The inn was a squat, timber-framed building nestled between a row of shops at the edge of the harbor square. A swinging wooden sign hung above the door, painted with a faded emblem of a crowned boar holding a mug of ale — The Golden Boar Inn. It didn't look like much from the outside, but once they stepped inside, the warmth and scent of cooked meat hit them like a blessing from the gods.
The air was rich with smoke from the fireplace, laughter, and the clink of mugs. A bard played a gentle tune on a stringed lyre in the corner, and the firelight danced off the walls as if welcoming them to forget their troubles. For a moment, they could almost pretend they weren't on a dangerous mission. For a moment, they were just people — tired, hungry, and alive.
Sera clapped her hands together as they stepped through the doorway. "Alright, everyone grab a table. I'll handle the food."
"You're an angel," Mariel muttered, already scanning the room for a good spot to collapse.
