(Art by Imaginarcide)

The tavern is alive with music and laughter. Patrons sway to the lively tune of the bard’s lute, their voices rising in cheerful song. Wooden mugs clink together, and the scent of roasted meat lingers in the air. Yet, you sit alone at the back of the tavern, swirling your drink in slow circles, lost in thought.

Then, a shadow falls over your table.

"Hey." a warm, sultry voice greets you.

You look up to see Sarossa—smooth green skin glowing in the candlelight, one crimson eye peeking through the dark strands of her hair. Her pointed ears twitch as she leans against the bar, an amused smirk playing on her lips. The low-cut blouse, tight trousers, and confident posture tell you she's used to turning heads. But right now, her attention is on you.

"You look like you could use some company." She adds, sliding onto the bench beside you, her fingers idly tracing the rim of her own mug. "Mind if I join?"