°We need a solid plan. We can''t let them find anything that incriminates us or links us directly to Linai¡¯s activities.¡±


    Kairo agreed, ¡°Exactly. We should review everything in the tavern, ensure there¡¯s nothing out of the ordinary.¡±


    Nyaogi said, ¡°And Linai... shouldn''t we try to find her? If we can talk to her, we might get a clearer picture and better prepare ourselves.¡±


    Kairo rubbed his chin. ¡°A discreet search for Linai makes sense. But we have to avoid drawing attention. The last thing we need is to seem involved.¡±


    Nyaogi nodded, her mind already on another crucial task. "Speaking of discretion, I should move my supplies tonight. If I can do it without being seen, it will reduce any risk of them being linked to the tavern."


    Kairo looked thoughtful. "Are you sure you can manage that without drawing attention? It¡¯s important we don''t give the inspectors any reason to suspect us."


    "I''ll be careful," Nyaogi assured him. "It''s best we eliminate any potential ties to my arcane practices, especially now."


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I think it should wait. Is everything covered up?¡±


    ¡°Yes, mostly.¡±


    ¡°Inspector Adamma could get up again any time. I think it¡¯s a bad idea. Too big a risk.¡±


    ¡°You sure?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Kairo ran fingers through his stringy hair. ¡°But it¡¯s what I think.¡±


    ¡°If I get a chance right now, I¡¯ll move them and go home for the night. Otherwise, I¡¯ll agree.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like a good plan,¡± Kairo said.


    ¡°It¡¯s a plan, anyway.¡±

 10 - Kairo and Nyaogi

    Kairo and returned to the bar, feeling the weight of its familiar stillness. It was empty, except for Ngalu, who had fallen asleep at a table, his snores resonating in the quiet room.


    Time had slipped away from Kairo and Nyaogi during their search and conversation. Kairo paused, taking a moment to gather his thoughts amid the chaos of recent events.


    His brief moment of calm was shattered by the sound of unsteady footsteps from upstairs. Inspector Adamma, still woozy from Linai''s concoction, staggered down the stairs, his gaze cloudy but determined.


    Catching Nyaogi''s eye, Kairo suggested, ¡°It¡¯s best if you leave now.¡±


    Nyaogi glanced sharply at the inspector, then shook her head at Kairo. ¡°I¡¯m staying, Kairo.¡±


    ¡°Goodnight,¡± he replied.


    She stared at Kairo. ¡°I¡¯m staying. If I get a chance, I will do what I need to.¡±


    Kairo resisted the urge to push her out the front door. ¡°Fine.¡±


    ¡°Do you need help?¡± Nyaogi asked, concern in her tone.


    Kairo sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll manage.¡±


    She gave Kairo a reassuring nod and turned towards the bar.


    While the inspector approached Kairo, Nyaogi busied herself preparing a drink.


    ¡°Mr. Kairo, I must conduct a search,¡± the inspector mumbled, his words slurred. He blinked hard, trying to focus. ¡°The events of... tonight, or was it last night? They require inception. Inspection?¡±


    Kairo, standing firm, replied, ¡°Of course, Inspector. How can I assist you?¡±


    With her drink in hand, Nyaogi settled into a chair in the common room, her eyes subtly observing the unfolding scene.


    As the inspector started his clumsy inspection, Nyaogi quietly sipped her drink, ready to intervene if the opportunity arose. Her presence, usually calming, now served as a silent guardian over the inn and its secrets.


    Kairo endeavored to stay composed. "Inspector, you''ll find everything in order," he said, masking his inner turmoil.


    Kairo watched closely as the inspector shuffled through the bar area. He scrutinized the counters, surveyed the shelves lined with various bottles and glasses, his movements unsteady.


    #


    Nyaogi watched as Ngalu slept soundly at his table, his snores echoing softly in the quiet space. Kairo engaged the inspector, drawing his attention away.


    The inspector turned his back and examined a cabinet.


    Nyaogi rose.


    Kairo shook his head and mouthed. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Nyaogi mouthed back. Seizing the moment, she slipped down the hall. She tip-toed upstairs. Nyaogi entered her room and gently shut the door, mindful of every sound she made.


