As you ask the barkeep about the scruffy looking, sharp-eyed boy in the corner, chatting up the waitress, he sighs and immediately chuckles.
“Betina! The boy is paying for the drink, not the chat! – That, my fellow, is Themp Namor. Each person you ask about him will tell you a different story, but no one really knows the truth. Some say he is a baron’s illegitimate son, whose mother was killed soon after birth to silence the claims of adultery. Some say he was abandoned by his family in the streets, for they could not afford a child. Fact is that that troublemaker of a boy has been living in these streets for longer than most I remember.
“Most merchants around here despise him. They claim he is a no-good thief, but I can almost feel like he doesn't even notice he’s stealing anymore. He surely looks confused when the merchants cuss at and chase him around while he’s making his way across the boulevard. However, because he usually runs errands for the housewives around, and very joyously and competent at that, the ladies urge their husbands not to press charges to the authorities. He won’t be so lucky with me if that scoundrel keeps holding up my waitresses – Betina! There are thirsty costumers all over my bar, you know? – Where was I? Ah, yes, the ladies.
“For a street rat, that boy not only looks good, but has a sharp tongue with the ladies. He can put a smile on the face of even the fiercest of the housewives. If I were to guess, the lighter mood he establishes around here is the sole reason he still hasn't been locked up. Well, no, not the sole reason. That boy can vanish in the blink of an eye if he chooses to.
“Now, if you excuse me, I have a waitress to rescue. I’m not like the baker, who can't keep an eye on his daughter!” He leaves the bar and turns towards the corner. “Now, where is that damn boy?! See, I told you he could vanish when he pleases – Betina! Please tell me he paid for his drink or it’ll be your wage on the line!”
