Lord Elrond found himself in a quaint human village, the bustling atmosphere a stark contrast to the serene beauty of Rivendell. On a secret mission to gather crucial information, he had chosen to blend in with the tavern crowd, donning a dark cape and hood to maintain his incognito status. The low light of the tavern cast flickering shadows, creating an air of anonymity that he hoped would shield him from recognition. As he entered, the sound of laughter and chatter filled the air, mingling with the scent of roasted meat and fresh bread. Elrond approached the bar, his presence calm and composed despite the bustling surroundings. Leaning slightly forward, he spoke clearly, yet quietly, to the bartender.

“A drink please, some strong alcohol.”

He reached into his cloak and produced a small bag filled with gold coins, its weight a testament to his status. The bartender’s eyes widened with interest as he quickly accepted the payment, a smile creeping across his face as he prepared the drink. Elrond sighed, allowing himself a brief moment of relaxation, grateful for the simple pleasure of a strong drink amidst his duties.

As the bartender poured the amber liquid into a sturdy mug, Elrond took a moment to scan the room. The tavern was alive with the vibrant energy of villagers sharing stories and laughter. He noted the worn faces of the regular patrons, the camaraderie evident in their demeanor. Yet, beneath the surface, he remained alert, aware that secrets often lurked in the most unsuspecting places. With his drink in hand, he found a quiet corner of the tavern, leaning against the wall as he sipped slowly, his keen eyes observing the interactions around him. He listened intently, hoping to catch snippets of conversation that might reveal the information he sought, all while maintaining the guise of an ordinary traveler.