    Under the veil of night, Nyaogi began the meticulous task of moving her concealed potion supplies. She had a narrow window to act.


    She couldn''t afford any mistakes; a single error could expose her secrets.


    #


    With each cabinet the inspector opened and each corner he examined, Kairo¡¯s anxiety grew. He silently followed the inspector around.


    The inspector''s search was awkward and haphazard, his mutterings incoherent, trailing off into nonsensical mumbles. Kairo watched, his heart rate elevated, as the scene unfolded in the once-vibrant space now silent and tense.


    The inspector, in his befuddled state, leaned over Ngalu, sniffing him closely.


    "Dead? Under magic?" he asked, his words slurred.


    Kairo, keeping his voice even, replied, "I don¡¯t believe so, Inspector."


    The inspector poked Ngalu curiously with a finger. Startled, Ngalu jolted upright, mumbling incoherently. He then slumped forward, hitting his head on the table, before waking up and rubbing his forehead. "What happened?" Ngalu asked, bewildered.


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    "Hmm, not dead," the inspector concluded absently. He wandered away.


    Ngalu, now fully awake, observed the inspector''s erratic behavior with a suppressed chuckle.


    Kairo subtly directed the inspector away from the hallway leading to Nyaogi¡¯s potion-making area, trying to expedite the conclusion of this search. He hoped the inspector''s intoxicated condition might invalidate any dubious findings.


    The inspector''s voice echoed off the walls, muttering to himself about regulations and fines.


    A soft creak emanated from Nyaogi''s room. Kairo''s heart leapt. The inspector halted, his head cocking slightly.


    Kairo acted quickly. "Inspector, have you seen the craftsmanship on these doorframes?" he asked, voice louder than necessary. He stepped closer to the inspector, drawing his attention away from Nyaogi''s room.


    The inspector, swaying slightly, turned his bloodshot eyes towards Kairo and squinted. "Craftsmanship? What about it?" he grumbled, his interest seeming to wane already.


    Kairo gestured towards the nearest doorframe. "The carvings, sir. They''re quite intricate, aren''t they? Said to be centuries old. Part of our heritage here." He spoke with a feigned enthusiasm, hoping to keep the inspector''s focus on him.


    The inspector leaned closer to the doorframe. He ran a thick finger along the carvings, his brow furrowing. ¡°Magical craftsmanship?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Kairo glanced towards Nyaogi''s door, praying that whatever caused the sound wouldn''t do so again.


    "Interesting," the inspector finally said, pulling back and looking at Kairo with a dull gaze. "But not why I''m here. Let''s keep moving."


    Kairo followed, his mind racing to think of other ways to keep the inspector occupied and away from discovering their secrets.


    The inspector wandered upstairs. He stopped just outside of Nyaogi¡¯s room.


    ¡°Inspector, wait,¡± Kairo said. ¡°There¡¯s something else I need to show you.¡±


    #


    As she prepared to move the first stack of boxes, a noise outside her door halted Nyaogi. The inspector''s voice, though muffled, was unmistakable. Nyaogi''s heart raced.


    She quickly assessed her room for a hiding spot. Nyaogi weighed her options. Each choice held significant consequences for her and the tavern.


    Nyaogi''s breath hitched as she strained to hear the inspector''s slurred words through the door, sending a wave of unease through her.


    She eyed the rest of the boxes in the room, acutely aware of the dangers their discovery posed.


    Nyaogi''s heartbeat resonated. The thought of being caught with forbidden magical items in a place already under suspicion filled her with dread.


    #


    ¡°What do you need to show me?¡± the inspector asked Kairo.


    ¡°Umm¡­ something down the hall.¡±


    ¡°Farther down the hall?¡± the Inspector asked. ¡°What¡¯s there?¡±


    ¡°Beds.¡±


    Beds?¡±


    Spotting a chance, Kairo said, "Inspector, you seem a bit unsteady. Maybe a rest would help you clear your head," he said, concern coloring his tone. ¡°That will make your investigation go even better later.¡±


    #


    Moving the supplies now seemed too dangerous with the inspector nearby.


