Chapter 6 — Havenbrook and Shadows

The sun was sinking behind the rolling hills of the Brassforge Mountains, casting long shadows over Havenbrook Village as Kai, Darius, and Lira rode in on Maris Tyval’s horse-drawn cart.Lira let out a soft sigh, brushing a stray strand of silver hair behind her ear. “If we’d traveled on foot… we’d have needed at least a full day, plus a night outside to rest. The mines and forests aren’t forgiving after dark.”Kai nodded silently, emerald eyes scanning the outskirts of the village, noting alleyways, market stalls, and potential hiding spots. Survival, as always, was foremost.Darius stretched, cracking his shoulders. “Well, we’re here. Let’s find a place to stay the night before heading to the Orc lord’s territory.”Kai’s stomach growled loudly, betraying his calm demeanor.Darius grinned, teasing lightly. “Sounds like someone’s hungry. We can grab some food at the inn while I arrange rooms. You’ll share one with me; Lira takes her own. No complaints.”Kai’s eyes flicked to him, unamused. “…Fine. But I eat fast.”

The village was quaint — cobblestone streets, small shops, and the soft clinking of carts returning from the fields. The smell of freshly baked bread and roasted meat drifted through the air, mingling with the earthy scent of hay and livestock.“Let’s see… the Silver Lantern Inn should be near the center,” Darius said, scanning the signs overhead. The inn’s wooden facade was welcoming, lanterns glowing softly in the early dusk.Kai kept his hands in his hoodie pockets as they walked, body alert despite the peaceful surroundings. He could feel it — the subtle shift in the air, the faint pressure of someone’s gaze lingering on them.

Something — or someone — was watching.Kai’s emerald eyes darted briefly over rooftops and alleyways. “…We’re being observed,” he murmured under his breath, just enough for Lira to hear.Lira’s brow furrowed. “…Do you think it’s a bandit?”Kai shook his head subtly. “Not sure yet. But stay alert. Someone might try something once we enter a building or let our guard down.”Darius waved a hand dismissively, though a faint tension showed in his posture. “Kid… you always gotta be so paranoid?”Kai’s eyes remained sharp. “…I’m not paranoid. I’m prepared.”

The inn’s door creaked as they entered. Warm light spilled out, mingling with the scent of stew and fresh bread. A cheerful innkeeper greeted them from behind the counter.“Adventurers! Welcome to the Silver Lantern Inn! Rooms available, meals hot, and no trouble, I promise!”Darius grinned. “Perfect. Two rooms, please. One for me and Kai, and one for the lady here.”Lira smiled softly. “Thank you.”Kai’s hands remained tucked in his pockets, emerald eyes scanning the room as they walked toward the innkeeper. Even among warmth and laughter, he was ready for anything.

Darius led Kai to their room, chuckling. “See? Not everything is a fight, kid. Sometimes, it’s just food and rest.”Kai said nothing, setting his bag down carefully. The guild card hung around his neck, tucked safely beneath his hoodie.Through the inn’s window, Kai caught the faint glimmer of someone observing from a distance. He didn’t turn. Not yet.“…Something tells me this night won’t be completely peaceful,” he muttered under his breath.Lira, having settled into her own room, peeked out the doorway. “Just… try not to get yourself into trouble. You’ve done well so far.”Kai’s faint nod was the only reply, body relaxed but ready, as the soft evening light of Havenbrook Village settled around the trio.