The Pandaren’s ears perked up as he slid a glass across the counter to one of his customers. There weren’t many who would so loudly demand the barkeep’s attention, and he recognised the voice of his strangely formed regular at once. Xiomara, the swordsman with the face of a woman. Liu wasn’t one to judge, it wasn’t like he was human himself, after all.

“Calm, calm Xiomara, you will have your liquor.” Liu’s voice was accented with an inflection most resembling some eastern Asian dialects on earth. It was a kind voice, and remarkably it was not yet marked with the edge of drunkenness. Apparently the Pandaren hadn’t started sampling his own wares. “And perhaps I will even give you some good advice? Hmm?” The Pandaren gave his approximation of a smile, though it was a little too toothy to be wholly comforting. He delved into the shelves for a moment and had a think, pulling out two dusty bottles with a fiery red motif and placing them on the bar counter before his outspoken customer.

“Firedrake Whiskey, I have a feeling you will like it, Xiomara.” Then, the Panda ducked down one more time and came up with a large keg, planting it on its side on the bar with a thump and then twisting it so the spout was parallel with the counter, and equally accessible for both of them. “And something to wash it down with!” The Pandaren laughed as he flicked two tankards onto the counter, unconsciously popping the cork of his bottle with one clawed thumb. Liu was always looking for an opportunity to drink, but so few customers had the capacity to keep up with him. He poured himself and Xiomara a pint of Doom-bar ale from the keg and then raised both tankard and bottle to the man, assuming he would replicate for an informal toast. Whatever the result, after raising his drinks he’d drink a triple shot measure of the whiskey straight from the bottle and down half his tankard, setting them down with a satisfied sigh.

“Now, what is this about requiring council my friend? Perhaps if I can solve your problem you will finally pay your tab, hmm?” The Pandaren laughed, truly unconcerned about the money. He lived for companionship and fine drink, the business was just a happy means to an end.