    The inspector¡¯s voice heightened Nyaogi''s anxiety. She knew that any sound from her could lead to her exposure.


    Nyaogi stayed motionless, her breathing quiet and controlled. The inspector''s footsteps thudded heavy and close. Each step he took seemed to reverberate around her small room.


    As the inspector carried on outside, Nyaogi decided to wait in silence, hoping he would pass by. Her supplies were tucked away, but a thorough search would easily reveal them. She braced herself to feign innocence if discovered.


    Time seemed to stretch, each second laden with the risk of being found out.


    Inside her quiet room, Nyaogi leaned close to the door, her heart pounding as she listened to the inspector''s voice.


    #


    The inspector, swaying slightly, paused to consider. ¡°Bed?¡± After a moment, he agreed, his earlier determination fading amidst his confusion. "Yes, a rest... might be good," he said.


    Breathing a silent sigh of relief, Kairo offered his arm and escorted the inspector towards the guest rooms.


    In the Inspector¡¯s room, Kairo helped the inspector into bed. Ensuring his comfort, Kairo then quietly left the room, locking the door behind him. He lingered to make sure that the inspector stayed in bed.


    #


    Nyaogi heard the footsteps recede. She let out a relieved breath. She still waited. Each second that passed without her door opening increased Nyaogi''s hope of remaining undiscovered.


    She thought she could hear words from down the hall, but wasn¡¯t sure. She had to know.


    Nyaogi slipped out of her room. Down the hall, she could see Kairo helping the inspector into bed. She resolved to wait for a safer opportunity; the current risk was too high. So she had to leave.


    She turned away and fled past Ngalu, out the front door of the Glember Inn.


    #


    Resting against the guest room''s locked door, Kairo could finally breathe. The day''s events had been intense, and he felt their weight heavily. His usually composed demeanor was rattled, the task of protecting his inn now seemed incredibly challenging.


    He inhaled deeply, closing his eyes, seeking calm in the quiet hallway. This brief pause allowed him a chance to collect his thoughts amidst the turmoil. Clear thinking was crucial for devising a plan to shield the inn from both the inspector''s scrutiny.


    Replaying the day''s occurrences, Kairo contemplated his next steps. The inspector''s reaction to Linai''s drink had spiraled the situation out of his control, and Linai¡¯s vanishing added to the complexity. His actions needed to be prompt yet measured.


    His main objective was preventing the inspector from finding evidence of any illicit magical activities in the inn. Kairo considered reinforcing the notion that the inspector''s experience was due to a potent, but normal, drink made by Linai. He could also leverage the inspector''s inebriated state to cast doubt on any of his potential allegations.


    Moreover, finding Linai and understanding her involvement was crucial to evaluate the risk she posed to the inn.


    Moving away from the door, he headed back toward the Glember Inn''s bar. Each step was taken with a clear purpose. The inn wasn''t just a business; it was a legacy, a heritage from his family, nurtured through generations. He thought of his late grandmother, whose values of hard work and hospitality were the foundation of his ethos.


    Kairo paused, his gaze sweeping over the walls steeped in history, the bar that had witnessed countless tales, touched countless lives.


    When Kairo returned to the bar area, Ngalu asked, ¡°Drink?¡±


    ¡°Go home, Ngalu!¡±


    ¡°What a way to do business.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not doing business,¡± Kairo said as he slammed the door shut behind Ngalu. ¡°I¡¯m going to bed.¡±

 11 - Kairo

    Early that morning, Kairo stood alone behind the bar of the Glember Inn and Tavern. His hands moved mechanically, wiping the counter. He gazed distantly at the rows of polished glasses though grainy feeling eyes, lost in thought.


    His attention shifted as the inspector entered, his eyes sweeping the room with determination. Kairo, seizing the moment, greeted him. "Good morning, Inspector," he said, his voice steady and welcoming. "Did you sleep well? Perhaps a cup of jig-jig?"


    The inspector, slightly disheveled but composed, accepted with a nod. "Yes, thank you. That would be great."


    Kairo busied himself with the jig-jig juice, keeping the conversation light and steering it away from sensitive topics. He talked about the inn''s history.


