Jaegar's ears perked up at this, though he was careful not to show any obvious interest. Dark Mage? He chuckled softly, hearing them talk.
The sailors' conversation moved on to another topic.
Jaegar savored the last bites of his mackerel, the rich flavors lingering on his tongue as he washed them down with a long swig of ale. The tavern's ambient noise had settled into a comfortable hum, punctuated by occasional bursts of laughter or the clink of tankards.
He was lost in thought, contemplating the journey ahead and the rumors he'd overheard about the supposed 'dark mage', when a voice cut through his reverie.
"Care for a drink, stranger?"
Jaegar turned, finding himself face-to-face with a woman who had silently slipped onto the stool beside him. Her presence was sudden and unexpected, catching him off guard.