Some talk before bed

Alex listened closely as Rowan answered his question. He felt pleased that Rowan wanted him to continue traveling with the group. Perhaps he’d made a good impression on all of them by how he’d handled the battle. He was about to respond and thank Rowan for answering his question and to say he wasn’t all that concerned about the money the lady was going to pay them when Rowan winked and Soran smiled. Alex smiled back at both of them and saw Soran’s smile get even bigger as Rowan lifted him into his arms. Alex also saw the kiss Soran planted on Rowan cheek and watched the two as Rowan headed for the stairs. He saw Soran smirk and then wave and heard the sound of their voices but didn’t even try to distingish what was said for he had a feeling what was being said was probably semi private and he didn’t want to pry.

Then he smelled Jeremy’s cigarette and the boy was beside him speaking. Alex turned his attention to Jeremy listening attentively to what he said noting the tone of his voice and his actions as he bought more of the watered down wine. Suddenly Alex was glad the bartender had watered it down for he wasn’t sure he wanted to deal with a drunk companion later. He asked the barmaid if she’d please fix a tray of cut up fruit, cheese, meat and bread and add some juice then he paid her what it would cost adding a nice tip. She smiled at him and he smiled back.

Thinking about what Rowan had said and also about the battle Alex caught up with Jeremy, following him to and inside their room. As Jeremy plopped down on one bed and spoke to him, Alex removed his pack, bow and quiver placing them with care on the floor on the opposite side of the bed where they wouldn’t get walked on should one or the other of them need to get up later. The barmaid arrived with what he’d ordered and Alex thanked her then took the tray and set it on the nightstand between the two beds. He settled into a comfortable position on the other bed and thought about what Jeremy had asked while he ate some of the food. Finally he looked at his companion.

“Talking some before retiring is fine by me, Jeremy, just so long as we don’t stay up too late.” He ate a little more thinking about the group he was travelling with and the battle then spoke again. “Yes the demon was frightening. I’ve never seen one before this and wasn’t sure what it would do after it appeared. I’m very glad it didn’t harm anyone ‘cause it could’ve done a great deal of damage even killed instantly with it’s claws. I thought light would affect it and that’s why I activated the mage lights but I guess not. Seemed like the bright lights didn’t even faze it. Now I’m wondering if bright light would affect any demon. I’m hoping we won’t encounter another one.”

Alex paused and contemplated the group some more while he ate more of the food and sipped at the juice. He picked up the tray and held it out to Jeremy for a few moments then set it back down on the nightstand.

“Our little group of adventurers...humm...well everyone’s definately interesting...and different and umm diverse...yes. Let’s see there’s a mage, an elf, a healer, a skilled woman, a half demon and two street wise young men, right? Or would that be three street wise young men?” He gave Jeremy a questioning look then resumed speaking. “And me, a half elf hunter mage in training. Yes definately an interesting, different and diverse group I think. We fought well together and that’s good. Umm...each of us seems to have a distinct and unique personality. And it appears that each of us has certain skills we’re trying to master and become good at doing...at least that seems to be the case so far but then I don’t know everyone that well yet.”

He studied Jeremy for a few moments while he finished eating the last of the snack and drinking his juice. “Now then, Jeremy, what do you think of our little group of adventurers? Also were you with Rowan when he accepted this mission from Latisha Langdon? If so what did you think of the great and powerful lady as he called her? And do you know anything about the wand she’s employed all of you to obtain for her? Also if I decide to teach you archery you will need to pay attention to me, listen to me and do what I tell you. Oh and if I do choose to teach you there may be times I’ll tell you do do something or I’ll do something you may not like. ”

Alexander removed his boots then stretched out on his side on the bed facing Jeremy. “Oh yes a favor if you will, Jeremy. I don’t mind you smoking in my presence but may I ask that you take care and not bow the smoke in my direction or close to my face. I’ll end up not feeling well if too much smoke reaches me.”