    He subtly positioned himself to make the inspector face away from the hallway to the guest rooms, where Nyaogi¡¯s supplies still lay.


    Kairo poured the inspector a steaming cup of jig-jig, hoping to prolong their conversation. "You know, this inn has been in my family for generations," he started, his voice warm and inviting.


    "Is that so?" the inspector replied, a hint of interest in his voice. "Tell me more about your family''s history here."


    "Well, it all started with my great-grandfather. He built this place from the ground up, back when this place wasn¡¯t even a blip along the Ravo River. He believed in providing a haven for weary travelers and locals alike." Kairo''s hands gestured expressively as he spoke, recounting tales of the past.


    The inspector nodded, his cup halfway to his lips. "Interesting. And what about recent activities? Anything unusual?"


    Kairo hesitated for a fraction of a second before answering. "Oh, nothing out of the ordinary. Just the usual bustling of travelers. It''s all quite routine, really."


    But as the conversation progressed, Kairo noticed the inspector''s growing impatience. His eyes no longer held a spark of interest but a sharpening scrutiny.


    ¡°Mr. Kairo," the inspector began, his voice cutting through the inn''s morning hum. He set his cup down with a slight clink. "While I appreciate your hospitality, I can''t help but feel you''re steering me away from certain topics. Is there something you''re trying to hide?¡±


    Kairo''s heart skipped. "Not at all, Inspector," he said, maintaining his composure. "I''m just proud of our inn and its history. If I seemed evasive, I apologize. Please, feel free to ask anything you want.¡±


    The inspector''s gaze lingered on Kairo a moment longer, assessing. He then stood up, his chair scraping slightly against the floor. ¡°I think I¡¯d like to continue my investigation now, if you don¡¯t mind.¡± His tone was firm.


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    Kairo nodded, his thoughts in turmoil. He trailed the inspector, searching for ways to divert him from uncovering any secrets. The inn''s walls, once symbols of family and community, now seemed to close in on him, amplifying his anxiety.


    The inspector''s focus was intense as he surveyed each corner of the inn. His eyes lingered on doorways and staircases, places Kairo hoped he would ignore.


    Desperate, Kairo blurted out, "Inspector, there''s an urgent issue in the cellar. A water line might be leaking. It''s critical."


    The inspector stopped, eyeing Kairo skeptically. "A water leak?"


    "Yes, it''s a serious concern," Kairo insisted, hoping to steer the inspector away.


    The inspector''s stance remained firm. "My duty is to investigate the inn. Public safety is my priority, and that means ensuring no illegal activities are happening here."


    Kairo''s heart dropped. His last attempt to protect the inn and his friends had failed. He watched the inspector resume his thorough search, each step echoing ominously.


    #


    Inspector Adamma said, "Mr. Kairo, there have been rumors about illicit potions and illegal trade linked to this inn. Last night''s incident has only deepened my concerns."


    Kairo''s pulse quickened, but he kept his face serene. Inside, his thoughts whirled in a storm of worry and calculation.


    "I''ve heard whispers of potions not sanctioned by the authorities being sold here," the inspector continued. "Talk of underground trade happening under the guise of a reputable inn."


    Standing amid the familiar surroundings of the Glember Inn, Kairo worked to maintain a facade of calm. He nodded, careful not to betray his inner turmoil.


    Realizing his overt diversions had failed, Kairo knew he needed a subtler strategy. Direct falsehoods were too dangerous. Instead, he needed a story that was believable yet misleading.


    He thought of attributing the peculiar events to the inn''s diverse clientele. He planned to emphasize the inn''s longstanding role in the community, a haven with no history of unlawful activities. This way, he hoped to create a sense of trust and normalcy, diverting the inspector''s attention from the truth.


    Kairo, choosing his words with care, said, ¡°Any illicit potion making would be news to me.¡±


    ¡°Would it?¡±


    ¡°You''ve been very thorough in your search. I doubt there''s anything left unseen.¡±


    Just then, out of the corner of his eye, Kairo noticed Nyaogi sneaking towards her room. He tried to catch her attention, waving subtly, but she didn''t notice and continued on her way, oblivious to the danger.


