Heroes are not immortal (Part 1)

All eyes turned toward the entrance, where Maria Pyria, cloaked in flames, strode in with an entourage of stern-faced guards. The air seemed to crackle with tension as the patrons exchanged nervous glances.

She bore an undeniable air of authority, standing with a regal bearing that drew the eyes of all who encountered her 

Her hair, a cascade of vibrant red and orange hues, was a breathtaking testament to her fiery nature. It flowed with an almost supernatural intensity, appearing as if it were composed of living flames. Even in the dimly lit bar, her hair seemed to emit its own warm, enchanting glow.

Maria herself possessed a mesmerizing beauty that was as captivating as it was commanding. Many described her physical appearance to mirror the elemental power of fire itself, making her a truly striking figure.

Her skin was flawless and seemed to radiate warmth, giving her a healthy, luminous complexion. It bore the faintest touch of rosy blush, adding to her natural allure and hinting at her inner fire.

Her eyes were the most captivating feature, ablaze with an intensity that matched the flames she wielded as a mage. They held a fierce determination, but also a hint of pain after the loss of a close friend revealing that her persuit against her foe was deeply personal and carried a heavy burden.

Every movement she made was graceful and deliberate. Her poise exuded an air of regal authority, and the way she carried herself seemed to draw the attention of everyone in the room.

The fire mage was adorned in robes that seemed to ripple like fire itself. The fabric was a deep crimson, adorned with intricate gold embroidery that depicted flames and embers dancing along its edges. A staff of polished mahogany was strapped to her back, etched with sigils of power. The robe clung to her figure in all the right places, emphasizing her graceful curves.

Beneath her physical beauty was an undeniable aura of inner strength and determination. Her presence conveyed a sense of power that went beyond her appearance, making it clear that she was a force to be reckoned with.

The aura of heat and energy surrounded her, casting a glow that was both warm and flickering, was as captivating as intimidating. Even in a place as cozy as the bar, her presence radiated an undeniable sense of power and danger.

Trained in the arcane arts, her hands bore the faint tracery of runes and sigils, evidence of her mastery over fire magic. The tips of her fingers seemed to shimmer with a hint of warmth, a testament to the flames she could summon at will. 

Everyone knew that every member of the hero's cohort wanted to find Syzoth after what he did, but it seemed the was fueled by a far more personal motive, a vendetta that had driven her to relentlessly hunt him down. Her determination and fiery presence made it evident that she would stop at nothing to uncover the truth and seek justice for whatever wrongs had been committed against her.

In the dimly lit bar, the fire mage's presence was a force to be reckoned with, the air was charged with both anticipation and trepidation, setting the stage for a confrontation.

…

"Your excellency, what do you mean Syzoth?" the bartender asked.

"Exactly what you heard. I know that you allowed the renegade, Syzoth himself, into the bar. My sources said that he had entered this bar about twenty minutes ago."

Everyone in the bar where both shocked and amazed.

Syzoth, here, in Eldertown?

How? How did he get past the guards?

Since when did he come here?

Had he been hiding here since the beginning and the lizardmen were helping him?

The bartender felt a growing sense of unease and apprehension as the situation unfolded. The revelation that the alchemist everyone was pursuing had taken refuge in his bar was a source of great concern, and he understood the potential problems it could bring to his business.

His initial reaction was one of worry and anxiety. He knew that harboring a fugitive, especially one pursued by the legendary hero, could have dire consequences not only for his establishment but also for his own safety.

He was also well aware of the mage's formidable powers, and the idea of her wrath being directed at his bar beeing chilling was nothing but an understatement. He feared the possible destruction or damage that could result from their confrontation.

But the most important thing was that his bar had always been known as a place of warmth, respect, for its cozy ambiance and welcoming atmosphere. The mere presence of wanted individuals could tarnish its reputation, driving away loyal patrons and causing a significant loss of business.

He also realized that the presence of the fire mage and her guards had already created tension among the patrons. The bartender worried that any confrontation or altercation within the bar, as it could possibly lead to further strife and disputes among his customers.

"But miss, I think there is a big, big, misunderstanding. Yes, it may be possible that a lizardman came here. But I assure you he isn't Syzoth. He has a name that's just as ridiculous as that of any other Reptiloid. His name is Tinihuini!. And I assure you he was here because of a…"

Maria didn't let him finish. 

"Where.is.he?"

In this delicate situation, the bartender found himself  torn between the need to protect his business and the realization that the fire mage's powers were not to be trifled with. He understood that compliance with her demands might be the only way to prevent potential disaster.

The bartender, now quiet, pointed at the table where a lone cloaked figure sat.

In the midst of the tension-filled atmosphere in the secluded bar, the cloaked figure remained remarkably composed, seemingly unfazed by the arrival of the fire mage and her entourage. He reclined comfortably in his seat, his focus undiverted from the book he held in his hands.

Despite the heightened emotions and the intimidating presence of the fire mage, he displayed a calm and collected demeanor, appearing to be a master of self-control.

Under his cloak his expression couldn't be seen as he flipped through the book's pages.

It seemed as if his attention was wholly absorbed by the ancient tome, and he seemed engrossed in its secrets. What was strange, the people next to him couldn't see a single letter on the book he was reading. To them, it seemed as if he was studiyng blank paper.

In addition to his studious reading, the lizardman relished the food and drink that had been served earlier. He took slow, deliberate bites and sips, savoring the flavors as if they were the most exquisite delicacies. His enjoyment of the meal was evident, and he seemed entirely at ease.

Amidst the tense exchange between the fire mage, her guards, and the bartender, the man's tranquility was a stark contrast. As if he was the embodiment of detachment, as though the world outside the pages of his book held no sway over him.

The man's composure in the face of danger added an aura of mystery to his character. His ability to remain unruffled hinted at a hidden strength and resilience, deepening the enigma surrounding him.

As the Maria approached, the man's unflinching focus on his blank book, coupled with his enjoyment of the food and drink, painted an unforgettable picture for those around him.