*Nodding to the regulars in the tavern who eye him warily, their hands clutching coin purses protectively, Arkolio threads his way through the obstacle course of drunken bodies and unidentified spilled fluids. He flashes his most winning smile (Cha check: +0) at the nearest barmaid and places an order for the establishment's finest ale on offer. Taking a vacant seat at one of the tables, he idly reads the graffiti carved into it's top as he waits. After a short while his tankard is delivered with a thud, Arkolio points to one of the inscriptions and inquires of the barmaid.*
"Hey Marla! Would you really do this for a half true?"
*His question earns him a meaty smack across the back of his head from the unamused barmaid. Deciding it was more fun, and certainly safer, to just conjecture on Marla's willingness to do certain things rather than directly inquire, Arkolio shifts his gaze to the other patrons in the tavern. One group, seated at one of the long tables nearby, some of it's number known to him, some strangers, seems to be of particular interest.*