@Robin_Hood ["M" for possible foul language]
A collective groan rose up around the large table toward the back of the tavern as a rather slight figure laid down her hand face up, smirking under her hood.
"You were
bluffing?!" one of the men exclaimed, sounding caught between anger and a grudging awe. "How in hells, kid? I thought for sure I had ya that time!"
Jasper tsked and shook her head, scooping the pile of coins at the center of the table toward her. "Well, I s'pose you'll just have to try again then, woncha? I'm
sure y'could peg me next time." She beamed around the table innocently. "Whaddya say, gents? Another round?"
"Only if yer buying drinks," one of the older players laughed, leaning back in his chair. "You've just about cleaned me out, lass, I couldn't afford a cup if I wanted."
She laughed lightly and nodded. "Alright, done. Oi! Another round of ale over here!" she called to a passing server, who nodded as her fellow players hooted and clapped her shoulders or back, shifting in their chairs as she shuffled the cards, then passed them to the man beside her to be dealt.
"Well, I'm out," the first man who'd spoken sighed, raising his hands before he could be dealt his cards. "I'll catch you lot tomorrow. Maybe the girl too." He smiled begrudgingly at her and she winked, blowing him a theatrical kiss as he stood to leave.
"That leaves us a seat open!" One of the more eager, younger players looked about the tavern, eyes bright. "Any of you wanna cash in on this?"
Jasper smiled again, but kept her voice to herself, eyes flicking about warily. She wasn't planning on staying in town long, and cards was as good a way to make some quick coin as any, but she wasn't sure she liked the idea of just
anyone joining their little game.
Could never be too careful.