Jorl was closing the and fastening the wooden shutters on the windows at the Pea Pod. In Storm season the winds could tear shutters off the wall if they were not securely fastened and the light was fast fading outside, so the windows no longer admitted light. By shuttering them fast he could keep his little tavern war and cosy for his customers. As he was finishing he saw one of his regulars approaching.
"Welcome Drighten Erik" he called, taking Erik's cloak from him and hanging it on a hook by the door. "Or should I say Lord Erik?" "Not quite yet" came the reply. "His Majesty plans to honour me with that title later this week at the Royal Feast. I have just come form Grumbold's Emporium where they have been making the finishing touches on my new robes for the event. I think they want to ensure they compliment Yealla's robes - which I have not been allowed to see, that is to be a surprise - which are also just being finished. I am glad that I do not need new robes each time I attend the City Ring Assembly - Queensgift House would not be large enough to store them al!" As he spoke, Erik moved to his usual chair near the fire. "This must be a quick visit, so a flagon of mulled cider and pot of soup will be most welcome. I have to prepare for the Feast, 2 Ring Assembly meetings and a Temple ceremony this month - and a Heroquest in Sacred time! A few moments rest here will be most welcome."