Ataline smiled a little, shrugging. "So do a lot of people," she said calmly. "Perhaps we've seen each other before, but were never introduced. Do you spend much time in the capitol?"

"I'm afraid not." Strider said. "I avoid cities entirely." He sighed a bit. "I apologize for interrupting your meal." He moved to stand.

Ataline smiled a little. "I don't have food yet," she pointed out calmly. "And if you're that bored, you could join me."

Strider still had a rather bad headache, but he sat back down. He withdrew his pipe. "Do you mind?" He asked slowly, moving to light it.

Ataline smiled a little and shook her head. "Not at all," she said calmly. She leaned back a little and crossed one tall-booted leg over her other knee.

Strider lit the pipe easily and puffed on it. He still had his hood up, keeping himself hidden. He relaxed as he blew out the smoke. The only other man in the bar seemed to want to keep to himself. He was also having a rather one sided conversation with the chair next to him.

"From where do you hail, Ataline?" Strider asked casually.

Ataline smiled a little. "The capitol," she answered easily. "And you?"

Strider smiled a bit. "These woods." He said softly. "But I suppose if you want an honest answer, Brookedale." He sighed. "The small town no longer exists. It was swallowed whole by poverty and thieves."

Ataline frowned a little. "I am sorry," she said quietly. "That is unfortunate."

Strider murmured something but managed a smile. "That is quite alright." He said slowly. "I am here, spending the rest of my life saving these woods. My forests." He inhaled on his pipe. "The Captial though. Sounds...smelly."

Ataline smirked a little. "I suppose in some places," she said quietly. "There are worse things though."

Strider nodded slowly and inhaled his pipe. "I can only imagine." He began. "I've heard my fair share of rumors."

Ataline smiled at him. "What rumors are those?" she asked curiously.

"That the capital is filled with people, rats, corruption, stink, and fat rich men living next to poor skinny wives." He sighed a bit. "In short."

Ataline smiled a little, sipping the wine she was brought. "Well I don't suppose I've seen it that bad," she said quietly.