1 Teller of Stories

The doors to the Wayward Warhorse Tavern flew open suddenly. What was an atmosphere of merriment fell silent in instant as a haggard gnome stood in the door frame. "Guys... Guys...! You wo--" The gnome wheezed. "You won't believe--"

"Sammy, Sammy! Catch your breath man! What's wrong?" One of the human patrons asked.

The Sammy took a moment to gather himself. "Teller of Stories is here! I just saw him ride into town! I ran as fast as I could. Bark, get the top shelf stuff out!" Bark, the half-orc barkeep, in a momentary stunned silence dropped the full cup of ale he was about to hand a patron. The patron however didn't seem to care as the entire tavern was in a sudden uproar.

Bark rushed into the back behind his bar and came out carrying the finest cask of wine he had in stock; saved for very special occasions. A visit from Teller was one such occasion. The Tavern was already lively that night, but now it was gonna be the liveliest it has ever been in a good few months.

Every patron inside was ready to hear a tale of their lifetime. Teller was one of the famous Catfolk bards. Travelers that would pick up stories, folktales, and legends from all over the world and tell them to others along their travels. The Catfolk often name themselves based off their personality or occupation, but there was only one ever truly deserving of the name Teller of Stories.

The tavern door flew open once again. The place in a cheering uproar as Teller stepped through the door. Despite having only simple travel clothes, he didn't skimp on the accessories. Gold rings and silver ear piercings. Two feline ears poking out the sides of his signature wide brimmed purple hat with a black and red trimmed bird feather sticking out of the top. Though he looked like a lynx, he didn't share his kin's small stature, and stood as tall or even taller then most of the patrons.

"Oh what frabjous day!" He started. The room fell silent for him. "For it is I, thee Teller of Stories! Here to bring to the masses wonderful tales of awe! And I do have a great one for you all tonight. A tale of Life and Death, Love and Hate, War and Peace!"

"Teller you tell us that every time you show up here." One of the patron interrupted.

"Shush! I'm trying to be dramatic! It helps me get in the mood. Anyway... I bring a tale from the far south. As some of you may know Arkiheim was suffering such a tragic war!" By this point Teller has stepped up onto one of the tables. Just about every patron was on the edge of their seat listening in. Every dramatic pause Teller made was met with anticipating silence.

"But this isn't about the war." Teller continued. "This is about what happened right after..."