The Drunken Sailor and the Smile of the Bloodspires

Life, Identity

• Later that night, Warren visits The Drunken Sailor, a lively tavern in Azmar run by Kelebor, an undead skeleton who operates a secret, unsanctioned fighting ring beneath the establishment. There, Warren meets Thalia Amematsu, the half-oni warrior princess of the Amematsu clan and famed member of Wild Hunt, known as The Smile of the Bloodspires. After Thalia dominates the evening's underground bouts, she challenges Warren to an arm-wrestling match to see how he compares to his brother, Rikar Alder. Warren accepts in good humor but is effortlessly bested by her overwhelming strength.
• They strike up a warm camaraderie, sharing drinks, laughs, and stories. Warren asks after Rikar, but Thalia hasn’t seen him recently. Their merriment continues late into the night, joined by Captain Artagen and other patrons, until Captain Caleb Carthis of the City Guard arrives to disperse the rowdy gathering. The bar settles, but Warren’s spirits are high—he’s found new allies and glimpses of his brother’s legacy in the most unexpected corners of Azmar.