    The inspector, pondering Kairo''s statement, said. ¡°You might be right. To be sure, I¡¯ll check down this hall.¡±


    Kairo moved to follow the inspector.


    ¡°Mr. Kairo, I can¡¯t help but notice that you won¡¯t leave me alone.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°You seem to be trying to distract me, keep me away from something. I want to continue my investigation.¡±


    ¡°Of course, inspector.¡±


    ¡°Alone.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Kairo shuffled his feet. ¡°Well, yes. There¡¯s some work I need to do.¡±


    ¡°You do your work, and I¡¯ll do mine.¡± The inspector turned and headed toward the end of the first floor hallway.


    Kairo walked up the stairs and towards Nyaogi''s room, his heart racing with fear. He needed to warn her, to give her time to conceal any evidence.


    Reaching the corridor, he saw no sign of Nyaogi. Torn between knocking on her door and drawing unwanted attention or waiting for a safer chance to communicate, Kairo lingered in the hallway. Every second was critical.

 12 - Nyaogi

    Nyaogi opened her door with an anxious look. Kairo quickly said, "The inspector''s searching the inn. He''s downstairs now but will be up here soon, I¡¯d wager."


    Her eyes widened. ¡°Oh no.¡±


    Nyaogi sprang into action, rushing to hide her supplies, Kairo right behind her. Time was too short to move everything, so she swiftly concocted a plan for a diversion.


    In her room, Nyaogi worked rapidly, mixing herbs and liquids with precision. She aimed to create a potion to temporarily incapacitate the inspector, giving them time to hide evidence.


    Kairo observed, as Nyaogi brewed the potion. It was a risky move, but their only option. He stood by, ready to help, hoping this plan would protect the inn''s secrets.


    Nyaogi''s room buzzed with urgency. She needed to be quick yet accurate, a tough task under stress. Was it two vials of water or three? Her hands shook as she worked, but her concentration never wavered. She slid the kynik stone into its slot in the alembic and flipped a switch. Water bubbled.


    She added herbs, stirred the mixture, and checked its consistency, her forehead glistening with sweat from the pace and pressure.


    She also had to hide her potion-making supplies. Her gaze fell on her bed. Not the best hiding spot, but not the worst. She swiftly began moving unused items beneath the bed, juggling between brewing and concealing her tools.


    Kairo watched from the doorway, his gaze flicking anxiously down the hall.


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    Nyaogi''s focus was unyielding. The pressure was immense, allowing no room for mistakes.


    Nyaogi''s hands began to tremble under the strain of multitasking. She moved between the potion and her hidden supplies, her mind constantly tracking both her brewing and her concealment efforts. She needed to switch the alembic off in thirty seconds.


    Downstairs, the everyday sounds of the inn drifted up to her room, intensifying her urgency. The murmur of conversations, footsteps, and the occasional clink of glassware served as a constant reminder of their precarious situation. The soft sound of her potion bottles as she moved them seemed to mimic a ticking clock, marking time in a tense countdown.


    Nyaogi was so engrossed in her work that time seemed irrelevant. Her world had shrunk to the immediate tasks: turn off the alembic, filter the herbs, and hiding another box of supplies. Stress mounted with each minute, underscoring the critical nature of her actions.


    Nyaogi pushed on. She focused intently on the potion, noting its color shift to a sickly green as a sign of progress.


    #


    In her room, Nyaogi was engulfed in anxiety. Her trembling hands shook as she removed the vial from a stand. The stakes of her next actions loomed large, intensifying the danger with each passing second.


    She mentally reviewed the potion recipe, ensuring precision. The potion needed to be potent yet harmless. Her expertise in potion-making was her critical edge in this crisis.


    She measured and mixed with precision, her gaze flicking to the door, watchful for the inspector. Each addition to the potion felt like a small triumph, a step towards buying them time.


    As Nyaogi worked, the thought of the potion''s impending effect on the inspector drove her. She envisioned a convincing, yet harmless, sickness to distract him. It wouldn¡¯t hurt him too badly. Probably.


    The potion''s color and texture transformed with each ingredient she added. She moved with deliberate care, focusing intently in the midst of internal turmoil.


