Ashevelen looked at Arthur and shook her head as she saw him looking at the journal.

"[color=gold]Don't mind that journal. We've taken it from the wizard that lead the slaves we defeated. You can keep it if you pay for it, if not, hand it back, please. [/color]" said Ashe before turning towards Dal as she poked him with the tip of her sword, gently, in the shoulder.

"[color=gold]And Dal. Don't give our loot to random people! I swear to the Gods, how were you a pirate?! What did you do, rob the rich and gave it to the poor?[/color]" 

[h3][center]Two days later - The Village[/center][/h3]

A small village emerged like a mirage in the heart of the scorching desert. This oasis of life was known as Zephyr, a haven of respite amidst the harsh, unforgiving landscape.

Zephyr nestled within a natural depression, shielded from the relentless desert winds by towering rock formations that seemed to rise out of the sand like ancient guardians. The village was a marvel of engineering and adaptation, a testament to the tenacity and resourcefulness of its inhabitants.

Huts and buildings were constructed from sun-baked adobe bricks and were painted in earthy hues that blended harmoniously with the desert surroundings. Intricate mosaics and hand-carved wooden accents added splashes of color and character to the otherwise simple architecture. Narrow, winding pathways snaked through the village, leading to hidden gardens and cool alcoves where weary travelers could find shade and solace.

At the heart of Zephyr lay a shimmering oasis, a tranquil pool of crystal-clear water fed by an underground spring. Palm trees swayed gently in the breeze, their fronds casting dancing shadows on the water's surface. The oasis was a lifeline, providing sustenance for the villagers and a haven for exotic desert creatures that gathered to drink.

Zephyr was more than just a physical sanctuary; it was a cultural crossroads where merchants, nomads, and travelers from distant lands converged. A bustling marketplace came to life in the cooler hours of dawn and dusk, a vibrant tapestry of colors and scents as exotic spices, precious gems, and intricately crafted goods were bartered and exchanged.

Ashevelen stood up as the village appeared in view.

"[color=gold]Beautiful village. Let's go over to the tavern, after breathing sand for the past 2 days...I need a drink and we need to make some money. [/color]" declared Ashe to the group, trying to leave quickly in the hopes on not having to pay the merchant.