I slept hard, but the brief, half-memories left me feeling restless when Garrick woke me. I sat up quickly, rubbing my eyes. The camp was already gone.

[b]"Thank you, Garrick,"[/b] I said, taking the jerky he offered. [b]"I appreciate it."[/b]

I ate quickly, the rough meat and salt helping to fully wake me. Seeing the distant smoke trails from the orchard made the need to move even stronger.

The horses were a true gift. We covered ground fast. By sunset, we reached a hill overlooking the settlement. [b]"Little Happens,"[/b] I said, letting the name settle. Even the name sounded small and far away from the power struggles of Ophidia.

From up here, the town looked busy but calm. People were moving with purpose, bringing in lumber and closing shops. The buildings were rough but well-kept. I looked closely at the people, checking for any familiar sigils or anything that marked them as being part of the Crown. They looked like woodsmen and normal folk, dressed in simple, practical clothes.

My eyes landed on the large tavern sign: "Moon Rabbit’s Respite," with the rabbit and moon emblem. It looked solid and busy, the kind of place where we could get information and maybe a secure room.

[b]"Let's head for the Moon Rabbit's Respite,"[/b] I told the others. [b]"We need to find a place to rest and learn what we can about the Forests of Vestarel."[/b]

I guided my horse down the hill and dismounted when we reached the entrance of the hamlet. I took the reins to lead the stallion.

[b]"Garrick, find somewhere close to tie the horses, just temporary. We can't all leave them alone right now."[/b] I looked around at the others. [b]"One of you should stay with Garrick and the horses for a moment, don't leave our old man alone. The other two, come with me. We will check the inn for safety and available rooms."[/b]

[hider=OOC]Before entering, Cadmus takes a moment to observe the immediate area around the inn. How does the rest of the town look? Does anything specific catch his eye, like a guard post, a local smithy, or any unusual travelers (especially anyone who looks like a Windpike)?[/hider]