    Her room was a quiet hub of activity. Nyaogi, at its heart, worked with a calm driven by urgency.


    She took the vial in her left hand and the kynik stone in the right.


    She took a deep breath, and then imbued the potion with thoughts of plague and vomit, illness and rotting food.

 13 - Nyaogi

    Nyaogi held the finished potion, ready to take it to Kairo. The tavern¡¯s back door opening screeched upstairs. The sound of light steps quickened Nyaogi''s pulse. She paused, listening, then composed herself and descended toward the tavern.


    Before Nyaogi could make it, Linai moved into her path.


    "Linai!" Nyaogi whispered. "What are you doing here?"


    Nyaogi stood firm.


    "I didn''t want any trouble." Linai''s voice was low, tinged with resignation.


    "You''ve caused it," Nyaogi said. "Where''s Kairo? He should hear this."


    Linai winced. "About using kynik crystals? I don''t misuse them. I just enhance the drinks."


    "He knows. But why come back? You''ve made a mess."


    Linai said, "In Core City, my ''magic'' drinks attracted too much notice. I had to leave."


    "And you chose here because...?"


    "I thought I''d attract less attention. Maybe avoid using magic."


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    ¡°Or a bunch of fools in a little town wouldn¡¯t notice?¡±


    Linai didn¡¯t make eye contact. ¡°Maybe.¡±


    "And how''s that working?" Nyaogi asked.


    Linai hesitated, then admitted, "I''m not much of a bartender without the magic."


    ¡°Clearly.¡±


    "I didn''t mean to cause trouble," Linai said, her eyes meeting Nyaogi''s. "I thought I could start new here, away from the fear of being discovered."


    She recognized the fear and resignation in Linai''s voice, understanding the desire to escape the past and its consequences. Nyaogi realized the need for caution, considering the inn''s safety and the sanctuary it provided for people like Linai. People like her.


    "When the inspector arrived, I panicked," Linai whispered. " I didn¡¯t want trouble for me or anyone else."


    Nyaogi saw real fear and remorse in Linai''s eyes as she spoke.


    Linai said, "I knew running away wasn''t right. I couldn''t leave you to deal with my mess. That''s why I came back."


    "Linai, your skills are special but could be misunderstood," Nyaogi said. "Maybe we can work together discreetly."


    Hope flickered in Linai''s expression.


    #


    In the tavern''s stillness, Nyaogi felt a bond with Linai. Her story, fears, and return struck a chord with Nyaogi, reminding her of her own past and the support Kairo had given her. This reflection bolstered her belief in empathy and second chances.


    Kairo¡¯s understanding and support had always created a haven at the inn. She recognized his appreciation for trust and transparency, which could be crucial now.


    "Linai," Nyaogi said, "we need to tell Kairo everything. About your abilities and your predicament. He''s been understanding before."


    Linai, apprehensive, absorbed Nyaogi''s words. ¡°Is it a good idea?¡±


    "I understand your fear," Nyaogi said.


    Linai inhaled deeply. "You''re right," she said, her voice firmer. "Hiding hasn''t helped.¡±


    ¡°Right,¡± Nyaogi said. She looked upstairs. ¡°Well, actually, on that note, I need some help hiding some stuff.¡±

 14 - Kairo

    Kairo, wandering the inn, glimpsed Nyaogi and Linai through a half-open door. They were discreetly moving potion supplies out towards the back door. Surprised, he quickened his pace towards them.


    Reaching them, Kairo whispered, "Nyaogi, Linai! What''s happening here?"


    The inspector was close to uncovering their secrets, and the tension was palpable. He was just steps away, in the front room.


    Linai, startled by Kairo''s sudden arrival, faced him. After a pause, she swallowed. "Kairo, there''s something you should know. I enhance my drinks with magic. It''s why the inspector reacted so strongly last night."


    ¡°That explains some things.¡±


    As Linai spoke, Nyaogi went behind the bar and took bottle of wine and a glass.


    Kairo responded to Linai, "Thank you for being upfront, Linai.¡±


    Nyaogi poured the potion into the glass.


    Kairo asked, ¡°Is that for the inspector?"


    Nyaogi looked at Kairo, pouring in the wine. "It will give us some time."


