Dustwalker: Pushes through the tavern door, shoulders hunched, eyeing the crowd with disdain "Ah, shi—look who it is. Gotta hide somewhe—hey, mate."
Notices Dustwalker out of the corner of his eye "Dustwalker! What brings you to the den of sin and pleasure?"
shakes off the dust from his clothes "Sin and pleasure? You sound like you've been stuck here for too long.
chuckles "The truth is, my friend. It's not often someone like you comes to this place."
rolls his eyes "Well, ain't that charming. A regular at the Sin and Pleasure Tavern, huh? Just what every wanderer needs to hear."
"I didn't mean it like that. I'm sure there's a good reason why you're here."
narrows his eyes "Yeah, well, sorry to disappoint, mate. No good reason here. Just got caught in a damn sandstorm out in the desert."
"Huh. And where are your gear, tent and all?"
points to the counter "Gotta owe you one for that. Storm took everything. Luckily, I managed to grab my waterskin before it was swept away.
"How'd you manage to escape the storm? And what brings you to Steam? A lover perhaps?"
grins sarcastically "Lover? Nah, I've got more luck surviving storms than finding someone to share a bed with.
grins "Alright, alright. I believe you. Let's get you settled in, shall we?"
nods "Yeah, let's get out of this damn storm first. Lead the way, mate."
"My pleasure. Stick close, and watch your step." leads the way through the tavern, heading towards a room
catches up to TrustWise "So, how long you been hiding in this storm? Never thought I'd see you taking shelter in a place like this."
"A few months now. The storms outside were getting worse and worse, so I came here. As for being a Regular, well, there wasn't much room elsewhere."
snorts "Well, I guess I can understand that. This place is practically bursting at the seams with character."
"You could say that. Now, let's find you a place to rest your weary head." leads Dustwalker to an empty room
steps into the room and looks around "This'll do. Thanks for the hospitality, mate."
"No problem, happy to help. I'll bring you some food and water tomorrow morning. For now, try to get some rest."
Over the next few days, Dustwalker and TrustWise grow closer, sharing their pasts and experiences in the Sin and Pleasure Tavern.
"Here's some clothes and supplies. Make yourself comfortable."
takes the clothes and supplies, inspecting them "Thanks, mate. You're a lifesaver. But listen, I gotta ask, what's the deal with this place?
it's a haven for those seeking refuge from the storms. Everyone here has their own story, just like you."
leans back, crossing his arms "Well, ain't that touching. A haven for misfits and wanderers, huh? So, what's the catch?
"The catch? Just trying to survive another storm. The Sin and Pleasure Tavern isn't without its dangers, but we take care of our own."
smirks "Yeah, well, I've survived worse. But seriously, what kind of work do people usually do around here?"
"There's various jobs available if you're willing to do them. Cleaning, serving drinks, entertaining guests...anything to keep the place running and help your own survival."
pauses, deep in thought "Well, I ain't one for sitting idle. Guess I could give it a shot. What kind of pay are we talking here?"
"It varies depending on the job. But remember, it's not just about the pay. It's about survival, building a community. And besides, you won't find many places willing to accept a stranger without questions."
smirks "Questions? That's rich coming from you. But fine, let's see what you got.
"I'll arrange for you to meet the tavern owner. He's a hard man, but fair. Remember, this isn't a charity. You'll have to earn your keep."
rubs his hands together "Earn my keep, huh? Well, ain't that what I do best? Show me this hard man.
leads Dustwalker to meet the tavern owner
steps into the tavern owner's office, eyeing him carefully "So, you're the infamous tavern owner, huh? Heard a lot of stories about you."
scowls "Don't get any ideas. I run this place, but I ain't your boss."
leans forward, smirking "Well, ain't that charming. Running the place, huh? Just remember, charm ain't gonna keep you alive in this storm.
smirks "Survival ain't a game, kid. Welcome to the Sin and Pleasure Tavern. Now, let's see if you're worth a damn."
raises an eyebrow "Ain't no game, huh? Then let's prove it. Show me what you expect from your employees."
smirks "Alright, let's see what you got. Come on, show us your best move!" gestures towards an empty space in the room
cracks his knuckles, then launches into a flurry of punches and kicks, showcasing his agility and strength