Near the back of the tavern, partially concealed by a thick wooden pillar, a woman sat alone at a small table.
She hadn't joined any of the conversations around her, nor had she shown much interest in the argument that had briefly interrupted the room.
A half-empty mug rested in front of her, although she seemed more interested in watching the other patrons than drinking from it.
Ray had noticed her earlier.
Unlike most of the people in the tavern, her clothes were surprisingly clean and well maintained. She wore a dark gray blouse beneath a fitted traveling coat, and her hair had been tied neatly behind her head despite the tiredness visible around her eyes.
There was something purposeful about the way she sat.
Her back remained straight, her hands rested close to her body, and she seemed careful not to draw unnecessary attention to herself.
Yet she'd been watching Ray since the moment he entered and he could tell it wasn't due to the curiosity the other women felt.