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    Kairo''s concern deepened as he detected a strong, unpleasant odor from the drink. He sniffed it and almost gagged. It smelled like death.


    "The smell is obvious," Kairo said, worried. "The inspector won''t drink it."


    Linai approached and sniffed the potion. "I can disguise the smell," she said.


    Nyaogi handed the glass over. Linai held the glass and whispered, her hand on her chest, where she wore her crystal.


    Moments later, Linai presented the altered drink, now with a pleasant scent.


    Kairo, impressed, said, "Incredible work, Linai. Thank you.¡±


    "We''re in this together." Linai smiled. "Now make sure the inspector drinks this."


    Kairo paused, aware of the significant risks in using the potion. He could go to jail. Lose the Glember.


    Nyaogi and Linai continued their delicate task of relocating the potion supplies, moving swiftly and silently. The success of their plan hinged not just on the potion but also on their ability to erase any evidence.


    Kairo prepared to meet the inspector, hopeful for a much-needed reprieve in their struggle to preserve their haven.


    #


    In Nyaogi''s dimly lit room, she and Linai were busy relocating potion supplies to Bammyo¡¯s warehouse. As they handled each box of bottles and ingredients, Nyaogi felt a surge of gratitude for Linai''s ingenuity and her adept use of kynik magic.


    While shuffling boxes, Nyaogi said, "Your work with the drink was vital. Impressive.¡±


    Linai lifted a box. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    The slipped out the back door.


    Linai said. "After this, we need to be more subtle with our abilities."


    "Linai, your actions today might have saved us," Nyaogi said with sincerity.


    After dropping a set of boxes at Bammyo¡¯s workshop, they headed back to the Glember Inn and Tavern for more.

 15 - Kairo

    In the inn''s lively front room, Kairo approached the inspector with the modified drink. Offering the drink with a forced smile, Kairo tried to conceal his anxiety. "Inspector, please try one of our special drinks. On the house. It''s very refreshing."


    The inspector, looked at the drink skeptically and said. "No thank you, Mr. Kairo."


    Kairo was considering an alternative approach when the inspector changed the subject.


    "About last night, where is Linai? I need to ask her about those unique drinks," Inspector Adamma asked, scanning the room.


    "I¡¯m not sure where she is. She seemed to be just passing through. I didn¡¯t know her well," Kairo said, feigning indifference.


    The inspector mulled over Kairo''s words, his gaze unsettlingly fixed on him.


    Feeling the need for a more significant distraction, Kairo quickly made up a story, feigning upset. "You know, Inspector, I''m glad you asked about Linai. I''ve just found out she might have stolen from me."


    The inspector¡¯s eyebrow rose. ¡°Really?¡±


    Kairo feigned resentment. "I trusted her, and she betrayed that trust. I''m eager to find her now, just like you."


    "I''m sorry to hear that, Mr. Kairo," the inspector said.


    Kairo, seizing the opportunity, said. "Here, as a small compensation for the trouble."


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    The inspector, appearing more relaxed, said. "Alright, but you should have some first."


    ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°Taste it.¡±


    ¡°Everything we serve here is delicious.¡±


    ¡°Especially those Linai drinks!¡± a customer said.


    The inspector stared at Kairo.


    Out of the corner of his eye, Kairo saw Nyaogi and Linai slip upstairs for more boxes. Kairo forced a smile. "Certainly, Inspector. Cheers." He sipped from the glass, carefully taking just enough to appear genuine.


    ¡°Very well.¡± As the inspector sipped the drink, Kairo watched, his anxiety mounting in anticipation of the potion''s effects. The inspector sat down to question a patron. From where he sat, he could see the route to the back door from upstairs.


    Nyaogi peered around the corner. Kairo waved her back. She retreated.


    The inspector seemed to have noticed. He abandoned the patron and headed toward the stairwell. As he walked, the inspector started showing discomfort, clutching his stomach.


    The inspector stopped at the base of the stairs. He leaned against the wall and groaned. His evident distress resonated through the inn, drawing attention.


