Nestled at the heart of countless small villages across the realm, the Wandering Wyvern Inn & Tavern stands as a beacon of warmth and respite for weary travelers. Its familiar wooden façade, adorned with a hand-carved sign depicting a gracefully curving wyvern in mid-flight, promises comfort and camaraderie within.
The inn is a two-story timber-framed building, with walls of wattle and daub. Moss-covered shingles form the roof, which has a gentle slope and a brick chimney that constantly emits a thin wisp of smoke. A stable adjacent to the inn offers lodging for mounts and beasts of burden. The windows, framed with wooden shutters, glow with amber light in the evenings, casting a welcoming ambiance to those outside.
As you push open the heavy oak door, the rich aroma of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and the tang of ale fills the air. The tavern occupies the ground floor, with sturdy wooden tables and benches scattered about. A large hearth dominates one wall, with a roaring fire that crackles and dances, providing warmth to the patrons. Above the fireplace, the mounted head of a wyvern – the inn's namesake – watches over the room with glassy eyes.
To the side, a long wooden bar runs the length of the room, behind which the barkeep, a rotund and jolly individual, serves drinks and shares tales with the patrons. Shelves lined with bottles of varying shapes and colors, from local brews to exotic spirits, stand behind him.
A wooden staircase, worn smooth by countless footsteps, leads to the upper floor where the guest rooms are located. Each room, though modest in size, offers a clean bed with a quilted blanket, a small desk with a candlestick, and a window that overlooks the village. The walls are adorned with simple tapestries that muffle sound, ensuring a peaceful night's rest.
For those seeking more privacy, there are a couple of larger suites with their own fireplace and a plush sitting area. These rooms are often reserved for nobles or wealthier patrons passing through.
The Wyvern's Nook: A small, semi-private alcove in the tavern where secretive meetings can be held. It's separated from the main area by a thick curtain.
The Cellar: Beneath the tavern lies a cool cellar, where barrels of ale and wine are stored. Rumors speak of a hidden tunnel here, though its existence is a closely guarded secret.
The Bard's Stage: A small raised platform near the hearth where traveling minstrels and bards often perform, filling the tavern with music and tales of distant lands.
The Wandering Wyvern Inn & Tavern is more than just a place to rest one's head. It's a hub of activity, where stories are exchanged, deals are brokered, and friendships are forged. Whether you're a hero seeking your next quest or a merchant concluding a day's business, the inn welcomes all with open arms and a full mug.