I sighed inhaling the familiar scent of the tavern. I had spent many of nights here, drowning my sorrows in blackberry brandy and my anger in any type of rum the bar wench had.

I looked into the mug giving it a quick sniff, smelled like ale of some sort. I take a long swig, my face puckered slightly at the bitter taste. “By the Goddess this is bitter.”

Before he could say anything I grabbed his mug and walked back up to the bar. I calmly set down the mugs and waited for the brute that was serving drinks. The barman turned and I couldn’t help but laugh.

“Oh Rufus,” I whistled drawing his attention.

“Cammy, I thought you had moved on to a different part of the world. Haven’t seen you in awhile.” I shrugged tapping at the lip of the mug, glancing at it and him.

“What is this horse piss,” my eyebrow arched with my question.

“Matilda ordered it from some new supplier,” he shrugged holding his hands up. “Well it’s disgusting,” I tapped the bar with my knuckles. “Come on you know what I want.” The broad man groaned but didn’t object.

He sat down a bottle and two glasses. “Thanks, you’re a peach,” I called over my shoulder before skimming through the sea of bodies.

“Here, this is way better than that nasty garbage they gave us before.” I sat down in my spot, popping the cork and pouring out an amber colored liquor. Erik lifted the glass and rolled it around, raising an eyebrow.

I took a swig of it, savoring the sweet after notes. I sighed, eyeing my lover. I let my index finger circle the rim of my glass as I waited for him to take a swig. He took a sniff, raised an eyebrow, then swallowed, coughing slightly as he set the glass back down by the bottle.

“By the Flame, what is this?” He looked at me with his eyebrows raised.

I laughed at his reaction, I shook my head before taking another swig. The amber liquid left a warm trail and settled in my belly, warming my entire form. “It’s brandy, I prefer it over ale. Too strong?” He laughed and took the bottle from me, pouring his glass full.

“Not at all! I just hadn't had it before. Not used to it, doesn't mean I don't want more.” He grinned and drained the glass, closing his eyes as he considered the burning in his throat. “Good stuff though sweetheart.”