"Where the wine flows, the tongues wag, and the locks are very good."
Overview:
Situated near the North Market, The Latch & Lantern is one of Ashkarin’s most refined inns, catering primarily to scholars, merchants, and dignitaries.
With high ceilings, rich tapestries, and oil lamps that never seem to gutter, it exudes a warm, subtle luxury. Nobles and foreign merchants sharpen their tongues over fine wine here—trading veiled insults and whispered schemes in equal measure.
The owner, Melik Saren (N male human), is a polished and shrewd businessman who many suspect quietly gathers intelligence on his guests, feeding information either to Arcanist Samira al-Thani or to his own network of contacts.
Food & Drink Menu 🍴
| Item | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Mutton Stew | Tender mutton chunks simmered with root vegetables and savory herbs. | 5 sp |
| Steak and Mushroom Pie | Rich beef and wild mushrooms under a flaky buttered crust. | 5 sp |
| North Market Fish Platter | Fresh trout with lemon butter, served with spiced rice. | 7 sp |
| Roast Quail with Fig Sauce | Elegant fare for the discerning palate. | 9 sp |
| Honeyed Nut Loaf | A sweet, hearty bread served with clotted cream. | 2 sp |
| Ashkarin Red Ale (Tankard) | A smooth, full-bodied local ale. | 1 sp |
| Merchant's Reserve Wine (Pitcher) | Dry, oaken white wine favored by visiting dignitaries. | 3 sp |
| Golden Lantern Mead (Glass) | A heavy, golden mead brewed with saffron and cloves. | 6 sp |
| Mulled Wine (Cup) | Warmed with spices, ideal for late-night scheming. | 8 cp |
| Traveler’s Breakfast | Fried eggs, ham, and oatcakes with a pot of strong black tea. | 4 sp |
Room Options 🛏️
| Room Type | Description | Cost per Night |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Room | Stout oak door, lockable trunk, thick curtains. One soft bed. | 2 gp |
| Scholar’s Suite | Larger room with desk, bookshelf (random tomes on law, trade, or magic), balcony view of North Market. | 4 gp |
| Merchant’s Retreat | Polished wood floors, fireplace, private bath, lockable wine cabinet. | 6 gp |
| The High Lantern Suite | Opulent top-floor suite with fireplace, four-poster bed, private guardroom (for hired bodyguards). Comes with complimentary wine and secured letter-drop service. | 10 gp |