As Kaelan approached the gates of Rivermoor, a group of guards halted him, their eyes sharp yet uninterested. The lead guard, a tall man with a weathered face, looked him over.
"State your business in Rivermoor," he said, his voice gruff but not unkind.
Thinking quickly, Kaelan offered a respectful nod. "I am a traveler seeking work and shelter. I've heard Rivermoor is prosperous and welcomes newcomers."
The guard eyed him for a moment longer, then nodded. "You heard right. Rivermoor's always in need of able hands. Head to the main square; you'll find plenty of postings and notices for work. And if you're looking for a place to stay, try the Broken Crown Inn. Tell Old Lysa that Cedric sent you—she might even give you a discount."
Thanking him, Kaelan stepped through the gates and into the city. The air was filled with the hum of voices, the clatter of horses' hooves, and the smell of fresh bread mixed with the metallic tang of a blacksmith's forge. Vendors shouted their wares, children darted through the streets, and traders haggled over goods from lands far and wide.
Making his way through the bustling crowd, Kaelan reached the main square. The marketplace was alive with movement and color, and on a large wooden board near the fountain, he spotted dozens of job postings and notices. Some offered work as guards, others asked for help with trade caravans, and a few called for brave souls to venture into the nearby woods, warning of strange sightings and disturbances.
One posting caught his eye: "Seeking skilled hands and courageous hearts for a noble cause. Come to the temple of the Dawn in Rivermoor. Speak with Sister Elara."
A tug of curiosity stirred within him. The temple of the Dawn sounded like a place where people sought guidance and strength—a place where those dedicated to the light might know of the darkness he faced.
With the sun rising higher, Kaelan made his way toward the temple, weaving through the winding streets until the spire came into view. The building was grand yet simple, with large arched windows and stone steps leading up to its entrance. As he entered, he was greeted by the gentle scent of incense and the soft hum of chanting voices.
A young acolyte approached, bowing slightly. "Welcome to the temple of the Dawn. Are you here for prayers or seeking counsel?"
He hesitated for a moment, then asked, "I'm looking for Sister Elara. I read her notice in the square."
The acolyte nodded with understanding. "Follow me. She'll be pleased to meet you."
Led down a quiet corridor, Kaelan felt a growing sense of anticipation. He wasn't sure what Sister Elara might need or know, but something told him that meeting her would be the first step toward uncovering the true nature of his mission.
The acolyte stopped before a wooden door and knocked lightly. A calm, clear voice from within answered, "Enter."
Stepping inside, Kaelan found himself face-to-face with a woman in simple robes, her silver hair framing a face that was both kind and wise. Her eyes met his, and for a moment, he felt as though she could see straight through him, reading the hidden truths he carried.
"Welcome," she said warmly. "I sense you are no ordinary traveler. Tell me, what brings you to Rivermoor, and what is it you seek?"
The question hung in the air, and Kaelan realized that, for the first time, he might be in the presence of someone who could truly understand the weight of his task.