The Drunken Scholar
Owner: Mags "Red" Thorne
The Drunken Scholar is a no-nonsense, rowdy tavern in University City, known as the go-to hangout for mercenaries, adventurers, and anyone looking to unwind after a long day of swordplay or study. The tavern is a cozy yet boisterous place, with an air of both ruggedness and camaraderie. Owned by the fiery and quick-witted Mags "Red" Thorne, the tavern attracts a colorful mix of patrons, including mercenaries looking for work, scholars needing a break from their research, and travelers eager to share stories of their latest exploits.
Interior Description:
The main room of The Drunken Scholar is small but always lively. The bar, made of dark oak and weathered by years of use, takes up one corner of the room, with Mags himself often behind it, wiping glasses and ready to give a sarcastic comment to any patron who dares speak to her. The shelves behind the bar are stocked with a wide selection of alcohol, ranging from cheap ales to stronger, more exotic concoctions.
A large bear rug lies on the floor near the hearth, which crackles with warmth, its flames licking the air as they provide both heat and a centerpiece of conversation. Mercenaries are often sprawled out around the hearth, telling loud tales of their exploits and arguing about whose swordsmanship is superior. The walls are adorned with various weapons and shields, some trophies from past battles and some simply for decoration, giving the place a rough-and-tumble charm.
There are several rooms for rent off the west side of the tavern, with modest furnishings but enough to make a good night’s rest after a few too many rounds of drinks. These rooms are generally inexpensive, but you might hear a rowdy party spilling out from the common area at all hours.
For those who can afford it, there are also baths available in a small private room toward the back of the tavern. For a few extra gold pieces, patrons can enjoy a soak in a hot bath, offering a welcome respite for travelers who've been on the road too long. Rooms are 7 gold a night.
Food:
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Rustic Bread & Butter | A simple loaf of fresh, warm bread with a dollop of butter. | 5 sp |
| Tavern Stew | A hearty stew of root vegetables, meat, and spices. | 8 sp |
| Grilled Sausages | Two sausages grilled to perfection, served with mustard. | 1 gp |
| Cheese Plate | A variety of local cheeses served with crackers and dried fruits. | 2 gp |
| Pottage of the Day | A thick, warm, and filling porridge served with a side of pickled vegetables. | 2 gp |
| Roast Chicken | A half-roasted chicken with herbs and garlic, served with potatoes. | 3 gp |
| Baked Apple Pie | A sweet pie filled with baked apples and cinnamon, served warm. | 4 gp |
| Grilled Fish Fillet | A tender fish fillet grilled with lemon and herbs, served with rice. | 5 gp |
| Steak and Ale Pie | A savory pie filled with tender beef, onions, and ale gravy. | 6 gp |
| Hearty Meat Platter | A large platter of roast meats, including beef, chicken, and lamb, with roasted vegetables. | 8 gp |
| Lobster Bisque | A rich and creamy lobster soup served with fresh rolls. | 10 gp |
Drinks:
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Fresh, cool water served in a mug. | 5 cp |
| Ale (House) | A standard pale ale, crisp and refreshing. | 5 sp |
| Small Wine (House Red) | A glass of light red wine from the tavern’s own collection. | 1 gp |
| Cider | A sweet, slightly tangy apple cider, served chilled. | 1 gp |
| Mug of Mead | A warm, honey-sweetened drink made from fermented honey. | 2 gp |
| Spiced Wine | A heated wine with cloves, cinnamon, and citrus. | 3 gp |
| Dwarven Stout | A thick, dark beer with a strong malt flavor, served cold. | 4 gp |
| Bourbon Whiskey | A smooth, aged whiskey with caramel and vanilla notes. | 5 gp |
| Elven Wine (Red or White) | A refined, aromatic wine favored by elves, light and crisp. | 7 gp |
| Firebrand Whiskey | A fiery drink with a strong cinnamon kick, perfect for warming up. | 4 gp |
| Ranger’s Brew | A dark ale brewed with herbs, known to be refreshing and slightly bitter. | 5 gp |