Kalila opens the door, still clutching the mysterious bottle, and finds Gerta waiting in the hallway with that same warm smile.

[b]"There she is! Come on, sugar, let's get some food in ya."[/b]

Gerta leads her down the stairs to a common area that's clearly meant for staff, not patrons. It's simpler than the main tavern floor, but somehow more welcoming. A large table has been set up with breakfast, and the smell alone makes Kalila's stomach growl.

Fresh bread sits in the center, still steaming slightly. Someone must have been up baking well before dawn. There are bowls of dried fruit as well, apples and apricots mostly, the kind that lasts longer than fresh. A few plates hold what appears to be cheese and some cold cuts. Simple fare, but it looks delicious.

Four people are already seated, split into two small groups, chatting amongst themselves.

At one end of the table, a middle-aged human man with thinning hair and a neatly trimmed beard is talking with a younger human woman. The man has the bearing of someone who's worked with his hands his whole life, broad shoulders and calloused fingers wrapped around a mug of something hot. The woman next to him is probably in her early twenties, with dark hair pulled back in a practical bun and an easy laugh that fills the space.

At the other end, a lean human man with sandy hair is listening intently to a young half-orc who's speaking animatedly about something. The sandy-haired man looks familiar, probably the one Gerta called "Mick" last night to cover the bar. The half-orc catches Kalila's attention immediately. He's close to Kalila's age, with deep gray skin like Gerta's and that same auburn hair, though his is styled in tight, voluminous curls. His tusks are prominent, more so than Gerta's, and he gestures enthusiastically as he talks, clearly passionate about whatever story he's telling.

[b]"Alright, everyone!"[/b] Gerta's voice cuts through the chatter, warm but commanding. [b]"We got ourselves a new face this mornin'. This here's Kalila. She spent the night here and she's welcome to stay if she wants. So y'all treat her well, ya hear?"[/b]

All four faces turn toward Kalila, expressions ranging from curious to welcoming.

Gerta continues, [b]"Before we dig in, let's give thanks."[/b] She bows her head. [b]"Grateful for this food, grateful for this roof, grateful for good folks to share it with. May we serve well today and rest well tonight."[/b]

A simple prayer, but heartfelt.

[b]"Alright then, dig in!"[/b] Gerta says, already reaching for the bread.

Kalila looks around. She could sit with the older man and the young woman at one end. She could sit with Mick and the half-orc at the other. There's an empty spot next to Gerta herself. Or she could take a seat at one of the smaller tables nearby, giving herself some space.

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[b]Where do you sit?[/b]