    Simultaneously, Kairo, began to feel its impact. His vision blurred, and nausea hit him hard. Struggling to maintain balance, he was quickly overpowered by the potion''s effects, incapacitating him alongside the inspector.


    The inspector belched. Then threw up.


    The splatter of vomit set Kairo off. His stomach emptied itself.


    #


    Staggered toward the front door, still vomiting. Patrons dove out of the way to avoid the spray. Inspector Adamma paused at the inn''s exit. "This isn''t the end, Mr. Kairo.¡± He threw up. ¡°I''ll be back with a health and safety team.¡± He threw up again. ¡°With more inspectors!¡±


    Kairo, supporting himself against the bar, couldn¡¯t feel relief. His knees shook. He threw up and waved the inspector away.


    After the inspector left, Kairo remained, battling the potion''s effects. Despite the inspector''s departure, anxiety hung in the air. The thought of a follow-up visit and its potential impact on the inn and its people weighed on Kairo.


    Kairo retreated to his quarters to rest. As he lay down, trying to calm his nausea and regain clarity, his thoughts drifted to the inn''s future. For now, he needed to stop vomiting.

 16 - Kairo and Nyaogi (Conclusion)

    As evening descended and the tavern shut its doors, creating a sanctuary from the outside world. Nyaogi, Kairo, Bammyo, and Linai sat together. The day''s chaotic events had left them all drained, figuratively, and one literally.


    At the table''s center stood a steaming cup of medicinal brew, crafted by Nyaogi and refined by Linai for taste. Kairo gently sipped the warm drink, finding solace in its soothing effect against the potion''s lingering impact.


    Kairo said, "Thank you, Nyaogi."


    Nyaogi raised a glass of something Linai had made her. Whatever it was, it felt like a breeze in her face and tasted like the color blue. It made her want to giggle.


    Kairo then turned to Linai, his gratitude evident. "And Linai. You''ve been an immense asset."


    ¡°Even if she caused half the trouble in the first place,¡± Nyaogi said.


    Linai slapped Nyaogi playfully, a trace of relief in her eyes.


    Kairo, with a tone of conviction, said, "Linai, your skill and dedication have impressed me. I''d like to offer you a permanent position here at the tavern.¡±


    ¡°What about the inspector?¡±


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    ¡°We will figure that out when the time comes,¡± Kairo said.


    Linai smiled warmly. "Thank you, Kairo. I''d be honored to join. I''ve been searching for a place to belong, and it seems like maybe I''ve found it here."


    Bammyo lifted his glass. "To new beginnings," he said.


    They all raised their cups, resonating with Bammyo''s words.


    They drank in unison. In the tavern''s secluded comfort, they found reassurance in each other''s presence, steeling themselves for future uncertainties.


    Linai appeared contemplative, her joy tinged with concern. "I appreciate this chance," she said cautiously, "but I worry my presence here might cause more issues, given recent events."


    Kairo understood her fears. "I''ve considered that," he replied. "That''s why there¡¯s a stipulation for your role here."


    Pausing for emphasis, he continued, "Your kynik magic is a public matter and it led us here. We can''t risk that again."


    Linai listened attentively to Kairo. She took a long drink.


    Kairo said, "You have to learn to create drinks without using kynik. Your value to us lies in your creativity and expertise, not just in magic."


    "My magic is my signature," Linai said, visibly worried. "It''s the essence of my drinks. I''m not sure how to create without it."


    Kairo said, "I realize that¡¯s a big ask and maybe it¡¯s scary. But consider it as broadening your repertoire. You possess talent that transcends magic."


    Nyaogi added, "Let''s collaborate. Making potions and drinks have a lot in common."


    Linai sipped. A smile grew slowly. "Alright," she said. "I''ll try. But I might need to use a bit of magic initially."


    Kairo ran a finger through his hair. "Some subtle magic can be incorporated, provided it''s all behind the scenes and doesn''t attract any attention.¡±


    ¡°Deal.¡± Linai shook Kairo¡¯s hand.


    Nyaogi said, "I won¡¯t use the Glember anymore.¡± Nyaogi eyed the drink Linai had made her. ¡°Well, for potion making, anyway. I¡¯ll need to be around to test all of Linai¡¯s new drinks.¡±