Though the ‘business’ district, Central also has a large population of well-wishers--though a transient one, as most of those attending the bonfires here are taking the opportunity to visit friends and family by moving through the sectors.
The Courtyard of Public Opinion, as well as the second-largest bonfire, has the most ‘official’ exchange area for those seeking to trade their unwanted but useful items. Though something of an impromptu event, it has apparently occurred often enough that the Merchant’s Guild has established some loose guidelines and are on hand to render a professional opinion on heirlooms and family treasures left to collect dust in the attic.
Some combination of barter and bluster at once, many of those who bring objects to the Courtyard are simply looking for an opportunity to tell stories about their family and their past, and show off their treasures in equal pleasure as they listen to others.
The Midnight Hotel, though Foreigner-run, has also taken to the event with a bonfire outside its main entrance. Though its rules are still enforced, its doors and kitchen are open to the general public, and there is a great cauldron of a sweet drink readily distributed to anyone who passes. The main topic of debate in this area is what the drink is; tea, hot-chocolate, some kind of honeyed tincture? It’s difficult to tell, and the proprietor remains close-lipped. Those who were particularly adventurous in Khatronma will note that it tastes quite a bit like one of the ‘chocolate’ drinks common in the empire, but with a unique--but pleasant--flavour.
CENTRAL KEELIAI
The Courtyard of Public Opinion, as well as the second-largest bonfire, has the most ‘official’ exchange area for those seeking to trade their unwanted but useful items. Though something of an impromptu event, it has apparently occurred often enough that the Merchant’s Guild has established some loose guidelines and are on hand to render a professional opinion on heirlooms and family treasures left to collect dust in the attic.
Some combination of barter and bluster at once, many of those who bring objects to the Courtyard are simply looking for an opportunity to tell stories about their family and their past, and show off their treasures in equal pleasure as they listen to others.
The Midnight Hotel, though Foreigner-run, has also taken to the event with a bonfire outside its main entrance. Though its rules are still enforced, its doors and kitchen are open to the general public, and there is a great cauldron of a sweet drink readily distributed to anyone who passes. The main topic of debate in this area is what the drink is; tea, hot-chocolate, some kind of honeyed tincture? It’s difficult to tell, and the proprietor remains close-lipped. Those who were particularly adventurous in Khatronma will note that it tastes quite a bit like one of the ‘chocolate’ drinks common in the empire, but with a unique--but pleasant--flavour.