The Proper House
The tavern began as a residence for a minor council clerk who bragged that his household would remain prosperous forever. Several changes of owner later, it became a supper house for Highcrown's well-heeled residents. The clerk's claim survives in its name, though the original family fortune did not. The present keeper has preserved the building's carved lintels and added comforts without disturbing its old marble hearth.
The Proper House
Overview
History
The tavern began as a residence for a minor council clerk who bragged that his household would remain prosperous forever. Several changes of owner later, it became a supper house for Highcrown's well-heeled residents. The clerk's claim survives in its name, though the original family fortune did not. The present keeper has preserved the building's carved lintels and added comforts without disturbing its old marble hearth.
Quirks
The first owner planted a stubborn flowering vine beside the front steps. It keeps pushing through the marble joints despite repeated attempts to remove it, and each spring its pale blossoms trail across the entrance. Staff brush petals from guests' shoes before seating them. House custom also requires the first toast of the evening to be made to good fortune, a phrase the keeper delivers with a perfectly straight face.
Rooms and services6
- The Front SalonDiningA paneled dining room with linen-draped tables, cut-glass lamps, and a discreet view of Highcrown's marble avenues. The house admits guests by reservation or known introduction.
- Private Guest RoomsLodgingSix sound-dampened chambers furnished with feather beds, washbasins, and writing desks. A servant can carry sealed messages to nearby manors for an additional fee.
- Coach CourtStableA small, guarded coach court with room for four carriages and a covered rack for riding horses. Stable hands provide grooming and feed.
- Music AlcoveEntertainmentA curtained alcove holds a pianoforte and a narrow platform for hired musicians. Performances are quiet enough to permit conversation, but carry beautifully through the room.
- The Green TableGamblingA private cabinet where guests may play cards or dice for stakes agreed in advance. The house keeps written tallies and refuses wagers from anyone visibly intoxicated.
- Cloak and Arms RoomSecurityA locked cloakroom with a trained attendant, intended for formal garments, walking sticks, and small valuables. Weapons may be checked here by house rule.
People
The keeper and 5 patronsKeeperFennik Human bard, level 5
Senior clerk attached to the Council of Seven ThronesAnik Vardas A composed council clerk who listens more than he speaks and remembers exact phrasing. He is courteous even when asking questions that feel like an interrogation.
Wealthy perfume merchantBorbála A warm, quick-witted collector of rare perfumes. She laughs readily, but notices who enters and which tables they avoid.
House Veyre's occasional legal adviserCrispín Immaculately dressed and effortlessly charming, with a habit of treating every conversation as a negotiation. He dislikes being surprised.
Retired city guard captainDavit Khar A broad-shouldered retired officer with a dry sense of humor. He prefers plain food, strong tea, and a clear view of the door.
Gem appraiser and discreet brokerEztli A sharp-eyed jeweler who speaks in a low voice and has a talent for making a compliment sound like a warning.
Keeper's Species
Human
Intrigue
What locals say
The house's name began as a boast from its first owner, who believed his wealth and standing could never diminish. Locals still repeat the story when the wine runs freely. In practice, the inn's polished manners are backed by careful discretion: servants do not repeat overheard conversation, and private rooms can be reserved without a family crest.
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