As the Darkling stepped into the dimly lit local tavern, the murmurs of conversations ceased, and an air of tension filled the room. His piercing gaze swept across the patrons, a silent warning of his presence. Yet, the noise resumed, and chatter continued, as some tried to ignore the powerful figure in their midst. However, something soon set him off. An offhand comment, a crude remark, or perhaps a simple lack of deference pushed him past his threshold of patience.