Scummy bars and other important locations
Haze
Haze gets its name from the fragrant smoke that wafts from decorative pewter censers and the colored smoke that occasionally enhances various performances and special events. A bit more cozy than the typical bar or nightclub, Haze is a popular place to relax with a well-made drink and converse with friends or to try your luck with one of the small assortment of table games. The lounge is decorated in shades of grey and silver accented with muted blues and violets. High backed booths line the walls, providing comfort and privacy for those who would prefer to keep their liaisons or deals private. The center of the lounge has more open seating, providing the patrons with the chance to see and be seen.
Quiet background music is provided by a sultry singer accompanied by a beautiful ebony grand piano. On rare occasions, Sharada, the owner of Haze, can be persuaded to sing a song or two as well. The entertainers are familiar with a wide assortment of popular songs. However, regular customers may note that every night at least a couple of the songs refer to smoke in a positive way.
In the back corner of the lounge, patrons can gamble at a small assortment of different card, dice, and wheel-based games, with dragon’s gambit (similar to poker) being the most popular. The dealers don’t cheat (and are trained to detect those are do). Of course, due to the odds, in the long run, the house almost always wins.
In addition to a wide assortment of fine wines, beers, and cocktails, Haze has always offered a small selection of appetizers and desserts. Due to the recent curfew, and the resulting modification to the hours the lounge is open, the menu has been expanded to include a soup or stew of the day, salads, and sandwiches. A selection of tobacco, marijuana, and qat can also be purchased from one of the “cigarette girls” that work at the establishment.
At least for now, Sharada has dealt with the recently imposed curfew by hiring more employees and expanding the hours that Haze is open. The lounge now opens in the late afternoon to attract some of the patrons who wish to be home well before the first bell after sundown and remains open until the curfew is lifted in the mornings. A few well placed bribes have convinced the local authorities that individuals inside the lounge technically aren’t violating the curfew, since they aren’t out on the streets.
She has also arranged for some of the storage rooms on the second floor to temporarily be converted into sleeping chambers. They aren’t as comfortable as those that could be found in an inn; but they are a place where a tired patron or staff member can get a bit of rest if they don’t want to risk being out after curfew.
Sharada’s very comfortable townhouse is located nearby. And, while it is known only to a few of her most loyal employees, is accessible via a tunnel running between Haze’s wine cellar and her basement.
