Chapter 576: The First Light Inn
The First Light Inn was a small, cozy inn on an island a few miles from the Heart of Haven. The island was home to a low hill dotted with small groves of trees. A little brook trickled from a spring on the hilltop, winding through the trees in a long, sinewy ribbon before splashing off the edge in a shower of mist.
The inn was a two-story building sheltered against the base of the small hill and tucked away between a few of the larger, gnarled trees. Ivy crept over the trunks and onto the hewn stone walls, giving it a sheltered, protected feeling. Smoke curled from the chimney atop the second story, disappearing into the starlit sky, and the warm firelight flickering in the windows of the first story beckoned me forward.
Haven glided in front and opened the door, ushering me through. The realm hadn’t been cold, but I still shivered as a wave of heat escaped the common room, enveloping me like a hug. Inside was a room suspiciously like inns found in the villages of Heartland, with a tavern-like common room and accommodations above.
The common room was spacious but cozy, with a low ceiling and tables scattered around in a haphazard circle. Soft music filled the air with a playful tune I recognized, coming from nowhere yet everywhere at once. A Remnant leaned over the counter, idly polishing a mug. He wore leather armor and a cloak with two short swords strapped to his hips. His eyes glinted as we entered, but he ignored us after a friendly nod.
Elise and R’lissea sat on a small table meant for four in the corner, directly in front of the roaring fireplace. They leaned over what looked like a hearty meal, giggling together as they ate.
"Xiviyah, you made it!" Elise said, clapping her hands together. "You’ve got to try the food here!"
She gestured to her bowl, grinning widely. The stew was packed with chunks of meat, potatoes, and vegetables. But perhaps stew wasn’t the right word, as the broth looked more like a sauce. A small whiff was all it took for my mouth to water, and before I knew it, I’d taken a seat opposite the fire.
"Did you find who you were looking for?" R’lissea asked.
"Yes, it was very... insightful."
"Careful, Oracle, it’s hot."
I jumped as a melodic voice caressed my ear. A golden, translucent arm slid before me, setting down another bowl. Whirling in my seat, I blinked, startled to find the remnant had returned behind the counter. He met my gaze with a warm smile, a small dimple creasing his cheek.