The Rusted Crown

Perched at Evenshade’s main road entrance from Berdusk, the Rusted Crown is a sanctuary for minds hungry for conversation rather than combat. Its battered sign—once a shining crown—hints at faded glory, but inside, every corner crackles with lively debate on politics, philosophy, magic, and history.

Interior of The Rusted Crown

The moment you step inside, there’s a low thrum of conversation and old wood. The floorboards creak deliberately, as if announcing newcomers. Thick oak beams arch overhead, blackened from hearth smoke and hung with mismatched lanterns—some magical, most not. The walls are a patchwork of faded murals, scholar graffiti, and framed snippets of poems, lost songs, or ominous quotes, each left by a former patron who dared to carve or ink their thoughts into history.

There’s no single hearth, but several small fireplaces, making the whole space feel like a collection of corners. The lighting is golden and low, encouraging secrets. One booth in the back always has a candle lit, even when no one sits there. Bards play not on a stage, but from alcoves or beside patrons—storytelling is intimate here.

The bar itself has a surface carved from a single slab of riverstone, worn smooth by decades of mugs sliding across it, and framed by hard oak. Behind it hangs the tavern’s namesake: a real copper crown, visibly rusted and nailed crookedly to a slab of wood.

Layout & Architecture

• Mismatched Tables: Each bears a carved motto or academic sketch—many donated by returning long-time visitors.
• Corner Alcove: Reserved for impromptu bard‑sessions, with a simple wooden platform and hanging lanterns.
• Back Room: Small library of recent pamphlets and debate transcripts, available for perusal over a pot of tea.

History

• Origins (1250 DR): Built by Garrin Flintlock, a retired Watch of the Scroll sentinel, as a quiet retreat for fellow ex‑watchmen.
• Current Ownership (1477 DR): Acquired by Gallen Varro, who renamed it to honor the tarnished sign above the door (that had originally been an iron crown painted gold).
• Modern Day: Under Gallen’s stewardship, it has never once been rowdy—any hint of brawling is swiftly quelled by both patrons and the ever‑present Watch guards.

Services & Atmosphere

• Drinks:
• Rusted Amber: A crisp, lightly smoked ale brewed on‑site.
• River Spice Mead: Sweet, with a touch of local ginger root and juniper berries.
• Snacks:
• Herb‑Cheese Bites: Warm, flaky pastry pockets stuffed with tangy cheese and thyme.
• Debater’s Platter: Assorted nuts, dried fruits, and honey‑glazed apples.
• Food from Marna's Elbow: Heartier meals (roast pheasant, river‑fresh trout) delivered from the inn next door.
• Conduct: Guests settle disagreements with words—fists are as unwelcome as spill‑wet ink.

Personnel

• Gallen Varro (Barkeep): Former watchman—eyes like a hawk for trouble, ears ever open to new ideas.
• “Ale Pages”: Two young assistants who refill tankards and ferry books from the Tavern’s back‑room library.
• Watch Liaison: Sergeant Kyllan Morrowdrop often posts outside, ensuring the peace remains unbroken.

Music & Entertainment

Evenshade’s perpetual tide of visiting bards means the melody never stops. Performers share their latest ballads for free—either for love of craft or for critical feedback from fellow minstrels.