Raffles yawned as he wandered into the main bar area of the pony, it had been long evening yesterday, listening to Barliman go into great detail about the shortcomings and general lack of professionalism of apparently all the nearby Inns and Hostelries, following the visit of Maddoc from the Crossways House.
“Morning Waffles” Barliman called
Raffles immediately thought of second breakfast.
“Come over”
Producing what looked like coffee and, not a plate of waffles, but muffins… he beckoned to Raffles.
Raffles could only assume that this was very important due to the provision of what seemed to be free food and drink…
“I need to talk about matters of some importance” Barliman continued cryptically.
Taking a seat, Raffles sipped the coffee and waited expectantly.
“Pies” Barliman said his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper as he leaned low on the bar
Raffles blinked
“Pies … and eyes” he elaborated, tapping his temple near his right eye.
Raffles was still none the wiser, luckily Barliman was getting into his stride
“I’ve been thinking… maybe I’ve let things slip around here a bit, resting on my laurels… rather considerable laurels mind” his voice rose a little as he puffed himself up.
Glancing sternly at a nearby patron, who possibly was felt to be too close, he leant in again.
“Need to up my game, look for new suppliers… speciality imports, ales, artisan produce and the like… spruce up the menu a bit… I thought I could have a pie of the week” he almost looked wistful.
Leaning in closer still, whilst glancing around, as if to check no one was close enough to hear…
“Eyes on the competition too”
Barliman nudged the plate closer
“Waffles… I’ve got a feeling you might be just the hobbit I need…”
