Soft lamplight glowed across polished wood floors. The air carried a faint mix of herbs, fresh bread, and something floral. It was cozy, clean, and quiet — everything she hoped for.
Behind the counter stood a woman in her early fifties, hair streaked with silver and tied into a neat bun. Her sharp eyes swept over Eis in a single, assessing glance — not suspicious, just thorough.
“Morning,” the innkeeper said. “Looking for a room?”
“Yes,” Eis replied. “If any are available.”
“We’ve got two standard rooms open,” the woman said. “Three volen per night. Weekly is twenty — saves you four.”
Eis nodded immediately.
“I’d like to reserve for a week.”
The innkeeper’s brows lifted slightly — not shocked, but impressed.
“Upfront?”
Eis reached into her pouch and counted out 20 volen in neat stacks — a stack of pure silver to match the exact amount. She placed them precisely on the counter.
The innkeeper’s lips twitched upward.
“Well-organized,” she said. “A lot new adventurers can’t count volen this cleanly.”
Eis ducked her head respectfully.
“I learned quickly.”
“Good skill to have.”
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
The innkeeper slid a key toward her.
“Room 203. Up the stairs, third on the left.”
Eis accepted it with both hands.
“Thank you.”
“If you need hot water, meals, directions, or safety advice, you come to me directly,” the innkeeper said. Then, softer: “And don’t worry — you picked a good place to stay in Lumaire.”
Something warm settled in Eis’s chest.
“I appreciate that… truly.”
The innkeeper nodded and went back to her ledgers.
Eis stepped outside, key tucked securely away.
Team Argent stood exactly where she left them:
- Kael leaning casually against the wall
- Lira reviewing her notes
- Ronan watching the street like a quiet guardian
When they saw Eis approach, their expressions softened in subtle ways.
Kael’s brows lifted. “Well?”
“I reserved a room for the week,” Eis said, unable to hide her small smile.
Ronan nodded approvingly. “Smart. We will bring your stuff later.”
Lira added, “The Blue Lantern is reputable. And the owner is known for her strict standards.”
Kael smirked. “They also make good soup.”
Lira blinked. “…When did you—”
Ronan cut in, “Don’t ask.”
Eis laughed quietly.
“Ready?” Ronan asked.
“Yes,” she said. “Please continue.”
They set off again through Lumaire’s busy streets.
- Ronan pointed out safe routes and guard stations.
- Lira explained mana lampposts, alarm crystals, and merchant districts.
- Kael pointed out shortcuts, questionable alleys, and places she should avoid at night.
Eis absorbed everything, step by step.