The Continuing Adventures of Draco Moonbeam

The rain beat steadily on the low wooden roof of the tavern. People left even as others came looking for respite from the elements, their soaked coats revealing long travels in the damp weather.

Draco enjoyed evaluating the various persons who entered. It was for this reason that he often frequented this establishment near the Main Gate. This was the first place to get food and drink once you arrived in Cloudgate City. Weary traveling eyes saw this place almost immediately.

Travelers came with many different fashions and appearances, some speaking foreign languages or perhaps the common tongue with unusual accents. Most arrived in small groups. They tended to stay together and away from others, preferring to associate only with trusted company.

One in particular caught his eye. A small man with a black cloak over black coat. A wide brimmed hat shadowed his face from the flickering lanterns that cast light from various tables. His boots were of fine leather with wooden heels that solidly announced his presence on the stained oak floor as he walked.

The stranger quickly slid into a corner booth and removed his cloak which he hung on a peg for hats. His hat, however, remained on his head.

The reason why Draco noticed him was that he seemed so out of place even in a bar where foreigners often were found. Men traveling alone would normally wear a weapon of some sort to dissuade the occasional thief or pickpocket. A dagger on a belt or possibly a small sword would have been sufficient. But this man had none that were apparent.

His garb was of finer cloth and in better repair than expected of a traveler. Perhaps he was an official of some sort, but not one that Draco had ever seen before. Not a town soldier or deputy, but rather someone who carried himself with confidence borne of purpose.

In minutes, a serving girl approached him and took his order for ale.

Draco, likewise, returned to his drink and soon was distracted by his thoughts.

After about 15 minutes, Draco decided to leave. He stood and put on his own grey cloak over a grey coat and wrapped a brown scarf around his neck. He put his own leather hat on his bald head and exited.

His humble house was only across the street and down a short alley.

He didn’t notice that the man also watched him as he left.