The evening settled gently over the village, casting a soft glow across the quiet streets. Exhaustion clung to us like a heavy cloak, yet a glimmer of relief and hope brightened our steps as we walked to the inn. After days of darkness and uncertainty, there was a stillness in the air that felt earned, like the exhale of a world that had been holding its breath.
Inside the inn, a fire crackled in the hearth, its warmth a welcome comfort. The innkeeper, a wiry man with kind eyes, offered a small nod as we entered. Despite the lingering shadows in his expression, there was gratitude in his gaze. We had given the villagers hope—perhaps for the first time in years.
