The Serpent’s Fang

The Serpent's Fang is a centrally located inn and tavern in Havenwood, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and strategic position next to the adventurer's hall and across from the guardhouse. Owned by the enigmatic and resourceful Tiefling Vesper Nightshade, this establishment caters primarily to adventurers and merchants. With the largest stables in town and ample space for merchant wagons, it offers unparalleled convenience and security for its patrons. Vesper, a former adventurer herself, has imbued the inn with her personal touch, creating a comfortable and inviting environment. Her discreet side business of brokering information and dealing in rare and exotic items adds a layer of intrigue to The Serpent's Fang, making it a beloved hub for those seeking both rest and opportunity in Havenwood.

History

Initially, the inn was operated as a boarding house by Drakor Flamescale, a dragonborn and friend of Harnar Coalbeard. Harnar had entrusted Drakor with managing the establishment to ensure that those involved in the mining trade had a reliable place to stay. Drakor ran the business in a straightforward, no-frills manner, focusing on providing basic services without any distinctive features.

Approximately a year and a half after the founding of Havenwood, a tiefling named Vesper Nightshade arrived in town as an adventurer. Within six months, Vesper saw the potential in the boarding house and purchased it from Harnar, determined to make it her own. Vesper transformed The Serpent's Fang from a boarding house to a proper inn and tavern, infusing it with her personality and style. She redecorated it create a more comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making it stand out from its previous utilitarian look. Her efforts quickly paid off, and the inn became known not just for its excellent service but also for its unique charm.

Importance to the Area

The Serpent's Fang plays a significant role in Havenwood's community. Its central location, next to the adventurer's hall and across from the guardhouse, makes it a natural gathering spot for adventurers and merchants. The inn boasts the largest stables in town, with ample space for merchant wagons, which is a key attraction for traveling merchants. The proximity to the guardhouse provides an added sense of security, making it a preferred choice for those concerned about safety.

Vesper's background as an adventurer allows her to cater specifically to the needs of her fellow adventurers, providing them with relevant information and support. Additionally, her discreet side hustle of buying and selling rare and exotic items has made The Serpent's Fang a go-to place for those seeking unique goods. While this aspect of her business is not publicly advertised, it is well known among the right circles, adding an element of intrigue to the establishment.

Current Status and Management

Under Vesper Nightshade's ownership, The Serpent's Fang has flourished, becoming a beloved establishment in Havenwood. Vesper's friendly yet secretive nature makes her a well-respected figure in the community. She is always ready to help a customer, but her side business of brokering information and dealing in rare items adds a layer of mystery to her persona. Vesper has transformed the inn with her personal touches, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere that appeals to adventurers and merchants alike.

Vesper's team includes a dedicated group of staff who ensure the smooth operation of The Serpent's Fang. Ronan Blackwood, a Human server in his late twenties, is known for his quick wit and charming demeanor, taking orders, delivering food and drinks, and managing the tavern floor with ease. Liora Sunleaf, a Half-Elf server, brings grace and efficiency to her role, making sure every guest feels welcome and well-attended.

The stables, the largest in town, are maintained by Thaddeus Strongarm, a human in his early thirties. His strength and attention to detail ensure that the horses and merchant wagons are well cared for, making The Serpent's Fang a preferred choice for traveling merchants. Mira Underbough, a meticulous Halfling in her mid-forties, looks after the inn rooms, ensuring they are clean and well-maintained. Her kind personality and attention to detail make her a favorite among guests. The kitchen is run by Borin Stonebrew, a Dwarf with a talent for preparing hearty and delicious meals that cater to the diverse tastes of the inn’s clientele.

In addition to running the inn and tavern, Vesper has a side hustle of buying and selling rare and exotic items. She keeps these items in a small storeroom within the inn. Although she doesn’t have a storefront, she discreetly sells these items directly from the tavern, adding an element of intrigue and exclusivity to her business. Her ability to cater to both adventurers and merchants, combined with her unique services and personal touches, has solidified The Serpent's Fang as a cornerstone of Havenwood’s hospitality industry.