You choose to take the man’s advice. Your prior exhaustion and lack of sleep has made its mark. Maldred can wait until you figure out what’s going on. As you sit down on the chair, the people around you start to notice. They cheer at you and engage you with warm conversations and laughter. For a moment, you cannot help but feel at home in their company. Strangely, they feel like life long friends.

You are lulled into topics of matter where you are the center of attention. Every word you say is met with interest and great vehemence. Another loud cheer is heard as more ale is served to the table you’re sitting at.

This time, there’s ale in there. This time, its real.