The Hearth and Burrow emerged from the twisting alley like a forgotten gem. Its squat, modest structure leaned slightly to one side, sandwiched between the crooked skeletons of slum buildings that seemed too weary to keep standing. A soft, golden light spilled from its thick-paned windows, pooling on the uneven cobblestones in warm puddles that defied the night's chill. The door, crafted from sturdy oak, bore intricate carvings of vines and flowers that twisted and danced across its surface. Even in the heart of The Hollow, the artistry carried an echo of pride, a stubborn resistance to the decay outside.
Liora hesitated for a moment, his hand brushing over the carvings. The touch grounded him. Halflings always found ways to beautify even the grimmest surroundings, and this door—weathered but enduring—seemed to symbolize their resilience. He let out a breath and pushed it open, stepping into the warmth.
